NUTRITION RESOURCES

In our latest Raw Generation Juice Club Webinar, Lisa Testa, M.S., Holistic Nutritionist, guided us through a nuanced discussion of plant-based versus meat-based diets. While Raw Generation is a plant-based company, Lisa shared a balanced view of both diet styles, breaking down the pros and cons. Whether you're a long-time plant-based eater or someone who incorporates meat, this webinar offered valuable insights into making healthier choices. Here are the key takeaways: 1. The Benefits (and Pitfalls) of Plant-Based Diets Lisa began by discussing the growing popularity of plant-based eating. While incorporating more fruits and vegetables is undeniably beneficial for your health, not all plant-based products are created equal. Many processed plant-based options, like almond milk or fake meats, contain chemicals, preservatives, and unhealthy oils. “Real plant-based food means eating actual plants—not processed substitutes,” Lisa emphasized. She advised sticking to whole, real foods rather than over-processed plant-based alternatives. For those opting for plant-based products, it's crucial to choose clean versions with minimal ingredients. Lisa highlighted brands like Elmhurst for almond milk, which only contains almonds and water, compared to more common brands that are loaded with unnecessary additives. 2. Is Meat the Enemy? Not Always! Lisa also spoke about the benefits of incorporating high-quality animal products, noting that not all meats are harmful. The key is to choose grass-fed, organic, and pastured meats. When consumed in moderation, these meats can be nutrient-rich and part of a healthy diet. “You can thrive on a balanced diet that includes some high-quality animal proteins, as long as you make thoughtful, informed choices,” Lisa noted. She encouraged participants to focus on grass-fed beef, wild-caught fish, and pastured eggs if they choose to eat animal products. 3. Avoid the Health Food Traps Beware of seemingly healthy options like yogurt, egg whites, and skim milk. Lisa shared that these “diet foods” are often highly processed and stripped of nutrients. For example, egg yolks—once vilified for cholesterol—are actually full of essential nutrients, while the whites alone lack the same benefits. Similarly, whole milk is often a better choice than skim, which can be full of fillers and chemicals. 4. Eating for Weight Loss and Hormone Balance Lisa reiterated her proven strategy for weight loss: eat light to heavy throughout the day. This means starting with hydrating, light meals in the morning (like fruit, juice, or smoothies) and saving fats and proteins for dinner. This method optimizes digestion and helps reduce bloating, supporting both weight loss and hormone balance. 5. Q&A Highlights The webinar concluded with a lively Q&A session where Lisa answered various questions. One participant, Stacy, asked about craving heavier foods like nut butters and dairy, to which Lisa responded that these cravings are often the body’s way of signaling a need for healthy fats, especially during hormone shifts like perimenopause. Lisa also addressed a question about the sugar content in Raw Generation juices, clarifying that the natural sugars in unpasteurized juices are entirely different from refined sugars and are packed with nutrients that aid in healing and energy.

This session covered hormone health, anti-inflammatory eating, and lifestyle adjustments that can help reduce hormonal imbalances and related issues, including weight management and joint pain.  Key Discussion Points on Hormone Health and Lifestyle 1. Dietary Adjustments to Support Hormone Balance Lisa emphasized the impact of diet on hormones, with particular attention to how certain foods can help balance key hormones like estrogen, cortisol, and progesterone. Leafy Greens: Greens reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels, which in turn helps manage belly fat and other effects of stress. Healthy Fats: Cold-pressed olive oil, avocados, raw nuts, and coconut oil support hormone production, particularly omega-rich fats. Avoid heating these fats to prevent altering their health benefits. Vitamin C-Rich Fruits: Foods like berries and citrus help regulate progesterone, a hormone essential for balance in both men and women. 2. Lifestyle Factors that Affect Hormones Sleep: Good sleep is crucial for hormone regulation, particularly thyroid function. Lisa emphasized the value of sleep before midnight and recommended aiming for a natural wake-up cycle without alarms. Stress Management: Cortisol, a stress hormone, can lead to weight gain and hormonal imbalance. She encouraged finding relaxation techniques, such as meditation, quiet time, or simply taking breaks, to help reduce cortisol. Chemicals in Personal Products: Many beauty, cleaning, and personal care products contain endocrine disruptors that can interfere with hormones. Lisa suggested gradually switching to non-toxic, natural products and avoiding plastics when possible. 3. Perimenopause and Menopause Support The discussion highlighted that women often begin experiencing hormone shifts around their mid-40s, which can lead to weight gain, mood changes, and skin issues. Lisa recommended: Early Preparation: Start incorporating hormone-supporting foods and stress management practices in your 30s or early 40s. Daily Green Juices or Smoothies: Chlorophyll from dark leafy greens can support gut health, which in turn helps balance hormones and absorb nutrients effectively. 4. Anti-Inflammatory Tips for Joint Pain and Stubborn Weight Inflammatory Foods to Avoid: Processed foods, refined oils, and excessive alcohol can worsen inflammation and lead to pain or bloating. Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients: Foods high in chlorophyll, turmeric, ginger, and apple cider vinegar can help reduce joint pain. Lisa also recommended apple cider vinegar with water for immediate relief from joint inflammation. Importance of Fresh Produce: Nutrient absorption declines with age, especially post-50. Lisa advised increasing dark leafy greens and fresh produce intake to offset this and support inflammation control. Product Spotlights and Q&A Highlights Protein Method: Aimed at highly active individuals or those needing additional protein support, with customized daily guides for low- and high-intensity workout days. Metabolism Boost Supplement: A capsule made with Raw Generation’s own dehydrated juice pulp combined with berberine, cinnamon, and ALC carnitine. Designed for blood sugar stability and metabolism support, it can be used with or without a cleanse. Instant Smoothie Detox Cleanse: This powder-based cleanse allows for convenient nutritional support with fruits, veggies, and nuts, ideal for on-the-go use. Lisa recommended blending it in plant-based milk for best results. Pressed Juices vs. Smoothies: Both juices and smoothies are beneficial, each with unique qualities. Juices are a more concentrated source of nutrition, while smoothies provide fiber and can be made at home easily with a blender. Q&A Notable Insights Fiber in Juices: While pressed juices contain less fiber than smoothies, they still offer significant health benefits, especially for a concentrated nutrient boost. Lisa recommended both for a balanced approach. Fruit Sugar and Blood Sugar Concerns: Fruit sugars in whole foods and juices are different from refined sugars, as they are metabolized more efficiently and don’t spike blood sugar levels in the same way. Those with blood sugar sensitivity should drink juices slowly and avoid adding fats when consuming fruits. Apple Cider Vinegar for Inflammation: Adding raw apple cider vinegar to water can reduce inflammation, joint pain, and improve gut health. Lisa recommended Bragg’s brand, which retains the “mother” for optimal benefits. Takeaway Tips for Hormone Health and Anti-Inflammatory Support: Incorporate leafy greens and healthy fats daily for balanced hormones and support against inflammation. Get ample sleep and create stress-management routines to prevent cortisol build-up. Switch to natural personal care products to avoid chemicals that disrupt hormone health. Consider Raw Generation’s Metabolism Boost and Protein Method for blood sugar and weight management support.  

In this session, Lisa shared her personal health journey, how she became involved with Raw Generation, and introduced key healthy eating principles. The focus was on incorporating raw foods into your diet, understanding how to read labels, and addressing common misconceptions about fruits, carbs, and fats. She also provided detailed insights on managing bloating, digestive health, and achieving weight loss goals. 1. How to Read Food Labels Lisa emphasized that most people focus on calories, grams of sugar, or protein but should be looking at ingredients instead. The key is to avoid: Refined sugars: Look out for ingredients like high-fructose corn syrup, dextrose, or maltodextrin. Refined flours: Avoid products labeled as "enriched" or containing processed wheat. Hydrogenated oils, artificial flavors, and natural flavors (which can include hundreds of synthetic chemicals under the umbrella term). When looking for healthier options, prioritize products with whole, recognizable ingredients and fewer additives. 2. Myths About Fruits and Weight Gain A major focus was on dispelling the myth that fruit sugar is harmful or contributes to weight gain: Fruit sugar (fructose) is not the same as refined sugar found in processed foods. Our bodies are designed to thrive on natural sugars from fruits, which offer essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Lisa also reassured participants that fruits should be a staple in a healthy diet, particularly for those seeking to improve energy levels and lose weight. 3. Combining Foods for Better Digestion Lisa introduced the concept of food combining for better digestion and less bloating: Fruit and fat should never be eaten together (e.g., avoid fruit and yogurt or fruit and nuts in the same meal). Light to heavy eating: Start your day with lighter foods like juices, smoothies, or fruits, and save heavier, fattier meals for later in the day. Heavy foods like fats (avocados, nuts, seeds) and proteins (eggs, meats) should be consumed once daily, ideally in the evening or as your final meal. 4. Juicing and Raw Foods for Health Juicing is a significant part of Raw Generation’s philosophy. Lisa stressed the importance of consuming raw, unprocessed foods to promote health: Juices and smoothies can provide the nutrients your body needs when whole foods are harder to digest. Enzymes in raw foods help the body digest more efficiently and support better metabolism and digestion. 5. Managing Bloating Bloating is often caused by improper food combinations and slow digestion. Lisa suggested: Avoid mixing fruits with fats (e.g., apples with peanut butter, or avocado in smoothies). Start the day with water-rich foods like fruit and avoid fats and proteins until later in the day. 6. Weight Loss Tips Weight loss isn’t just about calorie restriction: Eat plenty of fresh, whole foods without counting calories or portion control. Focus on high carbohydrate intake from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and heavy fats early in the day. 7. Addressing Specific Dietary Concerns Participants asked about various health concerns: Plant-based meats: Lisa advised avoiding most processed plant-based meats due to the poor quality of ingredients, including fillers and refined oils. Instead, she suggested clean whole-food options like organic tofu or minimally processed alternatives. Lactose intolerance: Dairy, particularly processed dairy, is not ideal for digestion and can cause bloating and other issues. Raw milk and raw cheeses can be better alternatives for those who tolerate them well, but reducing dairy altogether is often beneficial. 8. Holiday Eating Tips Lisa reassured participants that they can still enjoy holiday treats without derailing their progress: Focus on 80/20 balance: Eat clean 80% of the time, but allow indulgences 20% of the time for events, holidays, and special occasions. The key is to maintain a healthy baseline diet and treat indulgent foods as occasional rather than habitual.

As a holistic nutritionist, I am a big proponent of cleansing and detoxifying your body. The gentle detoxification you get from a cleansing on a regular basis is an ideal tool for overall wellness and can help in so many areas: Weight loss and weight management Energy levels Gut health and digestion Skin health Immune system support Sleep quality Why You Should Cleanse Regularly Cleansing helps you make a clean break from unhealthy foods and poor eating habits, and allows you to start fresh with a healthy diet. Juice cleansing, specifically, floods your body with raw nutrients from cold-pressed juice while flushing out toxins at the same time - giving your digestive system a break and helping your body shed unwanted weight. When you are accustomed to eating processed foods, your tastebuds can no longer appreciate the natural flavors of whole foods like fruits and vegetables. This break from refined sugars and other excitotoxins (chemicals added to nearly all processed foods to make them taste unnaturally good) cleanses your palate, which makes healthier eating easier. How Often Is it Safe for me to Detox Cleanse? Here is the beautiful thing about juice or smoothie cleansing: You can really cleanse as often as you would like. You are not starving your body, nor are you doing a harsh detox regimen that could potentially harm you. You are filling it with the nutrients it needs to function optimally. Some people choose to cleanse once each season. Others do it once a month or once a year. Still others cleanse one day of every week to detox off the weekend indulgences. It truly can be customized to what you feel your body needs. Also, cleansing does NOT need to be low calorie, as many people fear. There is no reason to worry about feeling hungry when you cleanse, as we always give you options for cleanse-approved foods that you can eat when you feel you need or want extra calories or energy. All this being said, we always recommend that you check with a healthcare provider before trying a new cleanse regimen, especially if you have pre-existing conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, low blood sugar, or diabetes. Cleansing for Overall Health, Wellness, & Weight Loss We live in a world full of toxins. Heavy metals, chemicals in our food, and all kinds of pesticides are everywhere - from our air and soil to the water we drink and the food we eat. No matter how pristinely you live, you can never fully be rid of them. When these toxins build up in our bodies, they can can contribute to all types of diseases and imbalances that threaten our overall well-being. Furthermore, they can lead to weight gain that is difficult to lose. Regular detoxification through juice cleansing checks all the boxes when it comes to wellness. If you’re looking for a simple, effective way to reset your health, a cleanse can be the perfect thing. Reconnect with how real food makes you feel, establish healthier habits, and nourish your body at the cellular level. In just a matter of days you can feel lighter, clearer, and more energized (As toxins go out, energy goes up). Whether you're looking to start a new healthy routine, want to recover from an indulgent season, or simply want to feel your best and put your health first - a nutritionist-designed juice cleanse offers you the jumpstart you need to make lasting changes in your life.

This month’s Raw Generation Juice Club Webinar focused on the role of protein in weight loss, along with tips for clean eating and avoiding common nutritional pitfalls. Hosted by holistic nutritionist Lisa Testa, the session also delved into the power of raw foods, smoothies, and natural skincare tips. 1. Protein and Weight Loss: Myths and Facts Lisa debunked the common belief that more protein equals better weight loss. While protein is important for muscle repair and transporting oxygen in the blood, carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy, not protein. Key Insights: Dark leafy greens are the highest bioavailable source of protein – they contain protein your body can fully use, unlike cooked meats, which lose nutrients when heated. Carbs are essential, and healthy carbs from fruits and vegetables should make up 80-90% of your diet, with protein and fats filling the remaining 10-20%. Focus on whole, plant-based proteins and avoid processed protein powders and bars. The only clean protein powder Lisa recommends is Sunwarrior Raw Protein. Support your active lifestyle with a HIGH PROTEIN CLEANSE,  2. Balanced, Clean Eating Tips Eating a predominantly raw, plant-based diet is a great way to fuel your body, lose weight, and maintain energy levels. Processed foods, even plant-based ones, can have hidden gums, oils, and additives that hinder weight loss and overall health. Healthy Alternatives: Instead of processed plant milks (like Almond Breeze), opt for clean brands like Malk, Elmhurst, or Three Trees that only use nuts and water. For a protein-rich breakfast, Lisa’s favorite is a green smoothie made with frozen ripe bananas, medjool dates, spinach, and parsley. 3. Protein Bars and Powders: Clean or Junk? Lisa emphasized the importance of avoiding highly processed protein products that often contain sugars, fillers, and gums. These are often marketed as healthy, but many do more harm than good. Clean Options: Sunwarrior Raw Protein is the best option for those who want a protein supplement. Go Macro Bars are relatively clean, though they still contain ingredients like brown rice syrup. Raw Generation is working on a clean protein bar, coming soon!

In this month’s Raw Generation Juice Club Webinar, holistic nutritionist Lisa Testa broke down the importance of reading food labels and exposed some of the shocking ingredients often hidden under vague terms like "natural flavors." Whether you're trying to eat cleaner or simply make healthier choices for your family, this session offered critical insights into the food industry's labeling practices and how to navigate them. 1. What's Really Important on a Label? Most people focus on the nutrition facts—calories, sugars, fats—but Lisa emphasized that the ingredients list is far more important. The numbers at the top of the label don't tell you where those sugars or fats come from, which is why the real story is in the small print underneath. “Sugar grams don’t mean the same thing when they come from a sweet fruit juice versus a processed snack with high fructose corn syrup,” Lisa explained. Learn to read past the nutrition facts and focus on what’s actually in your food. 2. Beware of "Natural Flavors" One of the most concerning aspects of food labels is the term “natural flavors,” which may sound harmless but can hide a lot of questionable ingredients. These flavors can legally contain up to 100 different substances under that single label. Even companies selling “clean” products can include ingredients derived from animal parts, petroleum, and more. Here are a few examples of what might be hiding under “natural flavors”: Castoreum: Secretions from a beaver’s anal glands, often found in vanilla flavorings. Shellac: A resin derived from insects, used in shiny candies like jelly beans and even some citrus fruit coatings. L-cysteine: An amino acid derived from human hair or duck feathers, used to soften bread. Methylparaben: A preservative from female dogs in heat, used in many canned goods. Lisa’s advice? When in doubt, call the company or avoid natural flavors altogether unless the company specifies what’s included. 3. Food Dyes: The Hidden Toxin While food dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5 are labeled as artificial colors, they’re still prevalent in a surprising number of products. These dyes are not only linked to behavioral issues in children, like ADHD and autism, but they are also known carcinogens. You’ll find these dyes in unexpected places, like Life cereal, children's medications, vitamins, and pickles. Lisa stressed the importance of reading labels carefully, especially on foods marketed to children. 4. New Products on the Horizon Exciting news for parents! Raw Generation will soon be launching Little Sippers, a line of small, kid-friendly juices. Each juice contains a rainbow of fruits and vegetables—up to 40 per week—with clean ingredients kids will love. These will be available soon, providing a convenient and healthy way to get kids more nutrients. 5. Take Action with Healthier Choices Lisa also touched on her ongoing commitment to clean, unprocessed food options at Raw Generation, explaining that while cleaner products can sometimes be more expensive, the long-term health benefits are invaluable. Raw Generation's juices are raw, unpasteurized, and full of live nutrients, which is why they are a premium product.

You’ve likely heard all the hype about green juices and seen countless ads for green powders, but why are they suddenly such a big deal? Well, the rest of the world is catching up to what many of us holistic practitioners have known for decades: Dark green juice is one of the most healing and restorative things you can put into your body. Simply put, green juice is the liquid extracted from a green plant, leaving behind the fiber. Typically it is mixed with other vegetable or fruit juices to make the taste more enjoyable (Because let’s face it...Swiss chard juice is not exactly delicious on its own). Green juice recipes can be made at home in a juicer, purchased from a juice bar, bought from a supermarket shelf, or delivered to your door frozen from a company like Raw Generation. But what is the difference between all these types of green juice? Let’s take each example here: Green juice made at home in a juicer The PRO’s: This type of green juice is as fresh and powerful as it gets. If juiced and immediately consumed, all enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients are completely active and bio-available for the body to use. The CON’s: Juicing at home can be time consuming, especially the clean-up. I have yet to find a juicer that is easy to clean, even if it’s advertised as such. To make green juice at home can also be very expensive, as it takes a lot of produce (leafy greens, green vegetables, non-green vegetables, and fruits) to make even one or two large glasses of juice. Green juice purchased from a juice bar The PRO’s: This type of green juice is as usually as fresh as juicing at home. All vital nutrition is preserved and the process could not be easier - You just order, pickup, and drink yourself healthy. Tip: If you desire to add wheatgrass juice to your regimen, the ideal place to get this is at a juice bar. To juice it at home requires a special type of juicer, different from the one you would be using to juice everything else. The CON’s: The cost of juice bar juices is usually quite high. You are also subject to the juice tasting only as good as the barista who makes it. I have had very delicious juice bar green juices or nearly undrinkable ones due to overly high amounts of lemon or fresh ginger. One last con is the need to travel to pickup the juice. Green juice bought from a supermarket shelf The PRO’s: To be honest, I do not feel there are any pros to drinking this type of juice. Even as a source of hydration, pure filtered water would be superior to this type of juice. The CON’s: All supermarket juice (unless it is juiced fresh INSIDE the supermarket) is either high heat pasteurized or HPP’d (High-pressure processed). The room-temp shelf stable juices are heat pasteurized, whereas the refrigerated, often “cold-pressed” green juices are HPP’d. BOTH of these processing method completely kill the enzymes and degrade the nutrition and also the taste of the juice. When I see bottled green juice on a store shelf, I look at it as nothing more than glorified sugar water. Green juice delivered to your door frozen The PRO’s: This type of green juice is as close to fresh as you can get without doing it yourself or visiting a juice bar. At Raw Generation we flash freeze all juice immediately after it is bottled, thus preserving all enzymes, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and of course - the delicious taste. Another benefit here is the ability to store the juice frozen until you are ready to use it, so you will always have healthy options on hand without having to repeatedly drag out the juicer. >> Order your frozen juice HERE. The CON’s: Frozen juice delivery can be costly, but is far more affordable if subscribed to. Freezer storage is also sometimes an issue if you have a very small unit or have a lot of other things taking up space. The countless health benefits of green juice I could dedicate an entire book to the health benefits of drinking green juice. Drinking green juice on a regular basis does so many amazing things in your body, mainly due to the chlorophyll found in dark leafy greens. This chlorophyll (the green pigment in plants) is nature’s best detoxifier. Here are just SOME of the benefits: Eliminate Cravings - That’s right! Getting in adequate chlorophyll each day can greatly reduce or eliminate your cravings for unhealthy foods. Detoxification - Help cleanse your body’s vital organs like the liver and kidneys with gentle detoxification. This detox process also helps to clear the skin. In fact, drinking a daily green juice has even been shown to help heal lifelong acne scarring. Gut Health - Getting in regular chlorophyll will greatly improve your gut health. Over time, chlorophyll restores the hydrochloric acid (HCL) balance in your stomach, therefore making your body more able to properly uptake nutrients again. Stronger Immunity - Green juice is packed with immunity powerhouses like vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin K. Supporting your immune system with green juice is (in my opinion) even more effective than using supplements. Healthy Digestion - Drinking green juice on a regular basis will help your body’s elimination processes, often relieving constipation and bloating. While juices generally are low in fiber, some prebiotic fiber from the greens does remain, and this is immensely beneficial to your gut microbiome. Weight Loss - Getting in a healthy green juice each day can make all the difference in achieving your weight loss goals because it helps your whole body to just feel better. When part of a balanced diet, the healthy carbohydrates from green juice will increase your energy levels and the chlorophyll will combat unhealthy cravings. You will be setup for success. Balance Hormones - Dark leafy greens are nature’s best source of key minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium - nutrients that are often depleted when a person’s hormones are imbalanced. They also contain essential vitamins and fatty acids which are so important to restoring homeostasis in your body. While chlorophyll ALONE will not likely balance your hormones it is most certainly a key part in any regimen I give to my female clients. The best way to get green juice every day In addition to including dark leafy greens as part of a healthy diet everyday, it is unbelievably beneficial to include some in juiced or blended form (green smoothies), as well. You can make or order your favorite green juice to have as a snack or to accompany a meal. If you are looking for an actual meal replacement, either drink 2 juices OR make a green smoothie. The fiber in the smoothie will help keep you fuller for a longer period of time. One other way to get in your green juice for a set period of time (or to just try it out and see if you like it!) is to do a juice cleanse. Every Raw Generation cleanse includes anywhere from 1 to 6 green juices each cleansing day, along with other flavors. >> Order My Raw Generation Cleanse Now Since the time I became a nutritionist I have always touted the benefits of getting in dark leafy greens every day. My clients even consider green smoothies my claim to fame! That being said, I cannot stress to you enough how important it is to make sure you are consuming raw chlorophyll as frequently as possible. There is no question that your body will thank you. 💚  

This session introduced several new products from Raw Generation, provided insights into health and nutrition, and allowed for a Q&A where attendees could ask personal health-related questions. Below is an overview of the new products discussed, along with some general tips on healthy eating and detoxification. 1. New Product Launches Lisa provided an in-depth look at several recently launched products and what makes them unique: Protein Method: Designed for individuals needing a high-protein diet for weight loss or muscle support. It includes macronutrient-calculated recipes and guidelines tailored for high and low-intensity workout days. This product helps manage hunger and support daily protein needs. Half-Day Juice Cleanse: Combines juices with a healthy veggie burger for dinner, designed for those worried about hunger while cleansing. It delivers comparable weight loss results to the full juice cleanse while allowing participants to eat a balanced meal in the evening. Instant Smoothie Detox Cleanse: Powdered fruits, vegetables, and nuts in sachet form, perfect for people on the go. These smoothies contain no added sugars, flavors, or fillers and can be mixed with water or clean plant-based milk like oat milk. Bridal Reset: Specifically formulated for brides, bridesmaids, or family members preparing for a wedding. The focus is on improving skin, hair, and energy levels, while reducing bloating and improving sleep quality. Metabolism Boost Supplement: A unique product made from dehydrated juice pulp powder, berberine, cinnamon, and ALC carnitine, designed to promote stable blood sugar levels and boost metabolism. 2. Additional Products in Development Skincare Reset: A new program focused on improving skin from the inside out using raw foods and chlorophyll for detoxification. Lisa is also developing a topical honey-based mask. Perimenopause and Menopause Program: A program to support women through perimenopause, designed to balance hormones naturally through diet. Blender Shots/Water Enhancers: These concentrated juice or smoothie cubes can be added to water or smoothies for easy nutrition, targeting both adults and teens. 3. General Nutritional Tips Importance of Chlorophyll: Lisa emphasized the power of chlorophyll, particularly from green juices, for reducing cravings, alkalizing the blood, and preventing disease. Chlorophyll-rich foods help curb salty cravings and promote overall health. Combining Foods: Lisa reiterated that eating light to heavy throughout the day (juices and fruits in the morning, heavier meals with fats and proteins in the evening) promotes digestion and reduces bloating. She emphasized avoiding mixing fats and fruits, as it can lead to digestive issues and slow weight loss. Managing Bloating and Digestion: If you're experiencing bloating, it could be due to improper food combining. For better digestion, focus on consuming water-rich foods earlier in the day and save fats and proteins for the evening. 4. Addressing Specific Health Concerns Post-Cancer Health: Lisa emphasized the importance of keeping the body in an alkaline state to prevent cancer recurrence. She suggested testing pH levels with strips and ensuring a diet rich in chlorophyll to maintain an alkaline environment. Menopause/Perimenopause: Lisa shared that balancing hormones with diet can ease symptoms of menopause and promote a smooth transition. Eating more raw fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats in moderation can help regulate hormonal fluctuations. Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar, especially raw with "the mother," has been shown to have anti-inflammatory benefits and can help with conditions like arthritis. 5. Weight Loss and Maintenance Stay Skinny Method: A popular weekly weight-loss system that continues to help customers maintain their post-cleanse weight loss while teaching sustainable eating habits. Signature Reset: A 90-day program designed for long-term weight loss and lifestyle change. This comprehensive program provides support through instructional videos, recipes, and guides, with the goal of losing 20 pounds and keeping it off. Additional Questions Answered Nuts as Snacks: Lisa advised against nuts as a snack due to their high-fat content and ease of overeating, which can hinder weight loss. Instead, nuts should be eaten sparingly, ideally at dinner or blended into meals. Leg Cramps: Magnesium was suggested as a natural remedy for leg cramps, although Lisa recommended consulting further for other supplements like C.A. Bark, as her expertise does not heavily focus on supplementation.

In this session, Lisa introduced several new products launched by Raw Generation and discussed how these can support your health goals. The focus was on weight loss, intermittent fasting, managing cravings, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She also shared her personal journey with nutrition and answered audience questions. 1. New Raw Generation Products Lisa introduced several new offerings to the Raw Generation product lineup, designed to make health and weight management easier: Cleanse for Two: This allows you to cleanse with a partner and save $55 by purchasing two 5-day cleanses. Cleansing with a friend offers accountability and better results. Intermittent Fasting Fuel Pack: A comprehensive support system for intermittent fasting, including the Craving Crusher (chlorophyll-rich greens to manage cravings), Skinny Boost (a pre-meal enzyme shot), and Hunger Delay (a low-calorie tea blend to curb hunger during fasting periods). Higher Fiber Gut Reset: A line of smoothies with higher fiber to promote gut health, made from whole fruits, vegetables, and seeds to keep fiber intact. Vanilla Protein Shakes: Part of the meal replacement pack, these shakes are made from whole food ingredients (almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds) with 16 grams of protein per bottle. 2. Managing Cravings Lisa emphasized that cravings are a signal from your body about nutritional deficiencies. The Craving Crusher shot, rich in dark leafy greens and chlorophyll, helps balance cravings by providing nutrients your body may be lacking. Key Insights: Craving salty foods? Your body needs more greens. Craving sweet foods? Your body is asking for fruit. By consuming chlorophyll (from greens like kale and spinach), you can reduce cravings for unhealthy snacks. 3. Intermittent Fasting Intermittent fasting is an effective way to manage weight, and Raw Generation’s Intermittent Fasting Fuel Pack is designed to support various fasting protocols. Key Products for Intermittent Fasting: Craving Crusher: Starts your eating window by managing cravings. Skinny Boost: Take before your largest meal of the day to help with digestion and reduce bloating. Hunger Delay: Enjoy during fasting periods to curb hunger and boost metabolism with ingredients like vanilla and chamomile. There’s also a higher-protein option for those who need more protein, featuring Vanilla Meal Shakes as a meal replacement or dessert-like treat to sustain you through long fasting windows. 4. Weight Loss and Lifestyle Tips Lisa explained the importance of whole, raw foods for effective weight loss. She shared her personal journey of shifting from calorie counting to focusing on nutrient-dense foods, which helped her lose weight effortlessly and maintain it long-term. Key Weight Loss Tips: Eat light to heavy: Start your day with lighter foods like fruit, juices, or smoothies, and save heavier foods (with fats and proteins) for later in the day. Avoid mixing fats and fruits: This can cause digestive issues and hinder weight loss. Stay consistent: Maintaining healthy eating habits over time is key. Lisa advises keeping a balance of 80% healthy eating and 20% indulgence to avoid feeling restricted. 5. Community Support The Raw Generation Facebook Group was highlighted as a valuable resource for customers. It offers recipes, challenges, and a space to share your experiences with other customers. 

In our latest Raw Generation Juice Club Webinar, Lisa Testa, our in-house nutritionist, offered expert advice on maintaining your health while traveling—without sacrificing the fun! Whether you're headed out for work or pleasure, Lisa shared strategies to keep you on track with your wellness goals, even when you're away from home. Here are the top takeaways from this month’s session: 1. Plan Ahead to Stay on Track The first piece of advice Lisa gave was simple but essential: planning is key! Before heading to your destination, do a little research on nearby juice bars, healthy restaurants, and supermarkets. By knowing what’s available, you can easily stock up on snacks and essentials when you arrive. “I always stop at a grocery store before I even check into my hotel,” Lisa explained. “That way, I can grab fresh fruits, vegetables, healthy fats like nuts and olive oil, and have quick options ready in my room.” This approach helps you maintain control over your meals, even if you're indulging in local cuisine for dinner. 2. Balance Healthy Choices with Enjoyment Lisa stressed the importance of finding a balance between indulging in local foods and staying on track. You don’t have to be perfect with every meal. Instead, focus on making healthier choices for the majority of your day, so you can enjoy a special meal without guilt. “If you want to have fun with food and drinks, just balance it out by sticking to healthier options for breakfast and lunch. That way, you’re not setting yourself back too much.” This approach helps you stay mindful without feeling restricted. 3. Always Request a Mini Fridge When booking your accommodation, Lisa recommends always requesting a mini fridge in your room. This simple step allows you to store healthy snacks and leftovers, keeping you prepared for when hunger strikes. “I’ve never had an issue getting a mini fridge. It’s a game-changer for staying on track,” she said. Stock up on fruits, cut-up veggies, or even some ready-to-drink juices from Raw Generation to make snacking a breeze. 4. Smart Ordering at Restaurants Eating out while traveling can feel challenging, but it doesn’t have to derail your healthy habits. Lisa shared a strategy for making smart swaps at restaurants. For example, instead of ordering a carb-heavy pasta dish, ask for grilled chicken with vegetables, or skip the breaded chicken for a healthier grilled option. “You can modify almost any dish to make it healthier,” Lisa said. “Don’t be afraid to ask for adjustments like swapping fries for a salad or skipping creamy dressings.” 5. Traveling with Juices One of the most frequent questions Lisa receives is how to travel with Raw Generation juices. Lisa shared a tried-and-true method: pack your juices fully frozen in a double Ziploc bag, and you can bring them through TSA as long as they remain frozen. “We’ve tested this method with many customers, and they’ve never had a problem bringing frozen juices on planes,” Lisa said. This tip is perfect for keeping your daily greens on track, even during travel. 6. Smart Indulgence It’s important to let yourself enjoy your vacation, but without overindulging. Lisa recommends picking one or two meals where you treat yourself to something special, but keep the rest of your day filled with nutritious choices. “Let yourself have that meal or that drink, but don’t let stress or guilt undo your progress,” Lisa reminded us. “It’s all about balance.”

When produce is ripe it will typically smell sweet, be brighter or darker in color, and often be softer to the touch. Store these fruits on the counter: Apples - Smell sweet when ripe, firm to the touch. Avocado - Fully black in color and soft to the touch. Move to the refrigerator once ripe. Bananas - Fully yellow and brown-speckled, no green left on the stem. Kiwi - Soft to the touch. Mangoes - Smell sweet, soft to the touch (best varieties are Kent & Keitt). Pears - Smell sweet, soft to the touch. Move to the refrigerator once ripe. Peaches/Plums - Smell sweet, soft to the touch. Pineapple - Yellow or orange in color, smell sweet, green fronds pull out easily. Tomatoes - Fully red and soft to the touch; Never refrigerate. Watermelon - Hollow sound when you tap it, large yellow spot on the bottom. Store these fruits in the refrigerator: All cut fruit Berries Cherries Grapes Figs Lemons Limes Oranges

This isn't a recipe, per say, but a new way to enjoy a baked potato without butter or sour cream. Recipe makes 1 serving. Macros Per Serving: Protein: 9g  |   Fat: 15g  |  Carbs: 69g  |  Fiber: 12g  |  Calories: 422 INGREDIENTS: Large baked Russet potato 1/2 ripe & soft avocado Juice of 1/3 lemon Himalayan salt Dash onion powder DIRECTIONS: Wash potato and bake at 400℉ for 50-60 minutes. Once cooked well, slice open the top and mash in all the ingredients listed.  

Recipe makes 2 servings. Macros Per Serving: Protein: 17g  |   Fat: 33g  |  Carbs: 81g  |  Fiber: 11g  |  Calories: 635 INGREDIENTS: 2 heads crisp curly kale, stems removed & torn into small pieces 1/4 cup dried cranberries (choose the ones sweetened with apple juice) 1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds 2 handfuls red cabbage, shredded 1 large carrot, peeled into ribbons  1 small leek, trimmed & thinly sliced 1 green apple, diced  Juice of 1 lemon Sprinkle pumpkin spice seasoning 3 TB raw, creamy almond butter  2 TB pure maple syrup 2 TB EVOO ½ tsp onion powder Himalayan salt, to taste DIRECTIONS: Place kale in a large bowl. Add everything else on top and mix VERY well, until all leaves and vegetables are well-coated and the kale has softened. 

Recipe makes 1 large serving. Macros Per Serving: Protein: 31g  |   Fat: 32g  |  Carbs: 131g  |  Fiber: g  |  Calories: 848 ** For an extra 42g protein, add 6 oz organic chicken to this salad. INGREDIENTS: 2 hearts romaine lettuce, shredded Handful scallions, thinly sliced 2 large handfuls grape tomatoes, cut in half ½ orange bell pepper, diced ½ red bell pepper, diced Kernels from 1-2 fresh cobs of corn (or swap organic canned corn) 1 small avocado, diced ½ cup black beans, rinsed & drained ½ cup brown rice 3 TB Creamy Lime Dressing  DIRECTIONS: Prepare rice according to package instructions. Place all salad ingredients in a large bowl, leaving room on one side for the cooked rice to be added.  Drizzle Creamy Lime Dressing over top of it all, and enjoy.

Full Recipe Macros: Protein: 22g  |   Fat: 71g  |  Carbs: 81g  |  Fiber: 6g  |  Calories: 966 INGREDIENTS: 1 cup cashew base Juice of 1 lime 1 TB EVOO 1 TB apple cider vinegar  2 TB honey Dash cumin Dash cayenne Dash paprika Few dashes Himalayan salt  Cracked black pepper, to taste 3-4 TB water DIRECTIONS: Use a whisk to fully combine all ingredients.   Enjoy as a salad dressing, veggie dip, potato topper, or as a condiment to rice and beans.

Recipe makes 4 servings. Macros Per Serving: Protein: 25g  |   Fat: 17g  |  Carbs: 78g  |  Fiber: 15g  |  Calories: 495 INGREDIENTS: 15 oz can red kidney beans, drained & rinsed 15 oz can cannellini beans, drained & rinsed 15 oz can chickpeas, drained & rinsed 1/2 cup chopped red onion  1 red bell pepper, diced 3-4 stalks celery, diced 2 TB fresh parsley, chopped DRESSING INGREDIENTS: 2 TB dijon mustard 1/2 TB honey 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup EVOO Splash apple cider vinegar 1/2 tsp oregano flakes ½ tsp garlic powder ½ tsp onion powder Himalayan salt & black pepper to taste DIRECTIONS: Mix all dressing ingredients together in a bowl and combine well with a whisk.  Add salad ingredients and mix well.  

Recipe makes 4 servings. Macros Per Serving: Protein: 54g  |   Fat: 25g  |  Carbs: 6.5g  |  Fiber: 1g  |  Calories: 437 INGREDIENTS: 4 cans wild-caught tuna 1 handful pine nuts ¼ cup kalamata olives, halved (optional) 2 scallions, diced 2 TB EVOO 3-4 TB balsamic vinegar 3-4 TB Primal Kitchen mayonnaise  ¼ tsp garlic powder Sea salt & black pepper, to taste DIRECTIONS: Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.  Serve atop a green salad and enjoy.

Recipe makes 2 servings. Macros Per Serving: Protein: 9g  |   Fat: 16g  |  Carbs: 41g  |  Fiber: 14g  |  Calories: 303 ** For an extra 14g protein, add 1 cup chickpeas to this salad. INGREDIENTS: 4 large vine or Heirloom tomatoes, cut into small wedges 1 ripe avocado, diced 2 raw cobs of corn Handful scallions, sliced Juice of 1 lime Sea salt, to taste Cracked black pepper, to taste Dash garlic powder 1 TB extra virgin olive oil or less DIRECTIONS: Add tomatoes, avocado, and scallions to a large bowl. Cut kernels off the cobs of corn and add to salad.  Add all dressing ingredients right into the bowl and mix well.     Serve as a side dish to chicken or fish, on top of a salad, in lettuce wraps, or as a baked potato topper.

Great for meal prep, as this salad keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. Recipe makes 4 servings. Macros Per Serving: Protein: 15g  |   Fat: 20g  |  Carbs: 35g  |  Fiber: 10g  |  Calories: 350 ** For an extra 16g protein, add 2 cups cooked quinoa to this salad. INGREDIENTS: 3 bunches curly kale, stems removed & torn into bite sized pieces 3 large carrots, peeled and ribboned with a veggie peeler ⅓ head purple cabbage or more, shredded Handful fresh chives, diced Juice of 2 lemons 4 TB tahini ½ cup nutritional yeast 3 TB EVOO 2 TB honey 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp onion powder Himalayan pink salt, generous DIRECTIONS: Combine all ingredients in a very large mixing bowl. The key to getting a great kale salad is massaging the kale. Massage with your hands (covered with gloves if you have them) for a few minutes until the kale starts to soften.  

Full Recipe Macros: Protein: 15g  |   Fat: 24g  |  Carbs: 51g  |  Fiber: 4g  |  Calories: 429 INGREDIENTS: ⅓ cup tahini ¼ cup freshly-squeezed orange juice 1 TB fresh lemon juice 2 TB apple cider vinegar 2 TB pure maple syrup 2 TB water ½ tsp onion powder Himalayan salt, to taste DIRECTIONS: Using a whisk or blender, blend all ingredients together until smooth.   Store in a refrigerated sealed glass jar for up to 1 week.

Full Recipe Macros: Protein: 8g  |   Fat: 32g  |  Carbs: 87g  |  Fiber: 5g  |  Calories: 631 INGREDIENTS: 1/4 cup dijon mustard 1/4 cup honey 1/4 cup cashew base  3 TB water 1 TB EVOO 1 tsp onion powder Himalayan salt to taste    DIRECTIONS: Blend all ingredients together with a whisk and use on salads or with grilled chicken.

Use this base as you would mayonnaise. It can be a base for dressings, dips, or when you desire a creamy, plant-based substitute for something like sour cream. The macros for this are high, but you’ll only be using small amounts of this in larger recipes. Full Recipe Macros: Protein: 80g  |   Fat: 192g  |  Carbs: 138g  |  Fiber: 8g  |  Calories: 1860 INGREDIENTS: 1 pound raw cashews  Juice of 2 lemons 3 TB EVOO Generous sprinkling Himalayan salt  1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp onion powder Water - Enough to cover 2 inches above cashews in blender DIRECTIONS: Combine all ingredients in a high-speed blender like a Vitamix. Blend until smooth.   This will keep for about 2 weeks in the fridge if kept in a sealed container.  

Full Recipe Macros: Protein: 61g  |   Fat: 90g  |  Carbs: 159g  |  Fiber: 55g  |  Calories: 1632 INGREDIENTS: 2 cans chickpeas I cup steamed edamame beans 2 TB tahini ¼ cup EVOO Juice of 1 lemon 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp garlic powder ½ tsp onion powder Sea salt to taste DIRECTIONS: Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender, or food processor using the metal "S" blade, until smooth.    Enjoy with cut-up raw vegetables, on top of a salad, or as a delicious topper to white baked potatoes at lunch or dinnertime. 

Recipe makes 4 servings. Macros Per Serving: Protein: 22g  |   Fat: 4g  |  Carbs: 5g  |  Fiber: 5g  |  Calories: 135 ** For an extra 44g protein, add 2 cups cooked chickpeas to the recipe and serve over 2 cups cooked quinoa (Equal to 11g extra protein per serving). INGREDIENTS: 2 large cod filets 2-3 cloves garlic 1 small yellow onion 1 small jar green olives, halved Fresh oregano Splash white wine Tomato sauce of choice DIRECTIONS: In a deep frying pan sauté onions and garlic in a small amount of water. Season with salt and pepper.  Once clear, add in olives and white wine, and allow to simmer on low heat for about 8 minutes.   Add tomato sauce to pan. Add fresh oregano and stir.  Add cod filets to the sauce and make sure they are nearly fully covered by tomato sauce (If not, add more tomato sauce so that only the very top of the fish is visible). Cover pan and cook on low-medium heat until fish is fully cooked through, about 20 minutes.