Life & Food Garcinia Cambogia Supreme Review

 

There’s been a lot of chatter lately about this so-called “amazing” weight loss supplement called Garcinia Cambogia. I’ve been wanting to try it for some time, but since I had a heart attack in 2009 that was most likely a result of using prescription weight loss medication, I’ve been hesitant to try anything at all other than good old-fashioned exercise. However, as a natural alternative to prescription drugs, I felt a little more confident in giving it a shot after Life & Food offered me the opportunity to receive a bottle of Garcinia Cambogia Supreme for free in exchange for an honest review.

While weight loss is certainly one of the reasons I was interested in trying Garcinia Cambogia, there were others. Garcinia Cambogia is a tropical fruit derived from Southeast Asia known for containing the extract, hydroxycitric acid (HCA), said to be beneficial to weight loss and lowering cholesterol. Some sources have also implied that use of Garcinia Cambogia may contribute to an increase in serotonin levels, which was the contributor that piqued my interest the most. Serotonin is a chemical in the body that acts as a neurotransmitter. Low serotonin levels are said to be linked with memory dysfunctions, mood and sleep disorders, sexual dysfunctions, temperature regulation and more. Many of these disorders are commonly associated with menopause. At only 41-years old, they say I’m still too young for menopause, but have experienced many symptoms associated with low serotonin levels. My hopes were that, through the use of Garcinia Cambogia, I would experience relief of the symptoms I’ve been experiencing, in addition to an added bonus of weight loss.

The advertisement Life & Food Garcinia Cambogia Supreme indicates the drug is formulated in a manner which suppresses the appetite while burning fat. Furthermore, the directions advise, “For best results take capsules 20-30 min before a meal with 8 oz. of water…” It was my experience that it’s imperative to understand the significance of both of these factors if you want this supplement to work properly. First of all, in order to maintain good health, it’s important not to allow an appetite suppressant to become an excuse to skip meals. In fact, that is what likely led to my heart attack. I was taking a prescription strength medication that was suppressing my appetite to the extent which I would go for days without eating. While avoiding meals may prove to be successful in contributing to rapid weight loss, you could also be depriving your body of nutrients necessary in order to lead a healthy life and/or survive. Next, for HCA to be effective, it’s imperative that it’s absorbed properly by the body. The presence of food can hinder the absorption of HCA. With that said, taking the capsules 20-30 minutes prior to a meal allows the supplement to start working without being blocked by components which may deem it less effective or altogether ineffective. Finally, while water may not be the most desirable drink for some, other liquids may not be as effective in allowing the capsule to dissolve, which may also affect its effectiveness. Drinking plenty of water also ensures you will keep your body properly hydrated, as other effects of any medication or supplement may otherwise lead to dehydration.

In my experience, it was through trial and error and subsequent research that I realized the importance of the aforementioned tips. Throughout the first week of use, I took the supplements as directed. The results were almost immediate. I lost 6 pounds and my mood and memory functions significantly improved. That factor alone will likely result in my continued use. I allowed habits to sneak back into my life through the second week of use, taking the supplements with a glass of Pepsi, for example and skipping meals. I actually gained two pounds back and found myself to be more emotional and forgetful than I had just a week prior, something I had previously been struggling with before my first week of use. However, throughout both weeks, I found myself experiencing full nights of uninterrupted sleep; something I hadn’t experienced in at least a couple of years. Taking all of this into consideration, I feel that this product really does return the results it guarantees, AS LONG AS it is used as directed. If you’re looking for an effective and affordable weight loss supplement, but also struggle with depression, sleep disorders or memory issues like I recently have, then I highly recommend this product.

Derma Roller Review

I'll never forget the day I first saw them at the age of 32. I was driving into work one morning when I happened to glance up at my rear-view mirror. At first, when I saw what appeared to be rippling waters, I thought my entire car was being swept up by a flood. Fortunately, I was mistaken and safe from deadly waters. Unfortunately, however, what I saw was just as traumatic. What was it, you ask?

Ugh.

I hate to even admit it... but what I saw was one of the first dreaded signs of aging. Wrinkles. I remember pulling into my parking space that morning and spending at least 10 minutes with my face in the mirror, pulling and stretching at my skin in an attempt to make them "go away". No such luck, however. For at least the next year or two, I spent countless hours in front of the mirror, stressing about the reality of the situation, when I could have been finding products that prevent and/or minimize the effects of aging as well as learning more about taking care of my skin.

Now in my forties, I am learning to take better care of my skin than ever before while also taking the opportunity to explore a variety of skin care products that will help me fight the effects of aging without resorting to surgical procedures. I recently had the opportunity to try out a Derma Roller for free in exchange for my honest review.

I'll be honest; When I was offered the opportunity to try the Derma Roller, I didn't really know what I was getting myself into. All I knew is that I have wrinkles, fine lines and a number 11 between my eyes that makes me feel as if I look 111. With that said, I tend to jump on nearly any product that has the potential to reverse or slow down the signs of aging. Before receiving the product, my thoughts were that this product was going to be the equivalent of a "rolling pin," which would "flatten" my wrinkles as I rolled it across my face. Ok, so it was a nice thought, right? With that said, for those immediately drawn in by the prospect of younger-looking skin, I encourage you first to take the time to understand what a derma roller is, what it does, and how to properly use a Derma Roller. If you're deathly afraid of needles, this probably isn't the product for you. Don't wait until you open the product to find out that a Derma Roller is filled with tiny NEEDLES that will PENETRATE YOUR SKIN as you use it. Don't let that scare you away either, however, because surprisingly.... THEY DON'T HURT. Luckily, I am not one who falls into the "deathly afraid of needles" category, so, while I was a little hesitant to try it for the first time, I wasn't ridden by anxiety either.

So, to answer the first question you might have about the Derma Roller: Yes, it works fabulously. I actually enjoyed the slightly prickly but not painful sensation that accompanies the use of the device. I actually found myself feeling very relaxed as I used it.

This Derma Roller uses 1mm needles, which is perfect for a beginner, such as myself. One thing to keep in mind is that longer needles may result in more pain. Furthermore, needles longer than 1.5 mm are recommended to be used by professionals only and increase the risk of permanent skin damage if not used properly. However, needles between 0.75mm and 1 mm are perfect for facial skin concerns such as acne scars, crows feet, fine lines and deep wrinkles.

You might be inclined to press hard when using the Derma Roller, but I found that it's not necessary, and you risk damaging your skin. The recommendation is to simply press, but not push, the roller onto your skin, and roll a few times in various directions.

When I was finished using the Derma Roller, I applied my favorite moisturizers and oils. My fear was that my freshly "poked" skin would burn after applying the oils, but that was not the case. Furthermore, applying products like vitamin c syrum, retinol cream and facial moisturizers and oils after using the Derma Roller will likely penetrate deeper into freshly rolled skin that it does without using a Derma Roller, which is one of the reasons the product continues to become more popular among fountain of youth seekers such as myself. If that includes you, I strongly encourage you to give this product a try!

Product Image from Amazon - I ordered my Derma Roller at http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VXXODXS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Memorial Day Family Fun

Are you lucky enough to have an extended weekend this weekend, thanks to the Memorial Day Holiday?  If so, first and foremost, don’t forget to take the time to remember those who sacrificed their lives for our Country.  If you’re a parent, I encourage you to spend at least 15 minutes of your time educating your child about the history of the day, originally established to honor over 600,000 American military personnel who died defending our country in the Civil War.  In fact, there are often many ways you can combine the opportunity to educate your child along with a fun family day out, away from home.  Here are some things I found in or around the city of Indianapolis that I just might take advantage of with my family this Memorial Day weekend:

Spend the Afternoon in Downtown Indianapolis

If you live in, or have visited Indianapolis, you’re probably familiar with the Central Canal, which winds around the heart of downtown Indianapolis.  In addition to providing a wealth of beautiful scenery, the Canal is a fantastic place to plan a day filled with activities ranging from a brisk morning jog, to a family ride on a pedal boat or bicycle, both available as rentals through on-site vendors at the canal and adjoining White River State Park. 

Located along the path of the canal, visitors will also find the Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial.  This beautifully designed features 27 curved glass walls ranging from 7 to 10 feet in height.  Etched into these walls is information about 3,436 Medal of Honor recipients who displayed various acts of bravery during 15 specific historical conflicts.  

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A visit to this display is especially enjoyable in the evening, when the beautifully illuminated display stands out aside the waters of the canal.  There is also an enjoyable half-hour audio tour that accompanies your visit, which details various war stories and information about the Medal recipients, some of which were recorded by the actual Medal of Honor recipients. 

Another National Memorial that can be found along the Canal is the USS Indianapolis Memorial.  Another memorial open 24 hours per day, seven days a week, this memorial honors the crew of a Navy cruiser called the USS Indianapolis, which was destroyed by a Japanese submarine on July 30, 1945 at 12:14 a.m. during World War II.  The names of the ship’s company and final passenger can be found engraved on the South side of the structure.

Other activities on or near the Canal include the Butterfly Kaleidoscope at White River Gardens, the Indianapolis Zoo, the Indiana State Museum and Indianapolis downtown IMAX theatre.  

Not far from the Canal, also located in Downtown Indianapolis is the Emil A. Blackmore Museum.  Inside the National Headquarters of the American Legion, located at 700 North Pennsylvania Street in Indianapolis, you’ll find two rooms that feature a wealth of fine art as well as military and Legion-related items.  In addition to exhibits featuring military uniforms and gear, visitors will find various war weapons, uniforms and memorabilia as well as the original handwritten draft for the 1944 GI Bill of Rights. 

Grissom Air Museum

Just a little over an hour north of Indianapolis you’ll find the Grissom Air Museum, home to over 20 preserved aircraft and a wealth of war history.  A great place for a family outing, and the kids will enjoy a climb up the Observation Tower.  Though the museum is small in size, it’s said to be well worth the visit.  

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Terms of Use:  Transferred from en.wikipedia; transferred to Commons by User:Common Good using CommonsHelperOriginal Author:  Chris Light at en.wikipedia

While these are just a couple of “Memorial Day off work with the family” suggestions, there’s a load of other activities waiting for the arrival of fun-seeking families.  Where will you be spending your Memorial Day?  If you’re not from my great city of Indianapolis, Indiana, but know of some great activities going on in your city, please feel free to comment with the name of your city and links to interesting Memorial Day activities.  

#LifeFood Omega-3 Supreme Fish Oil Review

Though I’m still quite young at 20 ½ times two, the last few years have taught me a thing or two about the importance of maintaining good health.  At the age of 35, with absolutely zero history of any health issues, I had a heart attack.  While I was lucky, as there were no major red flags and no permanent damage done to my heart, it took its toll on me nonetheless.  Ever since the heart attack, friends and family have encouraged me to start taking fish oil supplements, which are known for their ability to prevent heart disease.  Filled with high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, the American Heart Association recommends fish as a regular part of everyone’s weekly diet.  There’s only one problem with that as far as I’m concerned.  Though this girl can swim like a fish, she prefers not to swim with the fish, nor does she enjoy catching fish, touching fish, looking at fish, or keeping fish as pets (though making funny fish faces with my kids is an exception to my “no-fish” rule).  And she especially does not enjoy eating fish.  With that said, I even had concerns about taking fish oil supplements, thinking that they would somehow leave a fishy smell or taste in my mouth.  In fact, virtually all of the side effects I’ve heard about made the concept of taking fish oil less and less appealing.  Other known side effects of fish oil are rumored to be upset stomach, loose stools and nausea. 

After receiving my shipment of Omega-3 Supreme, I spent about 2 days taking the pills out of the bottle and holding them in my hand before putting them back and saying, “I’ll start tomorrow.”  However, on day 3, I finally gave in.  Armed with plenty of minty-fresh breath spray, I wasn’t optimistic despite the dozens of rave reviews.  Surprisingly, I made it through the day fish burp free and apparently with no foul fish odor emanating from my body, as my fiancé’ didn’t conveniently fall asleep on the couch. 

By the end of my second week of taking this supplement, it became quite evident that absolutely none of the aforementioned side effects accompanied the use of this supplement.  If anything, at the risk of providing a little too much information, I would say they resulted in more regularity in regard to stools, but far from causing anything such as loose stools, upset stomach or nausea. 

Finally, I noticed a few other positive changes that I can only attribute to the use of taking these supplements, as I made no other changes in my lifestyle.  While my blood pressure is normally at a healthy level, it had recently spiked as a result of a medication I’ve been taking.  After just two weeks of taking the supplements, my blood pressure readings are consistent at 117/78, which was previously the norm for me prior to taking other medications.  I’ve also been experiencing a myriad of hormonal changes over the last few years, which has resulted in an abundance of stress and depression.  As I mentioned, I’ve changed nothing else in my lifestyle, but my stress levels have reduced dramatically, and my overall emotional health has improved substantially.  While I’m no fan of the prospect of having to make supplements a part of my daily life, I’m definitely sold on this one! Right now, Amazon Prime members can save 58% off the regular price of Omega-3 Supreme, which is a great bargain! 

*This review pertains to a product that I received free of charge in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinions.  Nevertheless, receiving the product free of charge has not influenced my opinions.  I will be continuing to purchase this product for my own personal use and highly recommend it for those seeking an effective fish-oil supplement. 

30 Day Blog Challenge - 25 Things About Me

Getting started on a blog has certainly been a struggle for me.  My first issue has been choosing a topic.  As one who has struggled with ADD my entire life, sticking to one thing has been a struggle, to put it mildly.  I might find interest in something, do extremely well at it, and... just when it seems I'm going to succeed immensely, I drop it like it's hot.  Speaking of dancing.... I can't.

As I've researched blogs, I've noticed a variety of great categories:  "Mommy Bloggers," "Entertainment Bloggers," "Food Bloggers," etc., and those who succeed are seemingly perfectionists at what they do.  Well, this girl is a perfectionist at being, well... imperfect... and I'm ok with that.  However, I'm also great at being spontaneous, unpredictable and random, which is pretty much what I expect my blog to be... and I hope that doesn't hinder my ability in gaining some type of following.  Those topics you are likely to see the most of, however, will be in the categories of parenting, mental health, earning a supplemental income, sweepstakes and contests, and overcoming personal challenges.  However, nothing's excluded. Is there something you would like to see?  Feel free to contact me by commenting, or shoot me an e-mail!

In an effort to discover my greatest opportunities, establish a habit and a following, I'm challenging myself to a 30-day blog challenge.  Whether it's a one sentence post or a mini-novel, my goal is to post at least once per day.  Once I have 100 followers, I might even offer a giveaway!  ;)

So, to begin, I'll start with an "About Me" type survey.  I've always liked doing these. If you do too, feel free to answer one or all of the questions below in a comment!  I'd like to know more about you too!!

1.  What is your name?  My name is Monica.  The origin of the name "Monica" is unknown, and words to describe the name include "unique," "solitary," and "alone."  I find this interesting, because I've always described myself as a "loner," of sorts.  However, I also find the Urban Dictionary definition of the name quite intriguing as well... "The sexiest woman on the planet. Never see her without peeing your pants. Can't help but pop one when you look at her. Always laughing and has a smile that makes you poop your pants, but you gotta love her."  *Disclaimer:  Look at me at your own risk, depends undergarments and new pants will not be reimbursed*  ;)

2.  How old are you?  20 1/2.  Again.

3.  Are you sure?  Absolutely.  Do I look like a person who would lie to you?

4.  Why "Rose Colored Raindrops?"  Because it's always been raining, throughout my entire life.  While I could use that as an excuse to remain secluded and depressed, I choose the opposite.  I also like to put my own unique spin on my life and, since chances are "Rose Colored Glasses" is already taken and a bit cliche' I chose my own spin.  I hope that's ok with you!  ;)

5.  What is your earliest memory?  Moving out of an apartment into our first house when I was maybe around 3 years of age.  The only thing I remember is sitting on top of a huge, white 5-gallon paint tub at the top of the stairs in our apartment.  I don't know if there's any significance to this, but I remember that moment clearly.  Perhaps it had something to do with leaving my very first bff, who I have never seen again since that day.

6.  Favorite alcoholic drink?  Colorado Bulldog has been a long-time favorite, but the Rumchata Salted Caramel Martini is closing in on first place!

7.  Favorite Vegetable?  Brussels Sprouts, without a doubt!  (Or, as my 11-year old has called them since she was a toddler, "Little Green Buttery Balls."

8.  How tall are you?  I'm close to 5'10".  How tall are you?

10.  Favorite Female Singer?  Pink  <3

11.  Favorite Actor?  I don't know that I have a favorite, but have always enjoyed Nicholas Cage.

12.  Favorite Super-Heroine?  Wonder-woman.  I had the underoos too!

13.  Favorite Super Hero?  The Incredible Hulk

14.  If you could take a trip back in time to witness any historical event in person, what event would it be?  The creation of this Universe.  In that case, I guess I would be "Eve," not "Monica," eh?  Nevertheless, if even just a animal roaming the gardens, I would love to see what went down on that magical day!  ;)

15.  If you could change one thing about your country, what would it be?  Laws pertaining to child-safety and welfare, child support and paternal rights.

16.  If you could run the world, would you?  Not a chance.  The stubborn people of this world would be too much for me to handle.  Or, perhaps they just couldn't handle me.

17.  Beef, Pork or Chicken?  All of 'em!

18.  Have you ever had points on your driver's license?  While it's been point-free for ages now, in my mid-twenties it looked like a college basketball team's all-time highest scoring game points.  I wasn't a bad driver, just young and dumb.

19.  Do you believe in Karma?  Absolutely.

20.  What's your favorite form of exercise?  "Playing" with my kids.

21.  Can you sing?  I would let you decide for yourself, but I want you to come back!

22.  If you won the lottery, what's the first thing you would do?  Contact an attorney.  Other than that, I'm not sure.  I can tell you the first thing I WOULDN'T do is quit my job.

23.  Have you ever been told you look like a celebrity?  It's been a long time, but I used to get "Cher" a lot... and a few times I was told I looked like Heidi Fleiss.  I'm not so sure I'm thrilled with either one of them, but hey... what can I say other than... "Pimpin' ain't easy!"

24.  The best part of waking up is... waking up alive.

25.  At what age did you become an "adult"?  *Crickets*