The number one goal everyone speaks about is weight loss.
That’s where the story shifts into never-never land. Eat more protein; eat less protein; cut carbs out; eat only carbs; eat no fat; eat lots of fat; eat only natural sugar; eat no sugar, and on and on. It’s truly a merry-go-round of information or misinformation. So, where do we get on or off the merry-go-round?
The truth is, it’s possible to find an “expert” on every corner who will tout any and all types of diets as being the perfect plan for a healthy body. From grapefruit and eggs, to low carb and high protein plans, to alcohol being acceptable, or that sugar isn’t really that bad, it’s difficult to trust anything or anyone.
Years ago, Morter HealthSystem began a journey to better understand the mechanics of not just healthy weight loss, but also to discover a healthy dietary plan, which is doable and long lasting. And, our research and discoveries led us to body chemistry and pH as being the keys to healthy living and healthy weight loss. Our research results surprised us as much as anyone when it came down to what exactly we all should be eating.
When authors who have sold millions of books tout Dr. M.T. Morter Jr., the founder of Morter HealthSystem, as deserving the Nobel Prize for his work on pH, it certainly deserves attention. As it turns out, pH is not only the key to a healthy balanced body, but an absolute must in the challenge to lose weight. Fat is burned most efficiently in an alkaline environment, a slightly alkaline pH. The alkaline minerals play an integral role in this important metabolic process.
The secret is how to burn the fat while feeling good, avoiding headaches, having ample energy and mental clarity during the process. And, the key to this is a proprietary blend of carefully selected powders providing the minerals and supporting elements necessary to burn fat in an alkaline environment. There was nothing like this available here in the USA, to our knowledge and research, so we had to look to the other side of the planet to find the necessary elements to complete our Alka·Slim® formulation. We were able to discover the exact formulation and portions of various products, some of which are only grown in the nearly inaccessible mountains of the Far East, and when blended together in exact scientific proportions have proven to deliver on our knowledge of exactly what it takes to lose weight the healthy and alkaline way.
Our research into the formulation of Alka·Slim®, now with over 25 years in production, confirms the chemistry behind alkalizing the body and losing weight as being the secret to success. Formulating the exact and proprietary blend of the multitude of vitamins and minerals, which are required for a healthy weight loss, has taken us around the world and back to bring this product to you now.
In the following information, many rumors and false beliefs about healthy eating, weight loss and feeling good the healthy way will be exposed. Each of the ingredients (listed in bold type) in Alka·Slim® will be addressed, and the rationale for their inclusion in the proprietary blend of this amazing alkalizing/weight loss meal replacement drink.
How much protein is enough? — the Protein Paradox
That’s the first question we usually get. And, when we answer that our product is a low protein shake with only 9 grams per serving and that it’s from a plant source, the eyebrows always go up with concern. Sadly, we’ve been lead to believe we need copious amounts of protein in our diet to be healthy, and yet research proves a much different scenario. As we approach the 45-60 gm/day level of protein consumption – about the amount of protein in a single chicken breast – we begin to leach our bodies of necessary minerals to process that excess protein. And, we need these minerals to not just survive, but also to thrive. Amino acids are the building blocks our bodies use to make proteins. Methionine is an amino acid found in meat, fish, and dairy products, and it plays an important role in many cell functions. Building healthy protein is a major key to healthy weight loss and overall health, but the trick is to not overdo it. Sure, you can lose weight on a high protein diet, however you may ultimately pay the price with loss of health down the road. Why take that chance with your health?
What about alkaline minerals?
Alka·Slim® has been clinically researched for decades, and the results speak for themselves. Healthy weight loss can happen when we absorb the proper balance of alkaline minerals, naturally contained in plants. Pea protein, combined with mineral-rich barley and spirulina in exact proportion is how nature intended you to thrive. The plant’s job is to convert the hard minerals from the ground, through the miracle of photosynthesis, into absorbable form. Based on years of clinical research, this is the perfect low-stress and bio-available source of minerals we have ever found. For centuries, the Arabs knew of the miraculous properties of green grasses like Alfalfa. Loaded with powerful enzymes and (if unheated) bio available for a nutrient and mineral-dense supplementation, it helped their horses to maintain swiftness and strength – they named the plant “Al-fal-fa” meaning “father of all foods.” Also, Barley Malt is produced from carefully and succinctly fermented 100% barley grain, which is a powerful body alkalizer.
Pea protein powder is among the most hypoallergenic of all protein powders, as it contains no gluten or dairy. It also doesn’t cause bloating, a common side effect of many other protein powders. We were looking for a healthy, plant-based protein powder, and pea protein is simply the best! Pea protein helps with weight loss by having the ability to lower levels of ghrelin, the hunger hormone. Pea protein causes the emptying of your stomach and secretion of ghrelin to slow down. In fact, pea protein is very similar to dairy-based proteins in its ability to help you feel full for longer! Perfect for healthy weight loss, pea protein is proven to support a healthy heart. In 2009, Canadian scientists found that pea protein lowers high blood pressure. Further studies showed a decreased risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). Studies have also shown a link to kidney disease benefits from consumption of pea protein. A 2015 study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition proved pea protein increased muscle thickness just as potently as dairy-based proteins. So, it’s a misconception that for muscle growth, meat and dairy protein must be consumed. The University of Toronto’s Department of Nutritional Sciences tested the effects of pea protein and blood sugar regulation finding that this vegetable protein source functions as a valuable control of blood sugar levels by affecting glycemic index control. Vegetable protein and greens … something to consider wouldn’t you agree?
In 2013, a Nutrition Journal study shows that that brown rice protein is just as effective as whey protein in supplementing body composition and exercise performance! Recent research indicates that brown rice protein includes unique peptides, which reduce weight gain, and this avoids dairy altogether. Let’s review the science behind adding rice protein by comparing the top three protein powders. Whey proteins are by-products of cheese production; soy proteins are derived from soybeans, and rice proteins are extracted from sprouted brown rice. Dairy free and plant based without the phytoestrogen load of soy powder, rice protein is the level best for our purpose, and an excellent choice for your body.
Why do I feel tired when I lose weight?
When your body has been over stimulated for years by a typical high protein, high sugar, and caffeine- rich diet, it can be a shock to the system to shift the balance. The key to your success is to slowly reduce the caffeine stimulants, while adding natural compounds from plants sources like the fruit Schizandra. Used as food and also to make medicine, Schizandra is used as an “adaptogen” for increasing resistance to disease and stress, increasing energy, and increasing physical performance and endurance. Schizandra is also used for preventing early aging and increasing lifespan, normalizing blood sugar and blood pressure, stimulating the immune system, and speeding recovery after surgery. This is a key scientific component to the success of Alka·Slim®, keeping your energy level high.
Need more energy?
Ginseng is another key to your success with weight loss and on your quest to normalize your body energy. Ginseng may help with stimulating physical and mental activity among people who are weak and tired. A Mayo Clinic study revealed that ginseng showed good results in helping cancer patients with fatigue. Another benefit may be to improve thinking ability and cognition. JinSong Geng, M.D., said, “Ginseng appears to have some beneficial effects on cognition, behavior and quality of life.” Additionally, ginseng has seven constituents, ginsenosides, which may have immune-suppressive effects. This helps with joint inflammation and according to results of research experiments, which were published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, led by Allan Lau. He said, “… the anti-inflammatory role of ginseng may be due to the combined effects of these ginsenosides.””
What about longevity?
Fo-ti is a plant native to China, which is also found in Japan and Taiwan. In Chinese medicine, fo-ti is a longevity tonic, which is used for graying hair, premature aging, weakness, vaginal discharge, and erectile dysfunction. Red fo-ti is considered a tonic to increase vitality and energy, strengthen the blood, kidneys, and liver. Fo-ti is purported to lower serum cholesterol, decrease hardening of the arteries, improve immune function, and help with a variety of conditions.
Luohanguo, touted by the Chinese as the “Longevity Fruit,” is a fruit that was discovered in our search for a healthier sugar. The Chinese have known about Luohanguo as a natural sweetener and healing remedy as far back as the 13th century. In the steep mountain fields in Guangxi Province where it is grown, there are an unusual number of residents who live to be 100 years old or more! Luohanguo is a cousin of the cucumber and squash. Luohanguo is tested at 300 times sweeter than sugar, yet will not affect blood sugar levels. Additionally, we have added Stevia Reba, a sweetener and sugar substitute extracted from the leaves of the plant species Stevia Rebaudiana.
The active compounds of Stevia are steviol glycosides, which have up to 150 times the sweetness of sugar with a negligible effect on blood glucose. This makes Stevia attractive to people on carbohydrate-controlled diets. Although the FDA was critical of Stevia extracts until 2008, the European Union approved stevia additives in 2011; and in Japan, Stevia has been widely used as a sweetener for decades.
Active Enzymes and Soluble Fiber … the key!
Bromelain is a mixture of enzymes found in pineapples, which helps to digest protein. Apple Pectin is a type of soluble fiber, found in the cell walls and tissues of apples. According to dietaryfiberfood.com, apples contain a particularly high amount of pectin, which delivers many health benefits. Apple pectin is a rich source of soluble fiber, which plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of disease. Adding soluble fiber to your diet, according to The American Heart Association, will reduce your risk of heart disease. And, according to the National Institutes of Health, soluble fiber works to lower cholesterol by reducing the absorption in the intestines.
A study in the May 2008 issue of the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found rats that were fed apple pectin experienced a reduction in blood sugar levels, total cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels and weight. Further, a reduction in one or all of these factors will contribute to a reduction in high blood pressure as well.
The BUZZZZ to weight loss!
Bee pollen is considered one of nature’s most complete foods, and it cannot be synthesized in a laboratory. Even with our most sophisticated laboratory technology, there are still some elements present in bee pollen, which science cannot identify. The bees add elements we cannot duplicate. These unidentifiable elements may very well be the key to combating many diverse conditions of ill health. Bee pollen contains essential nutrients required by humans. Bee pollen works wonders in a weight-control, as it stimulates the metabolic processes. It supercharges the caloric burn. Bee pollen also eliminates cravings since its natural phenylalanine content acts as an appetite suppressant.
Adaptogens — Increased Resistance to Stress
Schizandra, a plant whose fruit is used to make medicine is used as an “adaptogen” for increasing resistance to disease and stress. Additionally, Schizandra has shown to increase energy, physical performance and endurance. Used for preventing early aging and increasing lifespan, Schizandra helps by normalizing blood sugar and blood pressure, and stimulating the immune system. From WebMD, other uses for Schizandra include treatment of high cholesterol, coughs, asthma, sleep problems (insomnia), nerve pain, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), chronic diarrhea, dysentery, night sweats, spontaneous sweating, involuntary discharge of semen, thirst, erectile dysfunction (ED), physical exhaustion, excessive urination, depression, irritability, and memory loss. Schizandra is used to improve liver function by stimulating enzymes in the liver and promoting liver cell growth.
Want clearer thinking?
Choline Bitartrate is used for its cognitive boosting properties, as it promotes the learning neurotransmitters. Additionally, it acts as a liver health agent, able to reduce fatty liver buildup. A key to good health is a healthy liver, and Choline primes the liver. RNA/DNA is used to improve memory and mental sharpness, treat depression, increase energy, tighten skin, increase sex drive, and counteract the effects of aging.
Healthy Gut and Skin
PABA is the short form for Para-AminoBenzoic Acid. It is an antioxidant that is considered by some as a B complex vitamin, and sometimes called Vitamin Bx. Not really a vitamin, but actually an amino acid that is part of folic acid, PABA is naturally made in the body by friendly intestinal bacteria. PABA is important for healthy skin and hair pigment, necessary to restore hair growth, assists formation of red blood cells, acts as a coenzyme in the metabolism and utilization of protein, and helps maintain healthy intestinal flora. Guar gum comes from the seed of the guar plant and a source of fiber. Used as a laxative, it is also used for treating diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), obesity, and diabetes, for reducing cholesterol, and for preventing “hardening of the arteries” (atherosclerosis). Psyllium soaks up water in your gut and makes bowel movements much easier. It also helps promote regularity without increasing gas. It can help promote regularity and overall digestive health. Besides keeping your bowel movements regular and managing a chronic condition, psyllium has the ability to soften your stool. This can come in handy with short-term ailments, such as constipation. Used in this way, it can prevent complications of constipation, such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures.
Lower Cholesterol Markers/Hypertension
Octacosanol, found in wheat germ oil, is touted by health experts as an alternative to prescription cholesterol medications. Doctors are gradually documenting the cholesterol-lowering effect of Octacosanol, and many people take it to control their cholesterol. Research is ongoing to document scientifically, the long term effects of Octacosanol and the potential health benefits.
Rice bran oil is extracted from the bran fraction of rice, the kernels or seeds of the rice plant. It contains large amounts of Gamma Oryzanol, a mixture of antioxidant compounds. Touted as a muscle building product, current research leans more to the capacity to help with cholesterol regulation and with some skin health properties. Celery has been administered as an anti-hypertensive agent for centuries and an excellent source of antioxidants and beneficial enzymes. Loaded with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, folate and vitamin B6, celery is a natural addition, as is demonstrates both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties improving blood pressure, cholesterol levels, as well as to prevent heart disease.
Beta-sitosterol is a “plant sterol ester” found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Beta-sitosterol, used in many types of medicine, is used for heart disease and high cholesterol. From WebMD, “It is also used for boosting the immune system. and for preventing colon cancer, as well as for gallstones, the common cold and flu (influenza), HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis, psoriasis, allergies, cervical cancer, fibromyalgia, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), asthma, hair loss, bronchitis, migraine headache, and chronic fatigue syndrome.” Beta-sitosterol is also used by marathon runners for pain and/or swelling.
Anxiety
A major challenge we all face with weight loss and the mental aspect is anxiety. One of the best uses for Inositol is to help relieve symptoms of anxiety. With no side effects, Inositol is a natural choice over prescription medications for symptoms of anxiety. Inositol helps receptors in the brain, which are responsible for calmness and peacefulness throughout the body. Use Inositol to replace the receptors not working correctly. Wouldn’t you choose to be less stressed out and to function with more ease throughout the day? With the addition of Inositol over a period of time, your serotonin levels could start to level out and you could find it easier to concentrate and focus in a stress-less way. That’s why we added this powerful anxiety buster to Alka·Slim®.