Live a Healthier Life

October-02-2020

Autumn is all about cosying up in scarves and jumpers, walks in the crisp autumnal air, and making sure we are taking good care of our seasonal health. That’s why, this October, we are celebrating the humble honeybee and the unique substances they produce which are packed with nutritional value and benefits that can not only be enjoyed by bees, but by us too.
Bees can be found on every continent except Antarctica and there are around 20,000 known species. Bees have a very intentional job: to pollinate trees and shrubs. Pollination leads to the reproduction of crops that produce fruit and seeds, and this means plenty of trees and flowers for food, oxygen and nutrients, and balance for our ecosystem.
Bees also make their own unique substances which help to feed their colony. These substances found within the hive are packed with nutritional value, and the benefits can be enjoyed by us as well as the bees. There are four notable substances found within the hive: honey (winter fuel), propolis (building glue), royal jelly (nutrient-rich food for the queen) and pollen (an enzyme packed with daily nutrition). The benefits of these substances have been revered for centuries and even the ancient Egyptians used honey and propolis for medicines and healing techniques.

Honey

Honey is one of mankind’s oldest food sources, providing natural energy and goodness to bees and humans alike. This golden elixir is made from the nectar retrieved by bees from flowers, which is why there are so many different types of honey available – the flavour, colour and consistency depends upon the type of flower the nectar has been retrieved from. The darker the shade, the richer it is believed to be in bioactive plant compounds (that’s a good thing). If you regularly find yourself reaching for refined sugar, you should definitely consider replacing it with a bottle of Forever Bee Honey.
Forever Bee Honey remains one of our most popular products thanks to a pure taste. This all-natural, delicious sweetener is naturally nutritious and perfect for replacing processed sugar in your diet.
Did you know?
Bees are super productive: Honeybees produce three to four times MORE honey than is needed to feed the hive for the winter. As nature’s little bonus, we can collect honey without harming the colonies.

Propolis

Propolis is perhaps the lesser known of the bee substances, but one that’s essential to the safety and wellbeing of the colony. This sticky compound is essentially sap combined with beeswax and other residues, used by bees to disinfect and protect their hives from pathogens. It’s naturally antiseptic, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral and antimicrobial so bees can carry on with their lives without worrying about interfering external factors!
Forever Bee Propolis is a chewable tablet that’s easily digestible and absorbed. We have been producing propolis supplements for decades and we’re one of the oldest manufacturers on the market, proud to offer superior quality and purity you can trust.
Did you know?
The word ‘propolis’ originates from ancient Greek and can be interpreted as ‘defence of the city’.

Royal Jelly

Natural royal jelly is an extremely nutritious and biochemically complex honeybee secretion. All baby bees (larvae) are fed royal jelly during the first few days of their life but when they are old enough to be identified as a worker (female bees) or drone (male bees), they will cease eating the precious substance. Larvae that has been identified as a potential queen bee will be encased in a special ‘queen cup’ where it will spend its days floating in, and consuming royal jelly. Once an adult, the chosen queen bee will live exclusively on royal jelly as the food is believed to help with ovary development so that she can lay countless eggs.
There is normally only one queen per colony, and she’ll grow to become the largest bee in the hive. She has the ability to use her stinger multiple times and will out-live all the other bees by several years. Her job is to lay thousands of eggs daily, and all other bees in the hive will do everything they can to protect her.
Royal Jelly is a rich, milky substance which consists of proteins, simple sugars, fatty acids and trace elements vitamin B5 and B6. The royal jelly used to create Forever Royal Jelly supplements is collected using a meticulous method that’s been perfected over decades. To collect royal jelly, Forever creates imitation ‘queen cups’ in a small colony of young bees; these bees will then instinctively fill the cups with royal jelly. The process requires close attention and precise timekeeping, and on average it will take around a thousand three-day-old filled cups to create just 1lb of royal jelly.
Did you know?
Not only does the queen lay up to 2,500 eggs a day, she also produces chemicals that guide the behaviour of her royal subjects.

Pollen

Whilst the queen munches through her royal jelly, worker and drone bees snack on fermented pollen. As they fly from blossom-to-blossom, bees pollinate plants and fuel our ecosystem. Bees use the pollen they gather to create their food. Bee pollen is a great natural source of nutrients, including: proteins, amino acids, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. This nutritionally-rich substance provides bees with everything that they need to survive, and keeps the entire hive nourished, productive and strong.
The pollen used by Forever is sourced using a patented pollen trap that does not destroy the colony. This pollen has then been combined with honey and royal jelly to create Forever Bee Pollen, a fresh and potent supplement.
Did you know?
Pollen provides these busy bees with everything they need to survive, which is why you may have heard it referred to as ‘ambrosia’ (the name given to the food of gods in Greek mythology).
Fears of a diminishing honeybee population is a very real concern, and in 2017 and 2018 several species of bee were added to the endangered list. This is particularly worrying since the existence of bees directly correlates to the survival of our world! That’s why Forever only extracts the nutrients within the hive using colony-friendly methods that allow the bees to thrive.
What is your favourite bee product? Let us know in the comments below.

September-04-2020

September is here and with our schedules filling up again, the kids back to school and the season shifting into early autumn, we wanted to put a focus back onto what’s important: your wellbeing; both physical and mental.
It’s been an interesting year for all of us, and we’re still adapting, but we know that it’s important to keep taking care of ourselves.

Look after your mind

With everything going on, it’s easy to get distracted, but September is a good time to nail your focus and have a restart. Pick up a new diary or planner and start anew (think ‘back to school’ vibes, but for adults).
If you struggle with overthinking, write a to-do list, or have a ‘brain dump’ page in your notebook. Take the time, whenever you’re feeling anxious, to write everything you’re worrying about down there. Etching it out onto paper can be incredibly therapeutic: you know that you won’t forget it, because it’s written down, but you can free up the space in your brain without worrying about it over and over.
If seeing it all written down is even more cause for concern (sometimes those lists get pretty long) break it down further. Split your list up so that you only have four or five to do on any given day. Learn to prioritise, and if a new, more urgent task comes in, don’t be afraid to re-prioritise and re-write the entire list in a new order.
And, with all that done, try keeping a ‘done’ list, or have a way of marking your completed tasks with a big, bright tick. Try completing a couple of shorter tasks first thing in the morning so that you can see ticks starting to appear on the list. The satisfaction of completing a task can be really motivating, so it should be enough to see you through the more complex, longer tasks.
Have you tried Forever Focus? Containing B6 and B12, which contribute to normal functioning of the nervous system and normal psychological function, as well as helping reduce the feeling of tiredness and fatigue, this supplement combines traditional herbs, vitamins and minerals with clinically studied Cognizin so that you don’t just get through the day, you take charge of it!

Look after your body

We all know it’s important to support our immune health, and a great way to do that is to eat the right food!
Get a varied mix of fruit and vegetables onto your plate at each mealtime, and if you’re concerned about your portions, follow the plate rule: half a plate of veggies, a quarter of protein and a quarter of complex carbohydrates. Healthy fats are welcome too: think extra virgin olive oil for cooking, or some avocado.
You could try adding a sachet of Forever Supergreens to your breakfast smoothie to ensure you’re getting over twenty fruits and vegetables of goodness into your body before you’ve even really started your day!
Don’t forget that you can supplement if you feel you’re missing out on any key vitamins or nutrients. Forever Immublend is high in vitamin C, D and zinc, all of which contribute to the normal function of the immune system.

Look after your soul

There are lots of ways to take care of your soul and it really just depends on the kinds of person you are!
Perhaps the best way for you to unwind is with exercise, but with the night’s drawing in, an evening run may be less appealing than usual. Try to find other ways to be active. Could you switch your routine to get a long walk in the autumn air at lunchtime? Could you incorporate some yoga or stretches into your morning routine? How about a fun new class at the gym?
Or perhaps you spend so much time looking after others that you’ve forgotten the last time you did something just for YOU. Take a break and feel the benefit! Schedule an evening for yourself and run a hot bath, put on a face mask (our award-winning Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask is just the ticket!) and read a book. Go on, you deserve it!
How do you take care of your mind, body and soul? We’d love you to give us some inspiration in the comments!

August-07-2020

Dry skin can occur for many reasons. Skin can feel tight or rough, appear flaky, red or dull. Caused by stress, UV ray exposure, hormone fluctuations, environmental pollution, medications or the natural process of ageing skin, dry patches can be a concern for any skin type.  
Forever’s new Hydrating Serum boosts hydration with four types of hyaluronic acid, which help to seal moisture in and take hydration to deeper layers in the skin. It works to shield against environment stressors, and absorbs quickly into the skin with botanicals and plant fatty acids.
Here are a few frequently asked questions about serums, their ingredients, and the most effective use of serums in our skincare routines. 
What is a serum in a skincare routine and when is it used?
A serum is a skincare product has the intent of delivering powerful ingredients directly into the deeper layers of the skin. It’s particularly suited to this task because it is made up of smaller molecules that can penetrate deeper, and deliver a very high concentration of active ingredients. This makes them a great tool for targeting specific skincare concerns such as wrinkles, fine lines, dry patches, brightness, skin tone and texture, as well as unbalanced areas. Forever’s serums contain high amounts of aloe that work in tandem with ingredients to bring balance, and carry other ingredients further into the skin with its lignan properties. 
For this reason, apply a serum directly to your skin after cleansing or toning, and before your moisturiser and sunscreen. It is not meant to replace your moisturiser, but can boost and complement its hydrating effects.  
Why does Forever have two serums?  What is the difference?
Serums are used to address a variety of skincare issues. Infinite by Forever Firming Serum targets preventing the signs of premature ageing with its advanced peptide formula. Forever’s Hydrating Serum targets dry skin concerns with four types of hyaluronic acid, fatty acids and botanicals with high amounts of antioxidants. Both can be used with all skin types depending on individual needs. 
What is hyaluronic acid and why is this important?
Naturally occurring in the human body, HA (hyaluronic acid) works as a magnet for moisture, helping your cells retain as much as possible so that your skin feels, and appears hydrated, plump and healthy.
Roughly half of the hyaluronic acid in your body is present in your skin, where it binds to water to help retain moisture. It is critical in maintaining skin hydration, which can be broken down by free radical mechanisms caused by things like stress, UV exposure and pollution. Topically applied, it helps to hydrate the skin and maintain this hydration as a humectant: a substance used to reduce the loss of moisture. Hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that holds 1,000 times its weight in water to keep skin hydrated, protect from environmental damage and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. And you can use hyaluronic acid every day as it doesn’t strip the skin when applied topically. A natural and powerful moisture-binding substance, it delivers gentle hydration to where your skin needs it the most for all skin types. 
Hydrating serum has four distinct types of four hyaluronic acid – why and what are their purposes?
Four kinds of topical hyaluronic acid, also called sodium hyaluronate, work together in Hydrating Serum to replenish water on the surface of skin and retain moisture from the inside, whilst improving elasticity. Here’s how the four varieties work:

• Ultra-high molecular sodium hyaluronate forms a protective dense film on the skin’s surface, which helps reduce the water loss from the inside while also providing continual moisturisation and anti-pollution support.
• Sodium hyaluronate keeps water like a sponge on the skin’s surface.
• An absorbable form of sodium hyaluronate drenches and saturates the skin, providing excellent hydration as it goes into the skin.
• Extremely low molecular sodium hyaluronate is rapidly absorbed into the surface layers of the skin, hydrating and restoring the skin from the inside.

What are other key ingredients in Forever’s Hydrating Serum?
This new product also contains a high concentration of pure inner leaf aloe vera gel, which benefits the skin with its ingredient carrying lignins, humectant and skin balancing properties. 
In additional to its ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid, it also uses ingredients from around the globe to moisturise and protect. Coconut fatty acids help spread the serum easily over skin, while shea butter effortlessly glides across your face as it quickly melts upon application. Snow mushroom helps fight environmental stressors and tamarind has been shown to help improve hydration, promote better skin elasticity and smoothness, as well as reduce the appearance of rough skin. Olive oil, white tea and mimosa bark add to the power packed free radical fighting ingredients caused by various stressors. 
Who can use it and when is it best used?
Hydrating Serum is a complement to all skin types, but suitable when you have a dry area. You can use it on a certain area, or all over the face prior to your moisturiser. You can also use it in tandem with Forever’s other award-winning Infinite by Forever Firming Serum, which contain peptides that combat the signs of premature ageing. As a versatile product, apply it on other areas of your body that may experience dry patches, on the ends of dry hair or even as a primer later in the day prior to make-up. 
Sounds pretty great, right? I’ve been using it twice daily to help normalise my skin that has gotten a bit dry over the last few months, and noticed an improvement after only using it for a few days.  It’s now a part of my skincare regime morning and evening.  Forever’s Hydrating Serum with its hero skincare ingredient, hyaluronic acid, is an amazing reason you should slot it into your routine.

July-03-2020

This month, we want to celebrate the things that people love most about Forever, including our top selling products - or ‘Forever favourites’ as we like to call them.
Aloe vera has powerful benefits that help you to look better and feel better both inside and out – in fact, it’s been known and used for centuries for its health, beauty, medicinal and skincare properties: it was even Cleopatra’s favourite beauty product, used to keep her skin and hair looking radiant!
From aiding in digestion to soothing and conditioning the skin, pure inner leaf aloe vera gel is at the heart of everything we do at Forever, and it’s no surprise that our Forever favourites feature the ingredient in abundance!
We’ll kick off with our incredible flagship product: the amazing Forever Aloe Vera Gel! Certified by the International Aloe Science Council for its purity, this drinking gel is as close to the real thing as you can get, boasting 99.7% inner leaf aloe gel, lovingly extracted by hand so that you can experience the true power of nature. We’ve also added vitamin C which contributes to the normal function of the immune system and to a normal energy-yielding metabolism, so that you can kick your day off with a brilliant burst of sunshine and goodness, even if it’s gloomy outside!
And we don’t stop there: we have three more fantastic aloe vera gels waiting to tickle your taste buds.
Forever Aloe Berry Nectar provides a sweet yet tangy flavour with its burst of cranberry and sweet apple, while still containing vitamin C and a whopping 90.7% pure inner leaf aloe vera gel.
Forever Aloe Peaches is the sweetest of them all, with natural peach puree to give it a real taste of summer! Popular with kids and those with a sweet tooth, Forever Aloe Peaches contains 84.3% pure inner leaf aloe vera gel and vitamin C.
Finally, Forever Freedom is the aloe gel most popular with those who lead an active lifestyle. It comes with all the benefits of our plain gel, but with added glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM – and a refreshing orange flavour, too. Stock up with the brand-new Forever Freedom tripack to be sure you never run out!
But let’s take a look at some of the benefits our topical Forever favourite products have, and why so many people love them!
Forever Bright Toothgel
Created for the entire family – as well as your pets – this gentle, non-fluoride formula contains only the highest quality ingredients including aloe vera and bee propolis. Its natural mint flavour will leave your mouth refreshed and your teeth clean!
Aloe Ever-Shield Deodorant
The aloe vera formula in this gentle deodorant contains no alcohol or harsh aluminium salts usually found in antiperspirant deodorants and can even be used to soothe after underarm shaving and waxing.
Aloe Lips
This loaded lip product contains aloe, jojoba and three types of wax to smooth and soothe chapped, dry lips all-year round!
Aloe Scrub
Unlike some scrubs that use plastic microbeads, we use microspheres of jojoba which roll over your skin gently. As they roll, they pick up the dead skin cells that clog up pores and cause skin to look dull. Gentle enough for everyday use for your face or body, the natural ingredients exfoliate and reveal healthy-looking skin.
Aloe-Jojoba Shampoo and Conditioning Rinse
It’s easy to get beautifully shiny and easy-to-manage hair with this aloe vera and jojoba oil-infused shampoo and conditioner combo. The ingredients in the shampoo remove oils while simultaneously soothing your scalp, while the conditioning rinse contains jojoba and vitamin B to help nourish, protect and strengthen hair. The gentle pH-balanced formula in both products makes them suitable for all hair types and can be used to help replenish your hair’s natural moisture, give your hair extra shine and help to eliminate split ends.
Aloe Hand Soap
Formulated from pure 100% stabilised aloe vera gel and natural cleansers, this gentle formula with fruit extracts leaves your skin feeling clean, soft and hydrated.
Aloe Propolis Creme
A rich, creamy blend of aloe vera, bee propolis and camomile that helps maintain healthy, beautiful skin tone and texture. The Aloe Propolis Creme’s moisturising and conditioning properties make for an excellent everyday moisturiser and helps to soothe irritation.
Aloe Vera Gelly
If there was an award for ‘most versatile product’ this one might just be the winner: essentially identical to the aloe vera’s inner leaf, this topical thick gel soothes and calms irritation and is great anywhere from the first aid kit to the after sun skincare bag!
Aloe Heat Lotion
Containing warming agents and aloe, this rich emollient lotion provides blissful relief from everyday stresses and strains and can be great when applied before exercise or for soothing aches after a workout!
What is your ‘Forever favourite’? We’d love to know in the comments why you love it so much!

June-05-2020

Monday 8^th June 2020 is #WorldOceansDay and the products you use in your day to day life can have a profound effect on the environment.
Doing right by the planet is an important part of everything we do at Forever. From ensuring we farm responsibly at our aloe plantations in Texas and the Dominican Republic, to continually working to reduce our carbon footprint with our distribution, we want to ensure we do our part for the land and sea. But the products you use on a day to day basis can have a profound impact, too, particularly if we all work together to make waves.
To give you a starting point, here's a guide into how some of your favourite Forever products do their part.

Aloe Sunscreen

Aloe Sunscreen is a water-resistant formula, which offers SPF 30 broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, while locking in moisture with soothing inner leaf aloe. But keeping your family protected is not all that this fantastic sunscreen does.
Coral reefs play a vital role in the delicate ecosystem of our world’s oceans, but many sunscreens contain chemicals that bleach and kill coral reefs. Forever’s Aloe Sunscreen contains non-nanosized natural zinc oxide, so it is reef safe. While you can use Aloe Sunscreen all year round in any country (yes, you need sunscreen in the UK, too, even on a cloudy day!) you can also prepare for the day when travel is back on the agenda by making sure your first dip in the sea doesn’t have a negative effect on the coral life there.

Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask

Forever’s Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask provides potent hydration to the skin, which can work well as an after-sun skin treat. Its bio-cellulose fibres fit the contours of your face to deeply moisturise and ensure every impressive botanical ingredient penetrates the fine lines and wrinkles traditional sheet masks fail to reach.
But it doesn’t stop there. While many sheet masks are made of synthetic materials which, once used, simply go to landfill, our Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask is fully compostable! Once you’ve finished with the mask, you can either add it to your compost bin or your garden, where it will break down. Perfect for keeping your face and the environment feeling fresh!

Experience them together

From 5^th June to 30^th June 2020, we’re running a very special offer on these two phenomenal products to allow you to make the most of the summer months with skin protection and hydration. You can, for this limited time, buy two Aloe Sunscreen and two Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask sachets in a specially designed gift bag for £36.40!
And they’re not the only Forever products which do their part for the environment!

Smoothing Exfoliator

If you’re looking to uncover silky, soft and healthy-looking skin, why not give Forever’s Smoothing Exfoliator at try? Instead of using artificial microbeads, which are bad for the environment, Smoothing Exfoliator uses natural jojoba beads and bamboo powder to buff away dead skin cells without harming the skin or the environment. It also contains added lemon essential oil to work as a rich moisturiser to hydrate the new skin beneath the surface, making it a perfect skin treat!

Forever Aloe MPD 2X Ultra

Whether it’s a thorough spring-clean, a Hinch-style to-list, or the daily washing up, we all need to clean our houses. The problem is that so many unassuming household products contain toxic chemicals that end up going down the drain and often into waterways. Forever Aloe MPD 2X Ultra is a multi-purpose cleaner that can replace those toxic varieties with an effective solution made with environmentally friendly and biodegradable ingredients. As it’s all-purpose, you can effectively lift grime, cut through grease and remove stains anywhere from your bathroom tiles to your carpet, or from your clothes to your dishes!

Aloe Vera Gel

And of course, how could we write this blog post without mentioning our flagship product, Forever Aloe Vera Gel? Not only is our famous drinking gel made with 99.7% inner leaf aloe gel which is great for skin, the immune system and digestion, but the packaging of this product is made from 100% recyclable materials! That includes our flavoured varieties, too: Aloe Berry Nectar and Aloe Peaches. We sell thousands of these bottles each year in the UK alone, so we love to know that our packaging can be reused instead of being dumped in landfills or waterways.
How will you look to reduce your environmental impact this World Ocean’s Day? Let us know in the comments.

May-15-2020

Over the past few months, things have been very different for many people, and with all the change and uncertainty, it is natural for even the most optimistic person to feel anxious. Whilst it is so important to maintain a positive mindset amid all of the changes to our daily lives, staying positive isn’t always easy.
But keeping a positive frame of mind is not only important for ourselves, it is also really important for those around us too. Positive thinking can not only help with stress management, it can also help with mental and physical wellbeing.
Now more than ever, it is really important to stay productive, and be proactive about creating small moments of happiness each day. Here are some of our suggestions to help you get started:
Take care of yourself.
With day to day distractions being removed from our busy schedules, now is the perfect time to make sure we are looking after ourselves. Eating well and getting plenty of rest and exercise will help you to feel healthier both physically and mentally.
Write down five things you’re grateful for, every morning.
Focus your mind on the things you are grateful for, and write them down. Doing so will put things into perspective, and gratitude will start to become an instinctive reaction. Making this part of your morning routine will give you good head start to a positive day.
Switch up your workout routine
Whilst going to the gym is not possible at the moment, there are plenty of ways in which we can stay active. Fitness is for everyone, and for more tips on ways that you can keep active, view our blog here.
Learn something new
Learning something new is a great way to use this new-found time in a positive and productive way. Learning something new will also give you a goal to work towards, which will help you to remain focused, and give you the motivation to overcome any obstacles.
Connect with those around you.
Whether you’re at home quarantining with family, living with friends or your dog, or living by yourself, now is the perfect time to connect with those around you. Catch up with people you haven’t spoken to in a while, and talk to family and friends over the phone or via the internet. Surrounding yourself with positive people and those you love can lift really help to lift your mood.
Hopefully, these tips will help you practice a positive mindset, and for more on this, our latest issue of Aloe Life has an article dedicated to the ‘Twelve tips to positivity’. What are your top tips for staying positive during these unprecedented times? Have you created any new habits or routines to create a positive mindset? Let us know in the comments below.

May-08-2020

Diet plays a crucial role when it comes to your health and fitness. A balanced diet is essential, but eating healthily does not mean that the food you eat has to be bland and boring.
In honour of #NationalVegetarianWeek, we’ve picked out some of our favourite vegetarian recipes from our F15 programme, to give you some inspiration to help you enjoy healthy and nutritious meals, that are also delicious too!
Apple cinnamon overnight oats
This delicious breakfast is so easy to make, and it can even be prepared in advance.
115g unsweetened almond milk
45g rolled oats
70g plain Greek yogurt
1 tbs peanut, almond or cashew butter
65g applesauce
Pinch of cinnamon
Make the night before or as many as 3-4 days in advance. Combine rolled oats and unsweetened almond milk. Add applesauce, plain Greek yogurt and cinnamon. Cover and place in the fridge overnight. You can heat overnight oats in the morning for a warm breakfast or enjoy it right from the fridge.
Hawaiian Veggie Burgers
1 fresh veggie burger
1 medium wholemeal roll
25g halloumi cheese, sliced
1 unsweetened pineapple ring
¼ avocado, mashed
Handful of watercress
Grill the burger and the halloumi cheese. Spread the avocado onto both sides of the roll and layer on the watercress, burger, cheese and pineapple.
Vegetarian Spaghetti Bolognese
¼ red onion
1 small carrot
1 garlic clove
½ celery stick
Low-calorie cooking spray
100g meat-free mince
200g chopped tomatoes
1 tbs freshly chopped basil
1 tsp dried mixed herbs
A pinch of chilli
140g cooked whole-wheat spaghetti
1 tbs grated parmesan cheese
150g fresh fruit salad
Slice the red onion, carrots, garlic, and celery. Place in a pan sprayed with low-calorie cooking spray and fry for 2-3 minutes. Add the mince and fry for a few minutes. Add the tomatoes and herbs and bring to the boil; cover and simmer gently for 30 minutes. Serve with the spaghetti and sprinkle with cheese and basil. Enjoy fresh fruit salad for dessert.
You’ll also be pleased to know that Forever Living is always cruelty-free and some of our products are also vegetarian and vegan-friendly, including our three-flagship Aloe Vera Gels and some of our supplements, including: Forever B12 (a vegetarian and vegan staple!) Forever Supergreens, Forever Fiber and Forever Lean.
What are some of your healthy and delicious vegetarian recipes? Let us know in the comments below

May-01-2020

At Forever, we believe that fitness is for everybody. That’s to say that it doesn’t matter what age you are, what job you do, what size you are or what your fitness level is like right now – everybody can, and should incorporate exercise and fitness into their routine.
We understand that sometimes it’s not easy. Life can be busy, children need to be looked after, and there just doesn’t seem to be enough hours in the day to run a marathon on top of it all.
But we want to show you why fitness is so important for everybody to get involved in, and just how easy it can be to get stuck in. So, put on your running shoes and join us for your healthiest month yet!

Why is fitness so important?

The thing with exercise is that while some people have a healthy relationship with the idea of it, many other people just simply don’t. Unpleasant thoughts of school P.E. lessons spring to mind, making us feel unmotivated, or the idea of “burning off that chocolate bar I ate earlier” makes us view exercise as a form of punishment. These thoughts make us less likely to get stuck into exercise, because we feel it’s something we have to endure, rather than enjoy.
But there are many positives to exercise. Not only does it help to improve your health, reducing your risk of major illnesses, such as heart disease and stroke by up to 50% (according to the NHS), but it also has many other benefits, too. 
For one thing, it can make us feel happier! When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins, which trigger a positive feeling in the body. Some health bodies even suggest exercise can help you to cope with feelings of mild to moderate depression. Exercise also helps us to feel more relaxed and sleep better, in turn having a positive impact on our energy levels throughout the day.

“But I don’t enjoy exercise!”

We may have preconceived ideas about what ‘exercise’ entails, but chances are you’re limiting yourself! All exercise needs to do is raise your heart rate for 150 minutes a week (you can break that down however you like, but as standard advice: that’s thirty minutes, five days a week).
Of course, you can do that by running, swimming, or playing a game of tennis - but have you thought about putting on a playlist of your favourite songs and just dancing away? Or have you thought about taking your dog on a longer, faster walk, perhaps incorporating some hills along the way? What about setting yourself challenges while cleaning your house, like doing things as quickly as possible to get your body moving, or planning to clean rooms in a way that means you’ll be walking up and down the stairs more than usual. Put a little muscle into the scrubbing you’d be doing anyway, and you’ll be surprised how much better you feel!
It’s important to remove the notion of exercising to lose weight. While this can be a side effect of getting stuck in, the scales don’t always reflect what you want to see (increased muscle mass can sometimes increase the number of the scale, even while making you leaner). Instead, track your progress in terms of your physical achievements: you walked further today than you did yesterday; you did two more push-ups than you managed before; you find the activity you’re doing easier than you did last week (that’s how you know it’s working and it’s time to push yourself a little further). Remember that it doesn’t matter how slowly you’re progressing, so long as you keep pushing forward!

How can I make it fit around my life?

Now you know the benefits of working out, have identified something you enjoy doing, and know how to track your progress in a way that doesn’t correlate to the number on the scales, how do you actually start to implement this in a way that really fits into your lifestyle? That will depend on your lifestyle, but we find the best and most motivating way is to team up with somebody else where you can – even if that’s via video call at the moment!
If you need to look after your children, why not get them involved in the exercise? Not only will they benefit from getting active too, but you’ll be spending more quality time with them - and let’s be honest, if you’re running around after them, you’ll be getting even MORE of a workout than if you just did it alone.
Perhaps it involves you waking up a little earlier than everybody else to get half an hour alone. If you want your exercise to be a relaxing bit of me-time, perhaps consider a slightly earlier wake up call. It’ll help you feel refreshed and ready for the day.
Remember that you don’t necessarily need to take thirty minutes in one huge chunk of time – if it simple isn’t feasible, break it up into 10-minute slots. Challenge yourself to do as many squats as you can while you wait for your pasta to boil. Dance to some music while you wait for the kettle to boil. Walk up and down the stairs a few times before going to bed, rather than just heading straight up and going to sleep.
If you use your imagination, you’ll see that fitness really can be for everybody! What ways do you use to stay fit and healthy? We’d love to hear from you in the comments.
We’re holding a nation-wide C9 Challenge on 18^th May to help you to kickstart your nutrition. Why not join us? Find out more here: https://flpuk.info/FitnessForEverybody

April-28-2020

Wednesday 29^th April is Stop Food Waste Day – a key annual date in the calendar as we as a nation try to reduce our environmental impact and be kinder to the planet, but possibly especially important at the moment, owing to our need to shop less frequently.
Many of us lead busy lifestyles which can impact our ability to plan properly, increase our reliance on convenience or takeaway foods, and can often see us reaching into the fridge at the end of the week to a rather sad-looking, mouldy cucumber and a questionable-looking pack of beef several days past its use-by date.
Not to worry – meal planning can be a really beneficial way to ensure you’re cutting down on your food waste, saving yourself some money and ensuring you’re always eating wholesome, healthful meals. Here are our tips!

Start relying on store cupboard essentials

Your store cupboard essentials are called that for a reason – they can stay in your kitchen cupboard for a long time. Think: beans and pulses, rice, pasta and noodles, canned tomatoes, canned fish, couscous and quinoa, porridge oats, nuts and seeds, herbs and spices, oils and much more!
The idea behind these essentials is that you can start to form the basis of many meals using these brilliant ingredients. While you’ll need to add in fruits or vegetables for a rounded meal, there’s plenty of protein, carbohydrates and fats available in your store cupboard essentials, before you even turn to your other foods. If you’re basing your meals around these long-lasting items, you’ll find that there’s less room for other foods to go off, therefore reducing your waste!

Build up your frozen food selection

Many might assume that frozen fruits and vegetables are less nutritious than fresh, but that’s not accurate. Frozen fruits and vegetables are often frozen within hours of being picked. Fresh fruit and vegetables on the other hand are picked and shipped across the world, meaning that the ones you pick up in the supermarket may have been picked from the plant days ago, and chances are, it’ll sit in your kitchen for a few more days. While it’s not to say that fresh fruits and vegetables are bad – and you should be including them in your diet – the fact is that frozen fruits and vegetables contains all the same benefits – AND they’ll last a lot longer, too, making them ideal when preventing food waste.

Make a meal plan

Before you go shopping, spend half an hour sitting down to decide who you need to buy for and what meals you need to make – for instance: breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks for mum, dad and two children for seven days. Planning your meals this way means that you can decide exactly how much of a certain food you’ll need to buy and will therefore be less likely to over-buy at the supermarket leading to waste later in the week. Not only that, but if you know that you’ll have some chicken leftover from your recipe on day one, you can plan to use chicken in your meal on day two as well, meaning that you save yourself money by not buying lots of different types of food.

Meal Prep

If you know that your life gets busy, it might be worth prepping your meals at the beginning of the week. There are different levels to meal prepping.
You could chop the vegetables you’re using and store them in air-tight containers with water in the fridge to keep them fresh and moist. You could cut up, season or prepare your meats, beans or pulses and store them in airtight containers as well. This will help to save you time when you come to make the meal later, as all you have to do is throw in the prepared ingredients and cook.
Alternatively, you could prepare the whole meal and keep it stored in an airtight container in either the fridge or the freezer until you’re ready to eat it. Then when you’re in a pinch you’ll have a healthy, pre-made meal you can simply reheat without having to resort to the takeaway menu!

Compost!

Although we all want to reduce our food waste, there may simply be times when it can’t happen for one reason or another. In order to help do your bit for the planet in this case, why not invest in a compost bin?
Putting food straight into your regular waste means that it doesn’t have access to the air it needs to break down properly. This means that it sits taking up much more space than it should in landfill and can take years and years to decompose. Having a compost bin with an airtight lid in your kitchen means that it won’t smell. You can either compost this in your own garden with the help of some online guides, see if your local council takes compost waste with your normal bin collection or find places to compost near you.
Do you have any other tips to help prevent food waste? We’d love to hear them in the comments below!

April-16-2020

For many people, working from home has become the new norm during these different times. Although it may be the dream for some, others prefer the hustle and bustle of a workplace environment. Adapting to working from home can be tricky; with commitments such as family responsibilities having demands on our time, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. But there are also countless benefits that working from home can bring, and for some, home-based working can contribute to the perfect lifestyle. We wanted to share a few tips from the latest edition of Aloe Life on how you can master working from home, and ways to stay positive and productive.
Sleep
Sleep is essential for being able to function throughout the day. Sleep deprivation can have a range of effects that can be detrimental to your physical and mental health. It is recommended that you get between seven and nine hours of sleep a night, but of course this is differs for each person to be able to achieve their best.
Set the tone
Setting the tone for the day is key to feeling upbeat and productive, and a positive mindset can help you both physically and mentally. A positive mindset can be defined as a mental and emotional attitude that consistently anticipates positive results. A person with a positive mindset presumes happiness will result and that any difficulty that should arise can be overcome. Start your day with some positive affirmations or meditation to help you feel calm and in control to really take charge of your day.
Set a routine
Getting organised and developing a schedule will help you to feel in control and be more clear-headed. Try to develop a routine with scheduled work time, breaks and family time to ensure that you are gaining the maximum benefit of the more flexible approach of home-based working.
Prioritise your time
Focusing your time on key activities is a good way to ensure you stay productive, and make the most of your work time. Turning off email and phone notifications and focusing on your most important task first will help you make the most of your productivity by reducing distractions and focusing your mind. Then work in bursts of time and make sure that you take proper breaks to help you refresh your mind and refocus.
Exercise
Sometimes it can be hard to find the time to make your fitness plans work around your busy schedule, but exercising not only makes us feel better, it can also be a good way to reduce stress too. Blocking out some time in your daily routine will improve your physical appearance, as well as your mental state too, keeping you more focused for work. To truly optimise your workout efforts, the Forever F.I.T programmes will help you feel cleansed, as well as adding vital nutrients to your diet to ensure your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed.
Stay Social
You may think that working from home sounds anti-social, but having this flexibility actually allows you to become more social, with both friends and work colleagues. You will be able to work on your own time, catch up with co-workers in the day and never miss out on a special occasion again. Today’s digital world allows us to be more connected than ever, and making new connections doesn’t have to be in person - you can grow your business, create leads, and convert them into customers and team members right from the comfort of your own home.
Relax and unwind
Making sure that you put down your devices at least an hour before you go to bed will allow you to properly unwind from your day, and help you sleep better. Making sure you carve out some well-deserved ‘me time’ will also help you clear your mind and renew your focus.
What are your tips for staying happy, heathy and productive whilst working from home? Let us know in the comments below. We also have some fantastic tips to achieving a positive mindset in the latest edition of Aloe Life, so be sure to get your copy now.

April-02-2020

Spring is often the time we look at revising a few things, like spring cleaning our homes or sorting out our wardrobes as we look forward to warmer months. With the recent changes in our lifestyles and more of us working from home, now might be a good time to ‘spring clean your selfcare’ as well, and we wanted to share some tips and ideas to help support you.

Hydration

Drinking more water is perhaps one of the easiest positive lifestyle changes to make and yet it’s something that many of us struggle with. Our bodies are made up of two-thirds water and it’s essential for our bodies to function properly. Ideally as adults we should be drinking 1.5 – 2.0 litres a day - that’s around eight large glasses. Water is important as it helps transport nutrients and oxygen around your body, helps get rid of waste products, helps control your temperature and is important in the function of your digestive system. Drinking enough water will also help to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy.

Exercise

The world of exercise has moved online in recent weeks! There’s a host of creative and innovative ideas online to try as alternatives to the gym. It’s also an opportunity to get the whole family exercising together and having some fun! Why not give our playlist of at-home workouts a go?

Healthy Eating

The plus side of being more home-based is that many of us now have the time to plan our meals and cook fresh. Now more than ever we are appreciating the importance of our health and incorporating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables each day. Fruit and vegetables provide many of the valuable daily vitamins and minerals that we need to maintain optimum health.
Vitamin A helps your body's natural defence against illness and infection (the immune system) work properly, it also helps keep the lining of some parts of the body, such as the nose, healthy. Good sources of Vitamin A include cheese, eggs, oily fish, fortified low-fat spreads, milk, yoghurt and liver.
Vitamin C helps to protect cells and maintain healthy skin, blood vessels, bones and cartilage. It also helps in healing wounds. Good sources include oranges and orange juice, red and green peppers, strawberries, blackcurrants, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and potatoes.
Vitamin D helps to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. Vitamin D is made naturally in the body when our skin is exposed to sunlight. During the winter, or periods where we are not spending much time outside, we may need additional sources which include oily fish such as salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel, red meat, liver, egg yolks, fortified foods such as most fat spreads and some breakfast cereals.
Vitamin B12 is involved in making red blood cells, keeping the nervous system healthy and releasing energy from food. Good sources include meat, salmon, cod, milk, cheese, eggs and some fortified breakfast cereals. Vitamin B12 is not found naturally in fruit, vegetables or grains, so vegans may find it helpful to take a supplement to ensure they get enough of it.
Iron is important in making red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body. Good sources include liver (but avoid this during pregnancy), meat, beans, nuts, dried fruit such as apricots, wholegrains such as brown rice, fortified breakfast cereals, soy bean flour, most dark-green leafy vegetables such as watercress and curly kale.
Calcium has several important functions, including helping to build strong bones and teeth, regulating muscle contractions, including your heartbeat, and making sure blood clots normally. Sources of calcium include milk, cheese and other dairy foods, green leafy vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and okra, soya beans, tofu, soya drinks with added calcium, nuts, bread and anything made with fortified flour.
Want more healthy nutrition tips? Why not check out our podcast with nutritionist Gillian McKeith to learn more about gut health, the importance of what we put into our bodies, and how aloe vera can have an impact.

Supplementation

The above list of vitamins and minerals is by no means exclusive in terms of the nutrients our bodies need on a daily basis. Check out the NHS website as a reliable source of further information. The Council for Responsible Nutrition says, “Food supplements are not a substitute for a well-balanced diet. Rather, they are designed to support the daily diet, helping to ensure that the levels of intake of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients are maintained at an optimum level, particularly on the days where temptation rules and our diet might be less balanced. Supplements may be used to correct nutritional deficiencies or maintain an adequate intake of certain nutrients.”
We each are the best judge of what our lifestyles and diet might need by way of supplementation. Popular staples used by many from Forever’s extensive range include:
Forever Daily - This powerful daily multivitamin delivers 100% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of essential vitamins and bio-available minerals and nutrients. Forever Daily combines fifty-five perfectly balanced aloe-coated nutrients including vitamins A, C, D and B12, iron, calcium and zinc. Take with the Forever Aloe Vera Gel for best results.
Forever Kids - These fun, delicious, chewable multi-vitamins provide children with the nutrients needed each day, including vitamin A, C, D and B12, calcium, iron and zinc. They contain no aspartame, no artificial colours or preservatives, and adults will love them too.
Forever B12 - This time-release formula packs a punch of vitamin B12 and folic acid. These elements are beneficial to women wishing to conceive or who are in the first three months of pregnancy. B12 is also essential to include within vegetarian or vegan diets as it’s normally obtained from animal sources.
Forever Arctic Sea - The human body cannot naturally make the omega-3 fatty acids which are commonly found in fish. Forever Arctic Sea’s blend of natural fish, calamari and oleic olive oil contains the perfect balance of essential fatty acids EPA – which contributes to the normal function of the heart – and DHA – which contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function.

Mental Health

Increasingly we are understanding more about how our mental and physical health are linked, so spring cleaning our selfcare need not stop at nutrition. Now might just be the opportunity to dust off some of the things we used to enjoy but no longer spend time on. Arts and crafts, playing a musical instrument, dancing or developing a new skill are great mood-boosters. It’s important to remember that sometimes it’s good to do something we enjoy simply for enjoyment’s sake - and what better time than now?
What changes in your daily lifestyle have you made recently? Why not share your tips in the comments - we’d love to know.

March-24-2020

March-20-2020

Your immune system is important. It recognises every cell of your body and helps to fight infection and illness. Your immune system can be divided up into two parts: innate response and acquired response. The innate response is the part that decides whether something is friend or foe, and if it decides on foe, it tries to flush out the invader. You can find out more about the immune system here.
Maintaining a healthy immune system is really important in keeping us all healthy, and the best method for supporting it is through regular exercise and eating a healthy diet to ensure your body is getting all the vitamins and minerals it needs. Certain vitamins and minerals contribute to the normal function of the immune system, including copper, folate, iron, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc. Some will be more helpful here than others, but that’s why a balanced diet is the best option here, as you’ll get a bit of everything.

Support your healthy lifestyle

At Forever, we believe that good health begins with good nutrition. The cleansing and purifying  nature of our gels make them the perfect addition for anyone looking to give their diet a little something extra, and our range of nutritional supplements incorporates nature’s most beneficial vitamins and minerals to help you to promote a healthy lifestyle and support your body’s defences.
Forever Aloe Vera Drinking Gel is as close to the real thing as you can get, boasting 99.7% inner leaf aloe gel, lovingly extracted by hand so that you can experience the true power of nature. Aloe is great for skin, the immune system and it’s an ideal digestive aid, and now this purifying gel also contains vitamin C, which also contributes to the normal function of the immune system. Our drinking gels are also available in a variety of flavours so there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Taking vitamin C daily has long been associated with good health, but the human body doesn’t naturally store the vitamin meaning it must be consumed via food, drink and supplements. Forever’s Absorbent-C is bonded with oat bran, a highly soluble fibre, for gradual absorption, and provides 100% of the UK’s RDA of vitamin C, which contributes to the normal function of the immune system. Forever Immublend also helps to support a healthy lifestyle, and is high in vitamins C, D and zinc; which all contribute to the normal function of the immune system.
Men and women require different nutrients and vitamin in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and Forever’s Vitolize for Men, and for Women are designed with those needs in mind. Forever’s Vitolize for Women is high in vitamins D, E, C, B6, B12, folic acid and iron, and Vitolize for Men is high in vitamins D, E, C, B6 and zinc, all of which contribute to the normal function of the immune system.

And to make sure your children are getting all the nutrients they need each day, give them Forever Kids. These fun, delicious, chewable multi-vitamins provide children with the nutrients needed each day, including vitamin A, C, D and B12, calcium, iron and zinc. They contain no aspartame, no artificial colours or preservatives, and adults will love them too! Forever Kids is high in vitamins A, D, C, B6 and B12, as well as folic acid and zinc, which all contribute to the normal function of the immune system.
What are your tips for maintaining a heathy immune system? Let us know in the comments below.

January-10-2020

Veganuary (a.k.a. Vegan January) is upon us and apparently this year over 350,000 people have signed up to go Vegan for the month! If you were one of those people, congratulations on making it so far! We hope you’re having lots of interesting, diverse and delicious meals!
You’ll be pleased to know that Forever Living is always cruelty-free and some of our products are vegan-friendly, including our three-flagship Aloe Vera Gels and some of our supplements such as our Forever Fiber, Forever B12 (a vegan staple!) and Forever Lean.
But we wanted to go one step further and help you to incorporate our vegan products into some delicious vegan recipes to really kickstart your January!

Supergreen Soup

This soup is packed full of vitamins to give you a well-rounded, filling vegan meal: kick it up a notch by adding a sachet of Forever Supergreens – completely vegan-friendly!

• 2 tsp olive oil
• ½ large onion (chopped)
• 4 garlic cloves (chopped)
• 650ml vegetable stock
• 1 broccoli (chopped)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• 1 cup green peas
• 120g spinach
• 1 400g can cannellini beans
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 sachet Forever Supergreens

In a large pot over a medium heat, heat the olive oil and fry the onions for 3-4 minutes, until starting to soften. Add the garlic and fry for a further 1-2 minutes.
Add the vegetable stock, broccoli, celery and peas. Turn down the heat to medium-low and simmer for 1-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Transfer the soup to a blender and add the spinach, beans, lemon juice, dill, salt and pepper. Blend until smooth, then pour the soup back into the pot and add in your sachet of Forever Supergreens. Remember to taste-test and adjust seasonings as necessary.

Drink-Your-Greens Smoothie

A smoothie is a quick, fresh and healthy way to start the day and this one packs a healthy punch with the benefits of the vitamin-packed leafy green, kale and Aloe Vera Gel.

• 70g kale
• 250ml Aloe Vera Gel (try each flavour for a different twist!)
• ½ orange
• 100g pineapple
• ½ banana

Place kale, orange and Aloe Vera Gel into a blender. Puree until smooth. Then add the remaining ingredients and blend.
Find more great smoothie recipes here 

Aloe Peaches Sorbet

Being healthy doesn’t have to mean denying yourself sweet treats. A delicious peach sorbet is the perfect after-dinner treat, and the added Forever Aloe Peaches means you still get a health boost from that pure inner leaf aloe gel.

• 1 pound ripe peaches (cut roughly into pieces)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 60ml Forever Aloe Peaches
• 60ml water
• ½ cup white sugar

Add peaches to a blender and blend until completely smooth. Add to a bowl, stir in the lemon juice and place in the fridge.
Combine the water and sugar in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Stir until sugar is dissolved (this should take around a minute). Remove from the stove and let it cool to room temperature, before adding the Forever Aloe Peaches and popping into the fridge for around an hour
Pour the blended peach and lemon juice mix into the Forever Aloe Peaches and sugar mix into a freezer safe container and ensure it’s well combined. Place in the freezer. Every 30 minutes or so, remove the sorbet from the freezer and use a fork to break it up and stir. Keep repeating this process until the mixture is completely frozen (4-5 hours).
Do you have any go-to vegan recipes we could all take inspiration from and incorporate into our vegan month? Let us know in the comments?

December-20-2019

There’s no time like the New Year to start re-evaluating your habits and resetting your health goals. 2020 presents not only a new year but a brand-new decade of opportunity to kick-start healthy habits and get yourself back on track. 
While you may be fully in the throes of holiday spirit at the moment, we thought we’d inform you of a few trends set to be big next year, so you can start thinking about how you want to change your life for the better come 1st January! 

Mental Health Trends

Mental health has become a huge focus for everyone recently. In our increasingly connected, digital world, we’re stressed-out, burned-out and holding ourselves to impossible standards. But now we’re starting to realise it’s simply not sustainable. 
Self-care is the first thing we wanted to highlight as we believe it’s truly important to take time out to look after yourself (whatever that looks like to you). There is already an influx of breathing and meditation apps available to try and help you take back control of your own mental wellbeing, as well as Instagram’s initiative to remove likes on posts, to help stop comparison culture, and 2020 is sure to see this activity really ramp up. 

Sleep Trends

How many hours of sleep do you get a night? Eight? Six? Four ‘if you’re lucky’? Studies show that people actually consider sleep to be a luxury rather than a necessity! Getting enough sleep is vital to help your body repair and restore itself, restore energy and release growth and development hormones. 
So, while you’re busy downloading apps to help with your mental health, why not consider downloading a sleep app which monitors your sleep cycle or another which lulls you to sleep each night with relaxing melodies? 
Better yet, stop using your phone or other electronic devices at least 60 minutes before you go to bed. The blue light affects your body’s production of melatonin, which disrupts your sleep. If you can’t tear yourself away, at least try to protect your eyes: try setting your screen to a sepia tone after 9pm, wearing blue-light filtering glasses or even taking Forever iVision which contains vitamin A and zinc that contribute to the maintenance of normal vision. 

Food Trends

One big health trend set to make waves in 2020 is the idea of ‘intuitive eating’. This is simply the process of listening to your body: eating when you’re hungry and stopping when you’re satiated. While this may sound like common sense, many of us have been subconsciously taught to ignore or override our bodies hunger/full signals (think: your parents guilt-tripping you into eating your entire plate of food before you left the table even though you were full, or going on a restrictive diet in your early teens which led you into a restrict-binge eating cycle). This means that you may now be out of touch with when you’re genuinely in need of food and what kind of food you need to eat. 
Intuitive eating puts everything back on the menu (even the things you’ve told yourself are ‘naughty’) and simply requires you to really listen to your body to determine when to eat and when to stop. Drinking plenty of water can really help with this, as often we misinterpret thirst as hunger. 
Another food trend includes incorporating more plant-based or vegan meals into your diet. Whether or not you go full vegan is up to you, but there are many health benefits to eating less meat – and lots of benefits for the environment, too! Why not give Veganuary a try next month? 

Fitness Trends

What’s a list of New Year Resolutions without a fitness goal? At home workouts are set to be one of the biggest trends for 2020 – and how convenient! No need for an expensive gym membership or classes that you struggle to fit around your hectic schedule! Simply set YouTube up on your TV or laptop and workout from the comfort of your lounge! We have a video of  a great at-home workout with Forever Ambassador, Ben Cohen for you to take a look at here
And taking it back to our first bullet point, there are also workouts you can do for better mental wellness, such as dance and yoga. Why not roll the two trends into one and take a look at our playlist ‘The Power of Yoga’ with Kristina Rihanoff for wellness workouts at home with our Forever Ambassador.

November-15-2019

Millennials refers to people born between around 1980 and the mid-1990’s who are people now in their young adulthood, roughly aged between 25 and 34. According to Statista, 12 million millennials lived in the United Kingdom in 2018 and they will shortly become the largest age demographic group in the UK overall with 35% of the global workforce being dominated by millennials.
In terms of their careers, one in five young people have two or more jobs and on average, millennials stay within a given role for a maximum of three years, meaning they are always on the lookout for new opportunities. Having been shaped by the technology revolution that saw computers, tablets and the web become central to work and life, they prioritise culture, career growth and are challenging the job world more than ever before. But aside from this, millennials put a priority on jobs that offer flexibility – so what could these be?

Website developer

Web developer sits highly as the best jobs for millennials; offering a high salary if you’re tech savvy and have expert coding skills. Aside from that, developers also need to have an eye for design and detail as they are responsible for the look and functionality of websites and apps. Best of all, most companies offer flexible working hours for developers since the work is usually results and output based. This makes room for the good work-life balance which millennials long for.

Become an Influencer

Blogging increased rapidly in the earlier 2010’s, and even though the market is a bit saturated now there is still a chance for young millennials to shine, especially with the rise of the image sharing platform - Instagram. Now, young millennials are sharing beautiful pictures of their travels, fashion and their lives on Instagram for the whole world to see. The more followers they gain the more they can charge. If this is a career that interests you, start by learning photography, videography, and sharpen your writing skills. Creativity and being unique is key, so continue to practice, think outside the box, and make contacts with PR agencies and brands.

Videographers

As the world becomes more and more visual, we are seeing a movement towards even more easily digestible content such as video. So, if you are skilled in creating and editing sharp, entertaining videos, which could potentially add value to any brand, pitch your skills with a show reel or take on smaller jobs to build up your portfolio.

Graphic designer

Thanks to the rise of the Internet, graphic design is one of the most in-demand careers for millennials today. Businesses want to take more of a creative approach, while brands want to find someone who can help a marketing campaign go viral. At first, you will likely work in entry level, but with some hard work and an original portfolio, you can move your way up the ladder and start getting larger assignments, whether your working agency side or freelance from home.

Social media manager

Social Media has exploded over the last 5 years, and If you’re a millennial, it’s likely you have a natural expertise with social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. There are plenty of job openings in companies who are tuning in to the importance of having a strong social presence. There is much flexibility in this role as you can go down the route of working in-house for an established company or working for an agency. Plus, once you are a professional you could work on a freelance or contract basis, where you will be able to set your own rates and hours, as well as working remotely.

Network marketing professional

Millennials want to have the option to control their own working hours and location, which is what network marketing can potentially give them. Starting a network marketing business with Forever gives you the potential to earn a significant income stream, have extra time and the freedom to build your life according to your dreams, and allows you the flexibility to start part-time and build a full-time income.
To get started as a Forever Business Owner, all you have to do is contact your local Forever Business Owner or email Business Owner Support. Or head to Faces of Forever where you can read inspirational stories on why our Forever Business Owners decided to embark on the Forever journey.

October-30-2019

With the skies turning grey, frosty mornings and the nights drawing in, what could be more comforting than popping on the kettle for a soothing cup of tea? So snuggle up and invigorate your senses with a warming cup of Forever’s Aloe Blossom Herbal Tea. With its aromatic blend of autumnal spices this refreshing caffeine-free, unique blend is perfect for calming and relaxing, and is packed with benefits thanks to the vitamin-rich ingredients which have been carefully chosen to help provide a soothing effect whenever you are feeling the stresses of a busy day.
Natural blend of herbs and spices

The natural blend of leaves, herbs and spices in Forever’s Aloe Blossom Herbal Tea have been specifically combined to provide outstanding flavour and rich aroma to put you in a restful and relaxing frame of mind.
Naturally delicious and renowned for its health benefits and therapeutic properties, camomile adds a delicate and floral aroma to help you unwind. Sweet and pungent, cardamom is high in minerals and is complemented by the spicy aroma of ginger, clove and cinnamon, for a calming and warming effect to help soothe body and mind. These ingredients are also reminiscent of the holiday season, making this tea the perfect accompaniment to cosying up in front of a fireplace and feeling festive.
Vitamin rich ingredients
This unique blend is packed with benefits thanks to the vitamin rich ingredients, and the refreshing flavour of the fruity tones of orange peel and blackberry leaf combined with the delicate fragrances of aloe blossom, fennel and gymnema sylvestre all contribute to soothing body and mind to leave you feeling refreshed.
Forever’s Aloe Blossom Herbal Tea is ideal for those chilly winter months, and this wonderfully uplifting drink is the perfect way to get you in the festive spirit.


So, grab your favourite mug, and let us know how you like to enjoy the perfect cup of tea.

September-13-2019

The beauty industry has taken a more holistic approach than ever before and is paying close attention to ingredients including pure honey. You may not know it yet, but honey’s benefits go beyond sweetening up your morning porridge or warm cup of tea - there are also plenty of beauty uses of honey on your face, body and even in your hair, which we are looking forward to trying here at Forever Living UK.

Give yourself a honey facial

Honey is great for hydrating the skin, leaving it soft, radiant, and glowing because it acts as a humectant, drawing water out of the air and into itself. Simply bring your skin back to life by applying Forever Bee Honey as a face or body mask and let it sit on your skin for 15 to 20 minutes.

Boost your hair with honey

Because honey retains and attracts moisture, it can keep your hair feeling smooth and healthy. There are two options for applying honey in your hair: Either mix in 1 teaspoon of Forever Bee Honey with your shampoo or mix 1/2 cup of honey and 1/4 cup olive or coconut oil.

Use honey in the bath

As the seasons change, so can your skin. But warm baths with soothing ingredients can keep your skin in check, plus did you know Cleopatra allegedly bathed in milk and honey to achieve a glowing complexion? If she can do it, so can you! Just simply mix two tablespoons of Forever Bee Honey into one cup of hot water until the honey is dissolved. Then pour the honey mixture into a tub of warm water to soak.

Moisturise your cuticles

If you have dry and cracked cuticles, it can be quite uncomfortable and unsightly to look at. You can purchase creams and oils, but our home remedy is to apply a little bit of honey around your cuticles which can draw moisture back into the skin. For extra moisture, you could also mix in some Forever Aloe Vera Gel and olive oil with the honey.

Exfoliate your skin

Using honey as an exfoliator can create a much gentler feeling for your skin, just simply mix together two spoons of honey and one spoon of baking soda. Baking soda offers light exfoliation while the honey soothes and smooths the skin. You can also use this DIY honey exfoliator on your arms, legs and feet.

Soothe chapped lips

Maybe you’ve got chapped lips from the cold, windy weather? Or have you been out in the sun too long? Honey can work wonders to soothe dry skin and chapped lips because it contains a hygroscopic natural sweetener, which means it draws moisture to your lips. Alternatively, you can apply our Aloe Lips which contains aloe, jojoba and three types of wax to smooth and soothe chapped, dry lips.


What’s your favourite way of using honey?

June-26-2019

Despite a high-profile campaign that launched in 2003 surrounding the importance of eating your ‘five-a-day’, the British public are still falling short of consuming this recommended daily allowance. A diet that lacks in sufficient fruit and vegetables is a diet that lacks in essential nutrients, and this can lead to significant health issues!
Poor diet related illnesses cost the NHS around £6 billion per year – this is more than alcohol, smoking and sedentary lifestyle related cases. Around 12% of the total number of deaths are due to diet-related ill health, and that’s about 70,000 premature deaths per year!
It’s been sixteen years since UK government launched the five-a-day campaign to mainstream consumers, yet data suggests that nutrient intake has continued to decline and the majority of people in the UK are not eating a healthy diet that delivers all the nutrients they need. In fact, only 31% of adults (19-64) and 8% of children aged 11-18 are getting their five-a-day.
According to a recent report published by the Health and Food Supplements Information Service (based on findings from the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey Rolling Programme and an annual Family Food survey by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs), adults are significantly below the recommended daily intake of various nutrients including omega-3, magnesium and fibre (amongst others). Public Health England (PHE) already recommends that the entire UK population turn to food supplements such as vitamin D to help plug the gaps where daily diets are failing, so we decided to take a closer look at three of the nutrients that the UK are currently at risk of being deficient in.
As a result, Public Health England (PHE) now recommends that the entire UK population turn to food supplements that can help to plug the gaps where daily diets are failing.

OMEGA-3

The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition recommends that adults consume 140g of fish a week, but we are only consuming 56g. The main food source for omega-3 is oily fish but consumption of omega-3 has remained at an all-time low for over twenty years.
As well as the omega-3 acids eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA), oily fish provides you with high quality protein. DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function, blood triglyceride levels and vision. Both DHA and EPA contribute to the normal function of the heart.
It’s recommended that healthy adults eat one portion of oily fish and one portion of regular fish a week in order to get these nutrients, but many people turn their noses up due to the strong flavours and poor media coverage relating to the sustainability of fish stocks and the risk of plastic consumption. It is for this reason that many health organisations are now recommending that adults take a daily omega-3 supplement containing at least 250-500mg of combined EPA and DHA.
Forever Arctic Sea is one omega-3 supplement that’s rich in both EPA and DHA, and thanks to its blend of natural fish and calamari oils, you can ensure you get natural goodness without the fishy flavours! Each serving equates to 1305mg of omega-3 fatty acids which means you’ll never need to worry about lacking in this nutrient again!

MAGNESIUM

Magnesium is gained from eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables yet in recent years the British public’s magnesium intake has declined by 13% in adults (11% in females), but even more of a concern is that this decrease is recorded as having dropped by 38% in boys aged 11-18 and by 50% in girls.
Magnesium supports over 300 enzyme systems that regulate biochemical reactions in the body. It also contributes to electrolyte balance, to normal muscle and psychological function, to the maintenance of normal bones and teeth and to the normal function of the nervous system. In addition, it has a role in the process of cell division, and it helps to reduce fatigue. Magnesium helps to transport other nutrients, such as calcium and potassium, so a lack of magnesium could also affect your body’s supply of these other nutrients. Spinach, kale, bananas, avocado, edamame beans, chickpeas, broccoli and cabbage are all sources of magnesium.
Forever Supergreens is a powdered supplement that contains over twenty fruits and vegetables. Each sachet can be mixed with 240ml of water or fruit juice, which means it’s perfect for those who live busy lifestyles that demand convenience food. It’s high in magnesium, containing 125mg (about half your RDA), but it’s also high in vitamins C and E. You can learn more about its nutritional benefits here.

FIBRE

Fibre is another nutrient gained from fruit and vegetables and it’s recommended that adults consume 30g a day; on average, 19-64-year-olds are only consuming 19g a day.
90% of Brits are deficient in this complex carbohydrate, possibly because most of the nation choose white pasta and bread over wholegrain alternatives, but the five-a-day failure is also affecting the country’s fibre intake. Apples, bananas, oranges, raspberries and strawberries are all great choices if you want fibre-rich fruits, or you can choose broccoli, peas and artichokes for your veg.
A fibrous diet is important for digestive and gastrointestinal health so if you want to avoid awkward toilet trips, you probably want to make sure you’re getting the fibre you need. If like the majority of the nation your diet is deficient in fibre, try adding a supplement like Forever Fiber. Each powdered sachet gives you 5g of fibre when mixed with a glass of water or other beverage.

WHY ARE PEOPLE IGNORING FRUIT AND VEG?

People aren’t necessarily intentionally ignoring the national guidelines, but there are several trends that have emerged over the past two decades that could account for the dip.
Busy lifestyles often result in convenience food choices, takeaways or the skipping of meals. High cost, taste, irregular working hours and the inability to conveniently pick up fruit and veg when travelling are other reasons that are believed to hinder people’s nutritional choices. 55% of people admitted to having takeaways once or twice a week and less than 5% of people consume salad. 12% stated that they eat whatever they can grab on the go for convenience, but there was absolutely no mention of fruit in this instance!
It has also been identified that there is some confusion when it comes to consuming the correct portion size of fruit and vegetables. A survey commissioned by the National Charity Partnership polled 2,000 people and only 23% knew that the correct portion was a ‘handful’ of fruit or veg. Public Health England’s Eatwell Guide is extremely helpful when it comes to portion control and states that fruit and vegetables should make up 30-40% of your plate. When asked, 86% of survey responders were incorrect in their thinking relating to Eatwell’s guidelines.

HOW CAN YOU SAVE YOUR DIET?

If meal planning to ensure your diet includes a sufficient amount of nutrients each week is out of the question, supplementing your diet with vitamin and mineral supplements may be the answer your future health depends upon.
The UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey did not identify a single nutrient that did not have a significant demographic attached to it that’s falling short of the national recommendations. Food supplements can bridge the nutritional gaps, yet many people are still ignoring the advice. A recent survey commissioned by the Heath and Food Supplements Information Service revealed that 38% of 1,022 respondents fail to take any food supplements and less than one in five who do, take multivitamins. A report published by Mintel claims that one in three people take a vitamin and mineral supplement, and that women are more open to them than men; however, Mintel also determined that more than 25% of the population of people in Britain have never taken a vitamin and mineral supplement!
If you fear you are unable to consume the recommended daily intake of all the different nutrients, including your five portions of fruit and vegetables each day, you should definitely consider taking food supplements. Food supplements should not be used as a replacement for a varied balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, but they are useful as an additional nutrient source. The National Diet and Nutrition Survey identified that supplement users tended to have a higher intake of essential nutrients and therefore they are less likely to be deficient in nutrients that can lead to health concerns.
A reliable multivitamin to consider is Forever Daily. Forever Daily is high in over twenty vitamins and minerals, including some of the nutrients that have suffered downturns in recent years (vitamin A, vitamin D, iron, iodine and selenium). Brits are often deficient in vitamin D since the main vitamin D source is the sun. As a result, PHE recommends that everyone over the age of one should take a food supplement that contains at least 10 micrograms of vitamin D, particularly in the autumn and winter months (although this month has also been a tad sun-deprived!).
Shop for supplements and plug your nutritional gaps today.

June-07-2019

Most people know why aloe vera is beneficial for overall health and wellbeing – you may even have a little pot plant on your kitchen window ledge just in case you need to get to its soothing inner leaf gel in a cooking emergency – but what you may not realise is that not every aloe plant is equal, and not every ‘aloe’ product contains the aloe percentage or purity needed to deliver the benefits you’re after. 
Let’s look at purity of aloe vera
Out of the 400 or so species, it’s the Aloe Barbadensis Miller variety that carries the properties most beneficial to humans, and it is the pure inner leaf gel of this plant that houses the nutrients many of us desire. 
It’s likely that you already have a rough idea as to why people love this succulent, especially since it’s colloquially referred to as the ‘burn plant’ or ‘miracle plant’, but aloe is also believed to benefit your skin, hair and nails, your digestive health, and it can support immunity. That said, it’s not as simple as rubbing the leaf over your skin – that would actually be quite prickly and uncomfortable – it’s about extracting the right part of the plant and in many cases, mixing this magical element with other ingredients that elevate its power to deliver effective results.
The structure of an aloe leaf is made up of rind, sap, mucilage and parenchyma gel. The rind is a waxy outer layer that acts as protection and just inside the rind is a fluid called sap, this is pretty bitter in taste. Below the sap is mucilage containing acemannan – acemannan carries beneficial properties relating to immune health – and this layer is usually filleted to reveal inner gel known as the parenchyma, a clear, gel-like substance. Scientists have identified more than 75 active nutrients in the gel and these compounds work synergistically to provide soothing and therapeutic benefits. These compounds include amino acids, enzymes, saponins, minerals, vitamins and fatty acids, and it is this pure inner leaf gel that’s responsible for aloe’s glowing reputation.   

May-13-2019

Face masks are the fastest growing product in facial skincare, with sales up 48% this year according to Kantar Worldpanel. Whatever your skin type (normal, dry, oily and combination) face masks are an easy and convenient skincare product that can be incorporated into your regular routine to help get your skin back on track. But with so many face masks on the market you want to find the best face mask that works for you. Forever explains the differences below.
MARINE MASK – THE PREMIXED MASK
If you want to say goodbye to drab, dull and dry skin then treat your pores to a deep clean with the Forever Marine Mask. Not only is it easy-to-apply but it also contains moisturising and conditioning properties of aloe vera, honey, cucumber and natural sea minerals. By using this ready-mixed face mask twice a week, you will deeply penetrate the skin and leave it feeling refreshed and revitalised. Simply spread the mask generously in an upward and outward motion over the entire face, avoiding the eyes. Leave to dry for 15-20 minutes, then remove with warm water and a soft cloth. 
MASK POWDER – THE ‘MIX IT YOURSELF’ MASK
This ultra-fine skin powder contains a unique combination of ingredients including camomile to smooth, condition and cleanse the skin. The face mask is designed to blend perfectly with our Aloe Activator to create a thin mask for easy application to the face and neck. When blended together it should have the consistency of a lotion. After you apply the face mask, you'll feel it tightening and solidifying as it cleanses your pores, and once removed, skin will feel refreshed and conditioned. Remove after 30 minutes by soaking a flannel in warm water and placing it on your face to soften the mask. Once soft, gently remove the residue with warm water. Finish your skincare regime with your favourite toner and moisturiser.  
SONYA REFINING GEL MASK – THE OVERNIGHT MASK
Want to achieve a fresh-faced look while you sleep? Say hello to the Sonya Refining Gel Mask from Forever! This mask helps promote healthy skin tone by nourishing your skin while you sleep, without leaving skin greasy. Simply apply a generous amount over your entire face before bedtime and leave on overnight. Rinse thoroughly with warm water in the morning to reveal a balanced complexion.
This face mask helps to support balance by controlling oil and brightening the appearance of skin. To make the most of your shut eye, we infused this gel with a bounty of botanicals, including carrot seed oil, basil oil, artemisia pallens flower oil and soybean oil. The cool gel of the face mask will absorb quickly into your skin so that you benefit from the moisturising properties of our rich, stabilised aloe vera gel, as well as moisturisers like apple fruit extract, clover flower extract, sasa quelpaertensis (Korean bamboo) extract, and liquorice root, a vitamin-rich plant which provides antioxidant support. 
ALOE BIO-CELLULOSE MASK – THE SHEET MASK
What better way to increase skin hydration than with an aloe-infused face mask that literally seeps aloe vera directly into your pores? Unlike traditional masks, Forever's Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask fuses aloe and seagrass between bio-cellulose fibres to ensure deep moisturisation that penetrates every fine line and wrinkle, soothing and conditioning skin. This environmentally-friendly sheet mask has also been enriched by a moisturising serum of green tea and horse chestnut that rejuvenates dull skin by combatting the signs of ageing and reducing the appearance of redness. This mask is easy-to-apply and the fibres fuse to the contours of your face. Simply pop the face-shaped sheet mask to your face, leave it on for twenty minutes then dispose it in the garden to add nutrients to the soil. There’s no need to rinse your skin after removal, simply rub remaining residue into your complexion to unveil soft, supple and radiant skin.
Which Forever face mask is your favourite? Let us know in the comments.

April-19-2019

As a nation we love a cup of tea, in fact it is estimated that the number of cups of tea drunk every day in Britain is 165 million, and, apparently, there are 24 million ways to make a cup of tea!
We know that the debate on how to make the perfect cup of tea will never be over, but with it being National Tea Day on Sunday 21st April, we wondered whether we are making the most out of our cups of tea, however you take it.
Choose a tea to suit your mood
Whether you're happy or sad, angry or tired, you can guarantee that there is a type of tea to help you and your mood. We recommend the refreshing taste and comforting aroma of Forever’s Aloe Blossom Herbal Tea, with its warming notes of spice including cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, fennel, allspice and clove, mixed with fruity tones. This caffeine-free and unique blend of tea is a wonderfully uplifting drink to calm you down after a busy day at work.
Brew and stir your tea the right way
Everyone makes traditional tea differently and how a tea is brewed can make all the difference. Most traditional teas should only be brewed once, although some stronger teas can be brewed twice so always check the packaging. The longer a tea is steeped for, the more caffeine is released and equally a tea that is only left to brew for 2 minutes will result in a less caffeinated cup.
Brewed tea is 99 percent water, so the water you start with has a lot to do with the final taste of the brewed tea. Once you have the freshest water, tea generally requires a brewing temperature of anywhere from 160 to 212 degrees, depending on the type of tea.
The best way to brew tea is with patience and attention. Scientists at the University of Northumbria's School of Life Sciences discovered that the key to the best tasting brew is to let it sit for six minutes before drinking.
Also, according to former royal butler Grant Harrold, we’ve been stirring tea all wrong. He says that there's a particular method for stirring a cup of tea: never use a circular motion and never touch the sides; stir back and forth.
Drink your tea out of your favourite cup
Once you've decided on your preferred flavour of tea, you now need to choose the perfect cup to drink it out of. According to research, 65 percent of Brits have a favourite cup or mug they use for their morning cup of tea. If you love the cup you're drinking out of, your tea will automatically taste a whole lot better.
Tea has lots of skin benefits
Herbal teas could be a wonderful addition to your daily skincare routine. For example, sprinkle some tea leaves into a bowl with hot water, hover your face over the top and cover your head with a towel. Slowly breathe in the steam. Alternatively, for tired eyes, place tea bags in just-boiled water for about two minutes, remove your bags and allow them to cool. Once cool, place one tea bag on each of your closed eyelids. Leave to soak for about 15 minutes.
Consider honey in your tea rather than sugar
When you brew a cup of hot tea, do you reach for honey or sugar? Honey is one of mankind’s oldest food sources, providing natural energy and goodness to bees and humans alike. If you regularly find yourself reaching for refined sugar, you should definitely consider replacing it with a bottle of Forever Bee Honey. It is 100% pure and superior in taste with a floral aroma that leaves behind a subtle fruity finish. Honey is also sweeter than sugar, so you may use less of it, but is does have slightly more calories as it’s a lot denser.
Whatever your reasons for brewing your cuppa, it’s clear that tea deserves to be celebrated. What’s your favourite cup of tea? Let us know in the comments.

April-03-2019

As creatures of habit, many people continue their teenage skincare routine well into adulthood, but unfortunately, it’s unlikely that the cleanser and moisturiser that worked for you when you were seventeen will continue to do your skin justice when you are pushing fifty. It’s nothing personal, it’s just that your skin changes dramatically over the years and as you age your skin’s structure, type and needs alter in a way which now demands ingredients and formulas that have been scientifically developed to match your biological age.
If you’re now doubting whether your skincare is suitable for your age, the following information will hopefully help to clear things up – in more ways than one!
Skincare routine for teens
Skin is often the enemy of the average teenager and many find themselves fighting the threat of acne and shine on a daily basis. Problematic skin may be a result of fluctuating hormones, fast food, academic stress or environmental factors, and although some of these influencers may be difficult to control, skincare is one aspect that can be managed.
Out of fear of developing pimples, many teenagers stock up on products with harsh formulas that promise to fight spots, but more often than not these products end up aggravating the problem. Although ridding your skin of spots entirely may be optimistic, particularly if the cause is hormone or diet related, choosing skincare that balances skin may help calm the situation and it will certainly help combat excess shine caused by an oily complexion. Sonya Daily Skincare can be used by anyone over the age of twelve, so it’s ideal for teenagers who suffer from shiny skin. Refreshing Gel Cleanser and Refining Gel Mask are particular favourites, and since they only contain natural fragrances derived from botanicals rather than artificially added aromas, they should not irritate skin further. This skincare range also contains natural oils like cold-pressed baobab oil, and although it may be counter-intuitive to add oil to oily skin, these natural oils are best qualified at cutting through the sebum (oil) that sits on top of the skin.
Best skincare routine for your early twenties
Once you hit your twenties you expect problematic skin to be a distant memory, but unfortunately many young people aged 20-26 continue to be plagued by what could be argued as teenage skin. Skin problems in your twenties may still be brought on by hormone imbalances, but a care-free lifestyle also has a lot to answer for. Frequent partying, binge drinking and late nights that turn into all-nighters will all impact your skin, but you may not see the damage until later in life. That’s why it is essential to protect your skin in your early twenties in the hope that this will lessen any adverse effects caused.
Sonya Daily Skincare is still relevant in your early twenties, particularly as it is effective at combatting fluctuations in the skin. It’s quite likely that you still experience oily days that remind you of your teen years, but now you also have the added bonus of occasional dry patches. This skincare range is designed for combination skin just like this and works to balance the skin’s pH to give you an even complexion. The Illuminating Gel will brighten the appearance of overall skin – perfect after a late night – and Soothing Gel Moisturizer is not too heavy so won’t leave you feeling greasy after application.
It’s also wise to protect your skin with SPF in your twenties as this will help prevent premature skin-ageing. Protecting Day Lotion makes the perfect primer as it contains SPF 20 and protects against UV rays. Wearing SPF under makeup will add a layer of protection that is essential, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
Anti-ageing skincare for your mid-twenties and thirties
You may notice a lot of changes in your likes, dislikes and conversation subject matters as you approach your thirties, and unsurprisingly your skin also matures along with your opinions. Collagen, a protein that occurs naturally in your body, begins to deplete by the time you hit 25. 80% of the dermis – the skin that sits underneath the outer layer of skin – is made from collagen, and it’s what helps to give your skin strength and structure. Elastin, another component of skin, is what gives skin its stretch. As you age, these structures weaken and fine lines and wrinkles form, which is why it’s essential to introduce anti-ageing products to your routine at this point in life.
Anti-ageing products often contain collagen and elastin so that you can top up the supply lost by your ageing skin, but they also contain powerful ingredients that have specifically been chosen for their ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines. Forever’s Infinite by Forever Advanced Skincare System is definitely an anti-ageing skin routine that’s worth considering by the time you hit those latter twenties. Its revolutionary formulas target the signs of ageing by adding lost moisture back into skin. The Hydrating Cleanser is full of potent ingredients that cut through dirt without drying your skin and Firming Serum is a rich moisturiser that firms skin thanks to its three-amino acid peptide formula.
As well as anti-ageing, now is the time to add a regular exfoliator to your collection. When you’re young, your skin naturally exfoliates every 28 days but by your thirties this drops considerably. Smoothing Exfoliator will help to remove dead and dry skin to smooth your complexion without harming the environment. Its gentle formula uses natural jojoba beads and bamboo powder, so you don’t need to worry about harmful plastics entering the environment!
Anti-ageing skincare for your fab forties and onwards
By the time you hit your forties, you’ll want to make sure you have an established anti-ageing regime underway. Infinite by Forever Restoring Crème is an absolute must and should be used alongside the Firming Serum. This rich cream contains vitamin B3 to help even skin tone, but its unique formula also works as a barrier to protect the skin from further damage that may cause ageing. Its moisturising properties replenish parched skin and since dry skin is at risk of developing wrinkles, moisturising products are something you want your skin to befriend.
You may have gathered by now that preventing ageing skin often requires you adding something back into the skin, so if you want to up your skincare game, you may want to consider tackling skin ageing from the inside out. Beauty supplements are the perfect way to condition skin from within and Forever’s Firming Complex combines vitamin C with biotin and marine collagen to deliver effective ingredients to where your skin needs it most. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin, biotin contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and collagen helps give skin its structure and tone.
If you haven’t introduced an eye cream to your skincare routine already, now is the time to treat your tired eyes. Awakening Eye Cream firms under-eye skin, and reduces the appearance of dark circles and crow’s feet to keep your eyes from giving away your age.
Have you switched to anti-ageing skincare yet? Let us know how you are getting on by commenting below.

March-25-2019

The first quarter of 2019 is coming to an end and that means all the good habits you picked up during the #BeResolute campaign are well and truly embedded into your routine, right? If instead you find yourself reminiscing about how you spent last weekend sedentary on the sofa eating a takeaway and a family-sized bar of chocolate, you’ll be pleased to hear that there’s still hope. Put that weekend down to a momentary blip, dust yourself off and do whatever you need to do to introduce those good habits back into your life. And, as always, Forever Living is here to help!
Our Vital5 programme contains five nutritional supplements that have been designed to support your overall health, so that you can maintain the good habits you know your body craves. Each pack contains Forever Aloe Vera Gel, Forever Daily, Forever Active Pro-B, Forever Arctic Sea and Argi+. Take each of these supplements alongside a healthy diet and daily exercise programme and you’ll easily get yourself back on track. Read on to discover more on how Vital5 can help you to maintain good habits.
Promote Healthy Digestion
You may be surprised to learn that the state of your digestive health could lead to numerous other health concerns such as extreme fatigue, a weakened immune system, skin issues and metabolism problems. That’s why it’s important to keep your gut in tip-top condition by doing everything you can to ensure stress, diet, and environmental and lifestyle choices don’t send your gastrointestinal health into quandary. Thankfully Vital5 contains Forever Active Pro-B and Forever Aloe Vera Gel, two impressive gut governors!
Forever Active Pro-B is at the forefront of research and each supplement is made up of six synergistic bacteria strains. Each strain goes through thorough testing and has been selected for its ability to bypass stomach acid for optimal delivery into the intestines. Forever Aloe Vera Gel complements every ingredient captured inside Forever Active Pro-B and offers additional digestive support. This fresh-tasting drinking gel contains an incredible 99.7% pure aloe vera and it’s an excellent digestive aid since it supports gastrointestinal health.
Build Immunity
There’s never a good time to catch a cold, but when you are trying to instil good habits, a cold can throw all your good work right out of line. The good news is that a healthier lifestyle will eventually make you less susceptible to catching colds, but before you get there it’s important to put things in place that protect you from this everyday menace.
Your immune system is fragile and demands a constant supply of nutrients to ensure it remains balanced; this is so it can properly defend your body from infectious organisms and other unwelcome substances. Ensuring you feed your body correctly can help boost, strengthen and support your immune system, and thankfully there are many foods that are rich in the vital vitamins and minerals needed to keep your immunity happy and healthy.
Citrus fruits, bell peppers, broccoli, spinach and poultry are all excellent foods to pack into your diet at times when a heightened immune system is important. Each of these items contain vitamins that are essential in helping to maintain the normal function of the immune system, most notably vitamins A and C.
Vitamin A also contributes to the maintenance of normal mucous membranes. Mucous membranes may sound unattractive, but these secretion glands line vital structures in the body to protect the tissue from external factors that may cause harm. Mucous membranes can be found in the mouth, respiratory tract, nose, lungs and other organs. If vitamin A sounds like a nutrient you need in your diet, consider introducing your household to Forever Daily.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant which means it protects cells from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when foreign bodies cause an imbalance in the body, but antioxidants can help the body to neutralise any harmful effects. If you’re after a supplement loaded with vitamin C, Forever Daily and Argi+ are what you need. Forever Aloe Vera Gel also contains vitamin C. This combined with its high aloe content makes Forever Aloe Vera Gel a powerful protector against germs, as aloe also naturally benefits immune health.
Help Your Mental Concentration
Keeping your mind active as you age is absolutely essential if you want to slow natural deterioration, and thankfully there are several important nutrients that specifically benefit your mind.
One nutrient you may not be familiar with is docosahexaenoic acid, also known as DHA. DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that forms one of the core structural components of the brain; it’s also present in nerve tissues and the eyes. Not many food sources provide DHA but oily fish, seafood and algae are the major omega-3 players if you are looking to up your intake. If fish tends to be absent from your diet, it’s important to ensure that you don’t become deficient in DHA, as although your body will naturally produce the substance, the amount is quite minimal. Forever Arctic Sea contains both the fatty acids DHA and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function, as well as vision and blood triglyceride levels. Both DHA and EPA contribute to the normal function of the heart.
B vitamins are also excellent for one’s mental concentration. Thiamine (vitamin B1), niacin (vitamin B3) and folate (vitamin B9) all contribute to normal psychological function, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) contributes to normal mental performance, and niacin, folate and pantothenic acid also contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Next time you’re feeling a tad sluggish, you’ll want to reach for foods rich in B vitamins such as meat, fish and nuts. Forever Daily is also high in these B vitamins.
Folate (vitamin B9) and vitamin B12 often work together, so if you are deficient in B12, it’s likely that you’re also deficient in folate. Natural folate is found in foods like spinach, beans and dairy, and folic acid is a synthetic form of the vitamin, which is added to supplements and foods like flour and cereal. Folate and folic acid have the same basic molecular structure, they both function the same in the body and they both offer the same health benefits. For a supplement that combines both vitamin B12 and vitamin B9, choose Argi+.
Beautify Your Skin
Oily skin peppered with blemishes is something everyone hopes to ditch along with other awkward teenage memories, but unfortunately for many, spots continue to pop up long into adulthood. Thankfully it is possible to take a proactive approach to skin health, and one thing you can do is think about what vitamins and minerals you consume.
There are several skin-loving nutrients that your skin will thank you for including biotin (vitamin B7 or vitamin H), niacin (vitamin B3), copper, zinc and vitamins A and C.
Biotin can be found in dairy, veg and nuts; avocados and whole grain cereals are packed with niacin; seafood, organ meats and legumes are natural sources of copper; poultry, shellfish and mushrooms contain zinc, and leafy greens and dairy are great for vitamins A and C. Forever Daily is the winning supplement when it comes to delivering these much-needed vitamins.
When it comes to the role of vitamin C and the skin, this nutrient is more interested in the skin’s function; vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin and teeth. Collagen is an amino acid protein which occurs naturally in the body to give structure and tone to connective tissues, but collagen can deplete with age which means sagging skin and an aged complexion. Forever Aloe Vera Gel is high in vitamin C and aloe itself is also an amazing ingredient when it comes to skin. Not only is aloe soothing on sensitive and irritated skin, it has also been revered for centuries for carrying properties that lead to a beautiful complexion. As a highly-absorbent nutrient, aloe that’s consumed orally can work fast from the inside and incredibly, our Forever Aloe Vera Gel is as close to the natural inner leaf as you can get!

March-01-2019

The Inner leaf aloe gel from an Aloe Barbadensis Miller plant is beneficial for humans and animals when consumed as a drink or when used as a topical product, so what exactly can aloe do to boost your lifestyle?
Aloe vera supports digestion
Digestion is an essential bodily process that takes place in the gut. The process involves the body breaking food down into other substances that are then absorbed into the bloodstream or distributed around the body. However, increasing emerging evidence tells us that the size and complexity of our gut plays a vital role in more than just nutrient absorption; it’s also connected to our immune system, mental health and general wellbeing.
It is therefore essential that you take your digestive health seriously, and there are many things you can do to assist digestion such as healthy eating and regular exercise. Many of these options can however take time before you start seeing results, so while you wait, consider introducing Forever Aloe Vera Gel to your diet. Aloe vera is highly absorbent, and this means it can get to work straight away!
Aloe has been highly acclaimed for its cleansing and purifying properties which is why Forever’s C9 programme revolves around Forever Aloe Vera Gel. This aloe vera product is Forever’s reformulated drinking gel and it now contains a staggering 99.7% pure aloe, and this means it’s the perfect digestive aid. The aloe gel used in this aloe drink is carefully hand-filleted and processed within six hours of its harvest which is why it’s so pure, plus the final formula is preservative-free and contained in recyclable packaging. Drink 60-120ml of Forever Aloe Vera Gel every morning to support gastrointestinal health and to keep your digestive processes in check. This gel is also available in peach (Forever Aloe Peaches) or in cranberry and apple flavour (Forever Aloe Berry Nectar) if you fancy something a little fruitier.
Aloe vera improves skin hydration
You can also tackle skin from the inside out with our trusted Forever Aloe Vera Gel. Aloe can benefit skin, hair and nails, and since this gel is 99.7% pure, its purifying properties can work from within to give you that aloe glow.
Aloe has also been praised for its ability to elevate skincare thanks to its gentle but powerful ability to provide natural moisturisation. Did you know that a global survey in 2017 identified that hydration and moisturisation are the most sought after benefits that people look for from skincare? That’s why Forever decided to harness the power of aloe and combine it with scientifically-proven ingredients to create products that go above and beyond, and these products actually contain ingredients that enhance the efficacy of aloe!
What better way to increase skin hydration than with an aloe-infused face mask that literally seeps aloe goodness directly into your pores? The global market for face masks is predicted to reach $8.8 billion by 2021 and we believe the new Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask is going to make a significant impact in its market this year. Unlike traditional masks, this premium fabric mask fuses aloe and seagrass between bio-cellulose fibres to ensure deep moisturisation that penetrates every fine line and wrinkle, soothing and conditioning skin. This environmentally-friendly mask has also been enriched by a moisturising serum of green tea and horse chestnut that rejuvenates dull skin by combatting the signs of ageing and reducing the appearance of redness. This mask is easy to apply and the fibres fuse to the contours of your face. Leave it on for twenty minutes then dispose of it in the garden to add nutrients to the soil. There’s no need to rinse your skin after removal, simply rub any remaining residue into your complexion to unveil soft, supple and radiant skin.
Aloe vera soothes irritation
The aloe vera plant has been given many colloquial names over the years. You may have heard it referred to as the ‘burn plant’, ‘miracle plant’ or ‘first aid plant’, and this is because of its innate soothing properties and the fact that it has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Forever has captured aloe at its best in Aloe Vera Gelly, a topical gel that is essentially identical to aloe vera’s inner leaf, delivering 84% of pure aloe to the skin. This thick gel can be used to safely lubricate sensitive tissue and to calm irritation. Use it on minor irritations to moisturise, soothe and condition skin without staining clothes. Every household and every first aid kit should contain a tube of Aloe Vera Gelly!
Aloe vera balances your complexion
Skin is a very sensitive organ which is why a very fine, slightly acidic film sits on its surface. This is known as the acid mantle and it works as a barrier to protect skin against bacteria and viruses. Although fluctuations can occur naturally, sometimes the acid mantle is overly sensitive, and it’s thrown completely out of balance. This can be due to harsh cleansers or environmental exposure. Now, we already know that aloe is an amazing skincare ingredient, and one of the reasons it’s so good is because its natural pH is around 5.5, the same pH-value assigned to healthy skin. Aloe is also a ‘carrier’, which means it assists other ingredients so that they can absorb into the skin. These natural benefits of aloe, along with the skin-loving nutrients it blesses us with, have inspired Forever’s gel-based skincare collection, Sonya Daily Skincare. This skincare product works to balance combination skin – that’s skin that’s sometimes dry, sometime oily, sometimes both and sometime neither (often referred to as ‘normal’).
Sonya Daily Skincare consists of four gel-based products that work together to balance skin fluctuations. The products can be used by anyone aged 12-45 who is looking for a skincare range that doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils. This advanced skincare range uses gel-encapsulation technology to combine ingredients that would otherwise separate, keeping them tight together until they hit the skin. Once on the skin, these ingredients disperse to where they are needed most, melting into the skin like butter. The collection includes a non-drying cleanser (Refreshing Gel Cleanser) that cleans skin with rich antioxidants, an Illuminating Gel that enhances your natural glow by brightening skin tone and minimising pores, a Refining Gel Mask that deeply moisturises and balances skin while you sleep, and a lightweight moisturiser (Soothing Gel Moisturizer) containing hydrolysed collagen to help improve skin buoyancy.
It’s easy to see why many people adore aloe vera now that you know how it can benefit you, and that’s why we’re challenging you to put it to the test. Forever Aloe Vera Gel, Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask, Aloe Vera Gelly and Sonya Daily Skincare all contain the very best of aloe’s inherent properties, and we guarantee you’ll be impressed.
Will you take on the challenge? Let us know in the comments.

February-18-2019

Coeliac disease is a digestive condition in which the immune system attacks itself when gluten is eaten. It affects at least 1 in 100 people in the UK, but not everyone who cuts out gluten from their diet is doing it because they have this disease. According to Mintel, 7% of adults say they avoid gluten because of an 'allergy' or 'intolerance', and a further 8% avoid it as part of a 'healthy lifestyle'.
Even though a gluten free diet means excluding foods that contain the protein gluten, for example wheat, rye and barley, you don’t have to sacrifice the joys of tasty food or eat unhealthily. In fact, fruits and vegetables are naturally gluten-free and really good for you, as they contain many nutrients that our bodies need on a daily basis in order to function.  
You’ve probably seen various gluten free products in your local supermarket, but you can also make plenty of easy gluten free recipes at home.  If you’re on a gluten free diet, let these recipes from Forever inspire you from breakfast to dinnertime.
Gluten Free Spinach and Bacon Frittata Recipe
Frittata is a simple and versatile dish that can be enjoyed at breakfast time. It is essentially a quiche without the crust, making it the perfect gluten free recipe. Our spinach and bacon frittata recipe below makes the perfect protein-rich meal to kick off your day!
Serves 4
Ingredients

• 8 strips bacon, diced
• 8 large eggs
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 tomato, quartered
• 400g spinach
• 250ml almond milk
• Salt and pepper
• Sunflower Oil

Method

• Preheat oven to 200°C.
• Heat a small amount of oil in a cast iron frying pan over a medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crisp. Remove the bacon, but keep your frying pan on the heat.
• In a large bowl, combine the milk, bacon, salt, pepper and egg. Stir well and set aside.
• Add the onion to your frying pan. Sauté until soft and then add in the tomato. Cook for 2-3 minutes until also soft, then add the spinach, stirring often until the spinach is wilted. 
• Pour your egg mixture in the frying pan and let it cook for 4-6 minutes. The eggs should be just beginning to set.
• Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, until eggs are completely cooked through.

Gluten Free Asian Chicken Lettuce Wrap Recipe
If you’re looking for an easy lunch recipe that’s bursting with flavour, try out our gluten free Asian chicken lettuce wraps. Feel free to add different vegetables, seasonings and other ingredients to adapt this recipe to your own taste.
Serves 2 as a main meal, or 3 as a snack
Ingredients

• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 2 chicken breasts, diced 
• Salt and pepper
• 2 cloves of garlic, chopped finely
• 1 onion, diced
• 5 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce 
• 2 tbsp gluten free soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tsp ginger, grated 
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 2 spring onions, chopped finely
• 2 heads of little gem lettuce, washed and leaves separated

Method

• Heat the coconut oil in a saucepan or frying pan on a medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
• Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk together the garlic, onion, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and ginger.
• When the chicken is cooked, drain the fat from the pan, then return it to the hob.
• Add the sauce mixture to the chicken and cook until the onions become translucent, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
• Add a few spoonfuls of the chicken mixture to each lettuce cup and top with the chopped spring onions.

Gluten Free Beef and Vegetable Casserole Recipe
A casserole is a traditional winter recipe that is not only easy to prepare, but is also the ultimate comfort food. This gluten free recipe can also be cooked in a slow cooker if you prefer to come home to a cooked meal after a long day.
Serves 4

February-13-2019

If you’re focusing on your fitness goals this year, whether you’d like to build muscle or consume a healthier diet, protein shakes are a must! Not only do they form a vital part of Forever’s fitness programmes C9 and F15, but they also help to fuel your workouts and satisfy your hunger between meals. In just a couple of minutes, you can make a super easy Forever Lite Ultra soy protein shake that tastes great and nourishes your body with just a few ingredients. Here are a few of Forever’s favourite protein shake recipes for you to enjoy anytime of the year…
Strawberry and raspberry with Forever Lite Ultra chocolate
This high-protein shake is nice and simple, but it does not skimp on flavour one bit due to its creamy texture and chocolate taste. Both berries are also an excellent source of fibre, folate and potassium.

• 1 scoop of chocolate Forever Lite Ultra

• 250ml of almond milk

• 130g of fresh or frozen raspberries and strawberries

• Blitz in a blender

• Serve in a glass with ice

Pineapple and peach with Forever Lite Ultra vanilla
Enjoy a taste of the tropics with this light and refreshing pineapple and peach protein shake. Both fruits are packed full of vitamin C – the perfect treat for breakfast or as a post-workout meal.

• 1 scoop of vanilla Forever Lite Ultra

• 250ml of almond milk

• 130g of fresh or frozen pineapple and peach slices

• Blitz in a blender

• Serve in a glass with ice

Avocado and mango with Forever Lite Ultra vanilla
Jump on the avocado trend with this delicious avocado and mango smoothie. Avocados are packed with fibre, folate, and vitamin K, and they give this smoothie its creamy texture while the mangos provide plenty of sweetness!

• 1 scoop of vanilla Forever Lite Ultra

• 250ml of almond milk

• 130g of fresh or frozen mango slices

• 1 medium ripe avocado

• Blitz in a blender

• Serve in a glass with ice

Drinking protein shakes as part of your weight management regime is just another perfect way for you to #BeResolute in 2019!
Have you got a favourite protein shake recipe? Let us know by commenting below.

November-22-2018

Men should never shy away from daily skincare, as like women, their skin is susceptible to age spots, blemishes and uneven skin tone that deserves to be kept under control especially during the winter when temperatures drop. Your skin’s health should be considered just as important as your health in other areas, so put aside any reservations you have about skincare and complete this winter skincare routine on a regular basis to avoid rough and dry winter skin.
CLEANSING
Many men start their skincare regime off badly by choosing to wash their face with a bar of soap. Although this removes unwanted dirt and oil from your face, they can be very harsh and drying on the skin. A great cleanser should not contain harsh chemicals or detergents that strip away essential moisture.
Forever Living has two different cleansers – Infinite Hydrating Cleanser and Sonya Refreshing Gel Cleanser – that are both excellent cleansing solutions for men, and the decision on the one you use should be determined by your skin type (dry, oily or combination) and whether you have ageing skin. Once you’ve chosen which skincare collection you’re going to follow, it’s time to start using the products daily so that you instil a habit. Always start with the cleanser, cleansing morning and evening, then follow through with the rest of the products.
EXFOLIATING
The next step after cleansing is to exfoliate the skin. This will remove dead skin cells to make sure your moisturiser is penetrating your skin and working as effectively as possible. Aim to do this two-to-three times a week with Forever Living’s Smoothing Exfoliator. This gentle exfoliator uses natural jojoba beads and bamboo powder to remove dead skin cells without harming the skin and added lemon essential oils which work as a rich moisturiser to hydrate the new skin beneath the surface.
MOISTURISING
Once you have removed dead skin cells, you need to add moisture back into your skin. Gentleman’s Pride is a great moisturiser to use each morning as it doubles up as an aftershave balm that’s extremely soothing on freshly shaven and sensitive skin. Feel the icy exhilaration of this unique blend of lubricants and moisturisers combined with pure, stabilised aloe vera gel. With conditioning agents like camomile and rosemary, this popular aftershave will leave behind a fresh and clean masculine fragrance that’ll last all day long.
Ideally you should aim to moisturise twice a day after cleansing but obviously an aftershave balm isn’t the best moisturiser just before bed. Instead we’d recommend you give Infinite Firming Serum a go. With powerful natural ingredients and our patented aloe, this cutting edge and rich moisturiser will make your skin feel smooth and firm, and your complexion appear visibly younger.
Whatever products you choose, consistency is key. Establishing a regular routine for the winter months is necessary for long term skin-health so try to stick to your skincare schedule daily for noticeable results that last the test of time.
What Forever Living skincare products are you using this winter? Let us know in the comments!

October-24-2018

No doubt you’ve heard countless times from your parents and medical professionals that your immune system is important. Even if it’s never been mentioned outright, it’s been inferred. We all generally have an idea of what the immune system does – it fights infections and illnesses for us – but we may not have an in-depth understanding of exactly how it works and what it’s doing for us day-to-day.
How does the immune system actually work?
Your immune system recognises every cell that makes up your body. If it finds anything it doesn’t recognise, it attacks it. Sometimes it can get this wrong and attack harmless pollen particles (causing hay fever) or donated blood or organs. However, in general your immune system will be pretty good at this.
Your immune system can be divided up into two parts: innate response and acquired response. The innate response is the part that decides whether something is friend or foe. If it decides on foe, it tries to flush out the invader and this is generally what makes you feel feverish or snotty. The acquired response acts when the invaders have been recognised. It identifies which cells in your body can kill the invaders and then sends them in, much like a SWAT team. There are lots of claims online that things like getting more sleep, taking supplements and drinking more water can help to improve your immune system, but often, robust evidence for these quick-fixes can be hard to find. So, what does work?
A healthy lifestyle is your first line of defence
The best method for maintaining a healthy immune system is to keep yourself healthy by eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise. A varied diet will ensure you are getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs in order to stay healthy. Certain vitamins and minerals contribute to the normal function of the immune system, including copper, folate, iron, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc. Some will be more helpful here than others, but that’s why a balanced diet is the best option here, as you’ll get a bit of everything.
Getting regular exercise is important for your immune system because it increases the activity of helpful immune cells in your body. Improving your circulation and getting your heart beating more sends these cells out to patrol the body, looking for potential problems. The NHS notes that adults between 19 and 64 require both aerobic and strength exercises. They recommend at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity per week, in addition to separate strength exercises. Whilst both types of activity are important for general wellbeing, which is also important for your immune system, it’s the aerobic activity that will really get those immune cells moving about.
Your microbiota is on your side
We have mentioned in another of our blogs that cultivating the good bacteria in your gut is essential to your overall health and wellbeing, but how does this relate to the immune system? Well, the microbiota in your gut can help to defend you from infection in more ways than one. For one thing, they take up space in your gut, so it’s difficult for disease-causing bugs to find anywhere to establish themselves. They also secrete toxic proteins that kill off potential infections, and, finally, they regulate the signals of our innate response (the one that flushes out invaders). Some scientists have suggested that the reason why you and your friend may react differently to the same infection is down to a difference in microbiota. One way to complement your microbiota is to take Forever Active Pro-B. It’s the perfect high-quality friendly bacteria supplement to assist with your diet and lifestyle goals.
Vaccinations can help prevent problems
We mentioned earlier that the acquired response identifies cells within the body that can attack and kill invaders, well, often this process can take a few days or longer to complete. Vaccines work by introducing your acquired response to harmless versions of the infection, so that your body produces antibodies and learns how to fight it. This way, if you ever come into contact with the disease again, your immune system knows how to fight it and acts a lot quicker.
It’s clear that there’s no quick fix for boosting your immune system. The only real answer is to eat well, exercise regularly, look after your microbiome and make sure you have the correct vaccinations. Not so surprising when you think about it, is it?
What’s the silliest quick fix you’ve heard for boosting your immune system? Let us know in the comments below.

October-12-2018

The human body contains trillions of microbes, the vast majority of which are good for us. It may not surprise you to hear that the most dense microbe population is in the gut, however did you know that bacteria and microbes in the human gut can weigh over a massive 4lb?
In one of our previous blogs, we mentioned how important the digestive process is for the body and the whole of this process takes place in your gut (also known as your gastrointestinal tract). With such importance placed on the gut, especially considering the vast population of microbes living in it, it’s quite clear that this is a vital part of the body to keep healthy.
Microbes in the gut can play an important role in weight regulation, immune function and digestion. What you eat affects your microbes and can change them for better or worse. Dr Eran Elinav, a gut-bacteria researcher featured on the BBC’s Trust Me, I'm a Doctor, has suggested that improving your gut health can change your overall health. And it can be so easy. You just have to make a few changes to your diet.
What types of food are good for the gut?
In the world of gut-friendly foods, two foods are mentioned constantly; yoghurts and cheese. In the case of yoghurts, this is specifically referring to ‘live yoghurts’ and traditionally made yoghurts. These will contain live cultures that can help to add to the good bacteria in your gut. Both cottage cheese and mozzarella are good choices if you’re looking for gut-friendly cheese. There’s not enough research to know if the bacteria in cheese lives long enough in the gut to make it to the large intestine and be beneficial to us, however, there’s research to suggest that certain other properties of cheese can help preserve the bacteria throughout digestion.
What is fermentation?
Involving a process where food is mixed with a salty mixture and then kept in airtight jars or bottles, fermented foods are a great gut-friendly option. And not only will these make your gut happy, they will also keep your purse happy as well, as they are often cheap and easy to make at home. In fact, this is generally considered to be more worthwhile than buying fermented foods from the supermarket, as often supermarket variations use vinegar as part of the fermentation process. This can limit the benefits you’re likely to see from eating the foods. Some examples of fermented foods include kimchi, pickles, sauerkraut, kombucha and miso.
Five foods with gut-friendly bacteria
Yoghurt: There’s a lot of choice for yoghurt in the supermarket, so be careful, as many contain sugars and sweeteners. These could cancel out the potential health benefits of the yoghurt. Look for traditionally made or ‘live’ yoghurts.
Cheese: You want to choose cheese that has been traditionally produced, as natural bacteria is used in the making of the cheese. Mass-produced cheese is often made in a different way and may provide less of the health benefits.
Miso: Miso is a seasoning made by fermenting soy beans with salt and koji. It’s high in salt, so make sure you only use it in small quantities. A good way to use miso is in soups or as a marinade for salmon.
Kefir: Milk kefir is made by placing beads of bacteria and yeast into milk for 24 hours at room temperature. The beads are then removed with the result being a drink with a taste similar to yoghurt, with a slight fizz and a sour note.
Sauerkraut: Literally meaning ‘sour cabbage’, sauerkraut is made by massaging salt into shredded cabbage. When the juices have been drawn out, the cabbage is placed in an airtight jar to ferment. This stops the cabbage from going off, whilst also adding a vinegary taste.
Are you looking to start introducing some gut-friendly foods into your diet? If so, that’s great news, just remember to start slowly. A big change in your digestive habits all at once can cause some uncomfortable side effects, like bloating. Introduce the new foods slowly and build yourself up to a healthy amount. A good sign is if you notice a positive change in your bowel habits. This suggests that your microbes are changing for the better.
You could also try Forever Active Pro-B, the perfect high-quality friendly bacteria supplement to complement your gut flora and assist with your diet and lifestyle goals.
What’s your favourite food containing gut-friendly bacteria? Let us know in the comments.

October-05-2018

We all know that digestion is where the body breaks down food into other substances which are then either absorbed into the bloodstream or distributed around the body. Often, we don’t think about how important this process is for our body, but without it we wouldn’t get any benefits at all from eating food, and although it may be easy to figure out when your digestive system is not functioning properly, when it does happen, how can you work to improve it?
Your overall health is important
If you have unhealthy habits, how can you expect your gut to be healthy? The NHS recommends you do 150 minutes of physical activity per week. This works out to about 30 minutes, five days a week. They also recommend that you break up long periods of sitting with some light activity. Exercise can help your body avoid constipation, as it helps food to move through your digestive system. So, perhaps the next time your lunch break rolls around, instead of eating al-desk-o, why not take a quick stroll in the great outdoors? 
The human body is made up of around 60% water. Our bodies can’t function properly without adequate water, so it’s really important to make sure you drink enough fluids throughout the day. The NHS recommends we drink around six to eight glasses of water a day and this liquid encourages the passage of waste through your digestive system. If you don’t drink enough water, the fibre in your lower intestine can’t do its job. This can eventually lead to constipation. An easy way to start incorporating more water into your daily routine is to begin drinking a glass of water with every meal. 
Eat a high fibre diet
If you feel like you don’t eat enough fibre, you are not alone. Most adults only get around 18g of fibre a day, which is well-below the NHS’ recommended daily intake of 30g. Introducing more fibre into your diet can help to improve your digestion. It helps to prevent constipation by bulking up and softening stools in the large intestine and moving them along the digestive tract quicker. 
Wholemeal bread, brown rice, fruits and vegetables, beans and oats are all fibre-rich foods. However, it’s worth noting that grains and cereals can cause bloating and an irritable bowel in some people. If this is the case for you, then it’s best to just get your fibre intake from fruits and vegetables. 

July-18-2018

There may be over 400 species of aloe plant found in dry regions throughout the world, but there is only one species that has been recognised for being particularly beneficial to humans and animals – Aloe Barbadensis. This type of aloe is known for its natural soothing, cooling and moisturising abilities, and although it looks like a cactus, this succulent is actually part of the lily family and related to onions, garlic and asparagus.
The history of aloe vera
The aloe vera plant has been known and used for centuries for its health, beauty, medicinal and skincare properties. The name ‘aloe’ derives from the Arabic word ‘alloeh’, meaning ‘shining bitter substance’, while ‘vera’ in Latin means ‘true’. Aloe vera originated in the Arabian Peninsula, where it evolved in a dry climate to form incredibly succulent properties. Today, aloe vera is one of the most popular supplements sold in Europe and for good reason, in fact humans have been recording the benefits of this plant for centuries. There are examples of aloe vera in Egyptian tombs, the Bible and in famous ancient Greek, Roman, Chinese and Indian herbals texts. Also, many Eastern women have used aloe vera as a beauty secret for decades; the beauty and strength of Cleopatra is the stuff of legends!
Aloe vera the plant
The aloe vera plant is one of the most studied herbs in the natural products category. Once an adult aloe vera plant reaches maturity, its height will be around 30 inches.
The aloe vera plant is made of essentially four different components: rind, sap, mucilage and parenchyma gel. The rind is a waxy outer layer that acts as protection and it is fifteen cells thick. Just inside the rind is a fluid called sap, this is neither sweet nor particularly sticky and it’s actually quite bitter. Below the sap is mucilage containing acemannan – acemannan carries beneficial properties relating to immune health – and this layer is usually filleted to reveal inner gel known as the parenchyma, a clear, gel-like substance. The gel part gives the plant the ability to hold moisture for a very long period of time.
Scientists have identified more than 75 active nutrients in the leaf gel and these compounds work synergistically to provide soothing and therapeutic benefits. These compounds include amino acids, enzymes, lignin, saponins, anthraquinones, minerals, vitamins, fatty acids and salicylic acids.
Harvesting and the production of aloe vera
If aloe vera leaves are harvested by hand, the plant itself will not be destroyed as only the outer leaves will be separated from the plant. About every two months, three-to-four leaves of an aloe plant can be taken but the rest must remain to ensure that the same plant can be repeatedly harvested over a period of eight-to-ten years.
Once the aloe has been harvested, it can be used to produce aloe-based products including skincare and drinks. There are many different aloe juices and gels on the market, and taste and purity can depend upon what part of the aloe leaf is used. Aloe vera juice is often made from the whole leaf, including the outer leaf that contains a bitter yellow substance known as aloin. The best ingredient to look out for is pure inner leaf gel as this carries the most benefits and is purer in taste. By cutting away the outer leaf, you are removing most of the yellowish aloin substance making the gel pleasant, healthy, and safe for consumption.
Benefits of aloe vera
Below are some of the most well-known benefits of aloe:

• It’s great for shiny glowing skin, hair and nails.

• Aloe vera is very succulent meaning it’s perfect as a soothing digestive aid for gastrointestinal health.

• It carries cleansing and purifying properties.

• It promotes health and wellbeing.

• It helps support immune function.

• Aloe supports skin health.

• Eight essential amino acids are found in aloe vera.

• According to M.D. Lauren Fine, a board-certified dermatologist at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology, aloe vera can help improve skin health.

• Twenty aloe vera plants can convert the same amount of CO2 into O2 as one tree.

How much do you know about aloe vera? Let us know in the comments below.

July-13-2018

Every week there seems to be a new fruit, vegetable or nut that storms on the scene, praised for its beneficial properties and high nutrient values, but one rather understated botanical that deserves to be added to the menu of healthy eating is aloe.
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that lives in arid desert regions. Its plump leaves are bursting with goodness in the form of inner leaf gel and acemannan. Acemannan is found in the leaves mucilage, just above the gel and it is the part of aloe that helps support the immune system. Aloe also carries purifying properties which means it’s a great digestive aid that can also benefit your skin, hair and nails.
Aloe gel really is loaded with nutrients which is why we were excited to try these five delicious recipes that embrace aloe vera and taste amazing.

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1. Nutty green salad with aloe and soy

Serves 4
Salad
1 tbsp Forever Bee Honey
2 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp vegetable oil
250g mangetout
4 chives, chopped
100g baby Asian leaves
110g salted peanuts
Dressing
55g salted peanuts
1 tbsp Forever Bee Honey
180ml vegetable stock
4 tsp toasted sesame seeds
3 tbsp thick dark soy
1 tbsp Forever Aloe Vera Gel
For the dressing, put the peanuts, honey, vegetable stock, sesame seeds, dark soy, and aloe gel in a food processor and blend. Set aside. For the salad, gently heat the honey, oil and soy sauce in a pan. Add the mangetout and lightly fry for a few minutes. Remove from the heat and toss in the chives. Toss the mangetout mixture with the Asian leaves and sprinkle the peanuts on top. Serve with the dressing on the side. This dish goes well with pork.

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2. Forever Aloe Berry Nectar risotto

Serves 4
320g rice
½ onion
1 tbsp seed oil
60g butter
40g parmesan cheese
50g cranberries
150ml Forever Aloe Berry Nectar
50g Mascarpone cheese
1 litre meat both
Salt and pepper to taste
Prepare the meat broth. In a pan, brown the onion with the seed oil and butter. Add the rice and Forever Aloe Berry Nectar. Mix everything together. Slowly add the broth and cook for 20 minutes. Once cooked, stir with the mascarpone and parmesan cheese, cranberries and a small amount of Forever Aloe Berry Nectar.

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3. Scaloppini with artichokes

Serves 4
8 veal slices
4 artichokes
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp seed oil
½ onion
30g flour
1 plain yoghurt
2 tbsp cream
150ml vegetable broth
100ml Forever Aloe Vera Gel
50ml white wine
Salt and pepper to taste
chopped parsley to taste
Wash and cut the artichokes into slices. Chop the garlic and onion and brown; add to the broth along with the Forever Aloe Vera Gel. Flour the veal slices and brown them with seed oil; season with salt and pepper. Remove the excess oil and spray with white wine. Add the yoghurt and cream and slow cook for 15 minutes. Spray with Forever Aloe Vera Gel and parsley before serving.

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4. Three citrus quinoa salad

Serves 4
Salad
185g cooked quinoa
112g crumbled feta
2 oranges, segmented
1 grapefruit, segmented
100g wild rocket
Zest from 2 oranges
Salt
Dressing
105ml olive oil
4 tbsp lemon juice
3 tbsp Forever Bee Honey
Salt
Pepper
1 tsp Forever Aloe Peaches / Forever Aloe Bits N’ Peaches
Leave quinoa aside till cooled. In a salad bowl, toss together quinoa, feta, orange, grapefruit, wild rocket, orange zest and salt to taste. For the dressing, in a mixing bowl whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, aloe and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside. Serve salad with dressing.

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5. Chicken kebabs with aloe and avocado dip

Serves 4
4 boneless chicken breast, sliced
4 flatbreads
1 lemon cut into wedges
Marinade
1 tbsp grated ginger
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground coriander
¼ tsp chilli powder
4 tbsp olive oil
Salt
Ground black pepper
Aloe and avocado dip
2 avocados
2 tbsp Forever Aloe Vera Gel
1 tsp ground cumin
1 lemon, juiced
1 clove of grated garlic
Handful of chopped coriander
1 tbsp olive oil
Mix together all the marinade ingredients with some salt and pepper. Add the chunks of chicken and refrigerate for 20 minutes. Wash avocados and remove stones; add to a bowl along with the aloe and avocado dip ingredients. Mash together with a fork and set aside. Heat up a pan and once nice and hot, add your marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and crispy (turn them occasionally). In another dry pan, heat up your flatbreads (about 30 seconds per side). Cut open the flatbreads and fill with chicken and dip; serve with a squeeze of lemon.
Have you any aloe vera recipes? Let us know by commenting below.

July-06-2018

Forever Living is passionate about its products, and in particular its flagship product Forever Aloe Vera Gel. This purifying gel drink carries benefits that have literally impacted millions of people all over the world thanks to its nutrient value and the purity of its aloe, and now we are even more excited to share a brand-new look aloe vera gel that’s even purer, fresher in taste and captured in packaging made from recycled materials. 
Forever Aloe Vera Gel contains a high quantity of pure aloe vera and it really is this succulent plant that makes Forever’s products so powerful. Although there are hundreds of aloe species, Forever’s aloe, Aloe Barbadensis, is considered to be the best. Read on to discover ten reasons why you should choose Forever’s aloe vera over any other aloe brand…

June-28-2018

Looking to bump up your protein intake in a different way to the usual shakes? Then we encourage you to open up a pack of Forever Living’s Forever Lite Ultra and get creative with these three easy protein recipes. You'll want to try every one of these delicious recipes, which make great snacks or post-workout meals.

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Forever Lite Ultra chocolate banana bread
Serving: 8 slices
Ingredients

• 2 large ripe bananas

• 6 medium egg whites

• 95g whole wheat flour

• 125g plain Greek yoghurt

• 2 scoops of chocolate Forever Lite Ultra

• 1 tsp bicarbonate soda

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• Optional: walnuts, chocolate chips etc.

Method

• Preheat the oven to 175°C (Gas Mark 4).

• Add ingredients to a food processor and blend until smooth.

• Spray a muffin tin with non-stick spray.

• Equally spoon batter into the muffin tin leaving enough room for the batter to rise slightly.

• Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Forever’s chocolate Forever Lite Ultra takes this banana bread recipe to a whole new level. We are certain it will be the best banana bread you will ever have!

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Peanut butter protein bites
Serving: 30 bites
Ingredients

• 320ml skimmed milk

• 340g peanut butter

• 4 tsp Forever Bee Honey

• 180g of chocolate Forever Lite Ultra

• 180g dry rolled oats

Method

• Combine peanut butter, Forever Bee Honey and milk in a bowl.

• Warm the bowl over a low heat.

• Add the Forever Lite Ultra and mix well.

• Add in the oats but make sure you do not cook it, just warm it through so you can stir it.

• Add more milk if it is too thick to stir.

• Press the mixture into a 9”x13” pan.

• Let the tin sit until cool and cut into equal sized bites.

• Wrap each bite in foil and store in a plastic tub.

• They do not need refrigeration.

We've managed to come up with a great tasting recipe combining two of our favourite Forever Living products: Forever Bee Honey and Forever Lite Ultra. The perfect post-workout treat!

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Chocolate banana brownies
Serving: 10 squares
Ingredients

• 3 medium, overripe bananas

• 80ml of almond butter

• 60g of cocoa powder

• 1-2 scoops of chocolate Forever Lite Ultra

Method

• Preheat the oven to 180°C and grease a small cake pan or loaf pan and set aside.

• In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt your almond butter.

• In a blender or using your hands, combine all ingredients until smooth.

• Pour the mixture into the greased pan and bake for around 20 minutes or until cooked through.

• Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before slicing into pieces.

These flourless chocolate and banana protein brownies will satisfy your chocolate craving while giving you a much needed protein hit.
Have you got a favourite Forever Lite Ultra recipe? Let us know by commenting below.

June-01-2018

Protein is a chain of organic compounds called amino acids and is extremely popular within the sports and weight management scene, but this seeming infatuation is more than just a fad. Any fitness fanatic knows how essential protein is to their daily routine and that it contributes to a growth in and maintenance of muscle mass. In fact, your organs, tissues, muscles and hormones are all made from proteins, therefore the protein found in foods is used by every part of the body to develop, grow and function properly. This is especially important when your body starts to age.
Protein also contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, which is why consuming a diet containing high-protein foods perfectly complements a schedule that favours strength exercises. Other benefits of protein include faster recovery after exercising, helping you to maintain a healthy weight and it can help you to feel fuller for longer by slowing down digestion and making you feel satisfied – this means you’re less likely to go back for seconds!
Protein before and after a workout is a great idea and beneficial when it comes to muscle repair, but it’s also sensible to start your day off with a high-protein breakfast. We recommend white meat, lean beef, eggs, beans, soy and Greek yoghurt – all these foods are excellent sources of protein. Even though breakfast is known as the most important meal of the day, you should try to consume other protein-rich foods in other meals on a daily basis for good health.
Forever Living has plenty of protein packed products to support you on your fitness venture:

1. Shake up your diet and lifestyle with naturally-flavoured, plant-powered protein. Forever Lite Ultra shakes contain 24g of protein per serving, vital vitamins and minerals and are available in two delicious flavours (chocolate and vanilla). This versatile product can be used if you’re watching your calorie intake, or as a filling protein shake if you’re trying to gain weight. A top tip is to drink a protein shake immediately after you exercise – you’re more likely to gain muscle.

2. The Forever Fast Break bar contains less sugar and even more fibre! With improved flavour, this delicious chocolate covered peanut butter bar will make you think you’ve died and gone to weight management heaven. Chock-full of 11g of protein, these filling bars are a great snack when you need that little extra, especially after an active workout.

3. Forever Pro X2 is a tasty alternative to an unhealthy snack and each bar contains 15g of protein. These gluten-free bars are available in cinnamon or chocolate and they’re perfect for keeping in your gym bag.

4. Argi+ is a wholesome berry-flavoured drink that has been uniquely formulated for people with active lifestyles. Each sip provides protein and amino acid support (vitamin B6), vitamins B6 and B12 will contribute to normal red blood cell formation, and it also helps to maintain muscle function (vitamin D3) and energy (vitamins C, B6 and B12).

Let us know what your favourite protein-rich products are in the comments below.

May-17-2018

The majority of nutrition experts would say that the main thing to remember when it comes to healthy eating is that you can eat anything in moderation as long as overall you are adopting a balanced diet that’s full of variety, colour and sensibly-sized portions. The foods we consume are the sources of vitamins, minerals and energy – three necessities that keep our bodies functioning, and a varied diet that taps into carbohydrates, healthy fats and proteins is what any adult requires to keep their health on track.
If you’re keen to up your fitness level, it’s vital that you take a look at your diet and eliminate anything that could hinder your performance. Follow our guide for advice on how to ensure what you’re eating is nutritionally-rich for optimum fitness.

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The right kind of carbs
Despite what glossy mags and celebrity diets may claim, carbohydrates are not an enemy that deserves to be locked in the cupboard never to see the light of day. In fact, carbs are essential as they provide you with your primary source of energy. But, it’s also important to realise that not all carbs are created equal! The carbs you want to embrace are whole and unprocessed; these carbs retain the natural fibre that refined carbs remove. Vegetables, fruit, potatoes and whole grains are the carbs you need to learn to crave, leaving the white bread, white pasta, white rice, sugar-laced juices and pastries on the supermarket shelves where they belong.

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Find vitamins through variety
Variety and colour is particularly important when it comes to learning to love vegetation, as this is the most effective way of consuming all the vitamins and minerals you require. Your diet should be full of colour and embracing the entire rainbow should become habitual in your daily routine. As a rough guide, yellow and orange fruit or veg tends to contain vitamins A and C, green veggies are high in vitamins B and E and purple produce is packed with vitamin K.

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Not all fats are felons
Including fat in your diet may seem contrary to you when fat is exactly what you are trying to lose or avoid gaining, but healthy fats are actually essential for heart-health, healthy skin and safe cholesterol levels. Good fats can be found in nuts, seeds, avocados, olives and olive oil, salmon, some lean meats, eggs and dark chocolate – yes, chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)! Choose fats like this to help maintain good health and instead ditch food containing bad, saturated fats like cakes and biscuits, and processed foods like burgers, butter, cream and fatty meat.

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Become the PRO in protein
If finding time to exercise is driven by a desire to build muscle or burn fat, the macronutrient you want to become most familiar with is definitely protein. Any fitness fanatic knows how essential protein is to their daily routine since protein contributes to a growth in and maintenance of muscle mass. Protein also contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, which is why consuming a diet containing high-protein foods perfectly complements a schedule that favours strength exercises. Click here for a nutritional pre-workout shake recipe that’ll help you to perform at your peak when you hit the gym.
Protein before and after a workout is a great idea and beneficial when it comes to muscle repair, but it’s also sensible to start your day off with a high-protein breakfast. Seafood, white meat, lean beef, eggs, beans, soy and Greek yoghurt are all excellent sources of protein. Protein is also important before and after a workout.

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Supplement your diet
Vitamin supplements should never be seen as a replacement to a healthy-balanced diet but introducing supplements in some form can be an excellent way to boost your vitamin and mineral intake, particularly if you are taking on more exercise.
This month we launched our #PoweredByArgi campaign and that’s because we believe that Argi+ is an excellent choice of beverage if you are looking for something to support you whilst you workout. There are so many amazing benefits in a glass of Argi+ – here are some of the key ones we want to shout about:

• L-arginine is a popular amino acid and a building block for proteins – that’s why Argi+ is so popular with active people.

• Its vitamin C content contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of blood vessels, bones, cartilage, gums, skin and teeth. Vitamin C also contributes to a normal energy-yielding metabolism, normal function of the immune system and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

• Its vitamin K content contributes to normal blood-clotting and the maintenance of normal bones.

• Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and muscle function.

• Vitamin B6 contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system and normal protein and glycogen metabolism.

• Vitamin B12 contributes to normal psychological function and normal red blood cell formation.

• Argi+ also contains folate (folic acid) which contributes to normal amino acid synthesis, normal blood formation and it plays a role in process of cell division.

• Contains wholesome dark berries including red grapes, blackberries, blackcurrants, blueberries, elderberries, raspberries and Morello cherries.

• Argi+ comes in convenient stick sachets that can easily be thrown into the gym bag.

Find out more about Argi+ by keeping an eye on Forever’s Facebook page and following our #PoweredByArgi campaign. We’ll be sharing exercise videos and tips from rugby star Ben Cohen, plus incredible competitions with sport-related prizes!
How do you keep your fitness and diet in check? Let us know by commenting below.

February-02-2018

Ben Cohen certainly knows what it means to be fit and healthy due to his professional rugby career throughout the 90s and 00s. Although his rugby days are now behind him, Ben continues to focus on his health and fitness as he fully understands the importance of exercise for the mind and body. Instead of being a slave to the gym, Ben prefers to keep his workout as hassle-free as possible and performs many relatively basic exercises from the comfort of his own home.
Core strength has always been a key focus for Ben as it can help to prevent injury and enables him to feel the benefits in everyday movements. Planking is a great exercise for building up core strength, but it is important to engage your core to ensure you are exercising the correct muscles and ensure you carry out this exercise move correctly. Read on below to discover some top planking tips from Ben.
How to engage your core:
Start by adopting the correct posture: sit tall with your chest lifted and shoulders back – your spine should naturally curve inwards towards your lower back. Your deep abdominal core muscles are usually around your middle, just inside your pelvic bones and just below the top of your briefs. Gently draw these muscles in so that your stomach feels tight but do not overbrace. Your core muscles are now engaged and it’s essential that they remain engaged throughout these exercises. Remember to breathe normally throughout the process.
How to perform a perfect plank:

• Get into a press-up style position on the floor – no equipment is needed.

• Bend your elbows at 90 degrees and rest your weight on your forearms.

• Elbows should be directly beneath your shoulders.

• Your body should form a straight line from your head to your feet.

• Hold the position for as long as you can.

Planking tips from the top:

• Practice, practice and more practice. Planks are a lot harder than they look as they require great core strength. Try holding for 20 seconds at first, then 30 and so on.

• Keep your back straight and don’t curve your spine.

• Mix planks up with other exercises – planks aren’t the most exciting exercise in the world, so don’t be afraid to mix them up in-between other exercises rather than doing all your planks together in one set.

• Perform side planks to keep things interesting – just as you feel you can’t do the standard plank anymore, try doing some side planks to provide some welcome relief whilst still strengthening your core.

• Don’t be over ambitious – as a beginner to planking you shouldn’t try and hold the position for too long. Instead, set an achievable target and work up to an end goal over the course of the following weeks/ months.

Happy planking!

December-08-2017

The temperature is starting to drop and the weather is changing, but did you know this shift can also directly impact the skin…
Colder temperatures can result in decreased circulation, which can cause dull, dry, itchy or irritated skin. In fact, during winter, your typical skin type may shift. Oily skin may become combination, combination skin may become dry and dry skin may become red with excessive dry patches. However the skin varies, the biggest challenge skin faces over winter is its ability to remain moisturised.
Here are some top tips on how you can winter-proof your skin…
Introduce exfoliation
It may sound counter-intuitive, but introducing light exfoliation into routines can actually help lotions and creams work better. The skin sheds dead skin cells continuously and, unless removed, dead skin can keep moisturisers from fully sinking into the skin. Our Forever Aloe Scrub is a gentle exfoliator that uses microspheres of jojoba which roll over your skin gently. Usually exfoliators should only be used on odd occasions, but this one’s formula is gentle enough for everyday use, and it also contains the moisturising benefits of aloe.
Upgrade that moisturiser
The majority of people should use a creamier face and body moisturiser during the winter, and even those who say they prefer lightweight lotions should probably be using something a bit richer during the winter months. For the face, try the Infinite by Forever Advanced Skincare System to leave skin feeling moisturised and smooth. This impressive skincare range consists of four products that work in synergy to tone and firm the skin, feeding it what it needs from the inside out and the outside in. The Firming Serum and Restoring Crème are both rich in moisturising properties and are perfect for replenishing parched skin on those bitterly cold days. Forever F.I.T. Ambassador, Kristina Rihanoff, is a huge fan of the Infinite range due to its naturally derived ingredients such as apple amino acid and cocoa fatty acids that increase skin hydration.
Mask recovery
Face masks can work wonders on irritated and stressed-out winter skin. As well as sticking to the Infinite skincare routine twice a day, Kristina also comforts her skin with Forever’s Marine Mask, which replenishes the skin and rebalances texture. Its moisturising properties of aloe vera, honey, cucumber extract and sea minerals will leave skin feeling refreshed and revitalised. Give it a try today… your skin will thank you! Alternatively, why not try Kristina’s homemade face mask? This Russian mask recipe has been passed down through the generations within her family and is Kristina’s secret weapon to soft, glowing skin! To try the mask for yourself, simply mix one teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil, one teaspoon of Forever Bee Honey and one egg yolk before applying directly to the skin and waiting 10-15 minutes before washing off.
Don’t hesitate
Studies have shown that the optimum time to apply body lotion is within the three minutes right after you’ve showered. During this time, any moisturiser that is used can take better advantage of the moisture that’s been left on the skin, locking it in with the lotion. Aloe Lotion and Aloe Moisturizing Lotion both have a high content of pure, stabilised aloe that helps moisturise and soothe the skin. Each formula also provides collagen and elastin to assist in keeping the skin smooth and supple. Both these products are ideal for dry, chafed, wind-blown or weathered skin. If you are looking for something with a slightly lighter texture, try the Aloe Lotion – the Aloe Moisturizing Lotion is just a little bit thicker – but both lotions are excellent at helping to replenish lost moisture and at restoring the skin’s soft, silky feel.
Never neglect lips
Dry, cracked lips are not uncommon in the winter, but many people make it worse by licking their lips in an attempt to restore moisture. Unfortunately, licking can hinder the lips further as the cold air will only suck away this added moisture and leave lips even more irritated. Aloe Lips soothes and moisturises chapped and dry lips through its unique blend of aloe, jojoba and beeswax; this unique formula not only delivers moisture but also prevents any further moisture loss from occurring.
Which Forever products would you recommend for winter skin needs? Let us know by posting in the comments section below.

October-20-2017

The term ‘hygge’ has seen a surge in popularity in recent times, creating hysteria around the world. The Danish word ‘hygge’ (pronounced hooga) is the concept of bringing Scandinavian coziness into your home through the use of candles, blankets and warming drinks to promote inner calm, and taking a moment to enjoy the simple pleasures that life has to offer. However, hygge is more than just cake and candles, it is a mindset and an attitude that many argue is the reason behind Scandinavian countries being voted the happiest places to live in the world. Danish winters can be particularly harsh with long, cold days, so the Danes overcome this darkness with ‘hygge’ – why not try injecting a little ‘hygge’ into your life this autumn? Read on to discover some simple ways to embrace this Danish concept.

1. Create your own ‘hygge’ space at home

A ‘hygge’ space is your own little nook or corner in the house where you can sit and relax with your favourite book or play some relaxing music and simply be in the moment rather than rushing around trying to get things done. This space should be filled with cosy textures created by cushions and blankets and soft lighting from the glow of candlelight.

2. Refreshments

When the sky is grey and the leaves are brown, comfort food and drink is what our soul desires! So, snuggle up by an open fire with your favourite book and invigorate your senses with a hot drink such as Aloe Blossom Herbal Tea. The aromatic blend of autumnal spices will awaken your senses and leave you feeling comforted and relaxed. The refreshing aroma of the tea is met by deliciously warming notes of spice including cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, fennel, allspice and clove, mixed with fruity tones from orange peel and blackberry leaf, and the delicate fragrances of aloe blossom, camomile and gymnema sylvestre. This unique blend is packed with benefits thanks to these vitamin-rich ingredients, and it’s a wonderfully uplifting drink to calm you down after a busy day’s work. When it comes to food, Scandis are partial to slow-cooked stews, homemade cinnamon rolls, and pecan pastries to name just a few! Why not get creative in the kitchen and see what yummy ‘hygge’ food you can bring to the table?

3. Candles galore!

Candles are considered a fundamental part of creating a ‘hygge’ friendly environment. The soft lighting instantly creates a warm and relaxing atmosphere and provides a comforting light in the darkness of long winter evenings.

4. Surround yourself with friends

Invite your closest friends over for a glass of mulled wine and some baked treats and spend some time focusing on ‘togetherness’. Put down your phones and switch off the tv and enjoy talking and laughing with people who are important to you.
Have you tried to bring a little ‘hygge’ into your life? If so, let us know what tips and advice you have by posting in the comments section below.