YAY! Those two pink lines have arrived, and you are so excited and anxious about the journey ahead. You start planning how to announce your pregnancy to your family and friends, start thinking about names, and then out of nowhere - all of those dreaded first trimester symptoms hit. With my first pregnancy, I was exactly 6 weeks when I got hit with my first wave of nausea - and to be honest, I was excited! I couldn’t believe I had life (well, lives, since it was twins) growing inside me, and the nausea felt like some reassurance that we were indeed pregnant. Within a week, I no longer was excited by the constant fatigue and nausea, and couldn’t wait for it to be over. Thankfully as many had told me - when the second trimester started, my symptoms eased up, and life got a little easier again.

When we got pregnant with our third baby earlier this year, I was prepared for that wave of gnarly pregnancy symptoms. What I was NOT prepared for, was just how soon they would start this time, and how much stronger they would be! I was getting sick right at the start of the 4-week mark, and I knew I was going to be in for a ride that first trimester.

Luckily - I felt like I had learned some tips and tricks that first time around, and really got to apply them this pregnancy. While there is nothing that’s going to magically make the nausea and fatigue disappear, there certainly are things that can help you feel just a bit more energized and like your normal self. Take a look at my 5 tips on surviving the first trimester of pregnancy! 

1. Find a balance between movement and rest.

During my first pregnancy, I was so determined to keep my 5x/week workouts. Looking back, I wish I had been more easy on myself! I was exhausted, but I wanted to have a “fit pregnancy” and was so paranoid that I was going to get lazy and let myself go if I immediately started skipping workouts the minute I found out I was pregnant. However, I have also found that getting some light movement in DOES help with the fatigue and nausea. For me, this pregnancy - it has been all about finding balance. Lots of days, it means rest, other days, it may mean some strength training and cardio. And other days, it may mean a walk, riding the stationary bike, or doing some yard work! Movement doesn’t have to be defined as a 60 minute, high intensity workout class. It’s listening to your body, tuning in to what it needs THAT day, and honoring that.

2. Get dressed.

Photo courtesy of caroldavidson.com

I learned this while working from home as well, but getting up, showering, and changing out of PJs can absolutely change your perspective on the day. On so many of the days where I was super nauseous and sick - that hot shower and fresh clothes felt like just the reset I needed.

3. Drink lots of water.

This is definitely a major point not to skip, especially if you’re regularly throwing up during the first trimester. It is so easy to get dehydrated, and more than ever, your body needs that water. While pregnant and nauseous I definitely got sick of “drinking my water” (especially just to throw it up), but I tried to find creative ways to make it more appealing. Carbonated water, adding cut-up fruit, drinking warm decaf teas, electrolyte drinks, etc, made staying hydrated much easier.

4. Finding safe foods and keeping them handy.

Both pregnancies, my first-trimester food aversions were INTENSE. Paired with the extreme nausea, it was so hard to find “safe” things to eat. Once I started to find some things that sounded okay and that I could actually keep down (lots of carbs - bagels, toast, crackers, etc), I made sure to stock up! Remember, the first trimester won’t last forever. Do what you can to make it easier on yourself, even if it is not the way you would normally eat or live. I am typically not a big bagel eater… but in the first trimester, I had at least one, if not two, bagels a day. If I knew I was going to be away from the house for a while, I made sure to pack some crackers or granola bars (another “safe food” for me), and of course lots of water, to help keep me feeling balanced while out. I made sure to keep a stash of the less perishable items near my bed (for when that morning sickness hit before even really getting up for the day), in my purse, in my car, and in my kids’ playroom. 

5. Give yourself grace.

Photo courtesy of justmommies.com

Growing a human is hard work! Learning to listen to your body’s cues and giving it what it needs can help turn your day around. Maybe it's getting outside for some sunshine and fresh air, or maybe it’s sneaking in a nap when possible. It may be getting a workout in, or it may be just decompressing in the shower before cuddling up in a soft blanket to binge watch your favorite show. Give yourself grace if you are living differently than you “normally” would - that's what you SHOULD be doing. Life is changing (in a miraculous way) and adapting to the constant flow of newness you’ll be experiencing in the coming months and years will become one of your new superpowers. It starts now! So take care of yourself and that growing peanut, and give yourself grace in this completely new season you have just entered.

What other things helped you feel a bit more like “you” during your first trimester? I’d love for you to share below!

YAY! Those two pink lines have arrived, and you are so excited and anxious about the journey ahead. You start planning how to announce your pregnancy to your family and friends, start thinking about names, and then out of nowhere – all of those dreaded first trimester symptoms hit. With my first pregnancy, I was […]

Hailing from Canada, we are very excited to introduce the newest member of Team FITAID. At just 16 years old, Emma Lawson is taking the CrossFit community by storm. Growing up, Emma was a competitive dancer and acro which has been a positive influence for her in terms of athletics, work ethic, flexibility, strength, and teamwork. However, coming from a family of CrossFitters, Emma decided to follow in the footsteps of her parents. She’s been involved in CrossFit since she was 7 years old and began competing during the summer of 2018. 

 

In 2019, Emma competed in the girls 14-15 division finishing 5th worldwide and 1st in Canada. The following year in 2020, Emma competed again in the girls 14-15 division and finished 1st worldwide and ranked number 1 in Canada. After very strong performances in 2019 and 2020, it was only fitting that Emma would continue to impress during the 2021 16-17 Girls division and she did exactly that. 

 

At the CrossFit games in Madison, WI, Emma came out the gates hot. She finished first in Events 1 and 2, and a second place finish in Event 3. She is just one of two 16-year olds to ever win the 16-17 girls division, and the first since 2017. Emma was crowned the “Fittest on Earth” after claiming the top spot in the Girls 16-17 division. The FITAID family looks forward to working with Emma as she continues her growth in CrossFit and her rise to the top! 

 

Be sure to give Emma a follow on Instagram @emma.lawson5 and check out her intro video! 

 

 

Hailing from Canada, we are very excited to introduce the newest member of Team FITAID. At just 16 years old, Emma Lawson is taking the CrossFit community by storm. Growing up, Emma was a competitive dancer and acro which has been a positive influence for her in terms of athletics, work ethic, flexibility, strength, and […]

As we get closer to the holidays of December, our athletes and ambassadors will be sharing their favorite holiday recipes. Professional skateboarder Greg Lutzka wants everybody to try out his Root Beer Glazed Ham! A staple for the holiday season, ham makes a delicious entree for a holiday meal or a family gathering this time of year.

 

Throughout these next couple weeks, pay close attention to the blog because you never know, you may need to make something for the family holiday party coming up!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

 

Seasonal Recipe - Root Beer- Glazed Ham

 

1 Fully cooked Bone In Half ham

1 12 ounce can of root beer

1 1/2 Plum Jelly

1/2 Spicy brown mustard

3 sobs apple cider vinegar 

 

1.Preheat the oven to 325˚. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern about 1/8 inch deep. Place the ham on a rack in a large roasting pan, tent it with foil and bake for 2 hours.

 

  1. Meanwhile, heat the root beer, jelly, mustard and vinegar in a small saucepan until bubbly. Cook until reduced and a bit thicker, about 30 minutes. 

 

  1. After 2 hours of baking time, remove the foil from the ham and brush with the root beer glaze. Continue baking, uncovered and brushing with more glaze every 20 minutes, until nice and glossy, about 1 more hour. Remove from the oven and let rest 15 to 20 minutes before carving.

What are you cooking up this holiday season? Tag us on Instagram with your master chef skills!

As we get closer to the holidays of December, our athletes and ambassadors will be sharing their favorite holiday recipes. Professional skateboarder Greg Lutzka wants everybody to try out his Root Beer Glazed Ham! A staple for the holiday season, ham makes a delicious entree for a holiday meal or a family gathering this time […]

Don’t worry, we’ve got the east coast covered as well. From Boston to Miami, these top tier vegan restaurants are all worth trying. So next time you are down in Miami on South Beach, or taking in the sights and sounds of the world famous Big Apple, add one of these restaurants as a place to eat on your itinerary. 

 

  1. Atlanta - Chi Chi Vegan 

1 Moreland Ave SE Ste F, Atlanta, GA 30316

 

This ultra-Instagramable bright pink plant-based taco shop brings all the goodness of Mexican cuisine guilt-free through mimicking the texture of real meat through proteins such as soy and seitan. Their street fare and nachos, complete with lettuce, black beans, corn salad, pico, guacamole, vegan queso and a protein of your choice, are fan-favorites.

 

  1. Boston - Forage 

5 Craigie Cir, Cambridge, MA 02138

 

This neighborhood bistro near Harvard’s campus partners with local farmers, fisherman and foragers to offer seasonal and ingredient-driven dishes. 

 

  1. The Hamptons - Yama Q 

2393 Montauk Hwy, Bridgehampton, NY 11932

 

Do not fret about the lack of options if your friends want to do a sushi night since fish is no longer your friend. Not only does Yama Q have a strong sushi game, but it's dinner entrees are off the charts. The Vegan Tofu Lasagna, topped with tofu, cashew, shitake, broccoli and marinara sauce is both gluten free, vegan and delicious.

 

  1. Miami - Plant Miami 

105 NE 24th St, Miami, FL 33137

 

Experience modern plant-based cuisine at Plant Miami. Not only does this spot specialize in certified vegan and kosher dishes, it also places an added emphasis on conscious cookery. With much of the produce sourced from a local resource known as Paradise Farms, only the most vibrant, pure and organic make it onto your plate.

 

  1. New York City - ABCV

38 E 19th St, New York, NY 10003

 

Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten elevates plant-based cuisine at this Gramercy neighborhood eatery. Located just above Union Square, ABCV prides itself on utilizing the finest seasonal ingredients from family farms as well as non-GMO artisanal and organic goods whenever possible.

 

  1. Palm Beach - Planta 

Rosemary Square, 700 S Rosemary Ave Suite 142, West Palm Beach, FL 33401

 

At PLANTA, the 100% plant-based cuisine leaves quite the impression with its locally sourced ingredients, heart-healthy flavors and sustainable packaging. Fulfilling its mission of giving power to the plants, PLANTA features a variety of vegan favorites such as the shareable bang bang broccoli or the signature PLANTA burger.

 

  1. Philadelphia - Vedge 

1221 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

 

Since 2011, Chefs Rich Landau and Kate Jacoby have offered exquisite vegetable dining experiences to city goers. The fine dining establishment is located in a restored 19th century mansion fit with grand fireplaces and wonderful walnut wainscoting. 

What is your favorite vegan restaurant? Tag us on Instagram next time you’re out and about so we can add it to our list!

Don’t worry, we’ve got the east coast covered as well. From Boston to Miami, these top tier vegan restaurants are all worth trying. So next time you are down in Miami on South Beach, or taking in the sights and sounds of the world famous Big Apple, add one of these restaurants as a place […]

Many people say the hardest part of starting a vegan diet is deciding what to eat or what exactly classifies as vegan - and where to find a hot spot to eat that offers vegan options. Well, let us guide you to the best vegan restaurants on the west coast. Whether you are in Los Angeles, Up north in the bay area, or on vacation in Hawaii, listed below are some of the top recommended vegan restaurants on the west coast. Each spot offers a different cuisine but all follow the guidelines of being vegan. So hop in the car, get going up and down the west coast and make sure to stop at these vegan spots! 

 

Get ready to add to those frequent flyer miles as we drop our favorite east coast vegan restaurants in our next blog! 

 

  1. Los Angeles - Gacias Madre 

8905 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069

 

Inspired by a love for Mother Earth and all of her creations, dishes like ceviche, flautas, tacos, and gorditas get a plant-based twist at this vegan spot. Traditional Mexican cuisine is served alongside a stellar drink menu centered around ethical agave-based spirits like mezcal and tequila.

 

  1. San Francisco - Wildseed 

2000 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94123

 

Wildseed serves diverse creative plates, all plant-based. Chef Alejandro Morgan uses seasonal produce to create high-quality dishes influenced by global flavors.

 

  1. San Diego - Kindred 

1503 30th St, San Diego, CA 92102

 

Start your evening with housemade snacks, from garlic and chili “cologne” popcorn to hearts of palm farinata flatbread. Get your hands dirty with Memphis barbecue jackfruit paired with pulled soy curls or venture out with the Soul Crush, cornmeal crusted gardein fish with parsnip potato mash. 

 

  1. Las Vegas - Chef Kenny’s Vegan Dim Sum 

5570 W Flamingo Rd ste 110, Las Vegas, NV 89103

 

Dumplings and sushi have never been tastier—even when they’re 100% animal free. Chef Kenny Chye is crafting umami delights ranging from spicy vegan crispy beef to jackfruit hand rolls. Make sure to try the tofu specialties complete with stir-fried veggies and delectable sauces.

 

  1. Orange County - Café Gratitude 

1617 Westcliff Dr Suite 112, Newport Beach, CA 92660

 

Nothing tastes as good as healthy feels and that’s exactly how diners feel after eating at Cafe Gratitude in Newport Beach. Executive chef Seizan Dreux Ellis’ commitment to being grateful for food, the earth and human company is illustrated through his food made with only the freshest ingredients.

 

  1. Scottsdale - Clever Koi 

4236 N Central Ave #100, Phoenix, AZ 85012

 

With woks blazing and the wood-fired grill ignited, this Asian-inspired spot is not just a savory vegan eatery, but a sensory affair. The best seats in the house are court-side to the kitchen, where Clever Koi is opening up their dining experience so that guests can watch their food being prepared in anticipation, before digging into a choice of steam-buns, noodles, dumplings and more, on the ever-changing plant-based menu. 

 

  1. Silicon Valley - Craft Roots 

17230 Monterey Rd, Morgan Hill, CA 95037

 

If you're looking for a plant-based meal that still feels hearty, Craft Roots is the place for you. Based in Morgan Hill, Craft Roots is a family-run vegan bar and grill with an artisanal touch. The menu features classic greens like the strawberry summer salad with pickled beets, toasted almonds, vegan feta and strawberry vinaigrette as well as more substantial offerings like the chili with pumpkin seeds, chili lime corn nuts and cashew-lime crema.

 

  1. Hawai’i - Arvo 

324 Coral St Suite 1A-104b, Honolulu, HI 96813

 

The lunch spot of your dreams—ARVO offers a selection of light and crunchy small plates that are the perfect complement to a caffeinated creation. From variations of toast ranging from a loaded avocado piece to one topped with ricotta and honey, ARVO pulls out all the stops when it comes to your favorite midday snacks and coffee pick-me-ups.

 

Many people say the hardest part of starting a vegan diet is deciding what to eat or what exactly classifies as vegan – and where to find a hot spot to eat that offers vegan options. Well, let us guide you to the best vegan restaurants on the west coast. Whether you are in Los […]

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Nov. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- FITAID, a leading sports recovery beverage brand, has established a dedicated collegiate athlete program, tailing the long awaited change to NCAA name and likeness policy. The brand, known for its premium, clean, post-workout vitamin blends, will be expanding its athletic endorsements by creating unique opportunities for college athletes to become ambassadors for FITAID through the League4Life program.

 

As a brand with deep roots in the training, functional fitness and CrossFit™ space, FITAID has, over the last few years, signed major sports franchise players, including pro-football stars; Derwin James (Safety - LA), Brandon Aiyuk (Wide Receiver - SF), Budda Baker (Safety - AZ), pro-basketball Champion Kevon Looney (Power Forward - SF), and pro-baseball, 2x Golden Glove recipient Joey Gallo (Outfielder - NY).

FITAID details its reasons for founding the new program on three distinct pillars.

FITAID leans into this change with a dedicated fund and resources directly earmarked and developed for college athletes. Working in partnership with multiple athletes, trainers, coaches and sports advisors, FITAID is organizing a panel of experts to help select and support top-tier student athletes with product and the potential for financial and advisory support.

"What you put in your body directly affects how you show up at home, on the field and in the world. The nation's best collegiate athletes deserve better," says LIFEAID Beverage Co. co-founder and president, Aaron Hinde. "Just as brands like Body Armour have disrupted the 1960s sports drinks industry, we are ready to step up the evolution of athletic recovery, starting with student athletes."

The submission form, accessible at www.League4Life.com will allow student athletes to apply for their chance to become a Team FITAID representative. Credentials for deals are vetted by weighing the alignment for the brand and athlete, as well as geography, area of influence, and demonstrated representation of company values.

In tandem with addressing the archaic systems of compensation, FITAID couples this challenge of rethinking with a call to action for changing the way athletes are thinking about what they are putting into their bodies. FITAID's sports recovery blend includes BCAAs, Electrolytes, Glucosamine, and CoQ10. It is naturally sweetened, vegan, non-gmo and gluten-free, with no artificial flavors or sodium.

Submissions to www.League4Life.com will be open and on-going. Members of the Sports Advisory Council will include agents at several top professional athlete firms, current and former professional athletes, and several other thrilling additions to be announced.

ABOUT FITAID of LIFEAID Beverage Co.

With a focus on great tasting, wellness enhancing and performance driven supplement products, LIFEAID Beverage Co. has become a trusted brand among athletes, health-conscience consumers. Located in Santa Cruz, California, LIFEAID offers a range of premium beverages including both ready-to-drink and powdered mix blends: FITAID, the brand's Sports Recovery product has redefined the athletic beverage category since 2011.

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Nov. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — FITAID, a leading sports recovery beverage brand, has established a dedicated collegiate athlete program, tailing the long awaited change to NCAA name and likeness policy. The brand, known for its premium, clean, post-workout vitamin blends, will be expanding its athletic endorsements by creating unique opportunities for college […]

Masked up and COVID free, all departments met over the weekend in Santa Cruz, CA at the LIFEAID headquarters to onboard new employees and get in the holiday spirit. As our line of products grows, so does the family of individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make this company what it is today. This was the biggest group for orientation in the 10 years that LIFEAID has been on the shelves. After new employees met and several teammates got to check out headquarters for the first time ever, the LIFEAID family danced the night away Saturday night. Our very own David Stanford joined American Idol finalist James Durbin and treated the team to live music all night! 

 

While ZOOM calls and emails are how the majority of companies communicate in 2021, this weekend proved the importance of face to face interactions. Something not only us, but many in the world, are missing. With eyes set on 2022 and all of the new and exciting innovations that are coming, 2021 is not over. FITMAS is in full effect and the month of December will be filled with seasonal recipes, giveaways, givebacks, and some surprise sales! So keep your eyes peeled and ears open! 

 

Together as ONE, WE ARE LIFEAID! 

 

Masked up and COVID free, all departments met over the weekend in Santa Cruz, CA at the LIFEAID headquarters to onboard new employees and get in the holiday spirit. As our line of products grows, so does the family of individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make this company what it is today. […]

While on a vegan diet, it is important to make sure you are filling those nutritional gaps with vitamins and supplements. One common concern about vegan diets is whether they provide your body with all the minerals it needs. 

Below is a list of key supplements that you should consider if you are on a vegan diet. Also, you will be happy to know that most of these vitamins can be found in several LIFEAID products - all of which are vegan. So if you don’t like swallowing pills, you will be pleased to know that you can simply drink your vitamins. 

Vitamin B-12 

This vitamin can only be found in animal products, like meat, dary, and eggs. Plant foods do not have B12 which means all vegans need to regularly supplement B12. The best way to do this is either by eating fortified foods or taking a B12 vitamin. 

Iron 

While many vegan foods contain iron, plant-based iron is not absorbed very well by your body. Because of this, vegans need to eat more iron-rich foods than people who eat animal proteins. 

Vitamin D 

This is different from other vitamins because your body can make it from sunlight. You can also get it from a few animal foods, like fatty fish and eggs. 

Calcium

Vegan diets completely exclude dairy, a common source of calcium. Plant-based sources of calcium need to be added to support a healthy vegan diet. 

Iodine 

This mineral is vital for thyroid, bone, and brain health. Iodine deficiency in the United States is rare because most people are able to get enough iodine from iodized salt, seafood, and dairy products. In some cases, vegans can have low iodine levels. 

Zinc 

Zinc is a nutrient that is important for health. It is found in both animal and plant foods. Vegans can sometimes have a hard time getting enough zinc in their diets because they do not eat animal products. Eating beans and grains can also make it hard for your body to absorb zinc.

While on a vegan diet, it is important to make sure you are filling those nutritional gaps with vitamins and supplements. One common concern about vegan diets is whether they provide your body with all the minerals it needs.  Below is a list of key supplements that you should consider if you are on a […]

Hiking is an outdoor activity where packing less is better. You are naturally going to burn A LOT of calories while on the trails so it is best to pack snacks that will keep you energized on your hike. For the vegan hikers out there, there are plenty of snacks that you can pack in your backpack that are delicious and will keep you fueled up. All these snacks are a good combination of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates that will give you long-lasting energy for your next hike or outdoor adventure. 

 

  1. Trail Mix 
  2. Vegan Jerky 
  3. Fresh Fruit and Veggies 
  4. Nuts and Seeds 
  5. Chips, Pretzels, Popcorn 
  6. Dried Fruit 
  7. Protein Bars 
  8. Nut and Seed Butter Pouches 
  9. Tortillas and Hummus 
  10. AND of course, FITAID 

 

These snacks are ideal to keep you energized while hitting the trails, and even better, most can be made at home! Did we miss any? Tag us on Instagram with your favorite vegan snack! @fitaid 

Hiking is an outdoor activity where packing less is better. You are naturally going to burn A LOT of calories while on the trails so it is best to pack snacks that will keep you energized on your hike. For the vegan hikers out there, there are plenty of snacks that you can pack in […]

Veganism, like several other diets, comes with several misconceptions. Whether you see these myths and stereotypes on social media or hear them at work or with friends, doing your own research is the best way to truly understand veganism and how achievable the diet can be for any lifestyle! 

 

“Being Vegan Is Expensive” 

When you consider the fact that vegans do not eat meat, one of the more expensive items on your grocery list, you'll realize that veganism is actually very budget-friendly. Some of the staples of a vegan diet are whole grains, rice, legumes, pasta, veggies, and fruits. All of these are some of the cheapest ingredients on Earth. Veganism is actually pretty easy, even on a college student’s budget. Play around with recipes and ingredients - experimenting can lead to some new favorite dishes! 

“You don’t get enough protein on a vegan diet” 

The idea that you can only get protein from animal products is false. In fact, these animals are fed a plant-based diet. So you are basically already consuming plant-based protein just through dead tissue. There are actually several plant-based protein sources that you can get on a vegan diet. These include oats, quinoa, beans, spinach, tofu, lentils, broccoli, nuts, seeds, and many more. Also, you can get plenty of protein from organic plant-based protein powders. As with any other diet, it depends entirely on what you’re consuming.

“Vegans need to drink milk to get calcium” 

If all you watch is “Got Milk?” ads then yes, you would believe milk is the only place you can get a solid source of calcium. However, on a vegan diet, you can rely on several foods that offer high amounts of calcium. For example, dark leafy greens (collard greens and kale), soy-based foods, lentils, beans, and seeds (tahini, chia, and flax), are all great sources of calcium to add to your vegan diet. 

“Being vegan is too hard and too restrictive” 

Making any kind of lifestyle change can be difficult at first but once you get into the groove of things they become second nature. The same can be said for starting a vegan diet. It may be uncomfortable at first but once you have a plan in place, following a vegan diet is actually very easy. Instead of focusing on what you can’t have, focus on what you can have. You will come to realize that a vegan diet actually has many options and substitutes that will open your taste buds to new flavors, spices, and cooking methods. 

MYTHS = DEBUNKED

Do your research, find what works for you, and give a vegan diet a try!

Veganism, like several other diets, comes with several misconceptions. Whether you see these myths and stereotypes on social media or hear them at work or with friends, doing your own research is the best way to truly understand veganism and how achievable the diet can be for any lifestyle!    “Being Vegan Is Expensive”  When […]