New England Natural Bakers – Products Worth Reviewing

Throughout the years, farmers, bakers, children, adults, even certain animals know about the importance of including whole grains in the daily diet. There’s something magical about a whole grain product as it touches your palette and fulfills a satisfying hunger. Whole grains contain all of the important layers of the grain and maintains all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients found in that particular grain. And a solid known fact about whole grains – they taste a whole lot better than their stripped down counterparts. Whole grains fill you up faster too and keeps you fuller longer and they’re so versatile to eat with.

We started giving our son whole grain wheat bread, whole grain cereal, and whole grain rice (brown rice) since he was old enough to chew them. Then later on, he discovered the wonders of whole grain granola. When I had him taste a handful of granola made with the best stuff on earth, he couldn’t stop eating them and hence, we’ve added whole grain granola into our repertoire of whole grain foods. If you’ve ever had granola, then you’ll know how addicting it can be and how versatile it is too. You can add virtually anything into your granola, granted they’re healthy ingredients of  course, and you can either sweeten them with natural sweeteners or leave as is. I usually like to add chocolate chips into my granola to give it some natural sweetness and flavor. Making granola on your own is fairly easy to make but it can be time consuming and costly if you’re making them with organic and all-natural goodness. So what if you don’t have the time or the resources to make homemade granola? Well, you turn to a company that promises you all-natural granola made with the finest and most delectable ingredients on earth. When we were introduced to New England Naturals not too long ago, I was impressed by their ingredients for natural, organic, and wholesome granola and trail mix and when I tasted them, I was even more impressed. Their gourmet, wholesome granola and baked goods were naturally sweet and naturally good for you. They make unique and delicious granola mixes that will surely please anyone of any age and gender.

At New England Naturals Bakers (http://www.newenglandnaturalbakers.com/vvv/), the family of bakers know their stuff . Starting with only organic and all-natural ingredients, they blend a fusion of sweet, tangy, savory flavors in their granola and they can be eaten as is or mixed into yogurt, eaten with milk or baked into your regular baked goods. Granola can be super delicious sprinkled on top of baked apples or pears and wonderful with ice cream too! There was a time when I ate granola with everything – yes, it was a bit addictive but I found so many uses for granola that it was fun to experiment. Maybe you’ll find new uses with granola and share the experiences! With New England Naturals granola, I didn’t have to worry about any unhealthy ingredients in their granola, so enjoy them as you would any other granola, except they’re made with better ingredients.

With granola and trail mix from New England Naturals, they’re not all about great-tasting food. They’re also famous for making granola filled with healthy anti-oxidant ingredients including flax and chia seeds. Both seeds are full of healthy Omega 3 and 6’s and if you’re going to enjoy some yummy granola, why not include some anti-oxidant powered foods in them too? New England Naturals also makes wonderful trail mixes filled with healthy and delicious ingredients such as Brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds, almonds, chocolate “drops” (which are chocolate chips), dried fruits, and many others. Their granola include scrumptious ingredients such as organic flax seeds, maple syrup, sunflower seeds, dried fruits, delicate spices including nutmeg and cinnamon, and all sweetened with organic and natural brown rice syrup or honey. The base of their granola ofcourse is whole rolled oats so you get all of the natural goodness of oat grains which is part of the designation of The Whole Grains Council and their belief that eating whole grain reduces the risk of many chronic illnesses. And as I mentioned before, there’s just something more delicious about the taste of whole grains – they taste nuttier, sweeter, and full of intense flavor. If you’ve never tried granola or any kind of whole grain food, then you’re missing out on some ultra delicious foods.

New England Natural Bakers began as a love for baking wholesome, natural foods that everyone will enjoy. Feeling a need for the community to have fresh, delicious, and good-for-you baked goods, the company New England Natural Bakers arised and soon became a popular name throughout the country. Now, you can find New England Natural’s granola, trail mixes, and granola bars at most natural grocery stores and they sell a variety of flavors to choose from. With interesting flavors such as All Natural Honey Nut Cinnamon Granola, Cinnamon Spice & Everything Nice Organic Granola, and Save the Forest Chocolate Mix, your senses will sure be intrigued and your tastebuds wanting more. My son thoroughly enjoys their granola and he eats them like “candy” because his words are everytime he eats a New England Naturals granola, “Yum! They taste like candy!”. Well, that could be a good thing for parents considering we’re all trying to steer our children away from actual candy and substitute it with something that’s just as sweet, but only healthier.

The good folks at New England Natural Bakers knew how much we enjoy our granolas so they had sent us an assortment of flavors to try. We tried delicious flavors such as Organic Maple Nut Chewy Granola Bars, Organic Antioxidant Granola, Organic Chocolate Omega Chewy Granola, Banana Walnut Granola (this was great with milk and sliced bananas!), Honey Nuts and Cinnamon Granola, and several others. They were all unique in their own flavor profile, yet similar in their natural sweetness and flavorful crunchiness. The chewy granola bars were great, because I’m not really into crunchy bars and they were moist, soft, yet yielded a slight bite. But what I enjoy most about New England Naturals baked goods is that they’re not overly sweet yet sweet enough so that you don’t have to add any sugar in them like some people might. With dried fruits and chocolate chips in some of their granola, why would you want to add any additional sugars in them anyway? New England Natural Bakers granolas, bars, and trail mixes are wholesome and uses only the finest of natural ingredients.  And since they also make gluten-free versions, they’re great if you’re on a gluten-sensitive diet. For more info about New England Natural Bakers, please visit their website: http://www.newenglandnaturalbakers.com/vvv/. You can also order their products online.

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products. 

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=storm

Seasnax – Products Worth Reviewing

There’s something magical about seaweed that’s hard to explain, but once you’ve tasted them, you’ll know what I mean. Seaweed is nature’s natural powerfood. They are full of important vitamins and minerals, contains important essential fatty acids, and have valuable plant protein. Most of us have had seaweed one time or another, whether it’s in Sushi, in Miso Soup, or even as a facial, we enjoy it, but not many people know the health benefits of seaweed. We’re seaweed lovers in our family. I was raised eating them and my son loves them explicitly. In fact, his relationship with seaweed equates to a guy who loves his car. There’s no denying that seaweed has a unique taste and texture and that it also comes in many forms, shapes, and flavors. There are also countless ways of eating them and preparing them. But our favorite way is to eat dried seaweed by itself so we can enjoy the intense flavors that seaweed offers.

Seaweed has come a long way from once being only enjoyed by certain cultures and ethnic groups. For many seaside countries, seaweed is a staple and it’s eaten almost exclusively. In the US however, most people only know them as part of the wrap that goes around the rice in Sushi or they may find bits and pieces of seaweed in some Miso soups. But to truly enjoy seaweed, it’s best eating them raw or dried. When we learned about a company called SeaSnax, I was intrigued at the many varieties of seaweed that they offered and was delighted when they sent us their dried, roasted SeaSnax to try.

The folks at SeaSnax (http://www.seasnax.com/) know a lot about seaweed. They make everything from dried seasoned seaweed snacks, to shredded seaweed, to seaweed salads, to dried seaweed flakes. Their seaweed are all-natural, delicious, and so versatile. In fact, with SeaSnax’s seaweeds, you can enjoy them as is, sprinkled in soups, salads, sandwiches, stir-fried dishes, and ofcourse in rice. We love seaweed mostly eaten in dried form but I also like to use raw seaweed in soups for a different kind of flavor and texture. SeaSnax’s seaweeds come from Korea, which is a major grower and supplier of seaweed and they use the ever-popular Nori seaweed which has a delicate and versatile flavor. And because SeaSnax’s seaweeds are flavored with only non-GMO natural ingredients, you can be sure that you’re getting something wholesome and pure.

The beauty of seaweed, which not many people know, is that they are a superfood and can be enjoyed by vegetarians and vegans. Seaweed contains important nutrients such as iodine, calcium, sodium, magnesium, potassium, iron, zinc, copper and selenium. Seaweed also provides fiber, vitamins including  B1, B6, and E, enzymes and high quality proteins. Sea vegetables also have a higher proportion of essential fatty acids than land plants. One sheet of raw nori usually conatins about .5 grams of omega-3 fatty acids. Seaweed is low fat, low carb, gluten free and sugar free. Perhaps the best part of seaweed besides all those important vitamins and minerals is that it’s rich in iodine. The iodine found in seaweed stimulates the thyroid, increasing metabolism and therefore burning more calories. Americans don’t get enough iodine in their daily diet alone, so adding seaweed, whether dried or in raw form can help with more iodine consumption.

The company SeaSnax was founded in the belief that seaweed as part of the sea vegetable family should be an important food in everyone’s life. The owners and creators own children are fanatics about seaweed and thus the company’s motto is: “We make SeaSnax as if our own kids eat them every day, because they do”. Since their own children snack on these seaweed snacks, they are extremely diligent in providing the public with high-quality, safe, and nutritious sea vegetables. They are also non-GMO verified and test their seaweed on a regular basis and since SeaSnax is a family-owned and operated business, quality and taste is what builds their reputation. You can currently find SeaSnax products at most natural grocery stores as well as ordering them online on their website.

The lovely folks at SeaSnax knew how much we adored seaweed so they sent us a variety of their dried seaweed snacks to try and review. We received SeaSnax’s Classic Olive flavor, Toasty Onion flavor, Chipotle flavor, Wasabi flavor, and Sea Sprinkles. Our favorites are the Classic Olive and Toasty Onion flavor. The Wasabi was really spicy but strangely addicting and the Sea Sprinkles are great over basically anything! So for the health of your children and for yourself, give SeaSnax seaweed a try – you won’t be disappointed and your body and tastebuds will thank you for it!

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products. 

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

*If you’re unsure about supplements, please be sure to consult your health practitioner before using.

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Sibu Beauty – Products Worth Reviewing

One day in the future we will all have skin that’s supple, smooth, and free of wrinkles. Hopefully science, or evolution will have figured out a way to do so and we won’t have to rely on stringent skin care routines. Ofcourse some people are blessed with wonderful skin from the beginning and you have to wonder, is it genetics or is there a secret formula? Well, health experts are constantly telling you to drink lots of water, get plenty of rest, and use skin care products selectively. I totally agree with those suggestions but when you have a wealth of skincare companies out on the market, how do you know which one is the right one?

When it comes to choosing the right type of skincare products and company, I’m usually very picky. I want a company that dedicates their business in the health of skincare and bodycare and has done tons of research and analysis on their products. But most importantly, I want skin care products that uses safe, non-toxic, naturally-derived ingredients that will help improve my skin rather than hinder it with a bunch of unnecessary ingredients. That’s why when I was introduced to Sibu Beauty (http://www.sibubeauty.com/), their exclusive use of Sea Buckthorn berries in their skin and bodycare products really intrigued me. I had heard much about Sea Buckthorn and its many health benefits but hadn’t really used any products that contained this wonderful berry. As it turns out, Sea Buckthorn has been used in the health and beauty industry for quite a long time and has been known for its health benefits for over 1000 years. The tiny, luscious orange berries resembles much like little oranges or orange grapes and grow in secluded mountains of the Himalayas.

Sea Buckthorn is grown primarily in the Tibetan Himalayas and contains over 190 bioactive compounds. Sea buckthorn contains powerful nutrients including Omegas 3, 6, and 9 but is also a rich source of the elusive essential fatty acid, Omega-7, an essential fatty acid vital to collagen production and healthy skin, hair and nails. According to the history of Sea Buckthorn, the berries have been known to be used in many traditional medicinal purposes dating as far back as the Genghis Khan era. Although I’m not a huge fan of Genghis Khan, he used the secrets of the Sea Buckthorn berries to rejuvinate himself and his warriors. Sea Buckthorn’s traditional health-related uses include sustaining energy levels, improving cellular health, improving immune health, moisturizing dry and damaged skin, decreasing fine lines and wrinkles, help with exzema and rosacea symptoms, and many other benefits. But perhaps the most useful and exquisite essential fatty acid found in Sea Buckthorn berries is Omega 7.

The Omega 7 essential fatty acid is known for keeping free radicals away and helps in the production of collagen. Sea Buckthorn berries is loaded with Omega 7 along with the other Omegas (3,6, and 9). Very rarely do you find anything in nature that contains all of those essential Omega fatty acids and if you did, they are not very common in the beauty industry. At Sibu Beauty, they have captured and harvested the powerful uses of Sea Buckthorn berries and this powerful berry is used as the main ingredient in all of their products. Sibu Beauty promises to observe and preserve the beauty and rarity of this luscious resource and they use fair trade harvesting practices in Tibet as well as serve as partners with Forest Stewership Council.

Sibu Beauty was founded after a love for natural beauty and ayurvedic practices led the owner and founder to discover the powerful Sea Buckthorn berry. Through his believe of the berry’s unique healing and sustaining powers, Sibu Beauty soon became a company known for creating beauty both inside and out. Sibu Beauty’s comprehensive line of beauty and health products include Sea Buckthorn juice, daytime facial cream, Sea Buckthorn capsules which supports cellular growth, cleansing and detoxifying beauty bar, Sea Buckthorn seed oil, body cream, age defying eye cream, facial cleanser, night cream, hydrating serum, Sea Buckthorn puree, exfoliating scrub, purifying mask, and clarifying toner. All of Sibu Beauty’s products are made with naturally derived and organic ingredients and do not contain parabens, preservatives, and toxic ingredients. They are also cruelty free and their Sea Buckthorn is sourced through fair trade agreements with local harvesters in Tibet.

The lovely folks at Sibu Beauty wanted me to try their products so they sent me their Sea Buckthorn Daytime facial cream to try and review. I stopped using my other face moisturizers so that I can solely concentrate on the powers of Sea Buckthorn and Sibu Beauty’s immaculate facial cream. I used it day and night after cleansing my face and my face feels extremely moisturized and supple and much softer. I’m sure individual results may vary but I certainly noticed a difference in smoother skin. Who knows? Maybe Sea Buckthorn is that elusive secret formula we’ve all been searching for. For more information about Sibu Beauty, please visit their website: http://www.sibubeauty.com/.

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products. 

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=storm

Hero Nutritionals – Products Worth Reviewing and Giveaway

We all know that being a parent can be the toughest job in the world. Although it’s quite rewarding, it can zap up a lot of our energy. That said, being a kid can be pretty tough too. What with dealing with the stress of which toy to play with today and which flavor of milk would be best with that cookie, it can be rough and tough for a little kid. That’s why both parents and kids need to have some kind of extra boost of vitamins to keep us going. And in the case of vitamins that our body needs most of all – is Vitamin D. Growing children need it and adults need it just as much.

As growing bodies know, we need to eat healthy foods every day, drink plenty of water, and get enough rest to replenish ourselves. But many of us also forget that as we’re growing, our bones and cells need Vitamin D to help them grow and sustain into our adult years. Vitamin D is the mothership to Calcium. Our bodies, no matter the age, requires daily doses of Vitamin D to keep our bones healthy. The Sun is the most natural way of getting Vitamin D, but not all of us want to stay outside long enough to get the necessary amount of Vitamin D that our bodies need. So some of us turn to vitamin supplements that contain the recommended daily amount of Vitamin D to help sustain our “older” bones and grow our children’s younger bones. But with so many companies out there that produces Vitamin D supplements, which one really works and which one is best suited for children?

All Vitamin D supplements are essentially the same. But not all of them are made with natural ingredients and are free from artificial additives and preservatives. Many of them are also sweetened so that it’s easier for children to swallow them, but then do we need to give our kids even more sugar? When we found out about Hero Nutritionals (http://www.heronutritionals.com/),  I was delighted that they produce products that are made from natural ingredients and do not contain any unnecessary additives like artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. In fact, Hero Nutritionals products are also free of gluten, genetically modified ingredients, and are also suitable for Vegans. When they came out with their newest Sugar-Free vitamins this year, it seems ideal to have vitamins sweetened with natural fruits which has also additional benefits.

As with any supplements, it’s important to find high-quality ones and from reputable companies. Hero Nutritionals was established in 1995 by a woman who saw the constant need of parents wanting to give their children vitamins that are easy to take and tastes great as well. Therefore, Hero Nutritionals was the first company to make children’s vitamins in a gummy form – thereby making it easier and funner for kids to take their vitamins. And because their vitamins are shaped like cute little bears, they’re also delightful to look at and resemble a whole lot like regular gummy bears (so be careful not to place regular gummy bear candies next to vitamin gummy bears). Hero Nutritionals gummy vitamins were essentially formulated for children, but due to the popularity of their gummy vitamins, they later came out with an adult gummy vitamin called, “Slice of Life” And both children and adult gummy vitamins are made with high-quality, natural ingredients that are free of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, free of GMO’s, and are essentially suitable for vegans and vegetarians since no dairy or eggs are used. Hero Nutritionals are also suitable for those with certain allergic reactions to gluten, milk, shellfish, nuts, or wheat and yeast.

Currently Hero Nutritionals makes a complete line of gummy vitamins for both children and adults. Their vitamin supplements include Multi-Vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin D3, Omega 3-6-9, DHA, Fiber, as well as organic gummy vitamins made with only organic ingredients. All of them contain natural fruit extracts and in the case of their Sugar-Free version, their gummy vitamins are sweetened with lo han fruit concentrate (known for it’s many health benefits) so it’s slightly less sweet than their other fruit-sweetened gummy vitamins. My son marveled  that his Vitamin D3 gummy bears tastes just like the real gummy bears and since I’m not a major gummy bear fan, I am definitely glad that the Sugar Free gummy vitamins wasn’t as sweet. Hero Nutritionals also produces dark chocolate vitamins which I had the pleasure of trying and hey, chocolate and vitamins – what a delicious and unique combination.

At Hero Nutritionals, they are all about promoting a healthy lifestyle and maintaining good health from child to adult. We all need a little extra boost of nutritional power now and then and if you take vitamins regularly, then you definitely have to try Hero Nutritionals gummy vitamins. I’m really keen on gummy vitamins because they are easier to swallow, they taste better, and they’re funner to eat. Hero Nutritionals gummy vitamins are soft, moist, and easy to chew and swallow and their Slice of Life vitamins are shaped like little slices of citrus fruits – so adorable! When Hero Nutritionals had sent me their Slice of Life Sugar Free Vitamin D3 gummy vitamins to try, I was delighted at their adorable shapes. And as previously said, my son really likes the Yummi Bears Sugar Free Vitamin D3 gummy vitamins because they’re shaped like little bears – so they’re fun to look at and eat. If you’re going to feed your children vitamins, then why not give them something that’s fun to look at, easy to eat, tastes great, and contains all natural ingredients?

The good folks at Hero Nutritionals had generously sent me their new  Slice of Life Sugar Free Vitamin D3 gummy vitamins and Yummi Bears Sugar Free High Potency Vitamin D3 to try and review. Since they are both high-potency, you really have to follow the recommended dosage when taking them. Both Slice of Life Sugar Free Vitamin D3 and Yummi Bears Sugar Free Vitamin D3 are sweetened with Lo Han fruit so to me, they weren’t as sweet as some of the other gummy vitamins I’ve had before. I also tried their Healthy Indulgence Premium Dark Chocolate Vitamins Multi Vitamin and Minerals and the dark chocolate pieces definitely did not have any “vitamin” taste as you’d find with most other chocolate-infused vitamins.

Hero Nutritionals would also like to give 1 LUCKY reader of Happymomblogger the opportunity to try their new Sugar Free Vitamin D3 for both adults and children. The winner will receive a lovely gift basket filled with Slice of Life Sugar Free Vitamin D3, Yummi Bears Sugar Free Vitamin D3, samples, and an adorable teddy bear (that very much resembles their gummy vitamins. Mascot, perhaps?) So how do you win this incredible prize? Read below to find out!

Here’s how to enter in the Hero Nutritionals giveaway:

(Please note, the rules have changed slightly. Please read carefully before entering)

ENTRIES:

#1 entry – “Like” Hero Nutritionals on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/heronutritionalproducts and write on their wall that you are entering the contest at Happymomblogger: http://www.happymomblogger.wordpress.com/. Please put Happymomblogger as the heading.

ADDITIONAL ENTRIES: 

#2 entry – Become a follower: http://twitter.com/#!/happymomblogger and “Tweet” me @happymomblogger that you are entering the Hero Nutritionals giveaway.

#3 entry – Subscribe to my Blog.

#4 entry – Enter in my other contests.

#5 entry – Vote for me at Top Mommy Blogs using the link provided below.

You can enter by telling me the 5 entries in the LEAVE A COMMENT box. Please be sure to give me your name and email address so that I may contact you if you win. Contest is open to residents of US only. 18 years and older please. Please be sure to provide a physical address and not a P.O. Box. Only 1 contestant per household please. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery of prize. Any violation of the rules will deem your entry as disqualified. Happymomblogger is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged prizes but will do the best to ensure your prize gets there. In  the event the winner can not be contacted within 3 days of email sent then another winner will be chosen. No purchase necessary to enter. Void where prohibed by law.

Contest Start Date: August 11, 2012

Contest End Date: August 28, 2012 – CONTEST CLOSED. WINNER WILL BE SELECTED.

Only 1 winner will be chosen at random and I will post the winner’s name on my blog.

GOOD LUCK AND THANK YOU FOR PARTICIPATING!

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products. 

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

*If you’re unsure about supplements, please be sure to consult your health practitioner before consuming any.

http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=storm

Barlean’s – Products Worth Reviewing and Giveaway

Having been a vegetarian for many years I’ve learned about certain foods that can help enhance my health as well as maintain it. It’s especially important for vegetarians and vegans to eat a well-balanced diet of food rich in vitamins, proteins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. But sometimes we don’t get the necessary nutrients by plant food alone. Same goes for young children – children are a bit pickier when it comes to eating so they don’t always get the proper nutrients to grow up healthy and strong. So what can we do? Sometimes we can turn to supplements that help fulfill the necessary gaps in our food intake. But not just any ordinary supplement will do. No, it has to be something pure, without any artificial ingredients, and preferably with organic ingredients. And that is the case with Barlean’s – a company dedicated to using the highest quality of natural and organic ingredients in their supplements.

You may have heard of Barlean’s (http://www.barleans.com/). After all, over 20 years of experience in the flax oil business has garnered the Barlean’s company great success and recognition. Even back when flax wasn’t as popular as it is today, the Barlean’s family knew of its importance in maintaining good health and well-being. As a family-owned and operated business, Barlean’s creates high-quality supplements made with only the finest of natural and organic ingredients. Their firm believe that the world needs to be healthier has helped maintain Barlean’s exceptional business practices – and their number one priority: to produce first rate nutritional supplements to the public. At Barlean’s, they believe that supplements such as flax oil and seeds need to be as fresh as possible to ensure a purer quality, thus their products are produced in smaller batches and are sent to the stores immediately. You can find Barlean’s nutritional supplements at most natural grocery stores but in smaller quantity so that their products aren’t sitting on shelves and losing potent qualities.

When we were first introduced to Barlean’s, I was impressed by their ingredients. Barlean’s uses organic, non-GMO ingredients in all of their products and their content ratio of vitamins and minerals can benefit almost any one of any age and gender. And because of using only certified organic ingredients, you can be assured that the ingredients used in their products do not contain any toxic pesticides, herbicides, or germicides. That’s a great assurance for me especially when I give my son Barlean’s Omega Swirl. I want my son to have pure Omega supplements and not just something that’s been filtered and heavily processed. And with Barlean’s Omega Swirls, they don’t need to add any sugar to “trick” kids into enjoying Omega supplements. Kids don’t get enough essential fatty acids on a daily basis as do most adults, so flax oil is the next best thing. Since my son isn’t a vegetarian, he does enjoy his fish, but I always hinder a bit on the mercury content found in most fish. So for me, I think flax are great alternatives to fish omegas and are great for vegetarians and vegans as well. We all know the importance of Omega fatty acids and yet most of us do not get enough of them on a regular basis. Omega fatty acids are part of the essential fatty acids (EFA) that helps with cell reproduction, maintain healthy heart muscle, nerve transmission, muscle health, immune responses, skin, hair, and nail health, and many other benefits (http://www.omegascience.org/product_ingredients/fatty_acids.aspx). Not all of us eat a balanced diet rich in Omega 3’s, 6’s, and 9’s, and vegetarians and children especially don’t get enough of them for important health maintenance.

Barlean’s has a complete line of nutritional supplements designed for every day use and for any one of any age. Their current lineup of products include traditional flax seed oil and capsules, Flax Oil Blends that includes Omega 3’s, 6’s, and 9’s, Greens which is a complete superfood supplement that contains many necessary vitamins and minerals, Forti-Flax which contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals, traditional Fish Oils for those who prefer their Omegas from the source of fish, Omega Swirl which is a delightful blend of fruits that tastes extraordinarily like smoothies, Omega Kids that are formulated especially for children as young as 2-years old, Specialty Oils such as Coconut Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, and Borage Oil, Organic Chia Seeds which are great for vegans and vegetarians, Olive Leaf, and Brevail which is a supplement that helps support breast and hormone health. So with so many choices to choose from, I’m sure you’ll find something that you and your family can use.

With so many companies nowadays producing nutritional supplements, it’s really hard to determine which are better for you. It’s important to do your own research and to try it out when possible. You can taste high-quality supplements and you can probably feel it too after using them for awhile. With Barlean’s products, they are certified organic and non-GMO, have a rating of 5 stars in the potency and purity in regards to their fish oils, and are Kosher certified on most of their products. But tasting is believing and you’ll have to try Barlean’s for yourself to understand the difference between low-quality and high-quality nutritional supplements.

Barlean’s had wanted me to experience their exceptional nutritional supplements so they had sent me their Forti-Flax and Omega Swirl in Strawberry/Banana. I shared my Forti-Flax with my mom and my son is enjoying his Omega Swirl in Strawberry/Banana. The Forti-Flax tastes amazing and has a slight nutty texture and flavor. It’s easy to blend the ground flax supplement into beverages, soups, stir-frys, or even taken as is. I usually add it in my soymilk to give it an extra boost of nutritional power. Forti-Flax is made with organic, cold-pressed flax oil and has a fine ground and smooth texture. My son enjoys his Omega Swirl in Strawberry/Banana straight from a spoon. You can definitely taste the yummy strawberry and banana flavor and the flax seeds has a slightly nutty texture and taste so it’s really unique and delicious.  The Omega Swirls  Flax Oil Supplements are made with organic, cold-pressed flax oil and has a smooth, slightly thick texture that resembles smoothies. And since it’s slightly sweetened with Xylitol it has a natural sugar ingredient that’s also beneficial. The wonderful folks at Barlean’s would also like to give 1 LUCKY reader of Happymomblogger the opportunity to win 1 Forti-Flax and 1 Omega Swirl in Strawberry/Banana to try. Since both products are made with organic flax oil, they are great for vegetarians and vegans too. So how do you win this fabulous prize? Read below to find out!

Here’s how to enter in the Barlean’s Forti-Flax and Omega Swirl Flax Oil giveaway:

(Please note, the rules have changed slightly. Please read carefully before entering)

ENTRIES:

#1 entry – “Like” Barlean’s on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/barleans and write on their wall that you are entering the contest at Happymomblogger: http://www.happymomblogger.wordpress.com/. Please put Happymomblogger as the heading.

ADDITIONAL ENTRIES: 

#2 entry – Become a follower: http://twitter.com/#!/happymomblogger and “Tweet” me @happymomblogger that you are entering the Barlean’s giveaway. Become a follower of Barlean’s:http://www.twitter.com/barleans and “Tweet” that you are entering the contest at Happymomblogger.

#3 entry – Subscribe to my Blog.

#4 entry – Visit: http://www.barleans.com/ and tell me which product you would love to try.

#5 entry – Vote for me at Top Mommy Blogs using the link provided below.

You can enter by telling me the 5 entries in the LEAVE A COMMENT box. Please be sure to give me your name and email address so that I may contact you if you win. Contest is open to residents of US only. 18 years and older please. Please be sure to provide a physical address and not a P.O. Box. Only 1 contestant per household please. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery of prize. Any violation of the rules will deem your entry as disqualified. Happymomblogger is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged prizes but will do the best to ensure your prize gets there. In  the event the winner can not be contacted within 3 days of email sent then another winner will be chosen. No purchase necessary to enter. Void where prohibed by law.

Contest Start Date: August 11, 2012

Contest End Date: August 28, 2012. CONTEST CLOSED – WINNER WILL BE SELECTED.

Only 1 winner will be chosen at random and I will post the winner’s name on my blog.

GOOD LUCK AND THANK YOU FOR PARTICIPATING!

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products. 

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

*If you’re unsure about supplements, please be sure to consult your health practitioner before using.

http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=storm

Blue Diamond Almond Breeze Almonds Milk – Products Worth Reviewing and Giveaway

I’m not a constant milk drinker but my son loves milk every day. Cow’s milk is essentially really good for you because of the natural vitamins and minerals and kids really enjoy the taste, especially if they are flavored with strawberry, chocolate, or vanilla. But once in awhile it’s good to venture outside of the normal milk your kids may be used to. One great source of protein is from almond milk and besides the nut protein, almond milk also provides essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that’s so important for a growing body. And if you’ve ever tried almond milk, then you’ll know how smooth and delicious it can be. Almond milk tastes incredibly like eating almonds but it’s much easier to digest in liquid form.

Who doesn’t love a refreshing glass of ice-cold milk? It’s delicious, healthy, and fun to drink. But not all of us can tolerate regular cow’s milk on a regular basis or even at all. And not all of us enjoy the taste of regular milk either. So what other options do you have? There are an assortment of non-dairy milk beverages out on the market today including almond milk, soymilk, rice milk, and hemp milk. I came to enjoy almond milk a long time ago because I love the taste of almonds and nut protein is really important for vegetarians as well as for those on strict eating habits. Children might even enjoy almond milk too because of it’s natural sweetness and it’s smooth texture. My son wasn’t crazy about almond milk at first, but then he grew to like it only because he’s used to the taste of almonds since he was very young. I like to put almond milk in smoothies instead of regular milk or soymilk sometimes just to give it an extra boost of vitamins and minerals, and the taste is absolutely fantastic! You really can’t go wrong with almond milk because most people are not allergic to almonds since they are essentially an underdeveloped fruit that resembles apricots and not actually nuts. And almonds have so many culinary uses that many recipes call for almonds as a base ingredient. Almonds really are versatile, fun, and delicious and addicting once you’re hooked on them.

So what’s a good way of enjoying almonds? Well, the famous makers of premium nut products at Blue Diamond Almonds have found a way to offer almonds in a refreshing, delectable, and elegant way in the form of a beverage. Almond beverages are all the rage right now because of it’s enhancing benefits and the fact that they are so delicious and versatile. At Blue Diamond Almonds, they are experts at almonds and almond beverages and their almond beverages are hard to compare with any other brands. Blue Diamond Almonds almond beverages has a clean, smooth, and naturally sweet flavor and taste and they are great any time of the day and for any age. Although almond milk is best served chilled, I do like to warm it up and stir in a bit of honey for some extra flavor and health boost. You can also use almond milk in making smoothies, in baking recipes, in cereals and oatmeal, and even in ice-cream. For those who’ve had almond milk before, you’ll know what I mean by their unique taste and flavor. And for those who have yet to try them, then try Blue Diamond Almonds almond milk first and you’ll be likely to have more.

Why do we enjoy almond milk from Blue Diamond Almonds? Because their almonds are grown in California, their almonds are not genetifically modified or engineered, they adhere to the stict guidelines of GAP, and they are part of a cooperative of California almond growers who have been in the almond growing business for many years. In fact, Blue Diamond Almonds are currently celebrating their 100th year in the almond growing business. Quite a feat for a small company who originally started out wanting to fulfill America’s need and desire for almond consumption. At Blue Diamond Almonds, they make everything possible with almonds, including their trademark almonds in a can, their Almond Breeze Almond Milk, Nut Chips, and Nut Thins.

As a Moms Meet official blogger, I was given the opportunity to try and review Blue Diamond’s Almond Breeze as well as give 3 LUCKY readers of Happymomblogger the opportunity to try their Almond Breeze as well. Each winner will receive 1 FREE product coupon for Blue Diamond Almond Breeze in the flavor of their choice. So how do you win this yummy prize? Read below to find out!

Here’s how to enter in the Blue Diamond Almond Breeze giveaway:

(Please note, the rules have changed slightly. Please read carefully before entering)

ENTRIES:

#1 entry – “Like” Blue Diamond Almonds on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BlueDiamondAlmonds and write on their wall that you are entering the contest at Happymomblogger: http://www.happymomblogger.wordpress.com/. Please put Happymomblogger as the heading.

ADDITIONAL ENTRIES: 

#2 entry – Become a follower: http://twitter.com/#!/happymomblogger and “Tweet” me @happymomblogger that you are entering the Blue Diamond Almond Breeze giveaway.

#3 entry – Subscribe to my Blog.

#4 entry – Enter in my other contests.

#5 entry – Vote for me at Top Mommy Blogs using the link provided below.

You can enter by telling me the 5 entries in the LEAVE A COMMENT box. Please be sure to give me your name and email address so that I may contact you if you win. Contest is open to residents of US only. 18 years and older please. Please be sure to provide a physical address and not a P.O. Box. Only 1 contestant per household please. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery of prize. Any violation of the rules will deem your entry as disqualified. Happymomblogger is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged prizes but will do the best to ensure your prize gets there. In  the event the winner can not be contacted within 3 days of email sent then another winner will be chosen. No purchase necessary to enter. Void where prohibed by law.

Contest Start Date: August 11, 2012

Contest End Date: August 28, 2012 – CONTEST CLOSED. WINNERS WILL BE SELECTED.

Only 3 winners will be chosen at random and I will post the winners names on my blog.

GOOD LUCK AND THANK YOU FOR PARTICIPATING!

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products. 

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=storm