Quest Bar Protein Donut Recipe

Here a simple recipe for a high protein, low carb and all natural donut using a Quest Bar. I used the Quest Coconut Cashew flavor which you can get here: http://www.704nutrition.com/Dr-Oz-Quest-Natural-Protein-Bar-Coconut-Cashew-p/6340011.htm (use Coupon Code QUEST for $4 off).

Donut Ingredients:
- 1 Quest Coconut Cashew bar

Icing Ingredients:
- 1/2 Tablespoon Cream Cheese
- 1/2 Tablespoon Almond Milk (Coconut or regular milk would be good too)
- 1 Teaspoon Natural Sweetener (Stevia, Chicory Root, etc)
- Thickener as needed (Coconut powder, vanilla protein powder, psyllium husks, etc)

Toppings:
- Crushed Coconut Chips
- Decorative Sprinkles

Microwave Quest bar for 10 to 15 seconds. You want it soft enough to form into donut shape. Bake the the bar for 4-7 minutes at 350. While it's baking whip up the icing by combining all ingredients until you have the consistency of icing. Pull the donut out, let cool, apply icing and toppings, devour right away or put in the refrigerator for later. The crushed coconut chips were a great addition. They are addictively delicious but also provided a nice little crunch too.

Approximate Macros: 190-200 calories. 10 Grams Fat. 5 Net Carbs. 25 Grams protein.

Fat Fitness Instructors - An Epidemic in American Gyms

This is like an open letter to fitness instructors, whether you teach a class or are a personal trainer. If you are fat and over weight, please let me know how this is possible. I see you in every gym I go to. You are leading a class, working your butt off, burning hundreds of calories, but yet you are still fat as shit! Do you drive through Dunkin Donuts for your post workout meal? That being 12 jelly filled donuts? Or is it McDonald's and 2 Big Macs with a side of fries and Diet Coke...you know, it's gotta be "diet" because you are a fitness instructor and all. This is a serious question that I have know the answer to. Calories in vs. Calories out. I can tell you are burning hundreds of calories during your classes, so what exactly are you eating in order to pack in that many excess calories in a day?

Secondly, this is for all the people who pay these instructors. Why? Why would you pay for the advice of someone who clearly doesn't practice what the preach? Do you ever question if they even know what they are talking about or are qualified to give you advice? Would you hire a financial advisor on Welfare? Or an anorexic chef? I'm at a loss here and I need your help in understanding.

Finally, one last pet peeve. If you are a personal trainer with a good physique, but are taking more drugs than A-Rod and denying it...you sir are an asshole. You are living a lie and selling an impossible dream to your clients. Just be upfront and honest about it, take a page from Bostin Loyd's book and you will be more respected.

To sum it up...to all the fat fitness instructors and juice head 'bro' personal trainers...take responsibility. Fitness instructors, take responsibility for your diet, just like you do your workouts. Personal trainers on drugs, try educating yourself first, with knowledge you may be able to achieve the physique you want without the drugs. If being a monster is what you want, then by all means juice away. Just don't lie to your clients and lead them to believe they can achieve the same result as you if they take all of your diet and training advice.

The Top 6 Things I hate about Quest Bars

1. The varieties of flavors. Having less choices sure would make life easier when it's that time to purchase a new box.
2. When asked, "What's your favorite flavor". C'mon man, seriously! That's like asking a mother to choose her favorite child.

3. When somebody wants to share. This is my Quest bar and I'm going to enjoy every last crumb. Uggg, the nerve of people! Go get your own!
4. When a newbie who has just discovered Quest bars tries to tell you all about them. I'm like, "Duh! I've been eatin' Quest bars since you were just a twinkle in you're daddy's eye." No really, it's like these people who just discovered the Internet and want to show you every "David the Dentist" video on YouTube. SMH!

5. The last bite. Do I really need to explain this one? It's like the last day of vacation. "Ain't nobody got time for dat."
6. I lied, there's only 5. Top 6 sounded way cooler than top 5. I learned from Buzzfeed. Ever wonder why their list are never perfectly neat numbers like 5, 10, 15, etc? It's because you expect to see top 5, top 10, but not top 6 or top 17.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Quest Bar Sandwich Recipe

Here's an easy recipe for a high protein peanut butter and jelly sandwich. This recipe can be easily modified to be low carb too, just use low carb/sugar free jelly. 

- 1 Peanut Butter Supreme Quest Bar
- Jelly of your choice. I used Organic Grape Jelly

Start by microwaving the Quest Bar so it's soft enough to flatten (about 10 to 20 seconds). Cut in half and form into the shape of bread slices for added visual effect. Bake your Peanut Butter Quest "Bread" slices for about 7 minutes or until brown on bottom. You could actually skip this step and it would still be good. The texture would be chewy as opposed to crispy. Finally, add jelly and enjoy!

Macros: 260 Calories. 10 grams Fat. 34 Grams Carbs (13 Sugars from Jelly). 17 Net Carbs . 20 Gram Protein.

I have some other ideas for Quest Peanut Butter & Jelly sandwiches as well, I just haven't had time to try them yet. One is to use a Quest Peanut Butter and Jelly bar as my 'slices' and fill the middle with real peanut butter and jelly. The other idea is to do the same, but fill the middle with half a Quest Peanut Butter Supreme bar and half a Quest Mixed Berry Bliss bar as my 'jelly'. Both of those bars would be heated to make them gooey and that would make a 100% Quest Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich! Yum!!

You can get $4 off any of the bars listed above by using discount coupon code QUEST. Just click on any Quest bar mentioned above or click here: http://www.704nutrition.com/SearchResults.asp?searching=Y&sort=13&search=Quest+Protein+Bars&show=100&page=1&brand=QUEST

Healthy Pumpkin Roll - Lowcarb, High Protein, High Fiber, Quest Bar Pumpkin Roll Recipe

This recipe was very similar to my Cinnamon Roll Recipe (Link: Quest Bar Cinnamon Roll Recipe). Only 4 main ingredients and super easy. Real pumpkin rolls have the pumpkin flavor in the roll with cream cheese filling, but since I was using a Quest Cinnamon Roll Protein Bar as my 'roll', I made my filling pumpkin flavored. Here's the recipe:

Roll
- 1 Cinnamon Roll Quest Bar

Filling
- 2 Tablespoons whipped cream cheese
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons canned pumpkin
- 1 to 2 Tablespoons Vanilla Protein Powder
- Sprinkle Pecan Pieces (optional)
- Pumpkin Pie Seasoning or Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Ginger to taste

Start by microwaving your Quest Bar to get it soft and moist and easy to roll flat (10 to 15 seconds). Next roll out Quest Bar on parchment paper or well greased foil/baking sheet. Top with pecans if you want (nice touch). Bake for 5 to 6 minutes at 350 degrees. (Baking is also optional. It would work just as well cold. Baking makes the roll crispy. Not baking, the roll would be chewy like they are straight from the package.) For the filling, mix all ingredients to the consistency you desire and taste you desire. You can add sweeteners and as much seasoning as desired. Spread mixture on to roll, carefully roll up and devour!

Macros: 341 Kcal, 28 grams protein, 28 grams carbs/17 grams fiber (net 11 carbs), 13 grams fat

Blog readers get $4 off any flavor Quest Bar at 704Nutrition.com. Just use coupon code "Quest" for your discount at checkout. Here's the link: http://www.704nutrition.com/SearchResults.asp?Search=quest+protein+bar

Healthy Burger - Muscle Building Burger Recipe

People are conditioned to believe that burgers are bad for you mostly because we all believe fast food is unhealthy and most fast food chains serve burgers. So, people associate the two. Burgers can be healthy, as can almost any other food. I've been cooking up healthy hamburgers for a long time. The meat isn't the problem. You can find lean beef, even organic lean beef burgers at almost any grocery store. People say a good burger has to have fat, that's not true in my opinion. Good quality lean beef (93% lean or more) is delicious, even superior to the high fat variety most restaurants opt for in their burgers. The biggest issue I've always ran into was the bun. Sure you can get wheat buns at any grocery store, but flip the package over and read the ingredients list. 30 ingredients, half of which you cannot pronounce but more importantly it's the nutritional profile that sucks! Too many carbs, sugars,  calories, enriched, etc.

After searching high and low, I finally found a bun that meets my perfect macronutrient profile. I was looking for a bun with 100 to 120 calories, that was high in fiber, 20 grams of carbs or less and if possible, high in protein. That latter was more like a dream, or so I thought. Then I came across the dream bun and wah-lah! 120 calories, 16 carbs, 14 grams fiber, 14 grams protein. More than perfect!

I've tried other low carb/high fiber buns and most are either tough or too chewy or taste like sh!t. These taste great and have a pretty good texture (I'd give it an 8 out of 10) but were too big or thick to bite into with the burger and fixins, so the second time I made these (see pic below), I cut the middle portion out which solved my problem and left me with the perfect size bun.

 So, here's the recipe I used:

- 1 low carb bun
- 1 Burger patty (you can use Beef, Bison, Turkey, Chicken, Salmon, etc)
- Lettuce, Pickles, Onions
- Ketchp, Healthy Mayo

The macros for this burger (modified bun plus patty only, condiments and fixins will vary based on your preference) 264 Calories, 12 grams Fat, 12 Carbs, 10 grams Fiber, 27 grams Protein. If you are trying to build lean muscle, that's a perfect balance of macro nutrients to do so. If you are trying to drop some excess pounds, it's perfect for you too. Less than half the calories of a similar portion fast food burger plus the high fiber, high protein and quality fats will keep you full for longer.

Here's the pic...

Now That's a Beautiful Burger!

UPDATE: Here's a pic of another one. This one I used hamburger instead of turkey burger, ketchup and mustard instead of ketchup and mayo, and lastly, white onions instead of red.

High Protein Fruit and Yogurt Parfait

A couple of weeks ago I received a sample of Side Effects Sports' new PRIME Beef Protein Isolate. Much to my surprise, the vanilla flavoring was very sweet and I mean very sweet! The sweet flavoring got my creative juices flowing and I started thinking about the things I had in my refrigerator. So, here's what I came up with. A high protein, low carb, no sugar added, fruit and yogurt parfait. The best part of all is that it literally only takes 2 minutes to whip up. After all, it's nothing more than a protein shake.

Ingredients:
- 1 Scoop Vanilla Flavored Protein Shake (You can use Whey, Casein, Beef or any combination, just make sure it has a good sweet flavor)
- Milk (Optional. You can use water, Soy, Almond, Etc)
- 2 Strawberries
- 2 Tablespoons No Sugar Added Blueberry Syrup or Jelly
- 2 Teaspoons Whipped Cream Cheese
- 1 Teaspoon Pecan Pieces

Start by mixing your vanilla protein powder with a tiny bit of milk and cream cheese. The idea is get a thick pudding like mixture. Once you get the consistency of 'Yogurt' set aside. Place 2 diced strawberries in your parfait cup and mash with spoon until it looks like a blob of juicy goodness. You can even microwave for a few seconds at the start. Next spoon in about half of your protein mixture on top of the strawberries. Now for the next layer, add your blueberry mixture whether it's actual blueberries or syrup or jelly or a combination is up to you. Finally, add the remaining protein mix for the final layer and then top with your favorite crushed up nuts (or granola if you have it).

Next time you get bored with your protein shake, try this simple, yet effect spin on the traditional protein shake. If you're anything like me, you probably get all kinds of snide remarks from co-workers when you carry around a regular protein shake. Especially when it includes blueberries. I guess blended up blueberry pieces don't look all that appealing in my protein shakes. If that's the case you definitely want to do like I did and make this in a glass cup so you can come waltzing in to work like da boss while everybody envies your fruit and yogurt parfait. (You 'mirin brah?).

Macros: 200K/Cal, 30g Protein, 6g Carbs, 1g Fiber, 6.5g Fat

Links: http://www.704nutrition.com/Cheap-Side-Effect-Sports-Prime-Protein-p/ses_prime_beef_2.htm

Quest Bar Cinnamon Roll Recipe - Healthy, High protein Low carb Cinnamon Rolls

It's been over 10 years since I've eaten a 'real' cinnamon roll, but from what I can remember these tasted exactly like the real thing..minus all the sugar and saturated fat of course! If you read other people's reviews online for the Quest Bar Cinnamon Roll, a lot of them claim they taste just like a cinnamon roll and that's just the bar itself. So, imagine cooking one with added protein icing for a warm, gooey, sweet, think-your-cheating-but-you're-not, healthy, high protein low carb snack!

Ingredients:

1 x Quest Bar Natural Cinnamon Roll Flavor
3 x Teaspoons Greek Yogurt/Cream Cheese Blend (could just use one or the other)
1 x Dash of Cinnamon
1/2 x scoop of Vanilla Whey Protein Powder

First you'll want to prepare the icing. I recommend using a shot glass like in the picture because it makes it easier to blend the Whey Protein Powder with the thickness of the Yogurt/Cream Cheese blend. You might also need to add a drop or two of milk or water to get it to your preferred consistency. Top with cinnamon for added flavor and set to side.

Now, it's time to get your roll on!

First, heat up the Quest bar in the microwave for 10 to 12 seconds. I rotate 4 times so it heats evenly. Yes, that's 3 seconds per side. DO NOT HEAT FOR ANY LONGER THAN 12 SECONDS. These things will burn up quick. Next, spread the bar out on a cooking sheet sprayed with PAM.

Place in oven on 300* and cook for 3 minutes. Remove from oven and add icing, cut into 2 long strips and roll them up making 2 cinnamon rolls. If you have any icing left over, you can coat the tops of the rolls. Finally, devour!

 

Macros: 270kcal, 30g Protein, 28g Carbs/17g Fiber (net 9 carbs), 9g Fat

Links: 

- Quest Natural Cinnamon Roll Protein Bar: http://www.704nutrition.com/Quest-Protein-Bar-Cinnamon-Roll-p/6340010.htm
- BSN's Syntha 6 Isolate Vanilla Ice Cream: http://www.704nutrition.com/BSN-Syntha-6-Isolate-Reviews-p/syntha-6-isolate.htm
- Other Vanilla Whey Proteins that could be used: http://www.704nutrition.com/SearchResults.asp?Search=vanilla+whey

Healthy, yet flavorful meal ideas

People are always under the misconception that living a healthy lifestyle requires major sacrifices, especially when it comes to their diet. If you've read any of the last several blog posts you'll see recipes that prove quite the contrary. It takes a little creativity and different way of thinking, but it's very easy if you just try. Here are some recent meals I've thrown together, maybe these will help get your creative juices flowing.

High protein bagel sandwhich using P28's high protein bagels. The meat is Boar's Head low sodium turkey breast with lettuce and hot banana peppers added. There may be some mustard on there too (can't remember).

Next is a spinach salad topped with strawberries and toasted pecans. Dressing used was an olive oil based raspberry vinaigrette. My favorite salad to make! You can use green leaf lettuce instead of the spinach. I switch back and forth between the two. 

 

High protein pizza anyone? Here's a high protein pizza using P28's high protein flat bread (made with whey protein isolate). I added a little bit of organic pizza sauce on top, with banana peppers, baby spinach and a hint of mozzarella cheese (just enough to add flavor). It turned out awesome! Hard to believe it was probably under 350 calories and had 30+ grams of protein.

Finally, a quick and easy high protein snack. I wanted an apple but needed protein, so I decided to make a whey protein yogurt dip. I mixed vanilla whey protein with a little cream cheese or cottage cheese and a dash of stevia for added sweetness. It was better than expected! 

Healthy Peanut Butter Cup Recipe - High Protein, Low Carb, Clean Cheating!

This might be the easiest recipe yet and while the pictures didn't turn out as well as I had hoped, the flavor did. These are absolutely NOM, NOM!

Only 2 Ingredients:
1 x Scoop Dymatize Elite Casein Chocolate Peanut Butter
2 x Teaspoons Organic Creamy Peanut Butter

First, it should be noted that I drain all the oil off my peanut butter and refrigerate in order to make it hard and dry (don't judge, that's how I like it).

Mix the Dymatize Elite Casein protein powder with 1/4 cup of water. Add water to desired consistency. It should be very thick. The drier, the better. Next, put 1 layer of protein mix on the bottom of your cup. Then add 1 teaspoon of peanut butter on top and then cover with the rest of the protein mix. Finally, place in freezer until it's as hard as you want it. Remove from freezer and enjoy!

If you freeze it for too long, just set it out until it thaws to the consistency you want.

 

BOOM! So easy and caveman (with a freezer) could do it!

Approximate Macros: 225Kcals, 27.5g Protein,  6 Carbs (1g Fiber), 10g Fat

Links:
- Dymatize Elite Casein 4lbs - http://www.704nutrition.com/Dymatize-Nutrition-Elite-Casein-Peanut-Butter-p/2060383.htm
- Dymatize Elite Casein 2lbs - http://www.704nutrition.com/Dymatize-Nutrition-Elite-Casein-Peanut-Butter-p/2060382.htm

High Protein, Low Carb Berrydelicious Cheesecake Muffin Recipe

I came across this blog post the other day (Quest Very Berry Cheesecake Recipe) and immediatly thought to myself that I have the exact opposite ingredients on hand and I could make my own version. She used a Quest Strawberry protein bar with raspberrry filling, I used a Quest Raspberry Bar with strawberry filling. Also, instead of using a whipped type of topping, I made 'protein' ice cream for mine. Here's my recipe:

CRUST:
1 White Chocolate Raspberry Quest Protein Bar

BERRY FILLING:
• 2 tablespoons liquid egg white
• 1 tablespoons nonfat cottage cheese
• 2 tablespoons vanilla protein powder (I used this: BSN Syntha 6 Isolate Vanilla Ice Cream)
• 1 packet of Stevia
• 3 strawberries (1 reserved for topping/garnish)

VANILLA ICE CREAM TOPPING: 
• 1 tablespoon whipped cottage cheese
• 1 tablespoon BSN Vanilla Ice Cream flavored Whey Protein
• Vanilla Soy Milk 

Directions:
Make your ice cream a head of time so that it's ready when the muffins are done. Mix all ice cream ingredients together to desired consistency in a flat surfaced Tupperware container. The flatter the suffurace area, the quicker the mix will freeze. Check every 10 mins and stir. NOTE: the mixture was very sweet before freezing, so I did not opt to add Stevia or other sweetener. However, it lost a lot of it's sweetness during the freezing process so next time I will add in some sweetener either before freezing or during the stir/freeze process or both.

Preheat oven to 350. Spray 3 mini muffin cups with cooking spray. (I used paper muffin cups, but next time will use a pan because some of my muffin stuck to the paper) Sprinkle pan cups with a little Stevia or other no calorie granulated sugar. Microwave your bar for 10 seconds. Add a little drop or two of water first to help retain the moisture. You'll need the bars to be moist so that you can form them into the crust. Chop into 3 equal pieces, flatten and press into and up the sides of 3 mini muffin cups. Toss all filling ingredients into a mini blender, or mix with a spoon in a coffee cup as I did. Blend until smooth, about 1 minute. Spoon filling into your cups. Bake for 10 minutes, or until center is set but not hard. Let cool, add ice cream topping and garnish with a sprinkle of Stevia and strawberry. NOTE: You may want to rub the top of the crust with olive oil to prevent it from burning in case your filling mixture needs to cook longer than anticipated.

Final Product:

Macros: 295 Kcals, 33 grams Protein, 37 grams Carbs (19 of which is Fiber). 

Macros based on product's nutritional facts, which don't add up.

Links to product used:

• Quest Nutrition White Chocolate Raspberry Protein Bars: http://www.704nutrition.com/Quest-White-Chocolate-Raspberry-Protein-Bar-p/quest_white_chocolate.htm
• BSN Syntha 6 Isolate Protein Powder: http://www.704nutrition.com/BSN-Syntha-6-Isolate-Reviews-p/syntha-6-isolate.htm 

For my readers, if you don't know about Quest bars they are high in protein, fiber and quality fats with no added sugar. They only use high quality bio-available proteins, ingredients you know and understand, and are Gluten free. If you want to try a box, use coupon code 'QUEST' to get $4 off any flavor. Here's the link: http://www.704nutrition.com/SearchResults.asp?searching=Y&sort=13&search=quest+protein&show=100&page=1&brand=QUEST

High Protein/Low Carb Blueberry Pancakes - Using Dymatize Elite XT Protein Powder

Here's a quick and delicious high protein, low carb blueberry pancake recipe using Dymatize Nutrition's Elite XT protein powder. I used the Blueberry Muffin flavor, but I'm sure any other flavor would be delicious too. It comes in Banana Nut, Rich Chocolate, Rich Vanilla, and Fudge Brownie. (Ummm, Banana Nut and Fudge Brownie pancakes sound devilish).

Ingredients:

Pancake:
1 scoop Dymatize Blueberry Muffin Elite XT - Extended Release Protein Powder
3 egg whites
Pam cooking spray
Baking powder (optional for added fluff)
Water (optional, depending on batter consistency)

Topping:
1/2 cup of Blueberries
Sugar Free Blueberry Syrup

Directions:

Mix all pancake ingredients, except Pam Cooking Spray, in a shaker bottle. Shaker bottles are simple, quick, easy to clean and perfect for pouring the batter into the pan. Meanwhile heat your pan over med to med/high heat. Once hot, spray liberally with PAM, then pour 1/3 of the batter into pan. Flip as soon as the bottom of the pancake is hard enough to flip. Once flipped, it will literally only take a second or two for that side of pancake to cook. (I actually skip this step as it will harden while cooling). Repeat 2 more times, making sure to apply more PAM each time. Batter should make 3 pancakes in 8 inch pan. In the picture I used 6 egg whites and 1 1/2 scoops of protein powder to make 3 pancakes in a 10 inch pan.

Cover with Sugar Free Blueberry Syrup for the low carbers. Or cover with Blueberry Compote if you're not too worried about carbs.

Compote Directions:
Place 1/2 cup of blueberries in your pan while still hot, turn to high for quicker cooking. Stir consistently. Add PAM if needed. Cook until desired consistency. Pour over pancake stack.

Option: I put the Sugar Free Syrup between each layer of pancake then top the stack with the blueberry compote.

Macros: 170 KCals, 4 Fat grams, 27 grams Protein, 7 Carbs (2 of which is Fiber). Does not include Syrup or Blueberries.

The Dymatize Elite XT protein powder is currently on sale now at 704Nutrition.com. You can get the large 4lb tubs for only $31.57. That's the price of most 2lbs tubs. Each 4lb tub comes with 60+ servings. Here are the links:

• Elite XT Blueberry Muffin: http://www.704nutrition.com/Cheap-Dymatize-Elite-XT-Extended-Release-p/2060315.htm
• Elite XT Banana Nut: http://www.704nutrition.com/Dymatize-Nutrition-Elite-p/2060313.htm 
• Elite XT Rich Chocolate: http://www.704nutrition.com/Dymatize-Nutrition-Elite-p/2060319.htm 
• Elite XT Rich Vanilla: http://www.704nutrition.com/Dymatize-Nutrition-Elite-p/2060321.htm 
• Elite XT Fudge Brownie: http://www.704nutrition.com/Dymatize-Nutrition-Elite-p/2060317.htm

Intra-Workouts: Legitimate Product Category or Marketing Scam?

I'll be the first to admit that I used to think the 'Intra-Workout' wasn't needed in an athlete's supplement stack, and while that is still partially true in some cases, it definitely isn't the case in others. Let me explain.

Scenario 1: Your training is quick, you're in and out of the gym in 45 minutes.
Scenario 2: You're bulking, so your diet is supplying you with plenty of sustained energy and amino acids to power you through your workout.

In these two scenarios an Intra Workout really isn't needed (not that it couldn't be beneficial). In scenario 1 your training time is so quick your pre-workout meal should be enough to get you through the workout. In scenario 2 the amount of food you're taking in throughout the day should supply you with plenty of energy to withstand a workout of 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your intensity. So, when is an Intra-Workout needed? During contest prep, photo shoot prep, beach vacation prep or any other scenario when you are dieting hard.

I'm currently in the midst of a show prep in which I've been dieting hard for weeks and weeks on end. So, with calories extremely restricted and workout intensity at an all time high (trying to maintain as much muscle mass as possible), energy levels are at an all time low. Not to mention hunger! The Intra-Workout is the only way I'm able to blast through a hard training session. Intra-Workouts supply you with much needed Branch Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) to maximize muscle protein synthesis, Glutamine to help with recovery and Electrolytes, vitamin B6, Citrulline Malate to help you sustain your training intensity for longer periods of time, thus prolonging your workouts and preventing muscle degradation. So, what are some quality Intra-Workouts?

• Scivation Xtend - No blog on Intra-Workouts would be complete without mentioning the pioneer of the Intra-Workout category. Scivation Xtend provides 3500mg L-Leucine, 7000mg BCAAs, 2,500mg of L-Glutamine plus Citrulline Malate and Electrolytes.
• Dymatize Recoup - Dymatize basically copied the Xtend formula but added a little extra to each key ingredient mentioned above. Recoup provides 4000mg L-Leucine, 7,200mg BCAAs, 3,000mg of L-Glutamine. As they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery!
• iForce Compete - iForce Compete is a little different then the two mentioned above. It features ingredients that will help you with the mental exhaustion that comes with hard training in a calorie deficient state. It features ingredients like Rhodiola Rosea Extract and Vinpocetine that helps force blood to your brain, thus helping you stay focused throughout your entire training session. Another key ingredient is L-Carnitine, which forces your body to use fatty acids for energy. While it doesn't have Glutamine, it does come with Citrulline Malate and you'll get your BCAA's from the 2.5grams of Whey Hydrosolate in it.

My personal review of the 3 mentioned above: Scivation's Xtend tastes a lot better than Dymatize's Recoup, but as mentioned above you do get more active ingredients with the Recoup. I recommend trying them both, then settling for the one that tastes the best. The biggest difference I have noticed between the Xtend/Recoup and the iForce Compete is the lack of mental exhaustion. I don't get physically exhausted on the Xtend or Recoup, but I do hit a mental wall towards the end of my workouts. However, that's NOT the case with the Compete. I feel great throughout my entire workout and it's very noticable. I do wish Compete had Glutamine, but I add my own Glutamine when taking it. Also, I have to mentioned the flavor. I've tried Lemon Drop, Tangy Tangerine, and Fruit Punch Slam and all three are phenomenal! Seriously, how can they taste that good! I only have a few servings left and I'm already getting depressed!

If you want to try one of these products remember 704Nutrition.com is home of the no hassle return policy, so you can try one and if you don't like it, return it!

Useful links:
Scivation Xtend: http://www.704nutrition.com/SearchResults.asp?Search=scivation+xtend 
Dymatize Recoup: http://www.704nutrition.com/SearchResults.asp?Search=dymatize+recoup
iForce Compete: http://www.704nutrition.com/Cheap-iForce-Compete-Intra-Workout-BCAA-p/iforce_compete.htm

Pistachios, are they really that wonderful?

By now you've all seen the 'Get Crackin' pistachio commercials and you've probably noticed the influx of pistachios lining your grocery store's isles. But how do they stack up to other popular nuts, such as peanuts and almonds?

When comparing the nutritional profiles of all three, they pretty much have identical amounts of calories, fats, carbs, and protein per serving. But pistachios are much higher in potassium (310mgs) compared to almonds (210mgs) and peanuts (180mgs).

Beyond the label

To see the real nutritional value of pistachios, we have to look beyond what's on the label. Pistachios are high in phytosterols. Phytosterols help fight bad cholesterol and remove it from the body, all while having no effect on your good HDL cholesterol. Pistachios are also an excellent source of Vitamin B6, copper and manganese. More importantly, pistachios are high in something else...antioxidants! The USDA compared over 100 different foods and classified pistachios in the group with the highest antioxidant capacity. Antioxidants are extremely important because they help fight free radicals in our bodies.

Conclusion:

Get to crackin'! I've found pistachios to be a wonderful (yeah I said it) addition to my diet. They taste great and are fun to eat. Make sure to get the unsalted kind and never buy them unshelled. Cracking them prolongs the eating process allowing you to reduce your caloric intake without restricting your calorie intake, a process known as the "pistachio principle".

Lean Mass Routine for the Natural Athlete and Bodybuilder

I've been asked to post a mass building routine, but before I get started let's clear up one of bodybuilding's biggest myths. There's no such thing as a bulking routine or a cutting routine. Your diet controls whether you are bulking or cutting as well as your cardio. I know I'm going to get some arguments here, but the fact is we are all trying to BUILD muscle. In order to build muscle, you have to lift heavy ass weight, period! Yes, there is a place for high rep routines (aka cutting routines), but for the most part you are going to have to lift heavy weight in order make lean muscle gains. This was the biggest lesson I learned in 2012.

As some of you know, I did an experiment in 2012. I tried to "cut" down while maintaining as much lean muscle mass as possible. I lost 30 pounds of fat, maintained almost all of my muscle and was stronger than I have ever been. How do I know? Besides posting many PR's throughout the year, I had people asking me at the gym, "Damn son, how much weight have you gained? You're getting swole!". Well sir, I've actually lost 30lbs! Boom!

The follow routine is one I've been using on and off for years. It's my bread and butter. My security blanky. The one routine I know I can always go back to for results.

Monday:

Chest/Biceps
- 5 x 5 Flat Bench Press
- 4 x 6 Incline Dumbell Press
- 3 x 8 Cable Flys
- 5 x 5 Flat Bar Curls
- 3 x 8 Preacher Machine Curls

Tuesday:

Legs:
- 5 x 5 Squats
- 4 x 6 Leg Press
- 3 x 8 Leg Extensions
- 5 x 5 Lying Leg Curls
- 3 x 8 1 Leg Curls or Seated Machine Curls
- 5 x 5 Smith Machine Calf Raises
- 4 x 6 Seated Calf Machine
- 3 x 8 Leg Press Machine for Calves
*Notes: This is the longest day, you can cut calves and do them on another day if you'd like or you can cut one hamstring exercise from the routine.

Wednesday:
Rest

Thursday:

Shoulders/Triceps
- 5 x 5 Seated Dumbbell Presses
- 4 x 6 Side Dumbbell Laterals or Delt Machine
- 3 x 8 Front Cable Raises
- 5 x 5 Dips
- 4 x 6 Smith Machine Inner Grip Presses or Skull Crushers
- 3 x 8 Cable Pushdowns

Friday:

Back/Traps
- 5 x 5 Deadlifts or Stiff Leg Deadlifts
- 4 x 6 Bentover Rows or T-Bar Rows
- 3 x 8 Pulldowns
- 5 x 5 Shrugs
- 4 x 6 Shrug Machine or DB Shrugs
- 3 x 8 Upright Rows (DB, Barbell, Smith Mach, or Cable Mach)

* 5 x 5 means 5 sets of 5 reps. 

Increase weight each set. Exercises can vary, but rep range should stay consistent. You should keep a log or journal so you can track your progress. Every week you should be lifting a little more weight.
Each day focuses on a compound movement, followed by another somewhat compound movement, followed by an isolation movement.

Why didn't I think of that?

While we are always trying to source great products for you, sometimes we come across a product that is so good we feel compelled to share it with you. Today that product is PB2 Peanut Butter Powder by Bell Plantation. It's simple, all natural and has many uses (see recipe below). Reducing the peanut into a powder means 85% less fat calories than traditional peanut butter. No additives. All natural. How it's made? Superior quality peanuts are first slow roasted then pressed to remove the fat and oil. The result is an exquisitely natural roasted peanut butter flavor that's deliciously rich in taste, easy to enjoy and wonderfully healthy.

Achieving great things with the humble peanut

Peanut butter has always been a staple for the health conscious and physically active. But even peanut butter can be improved. PB2 reduces fat through a chemical-free process. Like all Bell Plantation products, PB2 and Chocolate PB2 are all natural, preservative free, and contain no artificial sweeteners. And that makes them a sweet alternative for active lifestyles, dieters, and moms who want healthy snacks for their kids.

Recipe:
I mixed one scoop of Dymatize Chocolate Peanut Butter Casein protein with 2 tbsp of PB2 Peanut Butter in about 4 to 6 ounces of water and wham! Reese's Cup pudding in a glass. This stuff is to die for!

Want to make a peanut butter? It's easy. Just mix 2 tbsp of PB2 Peanut Butter with water or milk and and Wah-lah, you have peanut butter without the fat and oil! Each serving only has 45 calories, 2 grams of fat (0 Saturated), and 5 grams of protein when mixed with water.

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The Giant Drop Set Routine

I've been bodybuilding for 10 years and have used a bunch of different routines. Typically a workout will consist of 3 exercises per body part and the rep range will vary depending on what the ultimate goal is. (I'm usually spent after doing 3 exercises of 4 sets.) I also have a high volume routine that I do once or twice every 4 to 6 weeks. It's a high intensity, no rest, very light weight routine. I do about 5 different exercises with this one.
While I feel like I build more muscle with my standard 3 exercise workout, I like the fact that I get to hit a muscle group 5 different ways when doing the high volume routine.  So, this leads me to an idea for a new routine, one I'm calling the Giant Drop Set routine.
 
Here's the idea: do 5 to 6 exercises, but only do 1 giant drop set per exercise. This will allow you to lift heavy weight, plus do a larger volume of exercises all without over training. You kill two birds with one stone, so it's the best of both worlds.
 
Here's an example, let's use chest:
1. Bench - 315lbs x till failure, 275 x till failure, 225 x till failure
2. Incline DB Press - 100lbs x till failure, 80 x till failure, 60 x till failure
3. Flat DB Flys - 40lbs x till failure, 30 x till failure, 20 x till failure
4. Machine Press - 275lbs x till failure, 250 x till failure, 225 x till failure
5. Cable Crossovers - 60lbs x till failure, 45 x till failure, 30 x till failure
*You should select a weight that you can only get 4 to 7 reps before failure. This will ensure you are lifting heavy.

While it looks like it's 15 sets, it's actually only 5 drop sets. And more importantly, both this routine and my typical heavy routine have the same amount of total reps per body part. Here's a comparison:

Typical Routine:
1. Incline Press: 5 sets of 5 reps
2. Flat Dumbbell Press: 4 sets of 6 reps
3. Cable Crossovers: 3 sets of 8 reps
Total: roughly 75 reps, give or take depending on failure

Giant Rep Routine:
If you did 5 reps till failure, that's exactly 75 reps. (see above example for chest)


Results: I'm currently on my second week of doing this routine and I love it. I've gained about 5 pounds according to the scale, with no body fat gain according to the mirror ;). Something else I've noticed is that my pumps are much better because each body part is getting hit from all of the different angles.
This is not a routine you should be flying through. Remember, as a bodybuilder you don't want your heart rate up high, especially over an extended period of time. So, do your first set, recover and then move on to the next exercise.

Here's my split:

Monday:
Hamstrings: 3 exercises
Quads: 6 exercises

Tuesday:
Chest: 5 exercises
Triceps: 4 exercises

Wed: Cardio

Thursday:
Back: 6 exercises (1 set deadlift, 5 exercises of lats/rhomboids)
Traps: 3 exercises (you hit these with deadlifts too, so it doesn't take much to exhaust them)

Friday: Active Rest with Calves (up to 4 exercises)

Saturday:
Shoulders: 5 exercises
Biceps: 4 exercises

It's always good to change your routine because you always want to keep your muscles guessing what's coming next. This is how you grow your muscles. So, if you're bored with your routine or have hit a plateau, give this one a shot and let us know how it worked for you.

Silk Amino Acids - The Next Big Breakthrough?

Silk Amino Acids, or SAAs for short, are a very specific amino acid sequence - a chain of more than eighteen specific amino acids, and five in particular researchers found to be the greatest of importance. These five in a precise sequence and precise ratio seem to show optimum pro-anabolic results.  According to study on mice, scientist say silk amino acids improve physical stamina and male reproductive function. They concluded that "exercise decreased the blood testosterone level, which was recovered by SAA, leading to enhanced sperm counts. These combined results indicate that SAA not only enhances physical stamina by minimizing damage to tissues, including muscles, as well as preventing energy depletion caused by swimming stress, but also improves male reproductive function by increasing testosterone and sperm counts."*

One new innovative brand, EXT Sports, has released the first silk amino acid supplement called CHAIN. From EXT Sports:

Absolutely, the highest standard amino acid supplement! It's called CHAIN and represents the next monumental step forward in the 'perfect protein' for enhanced muscle, endurance, and recovery!

By now, you've heard about Silk Amino Acids (SAAs, for short). They are the remarkable and innovative amino acid sequence - a chain of eighteen plus specific amino acids, and five in particular that in a precise sequence and precise ratio form a protein like never before. So powerful, so potent, so perfect for metabolization that they make the beloved BCAA seem more outdated than disco.

CHAIN contains the five key Silk Amino Acids in the exact and precise sequence and ratios, in clinical dosing...but, it doesn't stop with the remarkable Silk Amino Acids - CHAIN also contains cutting edge Magnesium Glycyl Glutamine (magnesium bound chelated glutamine for unrivaled reslts).

Glutamine - that well established amino acid that is so important it's encoded within the human genetic code. Like everything else about CHAIN, the Glutamine used is light years ahead of its predecessors. CHAIN contains the only stabalized form of Glutamine - a compound called 'Magnesium Glycyl Glutamine.' Now, the promise of Glutamine can be fully realized for restoring plasma Glutamine levels, protecting Glutamine reserves, sparing lean muscle mass...AND, putting you in an anabolic state, even after strenuous exercises!

STRENGTH, RECOVERY, ENDURANCE!
CHAIN doesn't stop with the best-of-the-best Silk Amino Acids and Magnesium Glycyl Glutamine, it contains Beta-Alanine, too! CHAIN utilizes the Japanese pharma-grade Beta Alanine under the CarnoSyn worldwide patented brand. Beta-Alanine is clinically imporatant for buffering hydrogen ions, delaying onset of fatgiue, and increasing workout duration and capacity. CarnoSyn has also been researched and shown to speed recovery and increase strenght!

Link to EXT Sports CHAIN Silk Amino Acids: http://www.704nutrition.com/SearchResults.asp?Search=Ext+Sports+CHAIN

These statements have not been evaluated by the Foodand Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

*http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20118552

Breakfast of Champions

I always get asked about my diet, what I eat, when I eat,  and how much I eat.  When I get to the part about 8 eggs for breakfast, I get the deer-in-the-headlights look or a gasp of air in surprise (or disgust?). It never fails! I typically go on to explain that it's 8 egg whites and only 1 yoke, to which they ask: "how do you do that?" So here it goes:
 
How to cook an egg using 8 egg whites and 1 yoke. I add lots of spinach because I'm currently restricting carbs and I need all the digestion help I can get, plus it's an easy way to add greens to your diet.

Step one: Crack and separate 7 egg whites from the yoke. I use a glass, it's much easier than an bowl.

2 eggs were used from previous carton

Step 2: Place skillet on burner, add spinach  (I start burner on high heat and adjust accordingly). You don't have to let the spinach cook at this point. I move to step 3 immediately.

 

Step 3: Pour cup of 7 egg whites into skillet, then add the one full egg on top

Step 4: Cook for approximately 2 minutes, then carefully flip the egg over without breaking the yoke. Tip: Use a spatula, you're not a food ninja.

Cook face down for approximately 1 minute.

Step 5: Place egg on plate and serve. Flip the skillet over and the egg will drop out onto the plate just like when cooking a regular size egg.

Level of difficulty: EASY

Time from start to finish: 5 minutes

The Owners Stack

I always get asked about what products I take and why. The products I take will vary depending on what type of training I'm doing and the desired results, but I figured I would blog about my current stack and hopefully keep you up-to-date as the stack changes.

I am currently focused on cutting fat with the ultimate goal of being in 'stage' shape. Measurements are purely visual with me being the only judge. There is no magic weight or pant size, I'm just judging by looks. So, with that said, here's my current stack and why I'm taking each:

Met Max- I do one gourmet protein shake a day. By my definition of gourmet shake, I mean a meal replacement powder combined with fruit and milk/water. I chose Met Max as my meal replacement because it has everything you need to build muscle. Since I'm focused on cutting and my diet is very lean, I figure I need everything else in my routine to positively benefit muscle growth while simultaneously preventing muscle wasting or loss. Met Max includes Protein; Creatine; L-Arginine; L-Glutamine; Vanadyl (although they just released the new formula and it has a lot less than the old formula); L-Carnitine; BCAA's

Link to Met Max by Champion Nutrition: http://www.704nutrition.com/Champion-Nutrition-Met-Ma-p/050020.htm 

NO Shotgun- I still prefer NO Shotgun over other pre-workouts because of the quaility of ingredients and end results. It doesn't have a ton of stimulants, which are popular now amongst pre-workout powders, however the ingredient profile is far superior. It contains everything for nitric oxide, to creatine, and even 18 grams of protein per serving. It also supplies you with quality Branch Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs).

Link to NO Shotgun by VPX: http://www.704nutrition.com/VPX-NO-Shotgun-MHF-1-Gr-p/840178.htm

Kre-Alkalyn Creatine Capsules- I knew that in order to sustain muscle mass I really needed creatine. Kre-Alkalyn creatine is ph correct. It's the worlds only creatine that doesn't lose potency before reaching the muscle. It remains 100% stable and at full strength as it reaches the muscle cells. This means NO BLOATING. A 'no bloat' creatine you ask? Yes, sign me up! I can say this stuff works exactly as advertised. I'm stronger than I have ever been all while being leaner that I have ever been.

Link to Kre-Alkalyn Creatine by EFX: http://www.704nutrition.com/EFX-Kre-Alkalyn-EFX-24-p/5260009.htm

Proto Whey: Whey protein is the staple of any weightlifter's stack. I chose Proto Whey by BNRG because I wanted a hydrolyzed whey protein, the purest whey protein available. While reading up on some reviews, people claimed they felt more anabolic on this stuff and being skeptical I had to try it myself. Not only was I pleasantly surprised, but the taste was awesome to boot. Hydrolyzed proteins are not very flavorful by nature (because of the purification process they go through), however Proto Whey's taste is off the charts good and to add icing to the cake, it has 5.7 grams of BCAAs.

Link to Proto Whey by BNRG: http://www.704nutrition.com/BNRG-Proto-Whey-Strawbe-p/2860030.htm

Gold Standard 100% Casein Protein: This is the one product I don't think I could do without. Casein protein is a slow digesting protein, ideal for bedtime where delayed digestion and absorption is needed due to prolonged periods of not eating. I used to wake up in the middle of the night due to hunger pains and feeling like I was starving to death. With a casein shake (or should I say pudding) before bed, I stay in an anabolic state throughout the night, plus I don't add unnecessary calories to my diet during late night binges. If you are seriously strict with our diet, go with the Gold Standard 100% Natural casein. If not, try the different flavors available in the regular form.

Link to Gold Standard 100% Casein Protein by Optimum Nutrition: http://www.704nutrition.com/Optimum-Nutrition-Gold-St-p/2730372.htm

Muscle Candy - Glutamine Chewies: I have not changed the way I workout (no light weight, high rep crap), if anything I have focused more on maintaining muscle size than ever before. Normally people say to use light weight and high reps with cutting, however I have never found this to work. Being on a restricted diet, my muscles get less fuel from food, so recovery from workouts is harder. Thus the need to supplement with Glutamine. I find the chewies to be a nice substitute to powder, plus they are more convenient. I keep them in my car and eat them as needed. Oh, did I mention they really are like eating candy. Cool, huh?

Link to Muscle Candy - Glutamine Chewies by Betancourt Nutrition: http://www.704nutrition.com/Betancourt-Nutrition-Chew-p/4270063.htm 

Here's what the stack looks like:

It should also be mentioned that I take a daily fish oil supplement and that I just finished taking Englutarade by Betancourt Nutrition: http://www.704nutrition.com/Betancourt-Nutrition-Engl-p/4270067.htm. Englutarade was my glutamine supplement before switching to the chewies. My fish oil supplement of choice is the PFO Fish Oil capsules made by Health From the Sun: http://www.704nutrition.com/Health-From-The-Sun-PFO-P-p/900101.htm