Beyond the Hustle

Tag: nutrition

  • Don’t Go Into the Holidays Without a Plan!

    Every year, the holiday season sneaks up on us faster than we think. One minute it’s pumpkin spice latte’s and cozy sweaters… and the next, you’re surrounded by office candy bowls, holiday parties, rich dinners, extra cocktails, and endless baked goods.

    It’s fun…until it’s not.

    Because here’s the truth:
    Most people enter the holidays with zero strategy.
    No plan. No boundaries. No support system.

    And that’s when things start to unravel.

    Gym sessions get skipped.
    Late nights become the norm.
    Energy plummets.
    Healthy habits fade.

    And by the time January 1st arrives, instead of feeling refreshed, most people feel frustrated, facing the dreaded holiday weight gain (fact: the average person gains up to 10 pounds…yikes!).

    But this year CAN be different.

    You can enjoy the holidays.
    You can stay consistent.
    You can go into January feeling strong, not defeated.

    All you need is a plan.

    The No. 1 Reason People Struggle During the Holidays: They Don’t Have a Plan

    When you don’t have a plan, the season controls you.
    When you do have a plan, you stay in control.

    A good holiday plan doesn’t have to be complicated, it just has to be intentional and realistic.

    Below is a simple structure you can start using today.

    🎄 Your Holiday Survival Plan

    1. Non-Negotiables (Pick 3)

    These are the habits you protect no matter what.
    Choose three and commit.

    Examples:

    • 30 minutes of movement 4–5 days a week
    • A protein-focused first meal
    • Water before every holiday drink
    • 8,000–10,000 steps
    • No “grazing” on office candy bowls
    • Lights out by 10pm on weeknights

    These anchor you during the chaos.

    2. Pre-Plan Your Weak Spots

    Look at your next 6-8 weeks:

    • Office parties
    • Family dinners
    • Travel
    • Cookie swaps
    • Social events

    Then decide ahead of time:

    • What will you eat first? (Hint: protein + veggies)
    • How many drinks will you have?
    • Will you walk before or after the event?

    Decisions made before the moment equal better outcomes in the moment.

    3. Use Supportive Tools (This Is Where Peptides Come In…and, I swear by them)

    You don’t have to rely on willpower alone, especially during the most tempting season of the year.

    Bioactive peptides offer science-backed support to help your body stay balanced, energized, and regulated.

    ✅ Lean — “Nature’s Ozempic”

    Controls cravings, steadies appetite, and reduces overeating triggers.

    ✅ Hydrated — All-Day Electrolyte + Hydration Support

    Winter = dehydration. Hydrated keeps your energy steady and inflammation down.

    ✅ Fit — Daily Metabolic + NAD+ Support

    Boosts energy, lowers cortisol, and supports recovery, exactly what your body needs during holiday stress.

    Together, these three give you:

    • Less inflammation
    • Better metabolic balance
    • Fewer cravings
    • More energy
    • Better hydration
    • Controlled stress response

    A huge advantage during a season of indulgence.

    4. Build Your Week Around Movement (Not the Other Way Around)

    Instead of “fitting in workouts,” schedule them first:

    Sample weekly structure:

    • 2 strength training sessions
    • 1 conditioning/cardio session
    • 2 walks (30–45 minutes)
    • Optional: 1 recovery day (stretching or yoga)

    Movement keeps your metabolism active and your mindset strong.

    5. Create a Few Go-To Holiday Strategies

    Here are simple, doable tools:

    ✅ Before a party:

    • Drink a full glass of water
    • Eat protein at home
    • Take Lean to avoid overeating

    ✅ At the party:

    • 1 plate — no grazing (so take only what you really want)
    • Start with protein & veggies
    • Alternate alcohol with Hydrated (another fave is sparkling water with a splash of cranberry)

    ✅ The day after:

    • Walk 20–30 minutes
    • Hydrated in the morning
    • Prioritize protein
    • Get back to routine (no guilt spiral!)

    These tiny habits prevent big regrets.

    You Can Enjoy the Holidays AND Feel Good In Your Body

    You don’t have to choose between fun and health.
    You just need a strategy that supports both.

    With a simple plan, supportive habits, and game-changing tools like Fit, Lean, and Hydrated, you can:

    ✅ stay in control
    ✅ feel energized
    ✅ stay consistent
    ✅ reduce stress
    ✅ avoid holiday weight gain
    ✅ hit January feeling READY

    Don’t wait until New Year’s to get serious.
    Start now, and let this be the season you thrive, not just survive.

    Ready to Go Into the Holidays With a Plan That Actually Works?

    If you want support staying consistent, energized, and in control this season, the Muscle + Metabolic Collection is your holiday advantage.

    This bundle includes:

    ✅ Lean – keeps cravings in check
    ✅ Fit – boosts energy, lowers cortisol, reduces inflammation, supports metabolism
    ✅ Hydrated – restores electrolytes, supports performance

    Together, they help you:

    • Stay consistent even on busy days
    • Avoid holiday weight gain
    • Keep your metabolism active
    • Reduce stress
    • Maintain energy and hydration

    You don’t need more willpower — you need the right tools.

    👉 Grab the Muscle + Metabolic Collection and start your holiday plan today. Your January 1st self will thank you.

    We got this!

    Cheers,

    Denise xo

  • The Power of Consistency: How Small Daily Habits Transformed My Wellness

    Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves: CONSISTENCY. It doesn’t get the love it deserves. It’s not flashy, it’s not sexy, and it’s definitely not what we want to hear… but it’s what actually gets results.

    In a world full of “quick fixes”, overnight transformations, self-proclaimed Instagram influencers, it’s easy to forget that real change, the kind that lasts, comes from the small choices we make every single day. It’s not about doing everything perfectly. It’s about showing up, over and over, even when it’s hard.

    I learned this the hard way earlier this year when I had ankle surgery.

    My Personal Journey Back to Strength

    Before surgery, I was incredibly active, always on the trails, in the gym, always moving. But suddenly, I was forced to slow down. I couldn’t do the workouts I loved, and it took a toll not just on my body, but on my mindset too.

    That’s when I leaned fully into getting consistent with my nutrition, peptides, and prioritizing sleep. I had been using bioactive peptides beforehand, but this time, I made it non-negotiable. Every morning: Fit, Lean, and Hydrated, the Metabolic Collection. (Listen, I’m not out here just trying to push something I don’t believe in, I’m out here sharing natural, effective alternatives designed and engineered for the human body.) 

    And guess what? I started noticing real changes:

    • FIT helped me maintain muscle mass while I was less active. I didn’t feel like I was losing all my strength, and when I returned to movement, my recovery felt smoother.
    • LEAN supported my metabolism and helped balance my energy, even though my physical activity had drastically changed.
    • HYDRATED kept my body fueled at the cellular level. Proper hydration helped reduce inflammation and supported my recovery.

    It wasn’t a magic pill, but paired with consistency, these peptides were game-changing. They helped me bounce back faster, with more clarity, energy, and strength than I expected. Oh, my surgeon was fully onboard with ingestible peptides, that was HUGE for me!

    For the Women Entering a New Season of Life

    If you’re a woman heading into perimenopause or menopause, you might be feeling the shift already: the brain fog, fatigue, stubborn weight, mood changes, or a general sense that something feels “off.”

    You’re not imagining it. Hormonal shifts during this time can be overwhelming, but there are tools that can help.

    That’s where the power of bioactive peptides come in.

    These aren’t just for gym-goers or athletes. They’re for the woman who’s juggling work, family, and health, and wants to feel like herself again.

    Peptides like Fit and LEAN support hormonal balance, improve cognitive function, boost metabolism, and help you build and maintain lean muscle, which becomes harder as estrogen starts to decline. And HYDRATED? Think of it as the unsung hero. When your cells are properly hydrated, everything works better…your skin, your brain, your energy levels.

    It’s the Little Things That Add Up

    I’m not suggesting you need to overhaul your entire life tomorrow. Start with one thing. Get to bed earlier. Take your peptides each morning. Go for that walk. Commit to a tech break for an hour every day. Drink the extra water. Read for 30 minutes. Reach out to someone in your community and have a real conversation.

    The truth is, consistency wins over intensity every time. Whether you’re recovering from surgery like I was, trying to lose a few pounds, build strength, or simply feel better in your skin, the magic is in the everyday effort.

    So here’s your reminder: progress doesn’t come from perfection. It comes from the daily commitment to take care of yourself, even in the smallest of ways. Even if that means doing it in the carpool lane dropping your kids off!

    You’ve got this. And I’m cheering you on, every step of the way.

    Denise xo

    Curious about bioactive peptides?
    Click here to dive into the science behind them, explore how they work, and see why they’re at the center of a wellness movement that’s changing lives from the inside out.

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  • The Key to Aging Well: Why Wellness Matters More Than Ever

    Aging is inevitable—but how we age is in our hands. The choices we make today shape how we feel, move, and thrive in the years ahead. I wish I knew at thirty, what I know today, but don’t we all?!

    That’s why I’m deeply passionate about fresh air, strength training, good nutrition, community, and the power of ingestible peptides—five wellness pillars that have transformed my own approach to aging and vitality.

    Wellness as the Foundation for Healthy Aging

    True wellness goes beyond just looking good—it’s about feeling strong, energized, and resilient as we experience life’s stages. Our bodies are constantly changing, and prioritizing wellness isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity for successful long-term health.

    The Hidden Danger of Being “Skinny Fat”

    Have you ever heard someone say they don’t need to focus on nutrition or exercise because they’re naturally thin? Many people focus solely on weight when assessing their health, but body composition matters more than the number on the scale. Studies have shown that people with low muscle mass but higher fat percentage—often referred to as “skinny fat”—face increased risks of metabolic disorders, osteoporosis, and early aging (Medical News Today). YES, READ THAT AGAIN!

    This is why strength training and proper nutrition are crucial, not just for aesthetics but for long-term health and longevity.

    Fresh Air: A Natural Reset for Mind and Body

    There’s something deeply rejuvenating about stepping outside, breathing in fresh air, and moving your body. Whether it’s a walk in nature, a morning run, or simply soaking in the sun, fresh air:
    ☀️ Reduces stress and enhances mental clarity
    ☀️ Supports cardiovascular health
    ☀️ Boosts immune function

    Nature has a way of reminding us to slow down, reset, and reconnect with our well-being. Nature’s benefits are highly under utilized in our healthcare system (in my opinion). If you look at other countries, it’s very common to be prescribed 30-60 minutes daily of fresh air, sunshine, and movement. I believe this is an area we can vastly improve upon, so here’s your nudge…grab your sneakers or hiking boots, and get outside!

    Strength Training: The Anti-Aging Secret

    Muscle loss is one of the biggest challenges of aging, but it’s not inevitable. Ladies, this is a big one! Strength training is one of the most powerful ways to preserve muscle, boost metabolism, and protect bone health. Incorporating resistance training into your routine can:
    💪🏼 Increase strength and mobility
    💪🏼 Reduce the risk of injury and osteoporosis
    💪🏼 Support hormone balance and longevity

    Lifting weights isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about maintaining independence, energy, and resilience as we age. If you don’t know where to start in the gym, hire a trainer/coach.

    **Let me know if you need help, I know a lot of fitness pros who can help you get started, online or in-person.

    Good Nutrition: Fueling Longevity from the Inside Out

    What we eat plays a massive role in how we age. Food isn’t just fuel—it’s information for our cells. A diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods can:
    🥗 Support gut health and digestion
    🥗 Provide essential vitamins and minerals for cellular repair
    🥗 Reduce inflammation and slow down aging

    Prioritizing lean proteins (super important), healthy fats, fiber-rich vegetables, and antioxidant-packed foods helps our bodies function optimally, keeping us energized and resilient.

    Ingestible Peptides: A Game-Changer for Cellular Health

    One of the most exciting breakthroughs in wellness is the power of bioactive precision peptides.

    Exciting research is underway exploring how bioactive precision peptides can support cancer patients, as well as individuals with chronic conditions such as autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. Scientists are also investigating their potential in areas like gut health, muscle preservation, and overall cellular regeneration.

    These potent compounds support cellular function, helping to:
    🌱 Boost collagen production for skin, hair, and joints
    🌱 Enhance muscle recovery and performance
    🌱 Support weight loss, immune function, and overall vitality

    Since incorporating peptides into my routine, I’ve experienced noticeable changes in my energy, recovery, and overall well-being. I’ve seen firsthand how they help with muscle retention, skin elasticity, and overall resilience—things that become even more important as we age.

    This was one of the biggest reasons why I partnered with the groundbreaking company Make Wellness and launched a business helping others find solutions that are effective, science-backed, plant-based, and affordable. I truly believe that aging well shouldn’t be complicated or expensive—it should be accessible to everyone who wants to feel stronger, healthier, and more vibrant.

    Whether you’re looking to improve athletic recovery, support your skin and joints, or simply feel better in your daily life, these peptides can be a game-changer. If you’re curious about how they work or if they’re right for you, I’d love to share more about my experience!

    Power of Community in Wellness

    Wellness isn’t just about what we eat, how we move, or the supplements we take—it’s also about the people we surround ourselves with. The saying, “you are who you surround yourself with” is absolutely true. Having a strong, supportive community can make all the difference in staying motivated, accountable, and inspired on our health journeys.

    🫶 Encouragement & Support – Being part of a like-minded group can push you to stay consistent and celebrate your wins, no matter how small.
    🫶 Knowledge & Resources – The right community can introduce you to new wellness strategies, expert insights, and shared experiences that help you grow.
    🫶 Connection & Purpose – Feeling connected to others improves mental well-being, reduces stress, and reminds us that we’re not alone in our challenges.

    That’s why I’m so passionate about creating a space where people can come together, share their wellness journeys, and lift each other up. Whether it’s through Make Wellness, Instagram, or my women’s group in Facebook, I love seeing people find strength—not just in their bodies, but in the relationships they build along the way.

    At the end of the day, wellness isn’t just about aging well—it’s about living well, together. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, challenge you, and remind you that you’re capable of incredible things.

    The Bottom Line: Invest in Your Future Self

    Aging doesn’t have to mean decline—it can mean strength, vitality, and longevity. By prioritizing fresh air, strength training, good nutrition, strong communities, and the power of ingestible peptides, we can take control of how we age and live with energy and purpose.

    Wellness is an investment in your future. Are you making yourself a priority today?