28 Dec 2015
by linettefm
in Drinks, Exercise, Food, Health and Beauty, Nutrition, Product testing, Review, Samples, Sports, Supplements, Tomoson Product Reviews
Tags: "super arginine", #AminoAmmo, 4:1:1, agmatine sulfate, Amazon, Amazon Products, amazon reviews, amazon.com, Amino Acids, amino ammo, ASIN: B00V6XAOIS, bcaa, BCAA mix, beta-alanine, better body sports, betterbodysports.com, branched chain amino acids, cardio, citrulline malate, Dietary Supplement, exercise, fitness, gym, Health, L-Isoleucine, l-leucine, L-Valine, pre-workout mix, Sport's Nutrition, supplements, Tomoson, tomoson products tomoson reviews, tomoson.com, UPC: 696859177705, Vitamins, weightlifting, workout, workout supplements

Hubby is at it again in another guest post for supplements. Thankfully, this time, he’s got a good one to review and not some horrible concoction or useless gelcaps. So let’s dive right in to this offering from Better Body Sports, shall we?

Some days, it feels like I’m Micheal Corleone in the Godfather. “Every time I think that I’m out, they pull me back IN!” I’m a sucker, it seems, for trying out certain supplements, and it’s usually within my holy trinity: BCAA’s, protein, creatine. And sometimes it comes back to bite me on the butt, but this time, I’m happy to report, I’ve found another winner in Better Body Sports’ “Amino Ammo” BCAA formula. BCAA’s are a very important part of my workout routine. The help increase muscle building and synthesis, as well as support the muscles you’ve already built, but the also help combat fatigue and stamina in the gym. What sets this mix apart from my usual brand of BCAA powder is the 4:1:1 ratio versus my usual 2:1:1. That ratio refers to the amounts of L-Leucine, L-Valine, and L-Isoleucine that comprise a standard BCAA (branched chain amino acid) stack. Emerging research has started to say that a 3:1:1 ratio can produce greater muscle synthesis that the usual 2:1:1, so most companies are starting to put a 4:1:1 ratio in their BCAA stacks. There are also many reports of this just being another heaping helping of “bro science”, but I can tell you from use that I did notice some minor gains from this over my usual Optimum Nutrition BCAA powder. I didn’t have Those who have read my other reviews know that I consider them the standard by which others are judged for the simple fact that I trust them to put exactly what they say is in there, in there. And trust is huge in the supplement market where fly-by-nights come and go it seems almost daily. But Better Body Sports went above and beyond and made this not just a BCAA mix, but a pretty decent pre-workout mix as well by adding beta-alanine, citrulline malate, agmatine (which some have referred to as “super arginine”) and vitamins (C, B6 and B12) as well. Add a caffeine pill and I’d put this up there with the new formulation of Cellucor’s C4. The downsides to Amino Ammo are a super-sweet flavor to mask the bitterness of the vitamins and aminos, and the paltry amount of agmatine sulfate, which is only 250mg. Most studies show the minimum effective dose of agmatine to be in the 500-750mg range. The other is the price for a 30-day serving: $39.99. I can usually get a 30-day supply of pre-workout powders for around $20-25 for a 30 day supply, and less with coupons and promotions.

Overall this is a good product that seems to contain exactly what is says it does, and offers a price point that, while I find a little on the high side, is on par with the other, more well-known names in the industry. If you don’t mind the flavor (I’m not the biggest fan of watermelon, and as Wifey put it best “It tastes like powdered Jolly Rancher”), you have a better than average pre-workout with no caffeine, and some really look hard for that. And for those that don’t, you can add it for about 5 bucks a bottle and never need another pre-workout mix. There’s no filler, binders, no artificial colors, anti-oxidants…Better Body Sports has a real winner on their hands.

Well, then. It’s nice to actually get a supplement company that actually gets it and I’m glad hubby doesn’t have to choke down something he hated for a review. Better Body Sports makes an entire line of products, and if they’re as good as their Amino Ammo, there’s going to be a new big player in the supplement industry very soon.

Connect with Better Body Sports:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from Better Body Sports . I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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10 Sep 2015
by linettefm
in All Natural, Baking, Coffee, Cooking, Drinks, Family, Health and Beauty, Home, Living, Natural, Organic, Product testing, Review, Tomoson Product Reviews
Tags: #PNMCacaoNibs, 100% Pure, All Natural, Amazon, Amazon Products, amazon reviews, amazon.com, antioxidant, ASIN: B008P2FSKC, Baking, baking chocolate, breakfast, Cacao, carob, chocolate, Cocoa, coffee, cooking, Criollo cacao, dessert, Espresso, foods, gluten free, gourmet food, grocery, lunch, minerals, natural supplement, organic, Raw, raw chocolate, Snacking, snacks, superfoods, Tomoson, Tomoson Products, Tomoson Reviews, UPC: 609224282584, Vegan, Vitamins


I’m a fan of cacao, and have been for some time. I’ve cooked and baked with it and never had a bad thing to say about it. But until recently I never got to try raw cacao nibs, straight up. And now that I have, I’m a fan, in a big way. Pure Natural Miracles sent me a bag to try and review, and I’m delighted they did and opened my world to something new and delightful. Their marketing tactics and high-pressure approach to reviewers I’m not as big a fan of, but I won’t let that stop me from enjoying the product.

Cacao nibs are like a mild espresso bean, full of tangy, almost bitter notes. Like a baking chocolate, it’s bereft of sugar in any form, but crunchy like a grain, or granola. You get a full, rich chocolate flavor, but no sugar, or processing, or roasting, basically anything that strips away the flavors and health benefits, like antioxidants and trace minerals that are essential to any healthy diet, plus their high in dietary fiber. These Pure Natural Miracle nibs are made from 100% pure Organic Peruvian Criollo cacao and are raw (not fermented or roasted), organic, vegan, and naturally gluten free, so they can be easily worked into any diet or diet plan. They went great with my morning “scatter”, usually some cereal and nuts, along with chia seeds, flax meal, goji berries and Greek yogurt. And while I noticed nothing out of the ordinary as far as energy, or alertness, I also saw no ill effects from consuming them daily for weeks. It was like a morning cup of coffee with my breakfast, but no caffeine dump later. They also went great sprinkled over some vanilla bean ice cream, or just a small handful on their own.

What I’m less a fan of is, as a reviewer, I make certain promises to the companies I choose to work with. And I expect them to understand that I have many, many companies I work with every day, some regularly for years. Things get reviewed as they come in, in the order received, unless we’ve made special arrangements beforehand for an accelerated or delayed time frame. And I never, ever, let a company put words in my mouth. For good or for ill, my opinions are my own and I will not use a companies “suggested” dialog for my reviews. Whether it was Larviks Investment Group as a proxy or Pure Natural Miracles, I got the hard sell almost from jump. I didn’t appreciate the way they went about this promotion with me, and while I like the product immensely, I can only hope that they’re not the same way with regular customers.

So in the end it’s a great product that I recommend highly and hope that give them a try. If you like coffee, or chocolate, or chocolate coffee (*drools*), then these are right up your alley.
Connect with Pure Natural Miracles:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from Pure Natural Miracles. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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20 Jul 2015
by linettefm
in All Natural, Coupon, Fruits and Veggies, Health and Beauty, Home, Nails, Nutrition, Product Samples, Product testing, Review, Samples
Tags: 70 Count, ASIN: B007Y7BIDU, biotin, Bone Health, boron, C, Calcium, Choline, Chromium, D & E, Dietary Supplement, Energy Metabolism Support, Excellent Source of Vitamins A, folic acid, gluten free, Gummy Vitamins, inositol, Iodine, Item model number: 1002353, MultiVites, Niacin, nutrition, Nutrition Now, Nutrition Now MultiVites Women's Review, Nutrition Now Women's Gummy Vitamins, Pantothenic Acid (B5), Phosphorus, Review, Smiley, Smiley360, Unique Formula for Women, UPC: 027917023533, Viatmin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin B-12, Vitamin B-6, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamins

I am always looking to improve my health and nutrition needs. Being able to pop a gummy and then go about my day not only is easy, but sort of hard to forget. So many supplements in the market are made to fit the needs of both males and females, even though their needs differ greatly. Men require more caloric intake than a female would, so we already eat differently! Why take the same vitamins? I prefer always having to choose something that is tailored to me and will help when it comes to my hair’s appearance and nails…..something most guys don’t have at the forefront of their mind 🙂

Nutrition Now MultiVites not only come in gummy form and I’m not oppose to taking a pill, but why not take something that I can enjoy too. Their dietary supplement provides a blend of essential vitamins and minerals, that may help improve your hair, nails and skin’s health. You also get energy and metabolism support. What’s not to love? You add supporting bone health and great berry flavor combinations, that it makes having an excuse to not take your vitamins on a daily basis non-existent.

Retail Price Point: $7.39 via Amazon was the best price point I could locate, however the vitamins are carried at Vitamin Shoppe and other retailers like Walgreens too.
Ingredients: Glucose Syrup , Sucrose , Gelatin , Natural Flavors , ColorsPurple Carrot Juice Concentrate, Blueberry & Carrot Concentrate , Citric Acid , Lactic Acid , Fractionated Coconut Oil , Beeswax

Verdict:
I took the gummy vitamins by Nutrition Now on a daily basis for 25 days. The indications are for two gummy bites a day and one bottle comes with 70 gummy vitamins, so you get a little over a month’s worth. Nutrition Now made sure to give you a little cushion when it comes to those extra few days in case you forget when you need to buy more and I always appreciate that versus other companies that like to play the game of only giving you 28 days worth of product. Each gummy is only 15 calories and I can’t think of a better way in getting 30 calories a day packed with all your nutritional needs. I never had an upset stomach or an awful aftertaste. It was sort of too good to be true and I liked that if I had a sweet tooth that day, the gummy aided in nipping it…..so it was sort of like a treat. I did not notice significant changes because I do try to eat as clean as possible and at the same time get more than the amount of required vegetables and fruit in a day, but I did not break a nail! I always chip a nail at least once a month with all my crafts and baking, however I did not and you know it was not because I was careful. I think Nutrition Now is the better tasting when it comes to the gummy world of vitamins and for once it’s called berry flavor and actually contains blueberry. The product is gluten free and also free of dyes/artificial coloring because they use real ingredients like purple carrot juice as coloring. Easy to take and actually enjoy, so I would at least give Nutrition Now gummy vitamins a consideration because they are full of the “good stuff” and have none of the “bad stuff” that I usually have to look up to even know what is.

Connect with Nutrition Now:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from Nutrition Now and Smiley360. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.
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14 Jun 2015
by linettefm
in All Natural, Exercise, Health and Beauty, Living, Natural, Non-GMO, Nutrition, Product testing, Review, Supplements
Tags: All Natural, Amazon Suppliments, and Purified Water, anti-aging, anti-aging benefits, ASIN: B00STNR4KE, Coenzyme Q-10 (Ubiquinone), cognitive issues, Decrease production of damaging free radicals, energy boost, Free Radicals, gelatin, Healthy lifestyle, heart health, Heart healthy, Made in the USA, mental decline, natural, Non GMO, POWERFUL ANTIDIOXIDANT, Promote Good Health, Rice Bran Oil, Soy Lecithin, Supllimend CoQ10, supplements, Supplimend, SUPPLIMEND CoQ10 (Coenzyme-Q10), Supplimend CoQ10 Review, Supplimend Nutraceuticals:, Supplimend Vitamins, Supplimend™ Nutraceuticals: Coenzyme-Q10, Suppliments, Titanium Dioxide (color), Ubiquinone, UPC: 806802051512, vegetable glycerin, Vitamins


CoQ-10 is a heart-healthy enzyme that has been a staple of this household for years now, and when the opportunity arose to try out a new brand, Supplimend, I was very eager. I’m always looking to find something better than what I’m already taking, or save a few dollars on like kind and quality.

The ingredient list reads like every other brand out there, so there’s no step down in quality from my usual brand, Kirkland.
Ingredient List (as posted on-line): Coenzyme Q-10 (Ubiquinone), Rice Bran Oil, Gelatin, Vegetable Glycerin, Soy Lecithin, Titanium Dioxide Color, and Purified Water
It’s not some giant horse pill I have to choke down with half a glass of water. So that’s always appreciated. There’s no smell, no funky tasting burps, and I didn’t notice any drop off from how I felt taking my original brand.

Where this one falls a little short is price. At $17.95 for a 30-Day supply of 120 milligram capsules, it’s nearly triple what I pay for my Costco brand, and for 1/3 as much. This is also the price point via Amazon, and I found other places had the product for $24.95. That is very, very expensive. Like, “this can’t be part of my supplement routine anymore” expensive, and I can’t figure out why. The Supplimend brand is GMO lab certified, the Costco one USP verified. Both have similar ingredients, same dose size. It’s unfortunately a deal breaker. And that’s a shame. Made in the USA, and a good, quality supplement, but undone by an unrealistic price point. My hope for Supplemend is that as they grow, they can start manufacturing their products more in line with what the market will bear. At $17.95, it’s a no-go for me.
Connect with Supplimend™ Nutraceuticals at:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from Supplimend. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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30 Jan 2015
by linettefm
in Exercise, Health and Beauty, Living, Nutrition, Product Samples, Product testing, Review, Samples, Sports, Supplements, Tomoson Product Reviews
Tags: 100% Natural, 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, activity, All Natural, Amazon, Amazon Codes, Amazon Promos, Amazon Supplements, Arginine, beauty, beet root extract, Dietary supplements, Dieting, Eating Better, Eating Well, exercise, fitness, GMP certified, Green Force, Green Force Labs, Greenforce Labs, GreenForce Labs Supplements, Greenforce No2 Preworkout, gym, Health, health & beauty, health and beauty, healthy habits, Healthy living, L-Arginine, l-citrulline, l-ornithine, Made in the USA, MMA, muscle fatigue, muscles, natural, NFW, NFW certified, No artificial colors, No artificial flavors, No sugars, No2, Physical Activity, pre-workout, preworkout, Review, Sport's Nutrition, Sports, Staying Fit, strength training, Sugar Free, supplements, Tomoson, Training, USA, Vitamin B, Vitamins, Working Out


I’ve passed off workout supplements to hubby before, and this one is no different, but thankfully for him, this one was much better than the last. I don’t think he could take another horrible product to be my crash test dummy for. So, without further adieu, here’s hubby:
I’ve been using pre-workout supplements for years now. Some tasted good and did bupkis for me. Some tasted horrible, and did bupkis for me. Some tasted tolerable and worked out well. I have yet to find one that wasn’t overly sweet, loaded with sugars, artificial colors and flavors, or ingredients that I’d rather not ingest. I think, however, I’ve found one in Greenforce Labs No2 Preworkout that hits every metric I want.

Some background on what I consider essential preworkout primers. One is a bit of caffeine. It really helps get my butt up and moving. Next are some B-vitamins to keep it moving. A little arginine to keep the blood vessels wide open. Everything else for me is gravy. Greenforce No2 Preworkout ups the ante by adding l-ornithine and l-citrulline to combat muscle fatigue, and a new one for me, beet root extract, which aids in greater output, lowers fatigue, and possibly greater strength. Hey now, I’m in. And for me, this product worked. I matched my exercise output and results from my powdered product, at half the cost. I’m happy to alternate between this and my usual.
After making sure I cleared my system of my previous preworkout powder, which I consider seriously flawed due to being obnoxiously sweet. I can happily report that Greenforce No2 Preworkout has no added sugars, natural OR artificial, a major failing of almost every single preworkout on the market. You can easily tailor your intake to your needs or workout. With a 4 capsule serving, that’s simple to say “Okay, it’s late, I’m only taking half tonight”. Also, this is an all-natural product made in the USA, NFW and GMP certified. You get a month’s worth for $21.95 with 120 capsules per bottle.
Now for the best part. This product is 100% satisfaction guaranteed. From the first capsule to the last. Greenforce Labs stands behind this product, no questions, full stop. I had a minor issue with shipping and Greenforce Labs bent over backwards to make sure I was a satisfied customer. Above and beyond. Show me a supplement company that does that. I’ve had dealings with some of the biggest, and it’s all finger-pointing and no guarantees. I’m happy to report there none of that nonsense with Greenforce Labs. I’m happy to support them and look forward to see what they bring to market next.

Connect with Greenforce Labs:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from Greenforce Labs. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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17 Nov 2014
by linettefm
in Drinks, Living, Product Samples, Product testing, Review, Uncategorized
Tags: 5 Hour Energy, 5=Hour Energy, Amino Acids, B12, B6, B9, Caffeine, Citicoline, drinks, Energy Blend, energy boost, energy drink, Energy Drinks, Energy Enhancers, folic acid, Glucuronolactone, LBBC is a nonprofit organization, Living Beyond Breast Cancer, low caloric, Malic Acid, Niacin, No Sugar, Phenylalanine, Pink Lemonade, Pink Lemonade Original 5-Hour ENERGY® Shot, Review, S, Smiley, Smiley 360, Smiley360, Sugar Free, Taurine, Tyrosine, Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B9, Vitamins, Zero Net Carbs

I got an offer from Smiley360 recently. It was for a 5-Hour Energy shot. Um…yes please! Are you kidding me? This time of year? I’m dragging my tired little butt around trying to put things together for the holidays, for the home, for hubby, for the dog. Oh yeah, and if I have a spare second or two, a moment for myself. I quick pick me up, and pink lemonade flavored to boot? My only complaint at the time was I only got two.

Now, I’ve tried 5-Hour Energy before. Let’s just say I wasn’t their biggest cheerleader. The flavor was…not great. Very bitter, hard to swallow. In fact, I couldn’t. Neither could hubby.We haven’t been back to it since. I had high hopes for the new push and new flavor. And while it was better, it was also still bitter, but not to the point of being unable to finish it. So it’s flavor grade is a solid “B”.

As for the most important feature, the energy boost. With 200 mg of caffeine, as well as nearly 1700 mgs of other proprietary energy ingredients, and 540 mgs of B vitamins, you’d think it could send someone up the walls and hanging off the ceiling. However, that wasn’t the case for me. Maybe my tolerances are higher, maybe I just was expecting to have some jitters or shakes. Neither was the case, and if anything I was disappointed in not having that “superman” feeling where I flit around the house getting everything accomplished like The Flash. Oh well.

5-Hour Energy also partnered with Living Beyond Breast Cancer to donate 5 cents from every bottle sold to LBBC, a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting people with trusted breast cancer information and community support. Just look for the bottle with the pink ribbon to help out, with a minimum guaranteed donation of $200,000. Not too shabby.
Connect with 5-Hour Energy on:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from Smiley360 and 5-Hour Energy. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.
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13 Nov 2014
by linettefm
in All Natural, Beauty, Health and Beauty, Organic, Product Samples, Product testing, Review
Tags: 1% Retinol, 100% Money Back Guarantee, 100% Natural, 90-Day Satisfaction Guarantee, Advanced 1% Retinol Complex, Advanced Moisturizing Anti-Wrinkle Formula, All Natural, Amazon, Amazon Coupon, Amazon Promotion, anti-aging, antioxidant, Antioxidants, beauty, beauty products, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), CassiaAngustifolia Seed Polysaccharide, Cetyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, Cosmetics, creams, Ethylhexyl Glycerin, face cream, facial moisturizers, Foxbrim, Glyceryl Stearate, health & beauty, Isopropyl Palmitate (Palm Oil), Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Made in the USA, Moisturizer, Natural Beauty, organic, Organic Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera), Organic Beauty, Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower Oil), Organic Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba Oil), Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Pentylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Phospholipids, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Phosphate, refresh skin, renew skin, restore skin, Retinol, Review, skin care, Skin care regimen, Skincare, Stearic Acid, Tocopheryl (Vitamin E), Vitamin A, Vitamin A + Antioxidants, Vitamin E, Vitamins, Wildcrafted Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea), Wildcrafted Resina Propoli (Propolis), Xanthan Gum


Foxbrim is a company I was not too familiar with in the beauty world, however they offer a small line of products that range from moisturizers to some with anti-again properties. Their focus is about keeping it simple but using potent ingredients that are organic and all-natural. Combining premium products that work and if they don’t, they stand behind them with a 90-Day Money Back Guarantee!
I was sent a bottle of their Vitamin A + Antioxidants, Advanced Retinol Complex. The product comes with a declared 1% Retinol potency, which is something I now look for in ant-aging products of this kind. I already like the bottle with a pump because this is the best way to preserve and slow down the oxidation of the vitamin. The product’s claims are simple:
Ingredients (as listed on their site):
Organic Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera), Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower Oil), Isopropyl Palmitate (Palm Oil), Pentylene Glycol, Phospholipids, Retinol, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Phosphate, Tocopheryl (Vitamin E), CassiaAngustifolia Seed Polysaccharide, Glyceryl Stearate,Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Organic Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba Oil), Wildcrafted Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea), Wildcrafted Resina Propoli (Propolis), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexyl Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid.

Price Point: $17.95 for a generous 1 fluid ounce bottle
Directions:
Apply all over face, neck and decolette. Can be used morning and/or night. Apply after washing, toning and then a serum. Can be used under cosmetics.

Results:
I tried the formula for a period of 3 weeks, since I am already a retinol user, I did not experience the redness and/or flaking associated with first-time users. My goal was to focus on what I call the “triple R” results. The product did help restore moisture and I did not experience a decline in the results I had achieved from previous retinol based products. What my skin achieved remained and that is what you want to see when it comes to formulas of this kind, so the 1% potency is present. Foxbrim’s complex also kept my problem areas at bay by renewing the skin’s surface and speeding up the “turnover” process. I continued to exfoliate to insure the retinol was able to always have a new surface of skin to work on. My fine lines did not disappear but remained with a diminished appearance. My skin did feel moisturized and protected, plus refreshed. I never appeared tired or experienced any skin problems from the product. The moisturizer is simple but that is sometimes what we need after everything we tend to put on our faces. I do feel Foxbrim nourishes your skin and I hope in the future they release a moisturizer with an increase in retinol because I would jump on using it like I did this one.

Connect with Foxbrim at:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from Foxbrim. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
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22 Oct 2014
by linettefm
in Beauty, Health and Beauty, Product Samples, Review, Uncategorized
Tags: #SanoSerum, (2s)-2-Amino-5-guanidinopentanoic Acid, 100% Money=Back Guarantee, 20% concentration, acne, acne marks, acne scars, aging process, Amazon, Amazon Prime, anti, anti-aging, Antioxidant Moisturizer, Antioxidants, Ascorbic Acid, Ascorbic acid; Dehydroascorbic acid, battle free radicals and decrease inflammation, beauty, beauty and health, beauty products, blemishes, blood vessels, Blueberries, bones, Botanical Hyaluronic Acid, Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, Cantaloupe, Carbomer, Carrageenan Gum, cauliflower, Cell Damage, Citrus fruits, collagen, Cranberries, creams, crows feet, Cucumber Distillate, Diets, Dry Skin, dry skin repair, elasticity of skin, ETHYL HEXYL GLYCERIN, Ethyl Hexyl Glycerin. Vitamin C Eye Gel: Organic Herbal Infusion, Fine Lines, fine lines & wrinkles - Provide UV protection - Neutralize free radicals, free radical damage, Free Radicals, fruits, Glycine, Grapefruit, Green peppers, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel), Health, High Potency Vitamin C, Highly concentrated Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, inflammation, inflammation reduction, Juices, Kiwi fruit, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, L-Alanine, L-ascorbic acid, L-Aspartic Acid, L-Histidine, L-Isoleucine, L-Phenylalanine), L-Proline, L-Pyrrolidonecarboxylic Acid, L-Serine, L-threonine, L-Valine, LArginine, leafy greens Sweet, ligaments, lotions, Mango, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), natural antioxidant, Orange, Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf (Aloe), Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Herbal Infusion, Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba Oil), OrganicLicorice, oxidative stress, Papaya, Phenoxyethanol, pimples, Pineapple, Potassium Sorbate, puffiness, Raspberries, rebuilding, rebuilding collagen, red peppers, Reduces Oxidative Stress, reduction of fine lines, Repair, Repair and maintain cartilage, Sano Naturals, Sano Naturals Vitamin C serum, Sano Vitamin C Eye Gel+, scar tissue, scars, scurvy, serums, Silk Protein Amino Acid Blend (Sodium L-Pyrrolidone Carboxylate, Skin, skin care, Skin care regimen, Skin Issues, skin problems, Skin Repair, Skincare, smoother skin, Sodium Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C), Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Lactate, Spinach, Stimulate collagen production - Dramatically reduce the visible signs of aging, Strawberries, sun burns, Sun Damage, Sun Exposure, sunburns, supple skin, supplements, teeth, tendons, tomato juice, tomatoes, Topical Vitamin C, treating scars, turnip greens, Vegetables, vibrant skin, Vitamin C, vitamin C deficiency, Vitamin C Eye Gel Concentrate, Vitamin C in beauty products, vitamin c rich diets, Vitamin C rich foods, Vitamin C Serum+, Vitamin E, Vitamins, Watermelon, white potatoes, Wildcrafted Periwinkle, Winter squash, wound healing, wrinkles, younger looking skin


I have been wanting to incorporate Vitamin C into my skin care regimen after doing some research. In the following weeks, I will be reviewing products that will focus around brands that deliver to your skin the maximum Vitamin C and hoping to see positive results. You can read my post on my research at- Topical Vitamin C use in Beauty Products Research and Information
My first to test and review is by a brand named Sano Naturals. I liked from the get-go that they back-up their beauty products. If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase and skin care experience, they will refund your entire purchase price, no questions asked. They also include a bonus item with purchase and that is always a positive!
Sano Vitamin C Serum+:
On the bottle it states the product is of high potency and a Daily Skin Revitalizer. The bottle is a beautiful cobalt blue in color and the dark hue aids with preserving the product, which is rated at 20% concentration. I next looked at the ingredient list and you have an Organic Herbal Infusion, Aloe, and then Vitamin C. So far I am happy that water is not the delivery agent and other good quality binding ingredients were used along with the vitamin. The list goes on but everything is recognizable and friendly, not something I am use to in the “beauty world”. You get Hyaluronic Acid, which helps with inflammation (puffiness) and dry skin. It’s an ingredient you see for treating Eczema. Sano also uses kosher Vegetable Glycerin to Organic Jojoba oil. Jojoba has many good properties from being used as a fungicide and preventing mildew growth, to being able to deliver moisture without leaving an oily residue.
Results-
Even though most studies for Vitamin C ranged from a month to 12 weeks, I used the product for a period of 2 weeks. I eat a pretty balanced diet that is rich in greens, vegetables and fruit but I have those days that I wish I could say I ate bad, but it’s mostly that time gets in between meals and I eat late. Inconsistency happens! I noticed when I apply the Sano Vitamin C Serum+, my skin quickly absorbs it. It was so quick that my skin felt soft but with no product residue. I even tested one side of my face by applying just simple H2o and even water does not get absorbed at this rate. It usually would roll off but not this serum. So far I was happy with my first application and in not getting an oily appearance and/or feeling. I continued use and by day 4 saw what appeared as smoothness. Let me add no blemishes, pimples, blackheads or any skin occlusions. This serum is friendly when it comes to any acne suffers and even though people say mine is in the mild range, I myself is the one that deals with it so I rate it moderate at times to those moments that you get the monster bump that never comes up. My pores appear smaller just because my skin looks smoother and plumped up but in a good way! I continued use and noticed less was needed as I continued to use the product. My skin was hydrated enough that where I used 2 to 3 drops in one area, then changed to only needing one drop. The one drop then glided better when applied because my skin did experience positive changes. I don’t feel I have lost “years” when it comes to aging but I definitely look better. I look like I slept well, drank all my 8 glasses of water, and even ate well……even though that is not always the case. I was definitely happy with the results!
Retail Price Point: $18.95

Sano Vitamin C Eye Gel+:
This is a bonus item with purchase. You again have a cobalt blue colored jar and I love that the product comes with a safety seal that you peel, so no air or anything that can damage or eat up the Vitamin C benefits while in storage. Easy to store and even pack in an overnight bag.
Results-
I never thought a gel could deliver moisture I was happy with but this one did the trick. Being that it’s a gel, the product goes on cold and instantly starts working on my morning’s puffy eyes. The Aloe in the product is very gentle to the skin in that area and I love how my make-up glides on after. Some eye creams would roll up sometimes due to the residue left behind and I had to then try to collect these little eye cream left-overs while at the same time not messing up my make-up. Not with the Sano’s Vitamin C Eye gel+. The product is rich in Peptides to Hyaluronic Acid. Do not be fooled, this gel does moisturize but the area is left with a supple and replenished look. I had zero eye irritations and found the gel friendly to my allergy suffering eyes. A little goes a long way, I used what I could as lightly dab out of the container, maybe the size of two rice grains per eye. The instant results alone of reducing puffiness is hard to beat and I used it with the Sano Vitamin C Serum +, just to get that extra help in my problem areas. My only small con is the product coming in jar form. I prefer bottles with pumps or that have an applicator like a dropper. I’m just not a fan of dabbing into a jar due to bacteria/germs, but due to the performance of the product, it would not deter me from buying it.

Check-out the products provided by Sano Naturals at:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from Sano Naurals. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
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22 Oct 2014
by linettefm
in Uncategorized
Tags: acne, acne marks, acne scars, aging process, anti, anti-aging, Antioxidant Moisturizer, Antioxidants, Ascorbic Acid, Ascorbic acid; Dehydroascorbic acid, battle free radicals and decrease inflammation, beauty, beauty and health, blemishes, blood vessels, Blueberries, bones, Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, Cantaloupe, cauliflower, Cell Damage, Citrus fruits, collagen, Cranberries, creams, crows feet, Diets, Dry Skin, dry skin repair, elasticity of skin, Fine Lines, free radical damage, Free Radicals, fruits, Grapefruit, Green peppers, Health, High Potency Vitamin C, Highly concentrated Vitamin C, inflammation, inflammation reduction, Juices, Kiwi fruit, L-ascorbic acid, leafy greens Sweet, ligaments, lotions, Mango, natural antioxidant, Orange, oxidative stress, Papaya, pimples, Pineapple, puffiness, Raspberries, rebuilding, rebuilding collagen, red peppers, Reduces Oxidative Stress, reduction of fine lines, Repair, Repair and maintain cartilage, scar tissue, scars, scurvy, serums, Skin, skin care, Skin care regimen, Skin Issues, skin problems, Skin Repair, Skincare, smoother skin, Spinach, Strawberries, sun burns, Sun Damage, Sun Exposure, sunburns, supple skin, supplements, teeth, tendons, tomato juice, tomatoes, Topical Vitamin C, treating scars, turnip greens, Vegetables, vibrant skin, Vitamin C, vitamin C deficiency, Vitamin C in beauty products, vitamin c rich diets, Vitamin C rich foods, Vitamins, Watermelon, white potatoes, Winter squash, wound healing, wrinkles, younger looking skin

I have been researching and doing my homework on the effects of Vitamin C at the dermis level because even though I have tried products that contain trace amounts, I have never tried a beauty item that it’s main focus was delivering Vitamin C.
How does Vitamin C benefit our Skin:
Upon reading and even finding “home-remedies” for DIY serums to putty like creams, I decided to leave my Vitamin C manufacturing to the professionals.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a collagen builder. Collagen is a protein that helps in the growth of blood vessels, to cells (and yes, the skin kind too). Your body needs collagen to be able to rebuild and to even creating scar tissue, as this is a form of “rebuilding”. Collagen is what also gives our skin firmness and that supple look we all want due to it’s smooth looking effects. We all want to look vibrant and younger, so this where the antioxidants also play a part, something that Vitamin C contains. Antioxidants aid with everything from inflammation to neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals is what causes damage to our DNA and it’s results is aging, so may see early signs like fine lines, wrinkles, just plain old cell damage that comes from products, to the environment (oxidative damage) and sun exposure/burns. The vitamin is used for dry skin, healing wounds, helping with reduction of fine lines/wrinkles to elasticity.
The research is still limited to the total effects and benefits from Vitamin C via topical application, however I did read that the pH of our skin does effect how much we can absorb, thus benefit from the vitamin. Topical application of ascorbic acid will cross the epidermis into the underlying dermal layers, but you want the higher percentage (concentrate) to be able achieve maximum benefits.
What to look for in Vitamin C beauty products:
Like with most vitamins and my experience with Vitamin A (retinol), oxidation is a factor in deterioration of a skin product that contains Vitamin C. Just exposure to sun, air, light will start the degrading process, so look for products that come in dark colored bottles to make sure you are getting the best bang for your buck. Many of the better products will add other antioxidant rich ingredients to boost and also slow the rate of deterioration and conserve the ascorbic acid properties.
What can you expect by using Vitamin C:
I read studies both in humans and animals. Mostly noted was a high potency of Vitamin C levels being used and in combination with other binding ingredients but the main impact came from the 5 to 10% concentrations used in those studies. This may be why a high potency level will give best results. People reported elasticity changes to reduction of fine lines/wrinkles to a supple and smoother appearance. The impact is greater in people who may not consume diets rich in Vitamin C but even those that did have such a rich diet, noticed positive changes just not as apparent as those that did not. Topical Vitamin C may also have skin lightening effects in a mild form, which are caused by reductions in melanin production and melanin oxidation.
I hope the above helps when making decisions to include Vitamin C as part of your beauty routine!
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11 Aug 2014
by linettefm
in BzzAgent, Pet, Uncategorized
Tags: Adventure, Beef Fat, Beet Pulp, BzzAgent, Calcium, Canned Dog Food, Canola Meal, Cassava Root Flour, Cat Food, Corn Free, Coupons, dog, dog food, Dog Food Review, Dry & Wet Cat Foods, Dry Dog Food, Dry Dog Foods, Egg Tuna and Egg Recipe, Eggs, Feed, Free of preservatives, Glucosamine, grain free, Grain Free Dog Food, Grain-Free Recipes, Linoleic Acid, minerals, Natural Dog Food, Natural Liver Flavor, Nestle, No artificial colors, No artificial flavors, No colors, No Corn, No dyes, No Grain, No Poultry By-Product Meal, No Preservatives, no soy, no wheat, No-Grain Feed, Omega-6, Pea Starch, pet food, pets, Phosphorus, Printable Coupons, Purina, Purina Adventure, Purina Beyond, Real Chicken, Real Fish, Real Meat, Review, Save on Pet Food, Selenium, Soy Free, Superfood Blends, Tuna, Vitamin A, Vitamin B-12, Vitamin D-3, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Vitamins, Wet Dog Food, wheat free, Yeast and Pea Protein

My dog eats like a cat!
No, not cat food but loves things that cat’s like when it comes to foods and even toys. I still don’t walk into the Pet Store where she found joy with that feather toy made for cats because to see a 55 pound dog playing with it made her the only thing people were staring at when all I did was come in for treats.
She also loves Salmon, Sword Fish and shrimps to crab so when this dog food, which was sent as part of BzzAgent campaign said Tuna and Egg…..it was made for her. She loves it and I love that she is happy and no feathers were hurt 🙂 The food is reasonably priced for being a “no grain” variety and that makes me love it more. I find she goes potty less, less gas, and just more pure energy that sometimes I miss the dog that thinks everyday is a lounge day. She plays more and that is worth it in my book, when you see results!
What is in this no-grain Dog Food:

The Three No-Nos that keep Purina Beyond Dog Food above the rest:

I believe a picture speaks for itself and this dog at 11 + years of age is not slowing down one bit!
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The Guaranteed Analysis, so you know what your pet is getting:

How Much to feed when it comes to to a no-grain food:

Actual Results:
I witnessed our dog getting a shiner coat that is not oily like with other feeds that have added fats that deliver shine, but leaves your poor pet so greasy that you cringe petting them. Our dog did get a slight fishy breath after eating her meal but not so bad and it did lessen as time passes. I noticed the energy level went up and we actually had to slow her down in these hot Summer days we have been experiencing but that usually means a dip in the pool for her. No stomach problems and eating grass is a thing she does not engage in as often as before, so I think her meals settle better. I recommend trying one bag for yourself and see the difference for yourself! A version for cats is also made so the kitties did not get left out on the fun 🙂

- Dry Dog Foods
- Dry & Wet Cat Foods
- Grain-Free Recipes
- Superfood Blends

Connect with Purina and see what the new Beyond feed can do for your pet:
- On-line– https://www.purina.com/products/beyond
- Facebook– https://www.facebook.com/BeyondPetFood
- Twitter– https://twitter.com/BeyondPetFood
- Coupons from Purina- https://www.purina.com/coupons

I received the above product(s) free of charge from BzzAgent and Purina. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.
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