Detox - Dr. Don Colbert, MD Dr. Don Colbert, MD

Keto Lemon Whip

Don Colbert, MD — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Sometimes, life surprises you. Every once in a while, when you expect a delicious food to be “bad for you,” you find out it’s actually bursting with ingredients that are amazingly good for you. Ingredients that support cellular detox and overall health. A Detox Keto Lemon Whip that encourages your body to feel its best.

Sometimes, there’s a secret ingredient in your favorite new treat. This is one of those times. Check out the suprising secret ingredient and try our Detox Keto Lemon Whip today.

Keto Lemon Whip

Ingredients

3 cups cauliflower florets, washed and chopped
1.5 tablespoons equilavent organic stevia in place of sugar
1 teaspoon real vanilla
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoons lemon zest
2 tablespoons coconut oil (melted)
1 scoop MCT Oil Powder (vanilla)
1/4 cup coconut milk (from carton)

Instructions

After chopping cauliflower, steam it until it is very tender (you can do this in a steamer basket on the stovetop or by microwaving it in a bowl with 1/4 cup water for 1-2 minutes). Once cooked place the cauliflower in the fridge to cool.
Next, place cooled cauliflower florets, stevia, vanilla, lemon juice and zest, coconut oil, MCT oil powder and almond milk in a blender or food processor. Blend until it forms a smooth whipped cream like texture.
Put in the fridge. Serves 2. Enjoy!

Nutrition Info (per 1 cup serving): 223 calories, 17 grams fat, 12 grams carbohydrates, 7 grams fiber, 5 grams protein

Why Cauliflower as a Secret Ingredient in Detox Keto Lemon Whip

Cauliflower does it again! But why? Why take the time to use cauliflower instead of heavy cream, coconut cream, or other ingredients in this whip?

Some ingredients hit all the mark in terms of macronutrients. They may be low in carbs, high in fats, and stay in the Keto Zone. But, are they actually encouring health? Maybe so, maybe not.

However, you can rest assured that cauliflower has your back. And every cell in your body. Here’s what cauliflower does for you and how it boosts this Detox Keto Lemon Whip to the next level.

7 Amazing Science-Backed Health Benefits of Cauliflower

1. Nutrition Powerhouse with Only 2 Grams of Net Carbs

Many people want to cut carbohydrates and enter the Keto Zone while still consuming nutrient-loaded vegetables. Cauliflower is a perfect choice.

Not only does it contain vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and more, it only contains 5 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams fiber per cup. In fact, each cup contains (1):

27 calories
2 grams of protein
0.3 grams of fat
5 g of carbohydrate (3 g of fiber and 2 g of sugar)
24 milligrams of calcium
16 mg of magnesium
47 mg of phosphorus
320 mg of potassium
51.6 mg of vitamin C
16.6 micrograms of vitamin K
0.197 mcg of vitamin B6
61 mcg of folate

2. High Fiber for Digestive Health and More

Cauliflower is great for digestion because it is high in both fiber and water. Together, fiber and water can help prevent constipation and support the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut (2, 3).

These bacteria improve immune function and help diminish bodily inflammation. What’s more, dietary fiber improves whole-body health. Studies show may reduce the risk of unhealthy weight gain, blood sugar issues, negative heart problems, slow metabolism, cellular overgrowth, and more(4, 5, 6).

In fact, recent studies have shown that fiber may be a therapeutic option for encourging healthy blood pressure.

3. Better Brain Health and Memory Support

Cauliflower also contains an important nutrient called choline. In fact, each cup contains about 11% of a woman’s daily value (and 8% for men).

Choline is important for sleep, learning, and memory. Additionally, it is part of cellular membranes, involved in nerve impulse transmission, fat absorption, and the reduction of inflammation (7). Choline also:

Supports DNA synthesis (8)
Helps prevent of fat accumulation in the liver (9)
Reduced risk of age-related cognitive decline (10)

Choline is an important nutrient, but not many foods contain it. Luckily, cauliflower is a potent source.

4. Stronger Bones

Cauliflower is a good source of Vitamin K. Vitamin K is an important bone and blood vitamin. In fact, inadequate vitamin K can increase the risk of bone fractures and osteoporosis.

What’s more, Vitamin K can improve the absorption of other bone-supporting nutrients like calcium. This is great news since cauliflower also contains many other bone-supporting nutrients including calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

5. Cellular Detox

Cauliflower’s phytochemicals also include a group that works directly on cellular detoxification – both Phase 1 and Phase 2 cellular detox.

These phytochemicals belong to the glucosinolates group and include glucobrassicin, glucoraphanin, and gluconasturtiin. Add to it cauliflower’s high content of fiber, which directly promotes gut health and therefore indirectly promotes improved immune function, and you’ve got yourself a serious health-promoting vegetable.

If you want to include more detox vegetables along with your cauliflower, add brussels sprouts, savoy cabbage, broccoli, and kale.

6. Cauliflower is Loaded with Antioxidants

Cauliflower contains a little known, but well-studied nutrient called sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is extremely important because it may play a role in suppressing cellular overgrowth (11, 12).

In fact, some studies have found that it actually destroys harmful cells. It is specifically important against harmful cells in the colon and prostate, but may be effective in other locations as well (13).

In addition, cauliflower is loaded with antioxidants. These powerful nutrients reduce oxidative stress and neutralize harmful free radicals in the body.

7. Healthy Weight Aid

Cauliflower also supports healthy weights. To start, each cup only contains 25 calories and only 2 grams of net carbs. Any high-volume, low-calorie, and low-carbohydrate food can help you feel full while obtaining a healthy weight.

Next, it’s loaded with fiber. Cauliflower’s fiber slows digestion and promotes feelings of fullness, which can also help weight loss (14).

Maybe most importantly, cauliflower is an easy substitution for many high carbohydrate starchy vegetables and grains. It allows you to enjoy many foods, and enter the Keto Zone for optimal health and fat loss.

Bottom Line – Get More Detox

This Detox Keto Lemon Whip is an amazing recipe that utilizes detox ingredients such as cauliflower, lemon and healthy fats. If you’d like to get even more fasting and detox instruction, check out this Detox Starter Pack Choose recipes that support your health while delivering amazing taste!

Free Challenge · 21-Day Keto Zone Challenge

Ready to put this recipe to work? Dr. Colbert’s free 21-Day Keto Zone Challenge gives you the meal plans, shopping lists and daily coaching to get your body burning fat for fuel. Join the Keto Zone Challenge Free →

Made with MCT Oil Powder

This recipe calls for Dr. Colbert’s MCT Oil Powder from Divine Health — the same formula he recommends to his own patients.

MCT Oil Powder

The post Keto Lemon Whip appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert, MD.

14 Day Green Smoothie Challenge. 5 Remarkable Results.

Don Colbert, MD — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Want to feel lighter, more energized, and healthy this spring? Are you ready to switch things up a bit and head into summer on a healthy note? This green smoothie challenge isa great opportunity to start.

A longtime Divine Health customer recently tried a 14-day green smoothie challenge to see how her body would respond. She simply swapped her regular lunch for our Keto Zone Energizing Green Smoothie (recipe below). This is what she reported, both subjective and objective results.

But first, here’s the recipe and the details of its ingredients, and what you can take the challenge too.

Detox Recipe

Keto Zone Energizing Green Smoothie

Servings1

Net Carbs12g

Calories349

Ingredients

1 cup coconut or almond milk (from a carton, not can)
1 scoop Fermented Green Supremefood
1/2 cup frozen raw cranberries (if not available, omit and increase berries to 1/2 cup)
1/4 cup frozen berries
1 cup fresh mixed greens (try alternating greens)
1/4 avocado
juice from 1/2 lemon
1 tablespoon raw apple cider vinegar
1 scoop Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder
1 scoop Fiber Zone Powder Fiber Zone Powder
1/2-1 cup water

Instructions

Mix all ingredients in a blender, adding water as needed for desired consistency. Makes 1 large serving. Enjoy!

Per Serving
Calories 349
Fat 6g
Net Carbs 12g
Fiber 14g
Protein 26g

Nutrition figures are those originally published with this recipe and are approximate — they vary with brands, substitutions and portion size.

Free Challenge · 21-Day Detox Challenge

Recipes like this one are the backbone of Dr. Colbert’s free 21-Day Detox Challenge — a full three-week plan to restore your gut, rebuild your energy and renew your body from the inside out. Join the 21-Day Detox Free →

Made with Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder

This recipe calls for Dr. Colbert’s Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder from Divine Health — the same formula he recommends to his own patients.

Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder

Why Try Our Fermented Energizing Green Smoothie Challenge?

There are many wonderful ingredients in the smoothie, but are they magic? Almost. In addition to Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder, Fiber Zone Powder Fiber Zone Powder fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats, the star of this smoothie is Fermented Green Supremefood. This amazing fermented green powder is full of USDA Organic greens, vegetables, grasses, and ingredients like milk thistle.

Milk thistle is a very special ingredient. It has been shown to support liver health, potentially offer neuroprotection and support healthy brain function in aging (1, 2), stimulate bone mineralization (3), support healthy skin and fewer blemishes (4), promote insulin sensitivity (5), and support healthy immune function.

In addition, fermented foods like those in Fermented Green Supremefood contain:

Less Sugar. Fermentation vastly decreases sugar since it has been used as food for the fermenters. The remaining sugars become more easily digestible.
More Nutrients. Many vitamins, minerals, and nutrients become easier to digest and absorb.
Healthy Bacteria. As the fermenters proliferate, healthy bacteria multiply.
Natural Food Preservation. Byproducts of fermentation, like alcohol and lactic acid, naturally preserve food.
Better Proteins. As fermenters eat, they often alter proteins to make them more digestible.

What Can Happen in Just 2 Weeks?

In just 2 weeks, she reported the following:

1. More Energy

Do you ever feel tired after lunch? Many adults do. Our customer did.

Adults often eat lunches that cause an energy peak and crash, or that are full of processed ingredients (like soybean oil) associated with health declines.

If that describes your lunch, trade it out for the Keto Zone® Energizing Green Smoothie!

This energizing smoothie is full of easy-to-digest energizing ingredients instead of processed ones. It has helped many people maintain steady energy throughout the afternoon, rather than an afternoon slump.

2. Less Afternoon Bloat and Flatter Stomach

How about bloat? Do you feel too full and uncomfortable after meals?

Our Energizing Green Smoothies goes above and beyond other green smoothies for digestion.

Fermented foods can fight belly bloat while supporting healthy digestion. In addition, the psyllium husk and inulin in Keto Zone Fiber Zone are some of the best ingredients available for healthy digestion. This means more nutrients are delivered to the body while digestion is comfortable and healthy.

3. Modest Weight Change

This, of course, depends on your current habits, starting point and weight. But, liquid nutrition has a long history of supporting a healthier weight as long as the ingredients in the smoothie are good ones! In fact, studies have found that healthy green smoothies are great for a healthy weight.

Why?

Smoothie-drinkers often feel full because smoothies have a large volume. In studies, this has proven successful for dieters (6). They also pack in a lot of nutrients for a relatively small amount of calories.

What’s more, the energizing detox nutrients in the Fermented Green Supremefood, including organic fermented grasses, greens, and fiber can support cellular health. This in turn may allow cells to more efficiently oxidize fat.

This particular customer started just a few pounds over her goal weight, and she still experienced a 2-3 pound loss.

4. Healthy Skin

There are many ingredients in the smoothie that support skin health, including those in Fermented Green Supremefood (like milk thistle) and Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder. In fact, hydrolyzed collagen is a well-known and tested ingredient for amazing skin.

According to studies, collagen has been shown to support healthy skin hydration, improved visual assessment of skin, and skin elasticity (7).

Our customer reported no break-outs and more glow in her skin…she had previously complained of dullness.

5. Less Hunger

After lunch, our customer said she used to first feel bloated, but then extremely hungry by late afternoon.

Smoothies often go one of two ways. Sometimes, dieters feel famished.. Typically, this is because they are drinking low-fiber, high-sugar, low-nutrition smoothies. Or, they are drinking smoothies that simply don’t contain enough calories.

On the other hand, many dieters report less hunger and more energy with smoothies.

This is not a low-calorie smoothie. What’s more, the combination of Fiber Zone Powder Fiber Zone Powder, high-volume fruits and vegetables, Fermented Green Supremefood water, and air whipped into it (this always happens with a blender), promotes satiety without a big solid-food lunch or an afternoon snack.

Bonus Benefits: Detox and Cleanse

Divine Health Fermented Green Supremefoods is a part of an even greater cleanse system, called the Detox Starter Pack. If you’re ready to dive in, you’ll get many more benefits from adding intermittent fasting, gallbladder cleansing, and more!

Let Us Know Your Experience

Once you take this 14-day Energizing Green Smoothie Challenge, let us know what you think! Did you feel energized? See a flatter belly or experience weight changes? Skin changes?

We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Our Keto Zone Energizing Green Smoothie may just change your life, or at least your lunches and afternoons. Give it a try for 2 weeks and let us know how the fermented greens, fibers, and healthy fats affect your body. Enjoy!

The post 14 Day Green Smoothie Challenge. 5 Remarkable Results. appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert, MD.

Start Here: 21 Day Detox Plus 12 Daily Detox Habits

Don Colbert, MD — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 17:34:38 +0000

Written by Don Colbert, MD, board-certified in family practice and in anti-aging and integrative medicine for more than 25 years
Last reviewed and updated: October 30, 2026

Ready for a clean start? A plan that builds on that start and keeps working all year? Begin with my 21 Day Detox, then keep the momentum going with a dozen simple detox habits you can practice every day.

Rather than chasing a number on the scale, start by making your body, from your cells on up, as healthy as possible. Your liver, kidneys, digestive tract, lungs, lymph system and skin work hard every day to process and clear waste. “Detox” simply means supporting those organs and lowering the load you ask them to carry. When you do, many people notice better energy, digestion and sleep.

First, Set Aside 21 Days to Detox and Fast

Why 21 days? A set window makes it easier to stay focused. For three weeks you step away from the foods and drinks that add the most burden, such as added sugar, alcohol, many processed foods, fried foods, and certain meats and dairy, while you practice the habits below. Not everyone wants to avoid all of these year round, but most people can do it for a short time. Think of it as a jump start, and a reset you can repeat a few times a year.

Three weeks is also long enough to start building routines that last. Every habit on this list is part of the 21 Day Detox plan.

Join the Free 21 Day Detox Challenge

Get the daily plan, recipes, shopping list and videos from Dr. Colbert, free.

The free challenge gives you the daily guidance. If you would also like nutritional support, my Detox Starter Pack includes Fermented Green Supremefood, Fiber Zone, a liver and gallbladder formula, and my book Fasting Zone, which includes a meal plan and recipes. It is optional; the habits matter most.

12 Daily Detox Habits

During and after your 21 days, keep building with these strategies.

1. Daily Intermittent Fasting

Consider giving your body a longer overnight break from food, such as finishing dinner by 7 pm and eating again around 11 am (a 16 hour window). Start with 12 hours and work up. Research reviews suggest intermittent fasting may support insulin sensitivity, healthy weight, blood pressure and markers of inflammation, and it triggers a metabolic switch toward burning fat (1). Water, plain tea and black coffee are fine during the fast. Avoid the pitfalls in 7 common intermittent fasting mistakes, and learn what happens in your body when you fast. If you take diabetes or blood pressure medication, talk with your doctor first.

2. Cold Awakening

Finish your morning shower with 30 to 90 seconds of cold water. In a randomized trial of more than 3,000 adults in the Netherlands, people who did this daily for 30 days reported 29% fewer sick days from work, although the number of days they felt ill did not change (2). It is also a bracing wake-up for the senses. Skip it if you have heart disease or poorly controlled blood pressure unless your doctor approves.

3. Lemon Water and Green Tea Through the Day

Your body depends on water for every function, including the kidneys’ work of filtering waste. Even mild dehydration can bring headaches, fatigue and sluggish focus. Keep a bottle of filtered water with a squeeze of lemon nearby. Green tea adds antioxidants called catechins, plus L-theanine for calm, steady energy and a modest amount of caffeine.

4. Organic Greens Every Day

Leafy greens and green vegetables are a cornerstone of detox. Fill half your plate with them at lunch and dinner. On busy days, a fermented greens powder such as Fermented Green Supremefood is an easy way to add more plant nutrients to your morning.

5. Choose Healthy Oils

Use extra-virgin olive oil for dressings and gentle cooking, and avocado oil for higher heat. Both are rich in monounsaturated fats that support heart health. Cut back on the highly refined oils found in most packaged foods, especially soybean oil.

6. Wash and Eat Colorful, Organic Produce

Add vibrantly colored, lower-sugar fruits each day: berries, apples, citrus and cherries. The deeper the color, the more antioxidants they tend to carry. Buying organic when you can makes a measurable difference. In one study, families who switched to an all-organic diet for just six days saw their urinary pesticide levels drop by an average of about 60% (3). If your budget is limited, prioritize organic for thin-skinned produce such as strawberries, apples, grapes, leafy greens and peppers, and wash all produce well. Red Supremefood is a low-sugar way to add a variety of fruit antioxidants.

7. Smoothie Meals

A smoothie made with greens, berries, a fiber source, a plant milk and a scoop of protein is an easy, filling meal that keeps out added sugar and processed ingredients. Try one for breakfast after your fasting window ends.

8. Get Your Sweat On

Move your body every day, and aim for sessions that make you breathe hard and sweat a few times a week. Regular exercise supports healthy blood sugar, circulation, the lymph system and your body’s own antioxidant defenses. A sauna session is a relaxing bonus if your doctor says it is safe for you. Rehydrate with plenty of water afterward.

9. Fiber at Every Meal

Fiber feeds your beneficial gut bacteria and helps carry waste out of the body through regular bowel movements. Eat vegetables, berries, nuts, seeds and legumes, and consider a prebiotic fiber powder such as Fiber Zone in your smoothie. See 8 tips to improve gut bacteria. Increase fiber slowly and drink extra water.

10. Support Your Liver

Your liver is your main detox organ. Help it by limiting alcohol, sugar and fried foods, eating cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts), and keeping a healthy weight. Herbs such as milk thistle are traditionally used for liver support; ask your doctor before starting any herbal supplement, especially if you take medications.

11. Good Sleep

Deep sleep is when your brain does its own cleaning. A landmark study found that the brain’s waste-clearing system works far more actively during sleep, clearing byproducts such as beta-amyloid faster than during wakefulness (4). Aim for 7 to 8 hours with a regular bedtime. Here are 7 simple steps to improve your sleep.

12. Avoid the Biggest Sources of Toxins

You cannot avoid every toxin, but you can avoid the biggest ones: cigarette smoke, excess alcohol, heavy pesticide exposure, sugary sodas, deep-fried foods, partially hydrogenated oils and ultra-processed foods. Small swaps, repeated daily, lighten the load your body carries.

“Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?”

1 Corinthians 6:19 (KJV)

Bottom Line

Support your body’s natural detox systems and build habits that last. Start by joining the free 21 Day Detox Challenge, consider repeating it once a season, and practice these 12 habits every day in between. For more guides, recipes and videos, visit our Detox hub. You can do this, and we are here to support you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 21 Day Detox?

It is Dr. Colbert’s three-week plan that removes common dietary burdens such as added sugar, alcohol and processed foods while building daily habits that support your liver, gut and other detox organs. The challenge is free to join at 21daydetox.com.

What are the best daily detox habits?

Drinking enough water, eating greens and fiber at every meal, choosing healthy oils, sleeping 7 to 8 hours, moving daily, and limiting alcohol, sugar and ultra-processed foods are among the most helpful habits.

Does intermittent fasting help detox?

Intermittent fasting gives your digestive system a longer break and may support insulin sensitivity, healthy weight and markers of inflammation. Talk with your doctor first if you take medication for diabetes or blood pressure.

How often should you do a detox?

Many people repeat a structured 21 day reset once a season, and practice simple daily detox habits the rest of the year.

Does eating organic food really reduce pesticides?

Yes. In one study, families who switched to an all-organic diet for six days saw their urinary pesticide levels fall by about 60% on average.

References

This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Talk with your own doctor before changing your diet, starting a supplement, or changing any medication. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post Start Here: 21 Day Detox Plus 12 Daily Detox Habits appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert, MD.

Top 10 Tools for your Beyond Keto Goals in 2024

Don Colbert, MD — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 20:20:22 +0000

It’s a New Year. For some, this means a time to reflect, and enjoy some peace and quiet after the Holidays. For others, it’s time to hit the ground running! If you are part of the latter and have set health and keto goals for the new year, we’ve got a list of Top 10 Tools for Your Beyond Keto Goals! It’s one thing to set keto goals, but it’s another to flush out a plan that will work.

Before you move forward with them, you may want to read this post – it will help you work through your goals systematically.

Next, it’s time to gather your tools. The best laid plans often fail when they are not thought through…we’ve been helping others achieve their keto goals for decades, and we hope we can help you too.

Top 10 Tools for your Beyond Keto Goals in 2024

1. A Fasting Detox Jump Start

While slow and steady wins the race, it can be extremely helpful and motivating to see results right away. One of the best ways to start a healthy Beyond Keto Eating plan is with the Fasting Starter Kit.

Intermittent fasting is amazing for promoting overall health and a healthy weight(1). In fact, it can be extremely motivating to jumpstart weight changes right away.

No matter what foods you’re choosing in the beginning, an easy way to start intermittent fasting is to stop eating at 7:00 every night, and resume at 11:00 am every morning. Between waking up and eating at 11:00, you can have non-carb drinks such as coffee, coffee with MCT Oil and Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder, tea, Divine Health Green or Red Supremefood or other low-carb drinks.

At 11:00 or so, eat a Keto lunch, and then eat your Keto dinner around 6:00. Between lunch and dinner add 1-2 Keto Zone snacks such as fat bombs or other healthy favorites.

In addition, when you add Fermented Green Supremefood, Red Supremefood, and Fiber to your fasting plan, you’ll encourage detox throughout your liver, organs, and entire body. In fact, the ingredients in Supremefood support cellular detox, healthy immune function, and healthy digestion. They include vegetables, grasses, herbs, beets and more in a low-sugar, easy-to-digest delicious powder. Want more reasons to start here? Here are 10 science-backed reasons to add Fermented Supremefoods to your diet today.

Get started with Dr. Colbert’s 21 Day Detox and Fast Starter Kit (includes both Supremefood, Fiber Zone, and the Fasting Zone Book) for a jump start today!

2. A Clear Plan

Remember that slow and steady wins the race? After your detox and fast jumpstart, it’s time for a healthy lifestyle that fits your keto goals.

You’re in luck. There’s one written specifically for a healthy Keto Zone lifestyle: Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto Book.

From the beginning, you’ll get clear instruction on how to start a Beyond Keto Zone lifestyle and reach a healthy weight. It’s not just philosophy or research (although it’s science-backed), but a complete plan that will guide you and make your new lifestyle easy to implement.

3. MCT OIL AND FAT BOMBS

When you’re eating Beyond Keto, Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) can be extremely healthy and helpful. MCTs are a special type of saturated fats that are digested easily and provide many health benefits in the body.

In fact, they aid in fat loss and energy production.

When MCT oil is obtained from foods like coconut oil, it is isolated and concentrated for maximum health benefits and a healthy weight.

MCT Oil is a must have product for your weight loss goals because it:

Supports Heart Health. Medium chain triglycerides have been shown to improve cholesterol profiles by decreasing LDL cholesterol, decreasing the number of LDL particles, and increasing HDL cholesterol (2).
Helps the body burn fat. The most potent fatty acid in MCT oil is concentrated in MCT Oil Powder, and it helps your body burn fat as fuel rather than carbs (3,4).
Increases ketone production and provides amazing fuel for your brain. In fact, when using the Keto Zone diet, MCT Oil will help the body produce ketones quicker. Ketones can also boost mood.
Increases energy. Want more energy while losing fat? MCT Oil is easily digested and used by the energy-powerhouses of the cells as a sustained energy source (5).

Fortunately, there are 2 great ways to consume MCT Oil from the Keto Zone®. Try MCT Oil Softgels and MCT Oil Powder today. Use MCT oil in fat bombs like these!

4. EASY STARTER TIPS

Want real-life tips from real-life Keto Zone users? Try these! We’ve gathered some of the most effective, inexpensive, easy tips to help you in your healthy weight journey.

These tips include daily habits, keto tips, and exercise.

They’ve done it, so learn from them!

5. A FOOD Diary

As you’ll see from the real-life tips, food diaries and carbohydrate apps can really help.

A food diary is an amazing tool for any weight loss journey. Simply write down your intake. Use an app or other resource to become familiar with carbohydrate amounts in foods. To learn more about carbs and reading food labels, check out this post.

While there’s nothing magic about food diaries, they do help by:

Allowing for self-accountability
Adding up the grams of carbohydrates and seeing how that affects weight loss
Troubleshooting issues with weight loss, hunger, etc.
Keeping a record to repeat successes and avoiding challenges

It’s easy and free to keep an online food journal or simply a written one.

6. Good Sleep

Every health goal you set relies on one thing: good sleep. You can eat well, stay in the Keto Zone, exercise, etc., but your body will never be as healthy as it could be without sleep.

Sleep is not wasted time. It’s not a health-neutral time. In fact, your body, and specifically your brain, work overtime to heal, revitalize, and improve your health while you sleep.

Fortunately, Dr. Colbert has formulated an amazing, effective sleep aid supplement. In fact, he has combined vitamins, minerals, and botanicals to make up a wonderful all-natural sleep supplement. These nutrients compliment your body’s natural sleep systems, and work with it to promote improved sleep quality and duration. With more sleep, expect to feel more invigorated, healthier, and happier. Get Divine Health Sleep-Ease today to support all your other health and keto goals!

7. REPLACEMENT RECIPES FOR YOUR FAVORITE FOODS

Do you miss some of your favorite foods? Do you crave them?

Why not replace them?

Your Beyond Keto food choices should not be boring or bland. In fact, you’ll likely find you don’t miss foods at all once you learn a few new recipes.

There are many amazingly satisfying recipes on this site. To start, find them here (Keto Zone recipes) and here (Detox recipes).

In addition, the Quick and Healthy Keto Zone Cookbook is available and a great collection of delicious Keto recipes!

8. A COMBINATION OF HABIT-GOALS AND OVERALL-GOALS

Can you really change your weight and health in the next 6-8 weeks? You can. Set your goals now.

First, take time to set daily “habit goals.” These goals need to be action-based and in your control. For example:

I will fast from 7:00 pm to 11:00 am each day.
I will not eat more than 25 grams of net carbs per day.

Then, set weekly habit-goals. These should also be in your control. They can include exercising 3 times per week, sticking to your daily eating goals each day, or journaling.

And lastly, set 1-2 overall goals for the next 6-8 weeks. Is your goal to lose 15 pounds? Set it and write it down. This last group of goals is not entirely in your control, but serves as the motivation for the habit-goals.

Write all of these goals down and put the paper in a place you can read it when the going gets tough. It will keep you motivated to stay on track.

You can do it!

9. Ongoing SUPPORT

Finding a supportive community is a big help on your weight and health journey.

First, you can find a lot of encouragement, tips, and Keto Zone recipes on this blog.

Next, look for both online groups and in-person groups:

Try an online group or forum. Look for the Keto Zone group on Facebook.
Try to find a local group at a gym or church that supports healthy eating.

Or, if you can find one, form one! Even if it’s just you and a friend, a 2-person group can be an amazing tool for accountability and progress. Don’t be afraid to reach out…others are looking for support, too!

10. A COMPLETe HEALTH Plan

Over the years, Dr. Colbert has released book after book, and product after product, to help others live healthy lives in the Keto Zone. Now, he’s put together a book that covers important foundational aspects: Health Zone Essentials! This amazing book is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice. Dr. Colbert will lead you through strategies and lifestyle habits to restore the body’s health at its foundation and then rebuild a healthy life upon it. It covers hormones, fasting, digestive health, brain health, delicious Beyond Keto recipes, and more!

So, once you feel like you’re formed the habits you need to get to a healthy weight and body, take it to the next level with Health Zone Essentials. Each step you take on your health journey will bring new insight, motivation, and progress!

BOTTOM LINE

Start with a detox and fasting jump start. Continue with a real-life, long-term healthy lifestyle with Beyond Keto. Use the tools you need to reach your keto goals. Then, take it to the next level with Health Zone Essentials. Make 2024 the year for real change.

The post Top 10 Tools for your Beyond Keto Goals in 2024 appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert, MD.

Binge on Sugar? Our Bloat Detox Smoothie to the Rescue

Don Colbert, MD — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 20:24:11 +0000

Does this season, from Halloween through New Year’s, feel like the “bloated belly” season for you? It happens. Sometimes it’s from sugar and sweets. Other times from high-sodium foods. Still others, from just overeating or eating rich foods you’re not accustomed to. No matter what the reason or the season, you can count on our bloat detox smoothie to help you detox and feel great again!

It’s easy to get carried away and overeat during any holiday. But, if you’re trying to stay in the Keto Zone and eat a healthy diet, the indulgence can cause a host of issues in your body including:

Increased blood sugar and insulin
Increased fluid retention
Inflammation
Weight Gain

If this describes your current condition, it’s time to get right back on track. One of the best ways to get back is a detox smoothie. It provides both a physical and mental shift back towards Beyond Keto eating. There’s no wallowing in guilt. Here’s what it is and why it works.

Make it, drink it, and consider yourself back on track.

BEYOND KETO BLOAT DETOX SMOOTHIE

Ingredients:

1.5 cups almond milk
1 cup spinach, loosely packed
½ cup cucumber, sliced (approximately ¼ medium cucumber)
½ cup celery, chopped (approximately 1 medium stalk)
½ small avocado (peeled & pitted)
1 scoop MCT Oil Powder
1 scoop Fiber Zone
1 scoop Fermented Green Supremefood
Optional: 3-5 drops organic liquid stevia or low-carb sweetener of choice, to taste

Instructions:

In a blender, mix almond milk and spinach. Pulse to break down spinach and make room for the other ingredients.
Add all ingredients EXCEPT stevia.
Blend for about 1 minute or until creamy.
Taste it. If you’ve used flavored MCT Oil Powder and/or Green Supremefood, it may be sweet enough. If not, add stevia (or another low-carb sweetener), to taste.

Nutrition Info: 375 Calories, 25g of Fat, 20g of Protein, 4g of Net Carbs

DETOX FROM SUGAR BLOATING AND DESTRUCTIVE PATHWAY:

If you’ve overeaten, eaten too many carbohydrates, or indulged in sugary desserts recently, there’s a good chance you’re not feeling so hot. But, don’t despair because we’ve got a secret weapon in our detox smoothie: celery.

Sugar can cause damage in the body. Thankfully, celery can help you stop the damage, reverse it, and get back on track.

DETOX CELERY SMOOTHIE TO THE RESCUE

While we are definitely not encouraging anyone to overeat sugary desserts and carbohydrates, we all live in the real world and know it happens. Rather than pretend it doesn’t, let’s focus on a tool to get you back on track.

One tool is celery and this Keto Zone Celery Detox Smoothie.

Why celery?

Celery has a gentle diuretic effect which quickly normalizes fluid retention without leaving you dehydrated. This beats the bloat.

Next, it’s loaded with nutrients. In fact, celery is:

A nutrition powerhouse. It contains calcium, copper, magnesium, iron, zinc, and potassium. In addition, a plethora of vitamins: including vitamin A, C, E, D, B6, B12, and vitamin K as well as thiamine, riboflavin, folic acid and fiber (1).
Rich in Vitamin C, which promotes good immune function and works as an antioxidant to reduce oxidative stress.
A blood pressure reducer. It reduces stress hormones and relaxes arteries to make them more elastic (2).
A cholesterol-binder. Celery increases bile production which binds cholesterol in the gut and promotes excretion out of the body (3).
A gentle diuretic.

DETOX CELERY SMOOTHIE SUPER INGREDIENTS

The other ingredients in the Detox Celery Smoothie are not exactly slouches. They bolster it to the next level and provide a full-nutrition meal with healthy fats and protein.

Cucumber also promotes gentle diuresis, helping you beat the bloat from extra foods and sugars.

Avocado is full of vitamins and minerals along with health-promoting omega-9 fats and cholesterol-binding fiber.

Spinach provides many phytochemicals, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Its deep green hue is an indication of health-benefitting chlorophyll.

MCT Oil Powder is a convenient and non-greasy form of the best MCTs available. They are easy-to-digest and produce ketones your brain can use as a super-fuel.

Fiber Zone promotes healthy digestion, elimination, and overall health by encouraging great gut health. Fiber can help you bloat detox quickly.

Fermented Green Supremefood, a blend of fermented vegetables and wheatgrass, provides concentrated vitamins and minerals. The fermentation process “opens up” these natural superfoods to get more nutrients out. Plus, it contains healthy bacteria to support digestive and whole-body health.

BOTTOM LINE

If you’re feeling bloated, it’s time to take action. Detox with our Anti-Bloat Smoothie and you’ll feel better in no time. Then, consider yourself “back on track” and move forward with your Beyond Keto lifestyle!

The post Binge on Sugar? Our Bloat Detox Smoothie to the Rescue appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert, MD.

One Step to Completely Change Your Health in 21 Days.

Don Colbert, MD — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 14:56:53 +0000

Want to change your health? Get rid of the sugar in your diet. It’s true. A 21 day sugar detox will support your metabolism, insulin sensitivity, body fat, brain health, mood, hormones, and more.

The best part?

It’s easy.

In just 21 days, you can reset your habits. You can replace sugar-addiction habits with better, healthier habits based on healthy, living, whole foods.

Ready for a nutrition overhaul and sugar detox? Let’s do this.

Why You Need a Sugar Detox

Unfortunately, the average American adult consumes 17 teaspoons of sugar each day, and 57 pounds each year (1). For some it’s much higher.

In fact, some adults literally eat sugar at every meal, sometimes without even realizing it. They may not realize their cereal, morning drink, salad dressing, barbeque sauce, and health-food diet snacks have added sugars.

What’s more, many are in the habit of drinking sugar. This may include dessert-style coffees, high-sugar energy drinks, sugar-loaded smoothies, and sugar-added teas.

Unfortunately, not all sugar looks like sugar. Our bodies break down almost all carbohydrates, even those you might think are healthy, and turn them into a fuel it can use: blood sugar. In fact, almost every starch you eat is sugar in your body. This means most breads, pastas, cereals, etc. are little more than sugar and result in similar outcomes.

It’s time for a 21 day sugar detox!

Sugar Health Issues

Many health issues can result from the overconsumption of sugar. These include (2):

Increase in Blood Sugars and Insulin

Sugar digests and absorbs into the bloodstream very quickly after you eat or drink it. Once absorbed, it makes its way to the liver, blood, and eventually, cells. is dumped into the bloodstream and finds its way to cells. Sugar in the blood is very dangerous to the body, so it tries its best to maintain steady blood sugars by sending it into cells. How?

It uses insulin. Insulin “opens cell doors” and allows the sugar in.

This is better than leaving it in the bloodstream, but can still be devastating to human health, weight, chronic disease risk, and wellness.

Increases in Insulin Resistance

The more sugar dumps into the bloodstream, and the more insulin is needed to get it into cells, the more resistant to insulin cells become. This is a horrible negative cycle, and being overweight or obese exacerbates it. What’s more, insulin resistance can cause fat gain and make it harder to lose fat.

Mood and Energy Swings

As the body tries to deal with blood sugar and insulin, the body and brain feel the ups and downs. In fact, blood sugar rises can make you feel energized, only to feel more fatigued as it moves from the blood into the cells. In those with impaired blood sugar controls, this can result in low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is linked to lightheadedness, dizziness, fatigue, and more. It can be a serious condition.

A 21 day sugar detox will energize you and help you feel balanced.

Sugar and Body Fat

With more sugar intake and potential insulin resistance, the body adds fat. Insulin itself is an anabolic hormone, meaning it builds mass (and unfortunately, not muscle mass). If insulin resistance increases, more insulin is needed each time blood sugars become too high. Unfortunately, more insulin equals more fat mass, and more insulin resistance which equals more insulin needed.

How can you stop this cycle? Start by cutting out sugar with a 21 day sugar detox.

Sugar, Insulin Problems and More Health Issues

Obesity and insulin resistance are associated with many chronic diseases. In fact, obesity itself is considered its own chronic disease (since 2013) by the American Medical Association (3). Obesity is linked to metabolic syndrome, heart disease, mental decline, cardiovascular disease (4), diabetes (5),and mortality (6). In addition, extra body weight can also negatively affect other conditions and body systems including hypertension (7),bone health, gallstones (8),and more.

Sugar Accelerates Aging and Oral Health Issues

Incredibly, high sugar diets are associated with inflammation, and inflammation can accelerate aging of the skin, cells, and brain. In fact, skin can lose elasticity when blood sugars are chronically high. What’s more, sugar does cosmetic and health damage to the teeth, aging them in appearance and increasing risk of decay.

And, it gets a bit worse. As you read above, almost all carbohydrates, whether from sugar, starches, fruits, or other, become blood sugar?

Time for Your 21 Day Sugar Detox

Are you ready to take the next step and improve your energy, body fat level, and health? There’s never been a better time for your own 21 day sugar detox. We’ll lead you through it.

Start with our 21 Day Detox Starter Kit. It has everything you need to get started with your sugar detox.
Use the tools in the starter kit to transform your eating habits. Focus on loads of healthy vegetables (especially greens), healthy fats (like extra virgin olive oil), lemon water, fiber, and some healthy proteins (especially fish and lean poultry). You can find many, many recipes on this site to help you as well. Try: Keto Zone Lemonade, Keto Zone Detox Green Smoothie, and more!
Then, keep it going by adding intermittent fasting to your daily routine. It’s easy, and Dr. Colbert’s Fasting Zone book (included in the starter kit) will lead you through it!
Keep up your motivation by listening to Dr. Colbert’s Podcasts & using the articles on this site, our Facebook page, etc. to take Sugar Detox and Fasting from 21 days to a full-blown lifestyle!

Bottom Line

If you are ready to change your health, there’s no better time than the present. Take charge, detox from sugar, and see your health soar! In just 21 days, you can form new habits and rid yourself of sugar addiction. Use our 4 steps above, and make your lifestyle a sugar detox lifestyle!

The post One Step to Completely Change Your Health in 21 Days. appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert, MD.

Winter Pick-Me-Up: Uplifting & Energizing Foods

Don Colbert, MD — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Did you know that many nourishing and detoxifying foods can energize and lift your mood? Our bodies rely on a vast network of chemical pathways and reactions, and these reactions use nutrients we consume for mood and energy. You can choose foods that drag you down. Or, you can fill your plate and body with detoxifying, mood-lifting, energizing foods.

It’s not difficult to understand how food can be energizing. After all, foods and drinks contain calories (unit of energy), and nutrients like vitamins and minerals required to produce energy.

But, moods? How can foods be uplifting?

The Food-Serotonin Connection

Are you familiar with serotonin? It’s the chemical messenger that acts as a mood stabilizer. In fact, serotonin levels are linked to mood, behavior, outlook, and even longevity (1).

Of course, you’d probably like a bit more of this mood-enhancing chemical.

Luckily, your daily habits, foods, drinks, and lifestyle play a part in its levels. How? Serotonin is synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan, and tryptophan is contained in specific foods. When tryptophan is low in the diet, brain serotonin can drop (2). In fact, depletion of tryptophan is linked to depressed and anxious moods.

And some energizing foods contain serotonin itself.

Whether you experience low moods specifically during winter months or could just use a bit of a pick-me-up, energizing foods can help! Here are some of our favorites.

9 Uplifting, Energizing Foods and Drinks

1. Eggs

Eggs are a great source of highly bioavailable (digestible, absorbable, and usable) protein. The protein in eggs has been found to significantly boost blood plasma levels of tryptophan (3), especially when the yolks are included. In addition, egg yolks provide other nourishing amino acids and fats, including tyrosine, choline, biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, and more.

What’s more, research shows that those who eat eggs for breakfast, rather than a high-carbohydrate diet, increasing plasma ghrelin, without negatively affecting cholesterol (4).

What does this mean to you?

Ghrelin is the hormone that makes you feel hungry. Hunger is not generally an uplifting mood right after you’ve had a meal. Instead, you can feel nourished and satiated with organic eggs.

2. Coffee

Millions of people around the world rely on coffee for its morning pick-me-up. It’s the quintessential energizing food or drink. But exactly how is it energizing?

Coffee’s caffeine crosses the blood-brain barrier to inhibit adenosine in the brain. Adenosine is a neurotransmitter that quiets the central nervous system (5). Then, without adenosine in the way, epinephrine increases. Epinephrine stimulates the body and brain.

These effects are enough to increase physical performance and brain alertness. What’s more, coffee contains antioxidants and phytochemicals to support cellular and whole-body health.

3. Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is the lifeblood of plants. When consumed by humans, it’s one of the best energizing foods. Similar to hemoglobin, chlorophyll carries nutrients in the blood. However, it doesn’t carry iron. It carries another energizing mineral, magnesium (6). Magnesium supports the production of energy throughout the body as well as healthy sleep cycles.

Furthermore, chlorophyll helps alkalize the body and urine pH. This supports liver function and helps the body remove toxins like metals, pesticides, and more.

Chlorophyll is found in most raw, live greens. These are great energizing foods! Or, for an incredibly convenient potent form, try a fermented green powder such as Fermented Green Supremefood.

4. Spring Water

Of course, your body depends on water for all its functions, including energy production(7). Without adequate amounts, you may suffer headaches, fatigue, overwhelm and sluggishness when dehydrated (8).

In addition, water supports healthy skin, detoxification, and healthy aging.

5. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate with a high cacao content(>80% cacao) is a wonderful, high-antioxidant food. And, small amounts can be energizing!

How?

Cacao’s antioxidants support blood flow, the delivery of oxygen to the brain and muscles, and mental alertness and focus (9).

In addition, cacao is a known mood enhancer. It contains theobromine, caffeine, and serotonin (10).

6. Salmon

Salmon is a great source of healthy omega-3 fats, including. These fats are known to be nourishing, energizing, and uplifting.

In fact, one study of 158 participants found that consuming omega-3 (EPA 1 g/DHA 656 mg) each day resulted in an increase of EPA and DHA in red cell membranes and a significant decrease in depressive symptoms during active treatment. No other biomarkers were associated with a lessening of depressive symptoms.

The researchers concluded that “changes in fatty acid levels resulting from a nutraceutical combination containing EPA and DHA provide a response biomarker in treating depression (11).”

If you are not able to consume wild fatty fish like salmon regularly, you can conveniently get omega-3s in a Living Krill Oil.

7. Green Tea

Green tea is one of the healthiest drinks on earth. It contains highly concentrated antioxidants that fight free radicals and inflammation (12).

Green tea is also an energizing drink! It contains a modest amount of caffeine. More importantly, it contains a compound called L-theanine. L-theanine promotes steady energy (13).

In addition, green tea has been shown to boost physical performance, increase the breakdown of fat for energy, and release norepinephrine (14, 15).

8. Beets

Beets are vibrant and nutritious. They contain amazingly energizing compounds, called betanins. Betanins are responsible for beet’s many health benefits in the human body, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions (16). What’s more, beets also support the production and work of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant our cells make to fight damaging substances.

In addition, beets promote vasodilation. This makes them one of the great energizing foods! Beets contain natural nitrates that are converted to nitric oxides in the body. Nitric oxides dilate blood vessels, allowing more oxygen to circulate more efficiently. Nitric oxide may also increase muscle tissues’ ability to use oxygen (16).

One of the best ways to get the power of beets is through a fruit and vegetable powder like Red SupremefoodRed Supremefood.

9. Fiber

Believe it or not, your digestive tract health is one key to energizing your body. In fact, specific fibers, called inulin and psyllium husk, directly support digestive health and energy. They both stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, improve digestion, and support immune health (17, 18).

When digestion is working right, your body can absorb and use all the energizing foods and nutrients you give it!

For a great source of inulin and psyllium husk, try a high-quality fiber powder such as Fiber Zone Powder.

More Energizers and Mood Lifters

Exercise. Exercise, especially outdoors, is a great mood lifter and energizer (19)!
Sunshine. Natural sunlight is one of nature’s best mood lifters and energizers. In fact, sunlight has been shown to decreased depressed moods and increase serotonin levels (20).
Cold Shower. Even though it may be frigid outside, an icy blast in the shower is still a good idea! Why? It invigorates the body and immune system.
Want even more? Check out this post.

Beware: The Carb-Craving Serotonin Trap

Unfortunately, many people choose less healthy foods for a serotonin hit. In fact, the brain will also activate neurons and release serotonin when carbohydrates are consumed and insulin is elevated. Without the healthy balance of proteins (like tryptophan) and other regulating mechanisms from a well-balance and healthy diet, this serotonin release cause an abrupt improvement in mood, often followed by a low mood. Rather than a consistent flow of hormones, people experience a yo-yo that keeps them coming back for more processed carbohydrates.

This is not the serotonin fix we want. In fact, the hormone yo-yo and binging encourages unhealthy over eating and weight gain (21).

Instead, choose healthy detoxifying and nourishing foods! If you’re ready to get started, get your own Detox Starter Pack.

Bottom Line

Are you ready to get going on 2023? Shake off the winter humdrums and choose energizing foods instead! Let’s go!

Free Challenge · 21-Day Detox Challenge

Made with Fermented Green Supremefood

This recipe calls for Dr. Colbert’s Fermented Green Supremefood from Divine Health — the same formula he recommends to his own patients.

Fermented Green Supremefood

The post Winter Pick-Me-Up: Uplifting & Energizing Foods appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert, MD.

5 Delicious Detox Chocolate Recipes for Valentines

Don Colbert, MD — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

If there’s an official flavor of Valentine’s it’s got to be chocolate. But Detox Chocolate? Sounds a bit too good to be true.

It’s not.

You can take care of your heart, your body, and your loved ones this Valentine’s Day with these delicious detox chocolate recipes. In fact you’ll probably have a hard time choosing just one.

No problem, make all 5! Here’s our favorite detox chocolate recipes for Valentine’s Day.

5 Detox Chocolate Recipes Filled with Love for Valentine’s

1. Easy, Delicious Valentine’s Keto Chocolate Truffles

Ingredients:

1/3 cup canned coconut milk cream (dig out solid portion) or organic heavy cream
10 oz. dark chocolate, at least 70% cacao, divided (such as Simple Truth Organic)
2 tablespoons organic coconut oil OR organic unsalted butter
¼-½ teaspoon organic liquid stevia, or to taste
Pinch sea salt, optional

Optional add-ins:

2 teaspoons Keto Zone® MCT Oil Powder (Dutch Chocolate Flavor)
2 teaspoons Keto Zone ® Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder (Chocolate Flavor)
2 teaspoons pure peppermint extract
1 teaspoons red chili flakes
2 tablespoons finely chopped orange or lemon peel
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh ginger
3 tablespoons cocoa nibs
4 tablespoons finely chopped nuts or 2 Tbsp nut butter

Instructions:

In a heavy pan on the stovetop, bring the coconut milk (or heavy cream) to a boil. Or, using a glass bowl, heat the coconut milk in a microwave for 60 seconds on high.
Remove coconut milk from heat. Stir in 6 ounces of the dark chocolate (should be about ¾ cup or 171 grams). Stir continuously until melted and smooth. If using a microwave, place the mixture back in the microwave and heat for an additional 15-20 seconds at a time, stirring in between heating, until melted and smooth.
If desired, stir in one of the optional add-ins.
Cover the mixture tightly and refrigerate for 1-2 hours or freeze for about 20-30 minutes, until firm but not solid.
Meanwhile, place a spoon or melon baller in the freezer for 15 minutes.
Once the chocolate and coconut milk mixture is firm, use a spoon or melon baller to create the round truffles. Set aside.
Combine the remaining chocolate, coconut oil or butter, and stevia in a saucepan or glass bowl. Heat and melt mixture over medium heat on stove top, or microwave on high in 15-20 seconds intervals. Stir continuously on stove top or between intervals in the microwave.
Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or waxed paper. Dip truffles into the melted chocolate mixture using a fork or toothpick. Place onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt, if desired, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to harden. Enjoy!
To get fancy for Valentine’s Day in the name of heart health, make several varieties of the truffles like you’d find in boxed chocolates. After making the original chocolate and cream mixture, pour it into greased muffin pan circles and add different “optional add-ins” into each. Be careful to reduce the amount of each add-in according to how much mixture is in each circle. Follow instructions as written otherwise.

Makes ~24 truffles.

Nutrition Information (per truffle without add-ins): 83 calories, 7 gram fat, 4 grams net carbs (6 grams total carbs, 2 grams fiber), 1 gram protein

2. Detox Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

Ingredients

1/3 cup organic coconut oil
6 tablespoon raw cacao powder
1 teaspoon vanilla
18 drops liquid stevia
15 strawberries

Instructions

In a small bowl, melt the coconut oil by microwaving for 30-45 seconds until completely liquid. Add cacao, vanilla extract, and stevia. Mix well.
Prepare plate with parchment paper. Dip strawberries, one at a time, into chocolate mixture, and set on the plate.
Once done with all strawberries, refrigerate and allow to harden. Store in refrigerator.

Nutrition info (per strawberry): 57 calories, 5 grams fat, 1 gram net carbs (2 grams carb, 1 gram fiber), 1 gram protein

3. Detox Velvety Chocolate Avocado Pudding

Ingredients:

1 cup full-fat coconut milk (canned)
6 tablespoon raw cacao powder
6-8 tablespoon erythritol, to taste
3 tablespoon Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder powder
2 medium avocados
1 teaspoon pure vanilla
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
4-5 raspberries

Instructions:

Place coconut milk and cacao in a medium saucepan. Heat on medium and whisk until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in swerve and collagen until completely dissolved.
Transfer to blender or food processor. Add all other ingredients and blend until thoroughly mixed and smooth. Chill at least 30 minutes. Top with berries and enjoy!

Serves 4, ~3/4 cup each serving.

Nutrition information: 327 calories, 27 gm fat, 5 gm net carbs, 7 gm protein

4. Detox Chocolate Almond Holiday Fudge

Ingredients

1 cup almond butter (room temperature)
1/3 cup organic coconut oil, melted
1/4 cup raw cacao powder
1/4 cup erythritol (or equivalent stevia)
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 teaspoon real vanilla

Instructions

Mix almond butter and coconut oil in a medium bowl until smooth. In a medium bowl, mix together the almond butter and coconut oil until smooth. (If your almond butter is stored in the refrigerator and cold, allow it to warm to room temperature so it will mix well.)
Add cocoa powder, erythritol or stevia, sea salt, and vanilla. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease well. Pour in mix and smooth the top with a spatula.
Place in the freeze for at least one hour to set. Slice into 16 pieces, and serve.
Make sure to store in the freeze, as the fudge softens quickly at room temperature.

Nutrition info (per piece): 97 calories, 2 grams fat, 3 grams net carbs (4 grams carbs, 1 gram fiber), 2 grams protein

5. Keto Zone Chocolate Brownies for Valentine’s

Ingredients:

1/2 cup almond flour
3 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 scoops Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder
3/4 cup erythritol or other low-carb sweetener
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tablespoon instant coffee (optional)
10 tablespoons grass-fed butter
¼ cup 80% sugar-free dark chocolate chips (extra for sprinkling)*
2 eggs at room temperature
½ teaspoon (sugar-free) vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a square 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper (or grease very well).
Whisk almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, erythritol, and instant coffee in a medium bowl, making sure to break any clumps.
Melt butter and chocolate in microwave for 30 seconds. Stir well. If not completely melted, repeat for 30 seconds and stir again. Allow cooling slightly.
Add eggs and vanilla to chocolate. Then, fold in dry ingredients until mixed (do not overmix and brownie may become too cakey).
Pour batter into baking dish. Optionally, sprinkle 1-2 Tbsp sugar-free chocolate chips over top of batter.
Bake for ~20 minutes or until toothpick comes out just moist. Cool for at least 30 minutes. Makes 16 small squares.

*If unable to find sugar-free chips, chop a sugar-free 80% cacao bar

Nutrition information: 206 calories, 20 gm fat, 5 gm carbs, 3 gm net carbs, 3 gm protein

Recipe adapted from gimmedelicious.com

Raw Cacao’s Detoxifing Power

Cacao supports whole body health and detox in many ways. It supports:

Brain Function: Its flavonols cross the blood-brain barrier to support health, serotonin levels, blood flow, cognition, and mood. (1).
Blood Pressure: Cacao’s nitric oxide is a vasodilator. By increasing the size of the vessels, it reduces the pressure in them. This has been found especially true in older adults and those with elevated blood pressure (2, 3).
Energy & Sleep: One serving of cacao provides 100 mg of magnesium, ~25% of daily needs. Magnesium is typically deficient in adults. Adequate magnesium is associated with better energy, better sleep, fewer muscle cramps (including night cramps), and better overall health.
Oxidative Stress: Cacao is an antioxidant powerhouse. It contains 300 different antioxidant chemical compounds and more than 20 times the antioxidant power of blueberries. And while other foods’ antioxidants diminish with time, cacao has demonstrated stability in samples over 75 years old (4)!

Bottom Line

This Valentine’s, spread the love with our detox chocolate recipes! You can spoil yourself and your loved one with nourishing, delicious, treats!

Free Challenge · 21-Day Detox Challenge

Made with Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder

This recipe calls for Dr. Colbert’s Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder from Divine Health — the same formula he recommends to his own patients.

Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder

The post 5 Delicious Detox Chocolate Recipes for Valentines appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert, MD.

Winter Blues? 3 Ways to Fight Seasonal Depressed Moods & Feel Great

Don Colbert, MD — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 19:01:38 +0000

Are you one of the millions of adults who feels more “down” than usual during the winter months? For some, it’s a minor mood shift. For others, it can be a full-blown season of sadness, overwhelm, anxious feelings, and depressed moods. Winter blues are a reality for many, but there is hope.

You can make small, healthy changes to support your mental and physical health through the winter months. These changes promote whole-body health, so why not give them a try.

Here’s how winter blues affect American adults and what changes you can make, starting today!

Winter Blues and American Adults

When trying to find the incidence of seasonal depressed moods in the United States, researchers have found that anywhere from 7.5% to 20.5% of respondents suffer from major and minor depressive moods in the autumn and winter (1)(2). In one large study, 50% of the cases were considered severe (3). Many of these adults also experience social anxiety, agoraphobia, and more mental health concerns. What’s more, the increase in seasonal sickness and virtual gatherings (rather than in person) have many feeling more lonely than ever.

However, small steps can go a long way to alleviating the

3 Ways to Fight Winter Blues and Season Depressed Moods

1. More Sleep

Have you ever noticed what the natural world does during the winter? It slows down. Some animals hibernate. Trees and plants go dormant. Our earth’s rotation results in dark skies for more and more hours of each day.

And humans? We tend to be sleepier, more depressed, and more apt to gain weight.

Rather than fight it, what if we gave our bodies what they need: more sleep? It’s well-documented that sleep deficiency leads to anxious and/or depressed moods, and weight gain (4). Perhaps, more sleep during the season in which the natural world slows down, would help.

In addition, adequate sleep absolutely supports overall health, less chronic disease, and improved longevity (5). Researchers in one recent study found that participants with existing high blood pressure or unhealthy blood sugars, who slept less than 6 hours per night, were 1.8 times more likely to die of heart disease or stroke.

Another study published in JAMA found an association with less REM percentage and an increased risk for death in middle-aged and older adults (6).

There’s little doubt that sleep is good for us. If you’re able, take steps to improve the quality of your sleep and get more during the winter.

Need help? Read: How to Get Better Sleep this Winter.

2. Supplements: Vitamin D and Omega-3s

Two powerful nutrients, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, support both physical health and mental health. In terms of mental health, they become crucial in winter months.

In fact, scientists have found that vitamin D status is often low with those who suffer from depressed moods in general, and seasonal depressed moods as well (7). Without supplementation, vitamin D levels drop during Winter months for most Americans because the tilt of the earth, and less daylight hours, reduces the amount of vitamin D our bodies synthesize. What’s more, vitamin D supports the immune system and can help us feel healthier, and therefore better, during winter months (8).

Omega-3 fats can also help.

In 2019, the “nutritional psychiatry” subcommittee of the International Society for Nutritional Psychiatry Research (ISNPR) invited the top authors who studied omega-3s for depressed moods and asked them to review all the literature possible in relation to it. After the review, the authors were in agreement to set the practice guideline of omega-3s for depressed moods. This consensus guideline was published online September 3 in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics (9).

The authors stated that clinicians should provide advice on omega-3s for depressed moods. They should encourage eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) omega-3s specifically and in combination with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Furthermore, clinicians should encourage high-quality natural and supplemental omega-3s daily, and that the therapy should be individualized for each patient (10).

Here’s how to get more vitamin D and omega-3 fats during the winter months: Vitamin D, Omega-3s.

3. Detox and Energize

If there’s one dietary habit that seems to fall away in the winter, it’s the consumption of fresh, vibrant greens and vegetables.

This can take a toll. Greens are filled with chlorophyll, and chlorophyll can promote detoxification and energy through the body by supporting the body’s own 6 detox systems (liver, kidneys, digestive tract, skin, lymph system, respiratory tract) (11, 12, 13). As your body detoxifies itself, you’ll feel more energized rather than down.

Luckily, there’s an easy way to get your greens and detox, even during the winter months: try a Daily Green Detox Smoothie.

This smoothie utilizes ingredients from Dr. Colbert’s 21 Day Detox and Fast System along with fresh fruits, fresh greens, and healthy fats in one daily drink to promote health, energy, and detox.

Try it this winter and feel lighter, energized, and better!

Bottom Line

You may be one of the many who experience minor, major, or even severe winter blue and seasonal depressed moods. Take our easy steps today to support your mental, physical, and emotional health during winter months! You can feel better, more energized, and healthier.

The post Winter Blues? 3 Ways to Fight Seasonal Depressed Moods & Feel Great appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert, MD.

Revitalizing Energizing Green Smoothie for the New Year!

Don Colbert, MD — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 09:00:00 +0000

This time of year, it’s easy to feel fatigued and overwhelmed. It’s easy to set aside health goals, and just wait until the new year. But, there’s never been a better time to feel revitalized and energized! We’ve got an energizing green smoothie recipe that can help you stay on track and finish the year strong.

In fact, this smoothie contains ingredients that can revitalize and help detoxify your body, from your cells to organs to everything in between.

If you’ve indulged a bit too much this Holiday season, try this smoothie to detox and revitalize. If you’re just looking for more energy to finish out the year, try this smoothie for its energizing qualities. And, if you want a new recipe for a healthier new year, commit to this smoothie each day for one daytime meal, and see its wonderful effects on health and energy.

Here’s how to make it, and how it can revitalize you!

Detox Recipe

Revitalizing Energizing Green Smoothie for a New Year!

Ingredients

3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or canned coconut milk
1 scoop Fiber Zone Powder
Fermented Green Supremefood
1 cup spinach, kale, or mixed greens
Red SupremefoodRed Supremefood
1 scoop Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder
1/2 cup frozen cranberries (other berries are okay as well, but reduce other berries to 1/4 cup due to higher sugar content)
water and ice as needed

Instructions

Place all ingredients in a blender. Mix well, adding water and/or ice to desired consistency. Makes one serving.

Free Challenge · 21-Day Detox Challenge

Made with Fermented Green Supremefood

This recipe calls for Dr. Colbert’s Fermented Green Supremefood from Divine Health — the same formula he recommends to his own patients.

Fermented Green Supremefood

Revitalizing and Energizing Foods

1. Fiber Zone Powder

If you want to revitalize and re-energize your body, start with a healthy digestive tract.

The inulin and psyllium husk in Keto Zone Fiber Zone are two amazing fibers that support digestive health. In fact, both inulin and psyllium husk stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria. When these bacteria are healthy, yeast overgrowth is inhibited, and digestion improves. What’s more, healthy fibers and digestion directly support immune health (1, 2) and energy.

2. Fermented Green Supremefood Fermented Green Supremefood with Chlorophyll

When it comes to energizing food, it’s hard to beat chlorophyll. In fact, this lifeblood of plants can do wonders in the human body as well.

Chlorophyll acts similarly to hemoglobin in the human body, except it carries magnesium instead of iron (3). It supports immune health, digestive health, and liver health.

It also works to alkalize the body and urine pH. This supports liver function and helps the body remove toxins like metals, pesticides, and more.

Chlorophyll is found in most raw, live greens. Fermented Green Supremefood contains fermented greens and chlorophyll including alfalfa, kale, spirulina, wheatgrass, and more. The fermentation process makes the nutrients in these foods more bioavailable in the body. Thus, they deliver high amounts of nutrients and chlorophyll to the blood (4, 5).

3. Beets and Beet Powder

Beets are one of the most vibrantly colored vegetables around. Their beautiful hue comes from phytochemicals called betanins. But betanins are much more than a pretty color. They are the primary nutrient in beets and are responsible for their many health benefits (6). In fact, they fight free radicals, encourage reduced inflammation, and support the detoxification of the cells.

What’s more, beets also support the production and work of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant our cells make to fight damaging substances.

Beets also support the oxygenation of the body. This means energy! Beets contain natural nitrates that are converted to nitric oxides in the body. Nitric oxides dilate blood vessels, allowing more oxygen to circulate more efficiently. Nitric oxide may also increase muscle tissues’ ability to use oxygen (6).

One of the best ways to get the power of beets, especially when following a low-carb diet, is through Red SupremefoodRed Supremefood.

4. Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder

Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder works throughout the body to support health, nutrient absorption, skin, and energy.

In fact, it contains many forms of collagen, including types I, II, and III. This combination revitalizes and supports gut health, skin health, joint health, and immune function.

In fact, many studies now show that a dose of ~10 grams per day of collagen supports skin elasticity, hydration, dermal collagen density, youthful appearance, reduced wrinkles, and less skin fragmentation (7, 8, 9, 10).

What’s more, it supports joint health and movement so you can get out there and enjoy activities in the New Year!

5. Cranberries

Cranberries are an amazing superfood. In fact, this low-carb fruit is loaded with antioxidants and phytochemicals that help neutralize free radicals to support cellular health.

In addition, whole cranberries, as opposed to juice or extracts, specifically support cardiovascular and liver health. They support healthy cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and arterial flexibility (11). Together, a healthy cardiovascular system and arteries deliver blood, oxygen, and energizing nutrients to the body efficiently.

Bottom Line

A New Year calls for revitalization and new energy. Try our Energizing Green Smoothie. Of course, you don’t have to wait for 2021. You can choose to finish this year with great momentum and move into the healthiest year of your life. And if you’d like more ideas for detoxifying and revitalizing your body, join Dr. Colbert’s 21 Day Detox and Fast! New energy and new health for a New Year!

The post Revitalizing Energizing Green Smoothie for the New Year! appeared first on Dr. Don Colbert, MD.