CHANGE YOUR FLAVORS
It's the holidays - you know the drill: sweet treats, rich foods, and festive cocktails are mainstays for the last couple months of the year. We're not here to tell you to skip the celebrations. At Ascent, we believe in balance. If you're focused on healthy habits day to day between the holiday festivities, you're less likely to overindulge and truly savor the tasty treats that bring us all together this time of year.
Here are four strategies to help you stay on track:
Keeping up with your protein goals shouldn't stop just because it's the holidays. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and recovery, even during the busiest time of the year. (1,2) If you're unsure how much protein you need, check out our handy protein calculator for a quick and easy guide.
The holidays are packed with carb-heavy meals and sugary desserts. Make it a priority to focus on protein-packed main dishes, like turkey, roasts, or other lean cuts of mean, and fill your plate accordingly.
To help meet your protein goals, incorporate a high-quality protein source with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which help activate muscle protein synthesis (MPS) - the process essential for muscle recovery and growth. (1,2) Ascent's 100% Whey Protein Powder delivers 25 grams of clean protein per serving, including 5.5 grams of naturally occurring BCAAs, to keep you on track. Enjoy it in a daily smoothie or impress your friends with our infamous - and irresistible - Christmas Protein Peppermint Bark.
Hydration is often overlooked during the holidays, but it's essential for staying healthy and energized. Between festive cocktails and indulgent holiday meals, your body might need extra fluids to stay in balance. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and even hinder your performance if you're squeezing in workouts.
Start your day with a big glass of water and keep sipping throughout the day. For an added boost, mix in Ascent's Clean Hydration + Energy electrolyte powder. It helps replenish essential minerals like sodium and potassium, keeping you hydrated while providing an energy lift from Coffeeberry® Energy.
Why wait until January to start new habits? Adding creatine to your daily routine now can set you up for success in the new year. Creatine supports strength, endurance, and lean muscle mass when consumed daily and paired with a consistent workout routine, making it a powerhouse nutrient for athletes. (3,4,5) It's also been shown to improve energy production during both short bursts of activity and prolonged exercise. So even if you're not hitting the gym as hard, creatine can still be beneficial in your daily life, while helping you bounce back when you're back in a regular regimen. (3,4,5)
Ascent's Clean Creatine, made with 100% Creapure®, is a trusted choice among athletes. Ascent's Clean Creatine is easy to incorporate into your day. Just mix a scoop into your protein shake, water, or electrolyte drink. With consistent use, you'll notice the benefits of improved performance and recovery, even during the hectic holiday season. (3,6)
Let's face it - desserts are one of the best parts of the holidays. But what if your favorite sweet treats could also support your fitness goals? By incorporating Ascent's Micellar Casein into holiday desserts, you can enjoy a slow-digesting protein that fuels muscle recovery while you sleep.
Add casein into recipes for protein-packed puddings, ice cream, frosting, or chocolate dessert bars. It's a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while giving your muscles the nutrients they need to rebuild and recovery overnight.(7)
At Ascent, we believe fitness and fun can go hand in hand. By prioritizing protein staying hydrated, and incorporating sports nutrition products like creatine and casein, you can keep your health on track while enjoying everything the holidays have to offer. With a little planning, you'll be ready to crush your goals in the new year - no regrets, just results.
