You guys loved the first round of “Health or Hype” so I thought it would be fun to do another round. Once again these are all my own opinions and experiences so please check in with your doctor before starting (or stopping) anything new.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Both
ACV has a ton of health claims such as helping with lowering blood sugars and managing diabetes, weight loss by promoting satiety, reduce belly fat, protective effects against cancer, lower cholesterol levels, heart health, and increased energy. Some of these claims are backed up by scientific studies some are not (why I’m giving this a “both” rating).
ACV is highly acidic so limit intake to 1-2 tablespoons/day. If you’re new to ACV start small with 1-2 teaspoons and see how you tolerate. It is recommended to use organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and you can use in cooking or dilute in water and drink.
I’ve been having it daily for the past 3 weeks in my morning elixirs and I can’t say I’ve noticed any significant health benefits from it alone, but I also don’t suffer from any of the above health issues. If used properly there don’t seems to be any negative health side effects, so I would say give it a shot if you’re suffering from a disease state that might benefit from ACV (ex. diabetes has some science backing up health claims). Here, here, and here are some interesting studies.
Collagen Peptides
Health
This is a wellness trend that has blown up that past few years and we are drinking the kool-aid 😉 If you guys follow along on social media you know Heather and I both put Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides in our coffee every.damn.day! Possible health benefits: hair, skin, and nail health. Collagen can possibly improve skin clarity and firmness…yes please! It’s also said have joint and bone health benefits, help with muscle recovery post exercise, and my fave gut health!
Recommended to take 20 grams a day to see best results. Quality matters, so find a company that uses bones and tissues from cage-free, free-range, and antibiotic-free sources.
I think we will be seeing a lot more research in this field, but in the meantime I’m on board as there appears to be very little risk to adding collagen peptides to you diet and some awesome potential health benefits!
Nutritional Yeast
Health
Nutritional yeast is popular in vegan cooking because it is a complete protein (meaning it contains all 9 essential amino acids) and one tablespoon contains 2-3 grams of protein. Along with protein is also contains a good dose of B vitamins (including b 12) and trace minerals.
It has a cheesy/nutty, so it can be a nice replacement for added salt in (reduce sodium intake- plus!). Most nutritional yeast is fortified to contain added vitamins and minerals. It also contains antioxidants and may help boost immunity. I personally like to add it to popcorn, pasta, or vegetables for a cheesy topping.
Golden Milk Latte/Turmeric
Health
Turmeric is touted for it’s anti-inflammatory properties and there is science to back it up. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric and is a very strong antioxidant and also linked to improved brain function. If you’re serious about using turmeric for it’s potent anti-inflammatory properties then a supplement might be the best way to go, but you can also add to your food or beverages like golden milk lattes.
Ingredients in a standard golden milk latte include: turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper (helps absorb the curcumin), coffee, vanilla, honey, and coconut oil. Therefore, I would say golden milk lattes are “health” depending on the milk used and added sugars/syrups.
Alkaline Water
Hype
Alkaline water supports claim that it can slow down aging, increase hydration, boost immunity, help with weight loss, etc. There just isn’t the science to back this up sorry.
Water cannot be alkalized. It is the material added to the water that makes it alkaline or acidic. Most alkaline water purchased at the store goes through a chemical process called electrolysis which increased the pH. Normal drinking water generally has a neutral pH of 7. Alkaline water typically has a pH of 8 or 9 and pro alkaline water peeps believe the higher pH helps neutralize the pH in your body.
If you really want alkaline water that’s cool it appears to be safe, but you can save your money add Alka-Seltzer or baking soda to water to alkalize it. Minerals by nature are alkaline. Whichever ones you add to water will alkalize the beverage, but the water is still water 😉
Intermittent Fasting
Hype
I get asked about this one a lot and my stance has remained the same…I’m not a fan. I know I know some people SWEAR by IF, but because of my background in eating disorders I just don’t think it’s realistic or a smart way to approach nutrition. I worry that having set times you’re not allowed to eat increases preoccupation and anxiety related to food and could lead to binges when the fast is broken.
I also don’t think this teaches you anything about how to properly fuel your body, so when you stop IF you go back to your old behaviors with food and likely regain any weight loss that was achieved. Soooo, IMO this is just another fad…skip!
Bullet Proof Coffee
Hype
This is popular for folks follow a ketogenic diet. It’s essentially a high fat high calorie breakfast replacement. It consists of coffee, 2 tablespoons of grass-fed, unsalted butter, and 1–2 tablespoons of MCT oil mixed in a blender. A lot of people swear by bullet proof coffee claiming it gives them mental clarity, increased energy, and also keeps them full all morning. Well sure if fills you up because hello…that’s what fat does. I love fat don’t get me wrong, but by using this coffee drink to replace breakfast you’re missing out on a lot other important nutrients you could be getting with breakfast. I’ve tried it a few times and it personally made me really nauseous. I’d say yes drink this over skipping breakfast entirely, but there are other ways to get in a quick, filling, and more nutritious breakfast.
xx,
Alix
All information on the The Champagne Theory blog, including but not limited to information about nutrition, health and fitness, is intended for general or background purposes only, and not as medical advice applicable to any individual. Please consult your medical provider or providers for instructions specific to your own medical concerns and condition.
