Product Review: Viva Labs Organic Ground Flaxseed

Adding flaxseed to your diet is an easy way to add fiber and omega-3 without taking pills. Flaxseed is a full-powered nutrient that adds benefits without changing the texture or taste of your food.

Viva Labs Organic Ground Flaxseed boosts heart health as well as digestion. These seeds are finely ground to the softest grade making for easier digestion and added fiber. Each serving offers 3g of dietary fiber. When added to food, this fiber boost will help you feel fuller longer. This flaxseed is certified organic and non-GMO. It is allergen friendly and grown by specially selected Canadian farmers to guarantee quality. 

There are many ways to easily add flaxseed to your diet without any noticeable change in taste or texture. For example:

• Add Flaxseed to your baking - breads, cookies, muffins
• Add Flaxseed to your smoothies
• Add Flaxseed to your oatmeal
• Sprinkle Flaxseed on top of your morning cereal
• Sprinkle Flaxseed on your salads
• Add Flaxseed to your pancake or waffle mix
• Sprinkle Flaxseed on your yogurt

I'm sure that you could even think of more ways to add Flaxseed to your diet. I don't like adding more pills to my morning vitamins, so rather than taking a flaxseed oil vitamin, this is a much easier way to add Flaxseed to my diet along with the many benefits.

When I make up my smoothie bags for the freezer, I add a scoop of Flaxseed to each one. I have also frequently added it to pancakes, muffins, and banana bread. The kids have no idea I have added it and they are getting all the great nutrients Flaxseed offers. You don't need any special recipe, you can just add it to your regular recipe for banana bread, muffins, etc and you won't notice any difference.

To maintain the benefits of Flaxseed, I keep mine in the refrigerator after opening. It can also be kept in the freezer.

I have tried many Viva Lab products and I have been very impressed with the importance they place on high-quality, organic items. To see more of their great product line, click HERE.

To purchase Viva Labs Organic Ground Flaxseed, click the photo below:




My review of Viva Labs Organic Whole Grain Quinoa
My review of Viva Labs Organic Raw Cacao Nibs
My review of Viva Labs Organic Hemp Protein
My review of Viva Labs Extra Virgin Organic Coconut Oil
My review of Viva Labs Organic Goji Berries
My review of Viva Labs Probiotics

A post from today, 7 years ago - Mondays Matter - Week 16 



Thanks to Viva Labs for sending this product for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. I was not compensated in any way for this review. If you choose to purchase this product through the above link, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase. Thanks for supporting SincerelyStacie.com.

Product Review: Probiotics

After having our second child over fourteen years ago, my digestive system has never been the same for some reason. I have, at times, had to limit my diet, take medications, and even refrain from eating. I was interested in trying Viva Labs ADVANCED Probiotics, because our daughter benefited greatly from probiotics as an infant. When she was born, nearly eleven years ago, probiotics were new to the infant market. In fact, we were part of a study group through the University of Iowa to test probiotic formula with her and it was such a blessing to us. 

These capsules are small and easy to swallow. I have not had any issues with taking the probiotics and in fact, when I consistently take them, I have less digestive issues. 

I can now enjoy food without worrying about something causing me discomfort and an upset stomach. Common stomach distress is usually related to dairy, wheat, sugar, and spicy foods.  Taking this supplement has offered me the benefit of enjoying food without worry.

If you are looking to try and regulate your digestive system, this may be something you would like to try. Please note that I am not a medical professional and before starting any new supplement, be sure to discuss it with your doctor or pharmacist. 

If you would like to purchase this product, click the photo below:

I have tried and reviewed several other Viva Labs products and have been very impressed with the quality of each product. To see my other reviews for Viva Labs Hemp Protein, click HERE, Viva Labs Goji Berries, click HERE, Viva Labs Raw Cacao Nibs click, HERE,  Viva Labs Quinoa click, HERE. 

Thanks to Viva Labs for sending this product for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. I was not compensated in any way for this review. If you choose to purchase this item through the above links, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase. Thanks for supporting SincerelyStacie.com. 

A post from 5 years ago today - Traveling with Kids for the Holidays

A post from 6 years ago today - Mondays Matters Week #49

Product Review: Viva Labs Organic Hemp Protein

I have been using protein powder in my smoothies for quite awhile. But after being approached to try Hemp Protein, I was curious because I had never heard of it. If you need a vegetarian or gluten-free protein option, Hemp Protein is for you. Viva Labs harvests the very best hemp from Canada where they carefully shell and press the seeds to extract that nutty flavor. It is then sifted to a very fine powder that removes the grittiness found in other hemp products. Since the hemp is cold-milled and never heated, it maintains the highest protein value for the greatest absorption. Viva Labs Organic Hemp Protein provides a solvent and preservative free product full of fatty acids, magnesium, iron, and other nutrients. 

I used the Hemp Protein in place of my regular protein powder in my usual fruit smoothie recipe. I didn't change any other ingredients except for the protein powder.  The biggest complaint about Hemp Protein is that it is grainy and gritty and doesn't dissolve well. I can report that this is NOT the case for the Viva Labs Organic Hemp Protein. I didn't notice any grainy texture or grittiness while drinking the smoothie. I did notice the flavor was slightly different compared to when I use a whey protein powder. I also shared the Hemp Protein with my cousin who has been trying to find the best Hemp Protein and had been really disappointed with the gritty and grainy ones she had been trying. After she tried the Viva Labs one, she was thrilled. She said she hardly tasted the powder and said it was not gritty at all. Two happy customers for Viva Lab's Organic Hemp Protein!

If you are looking for a gluten-free or vegetarian way to add protein to smoothies and other dishes, then I highly recommend the Viva Labs Organic Hemp Protein. You can see in the photos above, that the protein in the package is a very fine powder which will make it dissolve easily when mixed with other products. This is THE Hemp Protein to use and be sure you have a smoothie without that gritty texture!

If you would like to purchase a 1lb bag of Viva Labs Organic Hemp Protein, you can do so from their website, HERE. You can also purchase it in a 3lb quantity from Amazon by clicking the photo below:

Thanks to Viva Labs for sending me the product for the purpose of this review. I was not compensated in any way for this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to purchase the product through the above link, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase. Thanks for supporting SincerelyStacie.com. 

Product Review: Viva Labs Goji Berries with Goji Power Snack Recipe

I was sent a package of Viva Labs Goji Berriesto review. This 2lb package of Goji Berries is full of all kinds of nutrients and health benefits.  Goji Berries have been used for ages as part of Chinese medicine. It has also been called the "Longevity Berry".Goji Berries are known for their healing properties including strengthening the immune system and restoring major organs. They are one of the most nutrient-rich fruits in the world. This little berry includes all kinds of essential amino acids, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Imagine getting all of these nutrients in one tiny little berry!

Viva Labs Goji Berries are sourced directly from farmers in accordance with fair trade practices and are certified Organic.

I have used these Goji Berries in various ways including adding them to my regular trail mix, adding them to smoothies, and making Goji Power Snacks. They have a bit of a bitter flavor, but if added to other things it balances out. I don't think I could just eat Goji Berries alone like I would eat raisins. 

When adding Goji Berries to your smoothies, I recommend soaking them in water first. Just add enough water to cover the berries and let them sit for 10 minutes or so. Then add the berries along with the water to your smoothie.

I also like making these Goji Power Snacks to eat on the go or when I need a pick me up!

GOJI POWER SNACKS

10 Pitted Dates - I used Sunsweet Pitted Dates and chopped them up first

2 TBSP Coconut Oil

1/4 Cup Sesame Seeds - I used the entire .75 oz Tones container

1/4 Cup Chia Seeds

1/4 Cup Dried Goji Berries 

1/4 Cup Raw Shelled Pumpkin Seeds

1/2 Cup Shredded Coconut

Using your food processor, add the sesame seeds, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds.  Process until chopped fine.  Then add coconut oil, dates, and goji berries.  Process until blended into a paste. 

Roll into 12 balls and then roll into the coconut.  Keep them in the fridge.

If needed, add more coconut oil to keep balls held together.  You can also add almond or peanut butter if you like.

Also, the goji berries can be soaked in warm water to soften before processing, just drain the berries before adding them to the food processor.  

Each of the power snacks will give you a great start to your day....filling you with fiber, protein, and other amazing nutrients.  Pair these with a smoothie and you can't go wrong!  

If you would like to try Viva Labs Organic Goji Berries, click the photo below:

Thanks to Viva Labs for sending the Goji Berries to me for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. I was not compensated in any way for this review. If you choose to purchase the product through the above link, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase. Thanks for supporting SincerelyStacie.com reviews. 

Product Review: Viva Labs Raw Organic Cacao Nibs with Recipe

Viva Labs

Organic Raw Cacao Nibs

I was approached to review Viva Labs Organic Unsweetened Cacao Nibs I have never tried Cacao Nibs before and wasn't really sure what to do with them.  After some online research and looking around Pinterest, I found many ways to get all the benefits from Cacao Nibs.

Cacao Nibs look like shaved chocolate, but they don't melt in your hand if you hold them. They are crunchy and pack a strong chocolate flavor as well as have a chocolate scent. 

What is so special about Cacao Nibs?

Cacao Nibs are considered to be nature's chocolate and were known to be used in Mayan rituals and ceremonies.  Cacao Nibs offer cardiovascular health with having polyphenols, catechins, and procyanidins naturally present. These compounds help keep your cholesterol levels within the normal range.

Cacao Nibs contain essential daily minerals like magnesium, chromium, calcium, and iron. They also have theobromine which is a stimulant-free energy source.  Rather than the crash you get after eating chocolate or drinking coffee, Cacao Nibs will sustain your energy.

Viva Labs take great pride in having the finest variety of Cacao Nibs taken from Perunvian Criollo beans. They also use Fair Trade practices when growing and harvesting the beans with Peruvian Farmers.

How do I use Cacao Nibs?

I made a smoothie using Viva Labs Cacao Nibs. 

CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER SMOOTHIE

In your NutriBullet (or other blender system)

Add:

1 cup of Almond Milk

1/4 Cup of Peanut Butter

1 Tbs Chia Seeds

1 Tbs Cacao Nibs

Handful of ice cubes

(optional: 1/2 frozen banana)

Mix until all items are blended together.

If you are looking to add chocolate flavor without the calories and sugar, using Raw Cacao Nibs in smoothies, cookies, and granola is an excellent idea.  I have a much longer span of energy and feel like I am actually adding benefits rather than empty sugar calories to my diet. 

To purchase a 1 lb bag of Viva Labs Cacao Nibs, click the photo below:





Thanks to Viva Labs for sending this product for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. I was not compensated in any way for this review. If you choose to purchase the product through the above link, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase. Thanks for supporting Sincerelystacie.com reviews.

Product Review: Viva Labs Quinoa

Viva Labs Organic Whole Grain Quinoa

Quinoa is the perfect accompaniment to a meal. Quinoa is Gluten-Free, offers a high nutrition value and is full of protein and high in fiber.  That means it will fill you up sooner than other pastas and that fullness will fuel you for the rest of your day.

Viva Labs guarantees their products and certifies that this Quinoa is USDA Organic. It is also pre-washed which saves you a step in the preparation process.

What is Quinoa?
Quinoa is an ancient South American staple cultivated from the pristine Andean mountains. It is revered as "the mother grain" and known to be "the gold of the Incas". Aesthetically it is similar to rice, but carries its own unique nutritional profile and texture. Quinoa does not belong to the same family as wheat, barley, oats or rye, making it suitable for anyone following a gluten-free diet. 

What's in Viva Labs Organic Quinoa 

Amino Acids: 
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Our quinoa is a complete protein source that contains all of the essential amino acids, making it highly suitable for vegetarians who typically follow a plant-based diet. Essential amino acids are those that are not made in the body, and must therefore be obtained through the diet. The U.S. recommended daily allowance (RDA) of protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body mass, or about 0.4 grams per pound. Each serving of Viva Labs Organic Quinoa contains 6g of protein. 

Essential Vitamins and Minerals: 
In addition to iron, quinoa contains other essential minerals such as, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus and is a high source of manganese. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition indicated maintaining adequate amounts of manganese led to healthy inflammatory pathways and improved joint mobility. 

What Makes Viva Labs Quinoa Special?  
Viva Labs' quinoa seeds are harvested in the high altitude mountainous regions of Bolivia. Quinoa is threshed from fully matured plants, releasing nutritionally-rich seeds of exquisite taste. Naturally covered by bitter saponins, Viva Labs' quinoa is de-saponized removing unwanted bitter qualities and offering exceptional flavor. Viva Labs' organic whole grain quinoa is sustainably grown and sourced directly from farmers in accordance with fair trade practices.

This 4-lb bag of Quinoa will last a long time as you don't need much to make enough for a meal. I made a Quinoa Salad that lasted me all week long.

Boil 1 cup of Quinoa according to package directions.
Placed in refrigerator to cool down.
Add spinach and chopped roma tomatoes.
Right before eating, add chopped avocado.
Add 1 TBS of Italian Dressing to each serving at the time of eating so it doesn't get soggy.
Mix it all together and eat.
Keep refrigerated.

This is not an exact recipe. You can add whatever you like to this salad...olives, corn, carrots, mushrooms, etc.

There are many ways to serve and eat Quinoa.  By experimenting, you can find several ways to serve this alongside your next meal.

If you would like to purchase Viva Labs Organic Quinoa, click the photo below:

Thanks to Viva Labs for sending this product to me for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. I was not compensated in any way for this review. If you choose to purchase this product through the above link, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase. Thanks for supporting SincerelyStacie.com.