Update On The Udo's Oil Blend 3-6-9 & Multi-Vitamins

Back in October 2009, I started taking Progressive Women Multi-Vitamins along with Udo's Oil 3,6,9 Blend (look here for a quick recap) for overall health. I took these supplements consistently (until finished) and I did see an improvement in my skin and nails.

The multi-vitamins were somewhat annoying because you have to take 3 pills daily and majority of the time I took 1-2 a day since I would always forget. My skin looked vibrant and remained somewhat clear of acne (did get a few pimples here & there). My nails stopped breaking and started to grow strong. Overall, the vitamins were good. I had high hopes that it would perform better, but I should have taken it the right way in order to see optimal results. Next time around I will buy a vitamin that only requires me to take it 1-2 times daily.

The taste of the Udo's 3-6-9 Oil Blend was AWFUL!! (kind of a nutty flavor). I dreaded taking it every single day. Most days I had to chug it down with juice, food....whatever I could find!! I promised myself that when I finished the bottle, I would purchase capsules (no taste) so that I wouldn't have to go through that horrible process again. I must say that it did improve my digestion where food was concerned. No bloating or heaviness after eating :-)

Oh, I almost forgot, NEVER take this oil on an empty stomach or else you will feel extremely sick and nauseated. That was another "con" in my opinion. If I do repurchase this product, I will purchase it in capsule form.


♥ Sunshyne

Product Haul: Oils, Vitamins & Shea Butter! *Long & Pic Heavy*

One of my main goals for the last quarter of 2009 was to purchase some Multi-Vitamins and Fish Oils to implement into my day-to-day lifestyle, not for my hair, but for my overall health.

I didn't want a single, "one a day" style multi-vitamin tablet. I wanted something that would protect & nourish me throughout the whole day and something that's specific to my gender and age.

I paid a visit to Planet Organics Grocery Store (Toronto ladies, Hwy 7 & Bayview, Richmond Hill) and picked up a bottle of Progressive Women Multi-Vitamins for $29.

(click to enlarge)

This vitamin is specific for adult women and it's loaded with great stuff, here's a little rundown of what it contains:

1. Free Radical Defence - a unique combination of antioxidants including beta carotene, vitamin E, coenzyme Q-10, selenium, zinc, glutathione, and green tea extract help to protect us from ongoing exposure to free radicals.
2. Cardiovascular Protection - hawthorn berries, ginkgo biloba extract, coenzyme Q10, niacin and vitamin E promote and protect proper heart and cardiovascular function.
3. Enhanced Digestion - betaine hydrochloride and the plant based enzymes protease, amylase, lipase and cellulase assist in the digestion and utilization of both the nutrients contained in this formula as well as in the food we consume.
4. Balanced PH - highly alkaline green food concentrates such as spirulina, chlorella, alfalfa, kelp, green tea and broccoli extracts have been added to help balance and restore a healthy ph level.

I will start taking the Multi-Vitamins this week and keep you all updated. In addition to the vitamins, I wanted more EFA's in my diet, although I eat an adequate amount of fish, I needed something more. I picked up some Udo's Oil 3,6,9 Blend.

(click to enlarge)

For those that don't know, essential fats serve many functions in the human body. If taken in the right amounts/ratios & sources, EFA's can help establish and maintain good health. The benefits of EFA's are as follows:

• Increase energy, performance, and stamina.
  
• Strengthen the immune system.
• Lower most risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
• Improve brain function: mood, intelligence , behavior, and vision.
  
• Aid in weight reduction. EFAs help keep mood and energy up and suppress appetite, thereby aiding in weight loss.
• Regulate organs and glands.
• Speed recovery and healing. EFAs are necessary for cell growth and division. They form all cell membranes and regulate vital cell activity;
• Support healthy child development.
• Improve digestion.
• Decrease infection. EFAs have anti-fungal, anti-yeast, and anti-microbial properties, helping to protect against infections.
• Keep bones strong. EFAs aid in the transport of minerals that keep bones and teeth strong, helping to prevent osteoporosis;
• Protect genetic material.
• Ease PMS.
• Produce beautiful skin, hair, and nails. Some of the first signs of EFA deficiency are dry, flaky skin, dull hair, and brittle nails.

There you have it! EFA's (Essential Fatty Acids) are so essential. I purchased the Oil blend for $14.99. I will start taking it this week and provide you all with updates in a few weeks.

Moving on...

I stocked up on some Coconut oil for my Deep conditioners and Pre-poo Treatments. I bought 2 because one is specifically for my hair (Omega Nutrition Organic Coconut Oil), one is for my skin (Nutiva Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil).

While at the Beauty Supply Store this weekend, I picked up some 100% Natural African Shea Butter for $7. I've always been curious about it but I never had the guts to purchase it since I don't know the best method or place to use it. So far I must say, I love the way it feels, it's EXTREMELY soft and moisturizing on my skin. Here are some pics I took:


















(click to enlarge)

If you have any creamy delicious Shea butter recipes for your hair or skin, please feel free to share them!!

♥ Sunshyne