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GreenLite New Product Tuesday: Julian’s Smart Carb Bread

Posted on September 20, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

THE FACTS:

A hearty slice of bread may seem like a “forbidden fruit” when you’re on a low carb diet. A few months ago, we featured Chompie’s low carb bread on our product review, and while we still have a place in our heart for good old Chompie’s, the curious minds here at GreenLite have discovered another delectable low carb bread when we’re in need of a carb fix. If you are soy intolerant and Chompie’s is not for you, or if you are in search of an alternaive protein source, check out Julian Bakery. Julian’s breads are soy free, and made from organic hearty sprouted grains. There are several types of low carb breads (reviewed below), even a gluten free version. Sprouted grains are ideal for breads as they help make the nutrients of grains easier to absorb, easier to digest, and also have a lower glycemic index. Julian’s Bakery offers a wide variety of healthy breads for individuals with various dietary restrictions, so check out their site, because they’ve got something for all of us (and their blog is fantastic too!).

REVIEW:

Nutritional Info:

Smart Carb #1



Serving Size:	1 Slice
Servings Per Loaf:	Approximately 14

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 109

Total Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 140mg
Total Carbohydrate: 13g
Dietary Fiber: 12g
Net Carbs: 1g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 12g

Ingredients: Fresh Ground Whole Grain *Wheat, Sprouts of *Kamut, *Spelt, *Rye, Lentils, Sesame Seeds, *Millet, *Quinoa, *Amaranth, Ground Flaxseed, *Wheat Bran, Oat Bran, Eggs, Undenatured Whey Protein Isolate (90%), Chicory Root (Inulin Fiber), Wheat Gluten, Yeast & Sea Salt.

TASTE:

Smart Carb #1 definitely tastes like the real thing, it has a very hearty and healthy flavor with a dense consistency. Smart Carb #1 s extremely filling (14 grams of protein and 13 grams of fiber!) and one slice is enough to fulfill any carb craving that you face. The only draw back is that the texture is slightly dry (a factor of the Whey protein in the ingredients), however, a few minutes in the toaster and a dollop of condiment will definitely mask any inkling of dryness.

Nutritional Info:

Smart Carb #2 (cinnamon raisin)

Nutrition Facts:

Serving Size:	1 Slice
Servings Per Loaf:	Approximately 16

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 137

Total Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 75mg
Total Carbohydrate: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 13g
Net Carbs: 2g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 14g

TASTE:

Smart Carb #2 is essentially the same recipe as #1 but with the addition of cinnamon and raisins. This is perfect for individuals with a weakness for bakery treats. It does have the same consistency and texture as Smart carb #1, but this flavor would be even tastier than after some time in the toaster. The raisins are sparse and the bread isn’t particularly sweet (except for the hint of cinnamon), but with this smart carb #2, you do get more than what you “bargain for” in your diet bank account.

Nutritional Info:

Amazing Sourdough

Nutrition Facts:

Serving Size:	1 Slice
Servings Per Loaf:	Approximately 16

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 60

Total Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 140mg
Total Carbohydrate: 10g
Dietary Fiber: 6g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 5g

Ingredients: Fresh ground high protein golden whole grain *wheat, onion, Undenatured Whey Protein Isolate (90%), Chicory Root (Inulin Fiber), sesame seeds, yeast & sea salt.

TASTE:

While this bread doesn’t have the stunning nutritional panel of smart carb #1&2 with 4g net carb and 5g protein, this bread is much lighter, more moist, and only half the calories! It has a wonderful balance of hearty grain flavor with a bite of sourdough tang. This bread is extremely hearty and filling, it will leave your tummy feeling satiated and taste buds feeling satisfied. It has a great, doughy texture (a product of the fermented grains), and is fantastic in its natural for (i.e. un-toasted).

AVAILABILITY:

The one downfall of Julian’s bread is it’s limited availability. Foremost, it can be bought online through their website. However, the loaves are a bit expensive and then of course there is added cost of shipping. It can also be found regularly at Bumble Bee Health Foods in Mountain View, The Willows Market in Menlo Park has a limited selection in their frozen foods section. It is also available at New Leaf Grocery, if you happen to be in the Santa Cruz area. Check out their vendor locator through to find the closest location near you. You may want to call ahead to make sure they are in stock before you make the trip.

COST:

Julian Bakery bread is definitely on the pricey side, but you get what you pay for. While weighing out the nutritional panel, ingredients, as well as the flavor and texture of the bread, Julian is perhaps at the top of the low carb game. Their bread vary from $6.50-$7.99, plus an additional $7 for special shipping (if your aren’t near a vendor), this bread will make a small chip in your pocket book. However, If you keep the bread in the freezer and only occasionally indulge, the price could be worth it.

SUMMARY:

We think Julian Bakery breads are a must-try for any low carber, they’ve got tons of protein and fiber ( #1 & 2 are two protein exchanges!), and are made with whole, mostly organic ingredients, which is something we advocate here at GreenLite. These breads are extremely hearty and filling, but are a bit high in calories (#1=109 cal/slice, #2=137 cal/slice, Sourdough=60 cal/slice). While Chompie’s bread may have a better flavor overall, the purity of the ingredients and texture in Julian Bakery Breads, do give Chompie’s a run for their money. Ultimately, the Chompie Vs. Julian debate comes down to what your dietary priorities are.

Here are some ideas for a tasty and GreenLite Friendly snack:

For a sweet treat, Try Smart Carb #2 with some PB2 or sugar-free jam.
Try Smart Carb #1 or Amazing sourdough with a Laughing Cow wedge, or Light Labne spread

For a hearty breakfast:

Scramble some eggwhites and top a toasted slice with some salsa or organic ketchup.
Top Smart Carb #2 with some fat free cottage or ricotta cheese with a bit of cinnamon and sweetener.

If you’re feeling really creative, try using Julian bakery breads as bread crumbs, bread pudding or french toast!

If anyone has any suggestions, ideas or inquiries for our New Product Tuesdays segment, please feel free to email us at products@greenlitemedicine.com

GreenLite New Product Tuesdays: Questbars Apple Pie & Chocolate Brownie

Posted on August 23, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

The Facts:

If you are as obsessed with Questbars as our staff here at GreenLite is, these brand new flavors of Questbars will rock your world, and your GreenLite diet. We just can’t get enough of the outstanding nutritional stats of Quest Bars, and the 17-19g of fiber each bar packs (which we all know is something tricky to incorporate on the GreenLite program). So if you’ve gotten a bit bored with your go to Almond or Peanut Questbar flavors, these Apple Pie and Chocolate Brownie flavors will not only add some variety to your routine, but your taste buds will definitely thank you for it.

Review:

Apple Pie

Taste:

Apple pie has never been so healthy! These bars contain real pieces of dried apple, with a wonderful hint of cinnamon. The Apple Pie flavor is noticeably sweeter than it’s Quest bar cousins, but they’re the perfect fix for anyone with a sweet tooth! These bars have the same texture as the Almond and Peanut flavor, but the added apple pieces do make the bar and bit less dense. Granted, this bar does not taste exactly like an apple pie, and does still have a bit of the “protein bar” flavor, but the overall taste definitely suggests grandma’s home-made classic.

Chocolate Brownie

Taste:

For those of you with an weakness for chocolaty treats, the Chocolate Brownie Quest Bars will definitely fulfill your chocolate hankering. We think the Chocolate Brownie bar is perhaps the most “authentic” tasting of mock-dessert treats. This bar has a rich chocolaty flavor and great brownie-like texture. Try it warmed up in the microwave for 15 seconds for an even more authentic brownie experience.

Availability:

GreenLite has just started carrying both flavors in all our offices! Quest bars are definitely a top seller here at GreenLite, so pick up a bar and try each of the new flavors at your next visit. If you haven’t jumped on the Questbar bandwagon, you’re missing out!

Cost:

In our offices, we are selling Apple Pie and Chocolate Brownie bars sell for the same price as the Peanut and Almond flavors. Considering the nutritional stats, small ingredient list (no preservatives!), and decadent flavoring, we think $2.80 is a more than reasonable price. We haven’t been able to find Quest bars in any type of retail store, so if you’re not active on our program and want to give these bars a try, feel free to stop by!

Summary:

We are loving the new variety of Questbar flavors and GreenLite, because variety is an huge factor in sucess while on a diet program. Questbars are perfect when you’re on the run, and don’t leave you feeling deprived (in terms of hunger and taste!). The folks at Quest make low-carbing seem easy as pie. If you’re feeling adventerous, try combining Questbar flavors! Cut 2 different flavored Questbars in half and then squish the two different halves together. Try Chocolate & Peanut Butter, Apple & Peanut butter or Chocolate & Almond, get creative with these tasty treats!

If anyone has any suggestions, ideas or inquiries for our New Product Tuesdays segment, please feel free to email us at products@greenlitemedicine.com

GreenLite New Product Tuesday: BlenderBottles

Posted on August 9, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

THE FACTS:

Here at GreenLite we believe that preparation, education and PROTEIN are the foundation to a healthy lifestyle and weight loss success. This week’s New Product Tuesday is all about a tool that could not only help to aide in your protein consumption, and make some of cumbersome tasks that go along with living a healthy “do it yourself” lifestyle, much more convenient.
This week we are raving in favor of BlenderBottles!! BlenderBottles are essentially a hybrid between the average kitchen blender and your typical wire whisk. While the common application of Blender Bottles are protein shakes, these handy little tools can be used to so much more. While prepackaged protein shakes may truly be the most convenient option for those in a hurry, we think the quality of freshly mixed protein shakes and customization that Blender Bottles provide, far surpass that convenience factor. The surgical-grade, stainless steel wire ball banishes all traces of clumps and chunks in every blended concoction, and the wide, pourable spout makes drinking and pouring mess-less and effortless. Simply add ingredients and shake to your heart’s content!

REVIEW:

Quality & Utility:

BlenderBottles are available in both plastic and stainless steel containers. The uses of these shakers surpass those of a convenient and wonderfully blended protein shake. They can be used for scrambling egg with milk and spices, mixing home made salad dressings, maranades or sauces. Check out the recipe section of the BlenderBottle website for more creative ideas. The plastic version ( and the original BlenderBottle invention) is BPA free and dishwasher safe and available in 20 oz. and 28 oz. sizes. The overall quality of the shaker is great, the lid fits snugly, with no leaking, which makes it perfect for throwing your purse or gym bag while running out the door. The wire ball does a fantastic job mixing the contents, and because of the precise fit of all the parts, no shake is too hard for these bottles. There are even convenient liquid measurement markings on the outside of the bottles to make portion control a breeze!
The stainless steel variety are available from Fit & Fresh in a 26 oz. size, these may come in handy for those who have an aversion to plastic containers, a common gripe with the plastic BlenderBottle is that over time and after repeated-use, the plastic does began to degrade and the plastic can absorb various smells from food products. However, the con’s with this stainless steel version is that the lid can often be tricky to close tightly (a strong point of their competition) and some people notice a bit of a metallic after taste.

Availability:

Great news for GreenLite Clients! We just recently started carrying 20 oz. Blender Bottles in our offices! The original plastic bottles can also be purchased online from blenderbottle.com in a variety of sizes (as well as a convenient carrying sling). The stainless steel container is available from Fit&Fresh.com.

Cost:

In our GreenLite offices we are selling our BlenderBottles for $10 each. However, for a limited time we are having a 20% off sale, which means you can steal them for $8 a piece! Through the BlenderBottle website, the 20 oz. version goes for $8.49, before shipping and handling. The stainless steel version is availble for $14.99 through the Fit&Fresh website. Considering the endless applications of this bottle and the ammount of clean up time that can be saved as a result of using it, this product is more than worth these retail prices.

SUMMARY:

BlenderBottles are a great and convenient tool for maximizing your protein intake ( and minimizing your clean up) in the most convenient way possible. The over all quality of the bottle and whisk are durable, sturdy and completely functional. When using the BlenderBottle, it should be noted that powders mix best when liquid is added first and make sure you press the lid down until you hear a “snap” for zero leakage. We love BlenderBottles here at GreenLite and have said farewell to lumps and clumps for good!

If anyone has any suggestions, ideas or inquiries for our New Product Tuesdays segment, please feel free to email us at products@greenlitemedicine.com

GreenLite New Product Tuesdays: Chompie’s Low Carb Bread

Posted on August 2, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

When you signed up for GreenLite, you probably bid farewell to that tasty loaf of bread sitting in your pantry in favor of lean protein and lot’s of veggies. However, thanks to the genuises at Chompies Deli, a slice of toast could be back in your morning routine (or perhaps at least your Sunday brunch)

Nutritional Info

Serving Size: 1 Slice

Calories: 58

Fat: 2g

Carbs: 3g

Protein: 7g

Sugars: <1g

Fiber: 2g

Protein Exchange:1

Carb Exchange: 1/2

THE FACTS:

Chompie’s multigrain bread boasts phenomenial nutritional stats (only 1g net carb!!) and a relatively natural list of ingredients, which we think is fantastic. According to Owner and CEO of GreenLite, Dr. Sooji Rugh, “It’s the lowest carb bread we’ve seen”. This low carb line comes in 3 different flavors: Multigrain, Cinnamon Raisin and Sesame. We think Chompie’s outshines the competitors in the realm of taste, size and nutritional value. One serving of bread is actually the size of a “normal” slice of bread, Chompie’s doesn’t skip on taste, quality or portion. We love it!

REVIEW:

Taste:

The texture of Chompie’s is a bit more “spongy” and dense than your typical slice of bread. It has an eggy, “Broiche” quality to it, but if you try to banish any bread expectations before trying Chompie’s, we guarantee you will love it! The cinnamon raisin flavor has a hint of cinnamon sweetness (and a tiny amount of raisins) for a sweet treat, while the sesame option is great when you’re looking for something other than the typical multigrain variety.

Availability:

We discovered Chompie’s at Sprout’s Farmers Market’s Stores in Sunnyvale (near El Camino and Matilda) which is relatively close to our GreenLite Mountain View location. If you aren’t familiar with Sprouts, it’s like the grocery store baby of Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s. Chompie’s is definitely worth the trip to Sprout’s and you may stumble upon a few other healthy treats while you’re there. Chompie’s is also available through Low Carb Confection’s if you don’t feel up to a trip to the grocery store.

Cost:

Chompie’s sells for $5.99 through Low Carb Confection’s and Sprouts. Since high protein specialty products are usually pretty pricey, we think this price for 16 slices of high protein (almost no carb) goodness is a bargain! Plus the added protein will keep you full for hours.

SUMMARY:

We think Chompie’s is almost too good to be true and is definitely worth the trek to Sprout’s or the extra cost of shipping from Low Carb Confections. Pop it in the freezer once you break open the packaging and put it in the toaster when you need a carby treat. For a truly decadent treat, whip up some low carb french toast and soak in egg whites, cinnamon and almond milk and throw on the griddle for a breakfast treat. The possibilities are really endless, but remember to still keep in mind that whole fruits and vegetables and lean proteins are ideal for a truly healthy diet, so be sure to be aware of your Chompie’s intake and focus on natural ingredients straight from mother earth herself!

If anyone has any suggestions, ideas or inquiries for our New Product Tuesdays segment, please feel free to email us at products@greenlitemedicine.com

GreenLite New Product Tuesdays: PB2

Posted on July 12, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

One of the most common questions we get in our GreenLite front office is about the mysterious jar of powdery substance on the top shelf of our product case. This weeks edition of New Product Tuesdays is set to clear up that mystery. That peculiar powdery product is none other than Bell Plantain’s Powdered Peanut Butter!! (also famously known as PB2). A food product this atypical or “strange” may be off-putting or intimidating at first glance, but PB2 could be a wonderful, delicious and healthy addition to your GreenLite program (even the decadent chocolate flavor!).

Nutritional Info

Serving Size: 2 Tbsp

Calories:45

Fat: 1.5g

Carbs: 5-6g

Protein: 4-5g

Sugars: 1-3g

Fiber: 2g

Protein Exchange:1/2

Carb Exchange: 1/2

THE FACTS:

PB2 is essentially, high quality roasted peanuts with almost all of the oil squeezed out of peanuts, and what’s you’re left with is the roasted peanut powder. There are no chemicals involved in this process, so PB2 is still an all-natural peanut butter alternative. Simply add water, milk or a non-dairy milk alternative in order to “reconstitute” the powder, into your more typical, peanut butter substance. PB2 has all of the protein and peanut-y flavor but a fraction of the fat and calories! Which means none of the guilt that goes along with eating it right off the spoon!

REVIEW:

Taste:

While PB2 doesn’t taste exactly like its’ full fat competitor, you definitely get more than what you bargain for in terms of taste vs. calories. PB2 still has that distinct, nutty flavor, with the salty-sweet undertones that real peanut butter is renowned for. The chocolate flavor is especially delicious and decadent, you’ll feel like you’re “cheating”, but you’ll really be right on track. The consistency of this product is not as “sticky” as regular peanut butter, but ultimately the consistency or thickness is entirely up to the consumer. The packaging recommends 1 TBS of liquid per 2 TBS of powder, but play around a bit with the powder to water ratio until you find the consistency you like.

Availability:

Both flavors of PB2 is conveniently sold in all of our GreenLite offices! Pick up a jar and see what we’re raving about at your next visit!

Cost:

We sell jars of PB2 for $9 in our offices. While this may seem a bit pricey for your average jar of peanut butter, think of it as paying a few extra pennies to save tons of excess calories and grams of fat. We think of it as money well spent, and once you try it, you just might get hooked!

SUMMARY:

While PB2 may not be as “indistinguishable” from real peanut butter, as the label claims it to be, this product is a delicious and healthy alternative for dieter’s and non-dieters alike. There are even times when perhaps PB2 would be a more suitable option than regular, sticky peanut butter, in terms of flavor or consistency. Th applications of this product are limitless! Add a serving to your Greek yogurt for a rich and creamy tasting “peanut butter pudding”, mix it in with your protein shakes, or make your own fruit dip for a mid morning snack. You can even use it for savory dishes, like stir-frys or marinades. Check out the recipe section on Bell Plantain’s website for more fun and tasty ideas!

If anyone has any suggestions, ideas or inquiries for our New Product Tuesdays segment, please feel free to email us at products@greenlitemedicine.com

GreenLite New Product Tuesday: HINT, Drink Water, Not Sugar

Posted on June 28, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

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The Facts:

Here at greenlite we understand that water can be a bit…well…bland and boring, especially when you’re trying to down your recommended 5 servings of GreenLite water bottles. Well, the folks at Hint feel that way too, and have come up with a great, hydration solution. Hint is fruit and herb infused bottled water made with all natural ingredients (no artificial preservatives or sweeteners) zero calories, and a “hint” of flavor.

In Hint CEO Kara Goldin’s own words, “The idea behind Hint is simple: pure water, nature’s original refreshment, accented with a hint of natural flavor. No sugar, no artificial sweeteners: Hint is a refreshing alternative to sodas, juice and other sweetened drinks and it tastes great.”

Review:

Taste:

Hint water is an extremely refreshing choice for hydration, it’s not your average bottle of water, nor is it your typical bottle of artifical tasting “flavored water”. With its zero calories and natural flavors, you get more than what you bargain for with Hint, think of it as a non-sugary flavor infused treat for your taste buds. The flavors in each variety are very subtle, similar to the cucumber infused water you’d get at a fancy spa or resort. We are loving the wide variety of fun flavors Hint has to offer. From your standard “Lime” and “Strawberry-Kiwi” flavors to more exotic and fun ones such as “Honey Dew Hibiscus” and “Mango Grapefruit”.

Availability:

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Hint seems to be popping up everywhere these days and is carried nationally by Starbucks and Whole Foods. Just about the only grocery store that isn’t carrying Hint these days seems to be Safeway, but check out their handy dandy store locator widget on their website to pick up some Hint at your closest convenience. And the icing on the all natural cake is that Hint is local! Their business head quarters are located in the Cow Hollow area in San Francisco (a mere stone’s throw from our GreenLite San Francisco office!)

Cost:

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Each bottle of Hint is 16 oz. and retails for around $1.70 each, depending on where you purchase it. 12 Packs of each flavor can be purchased on through their website for $22. This price may seem a bit steep for a bottle water, but considering a bottle of plain old arrowhead water costs about $1.25 from your neighboorhood corner store but isn’t infused with a pomegranate-tangerine essence, perhaps you get what you pay for.

Summary:

Look at Hint as a special treat for your taste buds, when you just can’t stand another bottle of plain old water and a slice of lemon just isn’t cutting it. Their all natural ingredients and unique flavor varieties are a fun addition to your normal water routine. You can find hint just about everywhere and each bottle’s little hint of flavor and all natural ingredients are a great way to add a hint of flavor to your GreenLite Diet.

If anyone has any suggestions, ideas or inquiries for our New Product Tuesdays segment, please feel free to email us at products@greenlitemedicine.com

GreenLite New Product Tuesday: Tivolo Popsicle Molds for Summer!

Posted on June 20, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

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The temperature is rising, and it finally feels like summer. Nothing is more refreshing than an ice cold popsicle on a hot summer day. However, we can do without the high carbs and loads of sugar that comes along with the average popiscle sold at most groceries. Here at GreenLite we believe in taking health into our own hands, so we thought why not make our own GreenLite friendly summer treats!

Product Info

Comes in a set of popsicle molds with freezer-friendly base; measures 7 by 5 by 8 inches

Crafted of durable, BPA free, plastic for many summers of icy treats

Easy to use and clean (they’re dishwasher safe!)
The insulated plastic keeps the the molds colder, for longer
Handy drip guard for when things get a bit hot and sticky

The Facts

These Popsicle molds are not only a great way to treat yourself to something refreshing and healthy, but could be a great summertime activity for you and your kids. Turn your favorite smoothy concoction into a frozen treat! Experiment with sugar-free Crystal Light, or sugar free jellos or puddings. (Stay posted for GreenLite blog posts of fun popsicle recipes)

Review:

Availability:

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These molds are available at Whole Foods, Crate and Barrel and good old Amazon.com and various other online retailers. Pick up your healthy popsicle supplies and your molds at your next grocery shopping trip to whole foods or have them delivered to your home with a few clicks of the mouse.

Cost:

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The durabilty and quality of these molds more than make up for the price which run around $12. Because they are crafted from insulated plastic, the molds won’t crack or break and will last for many summers to come.

Size

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The molds hold a total of 4 ounces and we recommend to fill these molds with 1 inches to spare at the top.

Summary

Overall, these pops provide a wonderful way to create GreenLite friendly desserts. Here are a few helpful tip when making your popsicle concoction:

#1. If you make your shake into a popicle, make it a little sweeter to taste before placing in the mold as the sweetness factor decreases when eaten frozen.

#2. Jello mix will hold their taste longer than a water based, juice mixes which become more icy and lose taste as you get towards the bottom of the pop.

#3. Avoid yogurt. It tends to separate into an ice mixture when frozen.

#4. Run the frozen mold under warm water and squeeze from the bottom of the mold as you pull from the top, and the popsicle will “pop” right out!

Experiment and don’t forget share your favorite recipes with the rest of us!

If anyone has any suggestions, ideas or inquiries for our New Product Tuesdays segment, please feel free to email us at products@greenlitemedicine.com

GreenLite New Product Tuesdays: Teeccino Herbal Coffee

Posted on June 14, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

Teeccino Herbal Coffee

Nutritional Info

Calories:18 teeccino family

Carbs: 4g

Sugars: 1g

Potassium: 48mg

The Facts

This “no caf” Tea-Cappuccino hybrid is naturally caffeine free and a perfect alternative to your morning cup of Joe. This herbal coffee will give you a natural energy boost from nutrients, not stimulants, and is non-acidic. Made from carob, nuts, chicory root, cocoa and dates, the naturally occurring inulin helps support digestion and intestinal health. Since we recommend abstaining from caffeine while on the GreenLite program, Teeccino is perfect morning pick me up or a great substitute for a late night sweet tooth. Teeccino is available in individual “Tee-Bags” and pre-ground (just like coffee).

Review:

Taste:

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Available in a variety of different flavor and roasts, Teeccino offers a robust and earthy flavor, unlike herbal drink on the market. Although the product is available in a tea bag, Teeccino has a very dark, rich and nutty flavor, this is not your typical cup of tea. This herbal coffee is really a tea-coffee hybrid, the name “Teeccino” says it all! Some flavors are superior to others, while brewing the herbal blend provides and much fuller flavor (more coffee like flavor) than using a “Tee-bag”. Some flavors are subtly sweet and offer a wonderful pick-me-up, when you’re looking for something sweet and substantial.

Availability:

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Teeccino can be found at Whole Foods, Sprouts in Cupertino, Piazza’s Fine Foods, Mollie Stones and Country Sun in Palo Alto. The product is also available for purchase through the company’s website at http://teeccino.com/. While Teeccino may not be as convenient as Starbucks, the product is available a most natural food stores in the tea section.

Cost:

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A box of 10 “tee-bags” sells for $4.99, while an 11 o.z. bag of the herbal coffee grinds sells for $9.99 (makes about 30 servings). A box of Teeccino is a far more reasonable option than a daily trip to Starbucks, and your nervous system and intestines will thank you for it!

Summary

While a serving of a Teeccino drink does contain 4g carbs, we think the pros of this product outweigh the carbs. Teeccino could be a wonderful crutch for the far too common coffee habit and because one serving packs 48 mg of potassium, it’s a much smarter option than an acidic cup of decaf. It can provide a tasty pick me up in the morning or perhaps save you from the late night munchies, when you’re craving something rich and sweet. Drink it plain if you like it strong or make your own caffeine-free latte with some soy or fat free milk.

If anyone has any suggestions, ideas or inquiries for our New Product Tuesdays segment, please feel free to email us at products@greenlitemedicine.com

GreenLite New Product Tuesdays: Questbars

Posted on June 7, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

GreenLite Tuesday product review, low carb

Questbar Protein Bars

Greenlite questbar review

Nutritional Info

Peanut Butter Supreme

Vanilla Almond Crunch

Calories: 220Fat: 11g

Carbs: 20g

Fiber: 15g

Sugars: 3g

Protein: 20g

Carb Exchange: .5

Protein Exchange:3

Calories: 230Fat: 12g

Carbs: 19g

Fiber: 15g

Sugars: 2g

Protein: 20g

Carb Exchange: .5

Protein Exchange:3

The Facts:

Questbars are perfect when you’re in a rush/on the run as a meal replacement. Their Nutrition stats and ingredient list are phenominal, the company claims the title of “the best nutritional profile of any protein bar on the market”. Not only are they soy and gluten free, each bar packs 20g of protein and whopping 15g of fiber! They are made from 10 simple ingredients, while some of the other leading protein bars have over 40!!

Review:

Taste:

Questbars are chewy, hearty, with a subtle sweetness and pleasant caramel-flavor. These bar come “naked” and are not covered in a chocolate coating, but have wonderfully natural and nutty flavor.

Availability:

These bars are not carried by any major retailer and primarily sold online, however, we have exciting news here at GreenLite! Starting next week, will be selling Questbars for purchase in our office. GreenLite will be selling them in boxes of 12 for $32 or individually for $2.80.

Cost:

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While at first glance these bars appear slightly on the pricy side, we find there is lot of value packed in these high quality bars. Since these bars are a bit heartier at 220 calories per bar, a whole protein bar is better suited as a meal replacement for breakfast or lunch, than a snack. As a meal replacement, $2.80 seems pretty reasonable. Break a bar in half and microwave one half for 10-15 seconds for an instant chewy cookie snack with 10grams of Protein and 7.5 grams of fiber at 110 calories. Now you can see how these bars may not seem so costly afterall.

Summary:

Since the ingredient list is so simple, with so much fiber and protein, these bars are perfect for people who are looking for a very clean, “good for you” bar. Read our blog about fiber and how it can help you stay full and keep your colon healthy.

If anyone has any suggestions, ideas or inquiries for our New Product Tuesdays segment, please feel free to email us at products@greenlitemedicine.com

Greenlite New Product Tuesdays: Carb Watch Pitas

Posted on May 31, 2011 by GreenLite Medicine

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We’re starting a new, weekly blog segment here on the GreenLite blog. So watch keep your eyes peeled for our Tuesday product reviews of amazing, GreenLite friendly products for our fantastic clients!

Middle East Company Carb Watch Pitas

Nutritional Info:

1 Serving: 1/2 Pita
Fat:1g
Calories: 35
Carb:6g
Fiber:3g
Protein:2g
Carb exchange: 1/2

The Facts:

When you’re hankering for a carb fix, these low carb pitas are the perfect “indulgence” to satisfy your carb craving. These pitas are deliciously soft and chewy with that quintessential pita taste. They’re made with all natural ingredients and soy flour, which adds a boost of protein and allows them to last a while in your pantry and freeze well.

Our Review:

Taste:

5/5 GreenLites

You’d never guess these pita’s are low carb, except for their chewy texture, but we view that as a plus! Their nutrition stats are phenomenal and we’re loving the protein AND the fiber. We think these pitas taste exactly like their high carb cousins.

Availability:

3/5 GreenLites

These pitas are a bit difficult to find around town, but can be located Milk Pail in Mountain View, The Real Food Company in San Francisco, Piazza in Palo Alto, and Molly Stone Locations, but they are definitely worth the trek!

Cost:

5/5 GreenLites

At $2.50 for 6 pitas, we think this deal is a steal!

Our Suggestions:

Since the serving size is for half a pita, cut them in half right away and put them in the freezer. This way you won’t be tempted to over indulge or eat them all before they spoil. Although these are a low carb, healthier version of a pita, they still do contain half a GreenLite carbohydrate exchange per serving, so be sure to watch your portion sizes. They hold up well in the toaster or microwave, and for a special lunch or dinner treat, make a pita pizza with salsa or pasta sauce, some low fat cheese and your protein topping of choice. You can also dip them in some babganoush (a great low carb option) or make a Mediterranean quesadilla with Low-fat Feta cheese.

Because these are an actual bread product, these pitas are more ideal for the GreenLite Maintenance and Transition Phases. If you are in the Acute Weight Loss Phase, limit these pitas to once a week, and reserve them for intense carb cravings, just make sure to keep a track of your carb count for the day.

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"I made the phone call to Greenlite Medicine & am so grateful I did, because I've lost 85 pounds & have maintained the loss for over two years!"

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Middle East Company Carb Watch Pitas

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