Author: Anthony Heredia

What Makes a Good Multivitamin?

What Makes a Good Multivitamin?

So why take a multivitamin in the first place?

There are over 34 vitamins and minerals your body needs in various amounts to function optimally. We have heard, “Eat five servings of fruits and vegetables a day,” but is this truly enough? In fact, it is not. Studies have shown that in order to receive adequate amounts of every vitamin and mineral, we would need to take in over 3000 calories worth of very specific fruits and vegetables. The idea of multivitamin is to supplement and not replace (it is not called a replacement) all the healthy foods you should be enjoying on a regular basis. Your body cannot create most vitamins and minerals required or at least in adequate amounts for optimal daily performance, so your body relies on you to help it out.

Are multivitamins safe?

“Multivitamins/multiminerals are among those supplements most likely to have quality problems. They contain multiple ingredients and, therefore, more possibility for error. Earlier tests by ConsumerLab.com have found multis that were short on ingredients, failed to dissolve properly, or were contaminated with heavy metals,” reports ConsumerLab.com.

Remember that until 2011 the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) is not regulating what is in your supplements, so vendors could overload you with dangerously high amounts or give you 1/20 th what they are promising and be breaking no law. More is not always better, as extremely high amounts can be toxic. Sticking to trusted brand names can be safe, so do not be alarmed; but always strive to be an informed consumer. Recommended products at the end of this article.

Does price matter?

No, a higher price does not guarantee a better quality product. Always remember that at the end of the day these companies are just a business trying to turn profit, and sometimes setting a higher price can be a sales strategy imposing the illusion of a higher quality supplement. A great product maintains a reasonable price with a great formula that is backed by science; a good supplement is not afraid of non-biased reviews. Look for products with the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) seal of approval. As quality is not yet regulated, these products went out of their way to prove they have a quality product.

What about the different forms of multivitamins?

Multivitamins are available in the forms of tablets, pastilles, capsules, liquids, powders, and injectable formulations (injectable formulations being available to be administered under medical supervision only). Tablets are always superior because they allow two-thirds more active ingredients to be released properly due to better protection. Capsules are great choices as well, but try not to rely too heavily on liquids as they can be pricey and are absorbed the least because they pass through the system far too fast to be optimally effective.

What makes one multivitamin better than another?

Bioavailability, nutrient quality, and quantity are all key. Bioavailability refers to how absorbable the supplement is made for your body (mineral salts are not absorbed as well as chelated minerals) and how much you actually absorb. Two-thirds of most supplements will not be absorbed or utilized by your body due to faulty formulas and a large variety of other problems. Look for vitamins that are formulated to meet USP standards (United States Pharmacopeia), requiring full disintegration within 30 minutes. Also look for the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) seal, which is another optional seal vendors can pass their product through for customer confidence in quality and accurate contents.

What amounts of vitamins and minerals should I look for?

It’s hard to get the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of all the vitamins you need, even when you are eating well, so here is a good list of what should be found in a comprehensive generally good multivitamin for an active individual (individual bodily needs will always vary). If you know you have special circumstances or needs, make sure to find higher amounts for your scenario. But do your research; do not guess. The current DVs (Daily Values) are largely based on nutritional recommendations dating from 1968 and to date still have not been updated, so always make sure to be cautious with dosages. Always strive to be an educated consumer, as knowledge is power.

•Women in childbearing years should be sure to have 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid to help maintain new cells

•Pregnant women should take a vitamin with 600 mcg of folic acid daily as it will reduce the incidence of neural tube birth defects such as spina bifida.

•Premenopausal woman should increase iron to replace the iron lost during menstruation.

•Menopausal women should go without the iron as too much can be toxic.

NK not known
mg milligrams
mcg micrograms (1,000 mcg = 1 mg)
IU International Units (how many mg or mcg varies by nutrient)
Mineral Women Men
minimum maximum minimum maximum
Boron NK 20 mg NK 20 mg
Boron ages 14-18 17 mg 17 mg
Calcium 1,000 mg 2,500 mg 1,000 mg 2,500 mg
Calcium ages 14-18 1,300 mg 1,300 mg
Calcium ages 51+ 1,200 mg 1,200 mg
Chromium 25 mcg NK 35 mcg NK
Chromium ages 51+ 20 mcg 30 mcg
Copper 900 mcg 10,000 mcg 900 mcg 10,000 mcg
Fluoride 3 mg 10 mg 4 mg 10 mg
Iodine 150 mcg 1,000 mcg 150 mcg 1,000 mcg
Iron 18 mg 45 mg 8 mg 45 mg
Iron ages 14-18 15 mg 11 mg
Iron ages 50+ 8 mg
Magnesium 310 mg 350 mg 400 mg 350 mg
Magnesium ages 14-18 360 mg 410 mg
Magnesium ages 31+ 320 mg 420 mg
Manganese 1.8 mg 11 mg 2.3 mg 11 mg
Manganese ages 14-18 1.6 mg 9 mg 2.2 mg 9 mg
Molybdenum 45 mcg 2,000 mcg 45 mcg 2,000 mcg
Molybdenum ages 14-18 43 mcg 1,700 mcg 43 mcg 1,700 mcg
Nickel NK 1.0 mg NK 1.0 mg
Phosphorus 700 mg 4,000 mg 700 mg 4,000 mg
Phosphorus ages 14-18 1,250 mg 1,250 mg
Selenium 55 mcg 400 mcg 55 mcg 400 mcg
Vanadium NK 1.8 mg NK 1.8 mg
Zinc 8 mg 40 mg 11 mg 40 mg
Zinc ages 14-18 9 mg 34 mg 34 mg
Vitamins Women Men
minimum maximum minimum maximum
Vitamin A 700 mcg 3,000 mcg 900 mcg 3,000 mcg
Vitamin A in IU 2,334 IU 10,000 IU 3,000 IU 10,000 IU
Vitamin B1 Thiamin 1.1 mg NK 1.2 mg NK
Vitamin B2 Riboflavin 1.1 mg NK 1.3 mg NK
Vitamin B3 Niacin 14 mg 35 mg 16 mg 35 mg
Vitamin B6 1.3 mg 100 mg 1.3 mg 100 mg
Vitamin B6 ages 51+ 1.5 mg 1.7 mg
Vitamin B12 2.4 mcg NK 2.4 mcg NK
Folate 400 mcg 1,000 mcg 400 mcg 1,000 mcg
Pantothenic acid 5 mg NK 5 mg NK
Biotin 30 mcg NK 30 mcg NK
Biotin ages 14-18 25 mcg 25 mcg
Choline 425 mg 3,500 mg 550 mg 3,500 mg
Vitamin C 75 mg 2,000 mg 90 mg 2,000 mg
Vitamin D 5 mcg 50 mcg 5 mcg 50 mcg
Vitamin D ages 51-70 10 mcg 10 mcg
Vitamin D ages 71+ 15 mcg 15 mcg
Vitamin E 15 mg 1,000 mg 15 mg 1,000 mg
Vitamin E (natural) in IU 22 IU 1,100 IU 22 IU 1,100 IU
Vitamin E (synthetic) in IU 33 IU 1,500 IU 33 IU 1,500 IU
Vitamin K 90 mcg NK 120 mcg NK
Vitamin K ages 14-18 75 mcg 75 mcg

What are some that you can recommend?

All research information I have used is based on and backed by ConsumerLab.com, which is a wonderful independent lab that puts everyone to the test. There are many great supplements out there, too many to include in our list; but based on the latest consumer lab research, you can feel confident purchasing any of the following brands:

•Carlson® Super 2 Daily Vitamins and Minerals Iron Free

•Eniva® Original VIBE(TM)

•Life Extension® Two Per Day Tablets

•Multi-betic® Multi-Vitamin-Mineral-Antioxidant Advanced Diabetic Formula

•Solgar® Formula V(TM) VM-75® Multiple Vitamins with Chelated Minerals

•TwinLab® Daily One Caps(TM) with Iron

•WEIL(TM) Andrew Weil, M.D. Daily Multivitamin for Optimum Health

•USANA Essentials(TM) Mega Antioxidant

•Nature’s Plus® Source of Life® Whole Food Concentrates Top Choice

•CVS® Pharmacy Daily Multiple For Women

•GNC Women’s Ultra Mega® – Top Choice

•GNC Women’s Ultra Mega® Active

•Puritan’s Pride® Time Release Mega Vita Min For Women

•GNC Men’s Mega Men® Top Choice

•Target Men’s Daily Multivitamin

•PETS – 21st Century Pet Nutrition Pet Chews(TM) Plus

Written by Anthony Heredia

Fitness Couture – Five Ways to Defeat Holiday Guilt

Happy holidays, Agenda readers! We made it through Thanksgiving, but we’re not out of the seasonal woods yet. The holidays typically take a toll on our health and waistlines due to our busy nature this time of year. Fitness seems to take a back seat these days. It’s easy to enjoy an eggnog or two at a friendly gathering or indulge in one too many sweet treats only to justify it with the promise of extra fitness time later. No worries, as I am not here to scold you but to give you some fitness insider intelligence that will dispense with much if not all that holiday guilt. There is nothing wrong with taking time to enjoy the holidays and all the sweet treats as long as you are willing to keep a balance and pay back your holiday fitness debt. Here are five tips to give you an edge in the holiday season.

Tip 1 – Slowing Down Sugar Bombs

What certain goody is synonymous with the holidays? Sugar! The problem with sugar is that concentrated amounts cause havoc on our systems by ruining our skin, causing false hunger, false cravings, mood swings, increased fatigue, and mental fog. Sugar, when concentrated, shoots into our blood stream quickly, like a Rhino charging through a crystal boutique; so slow the beast to reduce the damage. A great method for calming the negative effects of sugar is to combine it with fiber, sugar’s arch enemy. Add soluble or insoluble fiber when having sugar and you dramatically decrease its destructive capabilities. Fiber when taken about 15-30 minutes prior to your sugary treats will make a world of difference.

·   Walnuts

·   Almonds

·   Veggies

·   Fruits

·   Powdered Fiber

·   Psyllium husk

·   Whole/Multi Grains

·   Legumes (such as dried peas, beans, lentils)

Tip 2 – Triple the Fitness Burn in 1/3 the Time

So you don’t have the full hour to devote to being in the gym or even working out at home, but I know you can spare 20 minutes. In order to reap an hour’s worth of results from 1/3 the workout time, you must push hard, no complaining. Go straight into your favorite workout routine, but take only 30-second to 1-minute breaks when needed and push about 20% harder than you typically would. Is it worth it? I’ll let you decide. You just might love that extra push and keep it up. Now that would be great. For more details on this type of hard, quick training, look up “Interval Training” or wait for my next article on how it works in our next issue.

Tip 3 – Burning Calories While You Sleep

Did you know that when you incorporate resistance (weights) into your workout, your metabolism is naturally heightened by about 30% for the next three days? After you do your cardio routine, your metabolism is naturally heightened by about 50-70% for the next few hours and then returns to normal. When you weight train to the point of feeling a light soreness, your metabolism revs up to repair the positive damage you have occurred, making you stronger. That light soreness burns about 30% more calories while you sleep–yes, while you sleep. Pick up some weights and push hard enough to feel a light soreness/burn that will make up for a lot of those holiday guilty pleasures.

Tip 4 – Decrease Stress to Increase Weight Loss

Stress is all around us this time of year and is hard to shake even with all the festive red, green, and white all around. Stress increases cortisol, which is a basic primal hormone that puts our bodies in defense/survival mode, telling our bodies to hold onto fat and gain some more in self-preservation. “What should I do?” you ask. Well, your best combatant against stress is relaxation and fitness. Get yourself to a spa and enjoy (trainer’s orders). Get to the gym. A short 20-minute cardio session is more than enough to dramatically reduce cortisol; 20 minutes is all you need if time is short. Sex is another great stress reliever if you enjoy a certain workout partner. Please avoid the most common of all short term stress relievers, though, sugary and refined bad foods.

Tip 5 – Mental & Nutritional Prep to Curb Overeating

There is absolutely nothing wrong with eating great food during the holidays. The problem stems from how much of it we indulge in. Sugary and highly refined foods release small, short term amounts of endorphins into our system–the feel good hormones–which is why you always want more. This is also a prime reason that we associate fond memories with sugary bad food. Unfortunately, we subconsciously eat more and more, trying to keep that initial feeling only to be left stuffed with massive calories and not feeling happy at all. Remember that it’s the atmosphere and the people that make you happy, not the food itself. If you truly love the food, then remember that it’s the flavors that have you so enamored and not the quantity. Enjoy the food slowly, and stop once you know you are feeling satisfied. Bad food is usually the culprit for overeating because it is good fats (omega-3s) and fiber that inform our bodies we are full. Most bad foods are low in both and are calorically dense. If you want to make sure you eat properly, eat about 60 calories of walnuts or an omega-3 food about 20-30 minutes prior to your meals. Studies have shown that it takes about 60 calories of good fats to trigger the natural satiety center. This small act will keep you from overeating as your body will tell you much sooner that you are honestly satisfied. Enjoy the family, friends, loved ones, memories, activities, tasty foods, and all the holidays have to offer; but control the guilt and calories, and your health will thank you deeply. Happy holidays Agenda readers!

Top 9 Fitness Gifts Under $150

1.      Motorola S9-HD

a.      There is nothing more motivating to exercise than good music. Get rid of those pesky cables for your favorite exercise enthusiast with these high quality sleek motivational headphones. High recommendation rating.

b.      Product Description –

The wireless music experience has been enhanced with an upgraded version of the award-winning MOTOROKR S9, the Motorola S9-HD. Freedom to exercise, move around and commute without wires to tangle or hold you back, is now enhanced with high-definition audio and ear buds that reduce background noise and improve comfort. The S9-HD is the benchmark of wireless music powered by Bluetooth wireless technology. The unique behind-the-head design creates a secure and stable fit–even in active conditions–plus easy to use controls for track selection, volume, play/pause and send/end that allow you to manage music and calls from the headphones.

c.      Where Can I get It? www.motorola.com

d.      How Much? $53-$120

2.      Denise Austin Power Belt Walking System

a.      Have a walking enthusiast ready for more of a challenge? This great gift willtake his/her walk to the next level.

b.      Product Description –

Walking is one of the most popular, convenient, and inexpensive ways to get and stay fit. Bottom line, it is safe and a fun way to get a great workout for your lower body. What about your upper body? Your lower body is doing all the work and receiving all the benefits from a healthy stroll, but your arms and shoulders do nothing. Hand weights are a popular addition to fitness walking, but they can cause strain on the arm, shoulder, and back muscles. They are also an inconvenience. What do you do with hand weights if, in the middle of your walk, you get tired? Do you plan on taking the weights with you when traveling? The solution is the Denise Austin Powerbelt walking system. It’s an effective, safe, and easy to use product developed for and inspired by walking for fitness. Easy to Use – Out of the box and on to your walking routine. * Effective – Burns up to 70% more calories than walking alone. * Versatile – Use it for walking, jogging, aerobics, and much more. * Safety – Smooth and safe resistance compared to hand weights. You already devote the time to walk. The result? A smaller waistline and strong, toned arms and shoulders.

c.      Where Can I Get it?    www.walkerswarehouse.com or www.amazon.com

d.      How Much? $54.95 – $85

3.      Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine

a.      Tired of undeveloped upper body? Rowing machines are high calorie burningcardio machines combined with fantastic resistance training for a toned upper body.

b.      Product Description –

Do you have limited workout space but plenty of motivation? Turn to the Stamina Body Trac Glider rowing machine, which offers a compact footprint of only 23.5 inches wide by 46 inches long, but offers the same terrific workout performance as machines twice its size. The Body Trac Glider is outfitted with a tough steel frame and an aluminum center beam that’s designed to withstand years of use. More significantly, the machine’s ball-bearing roller system and adjustable cylinder resistance arms mimic the smooth motion of rowing on the water. And because rowing is widely recognized as one of the best all-around activities for cardiovascular fitness and strength, the Body Trac Glider makes an ideal workout accessory for anyone who wants to get in tip-top shape. Rowing provides an efficient, effective, low-impact workout that utilizes all the major muscle groups, including the back, legs, arms, abdominals, and buttocks. It is also one of the best exercises for building a strong back, as well as one of the most effective low-impact aerobic exercises for increasing your metabolism. As a result, you can efficiently burn calories and fat without impacting your joints. In addition, the rower includes a multifunction fitness monitor that tracks your workout time, stroke count, and calories burned during your workout, along with the total strokes you’ve accumulated since owning the machine. The monitor displays each data point for six seconds before rotating to the next.

c.      Where Can I Get It?    www.amazon.com

d.      How Much?    $149.00

4.      INSANITY (TM) Work Out System

a.      It is time for the next sweat fest video to melt the pounds away. What I love about this DVD series is the nonstop intensity that is so vital to getting in the best shape of your life, well worth the price.

b.      Product Description –

INSANITY (TM) is the most challenging cardio program ever put on DVD. Your personal trainer Shaun T will push you past your limits with 10 workout discs packed with plyometric drills on top of intervals of strength, power, resistance, and core training. No equipment or weights needed. You don’t have to be in extreme shape to do it. As long as you’re ready to dig deep, Shaun will help you get insane results in just 60 days.

c.      Where Can I Get It? http://www.beachbody.com

d.      How Much?    3 payments of  $39.95

5.      Stamina InStride Pro Electronic Stepper

a.      Lots of cardio packed into one small package, an ideal gift for the cardio enthusiast who just can’t find the room for large equipment.

b.      Product Description –

A great workout companion for smaller homes as well as the office, the Stamina InStride Pro Electronic Stepper helps you get a cardio workout when taking a break at work or watching TV. Weighing just 20 pounds, the InStride Pro is small enough to toss into a workout bag, and it has a small footprint of just 12 x 16 inches. Resistance is provided by two hydraulic cylinders for smooth steps that work your calves, thighs, and buttocks as well as your core, while the aerobic aspect of the stepper helps you burn calories and fat. The battery-operated multifunctional fitness monitor times each workout and counts the number of steps, so you stay motivated and on track to reach your fitness goals. Two rubber resistance tubes connect to the stepper to add an upper body workout to your cardio routine. Detach the tubes from the InStride Stepper to tone and sculpt your legs, arms, chest, and back.

c.      Where Can I Get It? www.amazon.com

d.      How Much?    $60.00

6.      Balance Disc

a.      Product Description –

The Fit Disc can withstand up to 350 lbs. It promotes core stability and has many of the same benefits of a gym ball while performing lower back and abdominal exercises. Can be used in most chairs to support and challenge the spinal muscles while enhancing posture; for children with hyperactive nervous systems–enhances calmness and concentration. Can be used on the floor for exercises to improve balance and increase strength. Inflatable with a standard ball needle and pump.

·      Promotes core stability and withstands up to 350 lbs

·      Experience many of the same benefits of a gym ball while performing lower back and abdominal exercise

·      Inflatable with a standard ball needle and pump

b.      Where Can I Get It? Any sports store, Target, or www.amazon.com

c.      How Much? $15.99 – $25.99

7.      Perfect Pullup Complete System

a.      Pull Ups are a powerful exercise for fast upper body definition, but bad form can really hinder your workout. I love this product for keeping your form in line and making it so convenient at the same time.

b.      Product Description – Complete upper body workout, which includes the Deluxe Ab Straps! These Ab Straps allow you to do off-the-floor leg lifts and crunches the way the Pros do it.

Unique Rotating Handles
· Engages more muscles
· Reduces Joint Strain

Adjustable Swing Arms
· 3 Exercise Positions
· US Navy SEAL Inspired Workouts
· Makes Pullups Easy for Beginners

Complete Upper Body Machine
Get more from your workouts without having to leave the house.
Adjustable swing arms add new exercises like Australian Pullups and Standing Rows never before possible from a single pullup bar.
· Fits any door frame from 27″ – 36″ wide
· Easy installation in all standard door frames
· Easily removed from door frame
· Door can be closed while product is installed
· Handles and bar can support user weights up to 300 lbs*

c.      Where Can I Get It?    www.perfectonline.com

d.      How Much? $19.95 – $ 59.90

8.      Ironman Gravity 1000 Inversion Table

a.      Working out hard is great for us all but can sometimes leave our back hurting if done improperly. An inversion table allows your spine to naturally decompress without the constant chiropractic bill. A must have for all those workout warriors.

b.      Product Description – Reduce back stress by relieving pressure on vertebrae discs and ligaments. Fitness product is the perfect core and training device to reduce fatigue and stress. Exercise promotes blood circulation to relieve stiff muscles. Built with durable tubular steel frame with scratch resistant powder-coated finish. Supports up to 300 pounds and a user height up to 6 feet 6 inches. Extra long safety handles provide easy return to upright position. Vinyl safety covers are added for safety. Nylon backrest provides durability and comfort. Ergonomically molded ankle holders provide comfort and security. Easily folds for storage. Inverts up to 90-degrees Height adjustable up to 6 feet 6 inches

c.      Where Do I Get It?     www.overstock.com

d.      How Much?    $147.99

9.      Bodylastics Home Gym System

a.      Hands down the best resistance cord system I have seen (ordered my set as soon as I saw them). With a good resistance cord set you can recreate any large gym machine workout without the bulky expensive machine.

b.      Product Description –

Well, the statement above is not really true. This product is so versatile that the actual number of exercises is only limited by your imagination and creativity. However, to get you started, we start you off with the most effective exercises used for decades, to build the world’s best bodies.  All Bodylastics Home gym systems can create over 140 of the greatest exercises from the best equipped health clubs and gyms. We’re not talking about makeshift exercises that kind of do the same thing as the $20,000 machines; we are talking about the same exact exercises.

c.      Where Do I Get It? www.bodylastics.com

How Much?    $45.95 – $104.95

Top 5 Big Bank Fitness Gifts

1.      Pilates Power Gym
a.      Product Description –
Sculpt your way to a better body with the Pilates Power Gym with 2 DVDs and Pilates Power Workout Bar. This great home gym system combines the best of Pilates and traditional strength training in one terrific machine and is completely self-contained–no additional weights or spotters needed. The included DVDs feature 4 terrific workouts designed for total-body strengthening and conditioning. Also included is an Exercise and Nutrition Guide to help keep your diet and workout in line with your fitness goals. Pilates Power Gym with 2 DVDs and Pilates Power Workout Bar Includes:
·        Pilates Power Gym
·        Push Up Workout Bar
·        2 Workout DVDs
·        User’s manual
·        Nutrition guide
·        Resistance chart
b.      Where Can I Get It?    www.hsn.com
c.      How Much      $349.95

2. Bodybugg Calorie Management System
a.      Bodybugg is still the leading product for exact calorie tracking, allowing you to arrive at your goals significantly faster.
b.      The revolutionary new bodybugg makes it easy to manage the calories you consume and burn so you always stay in control of your weight.  Get started with a personal phone coach.  Then manage your results daily on our user-friendly web based program. As reported in the British Journal of Sports Medicine , 2008 edition, the bodybugg armband achieved average accuracy rates of 90% in studies comparing calorie expenditure measurements from the bodybugg device to calorie expenditure measurements in a metabolic chamber (the “gold standard” of calorie expenditure measurement).
·       It’s easy – monitor how much you exercise, manage how many calories you eat, then track if you are burning more calories than you are consuming.
·       It’s flexible – eat what you want, when you want, work out on your own terms.
·       It’s customized – your program is based on your age, weight, height, and personal goals.
·       It’s personalized – start with a phone coach session with your personal phone coach
View your progress with a 6-month subscription to the web-based nutrition program, included with the initial purchase of the new bodybugg.
c.      Where Can I Get It?    www.24hrfitness.com
d.      How Much?    $199.00 plus monthly subscription for tracking

3.      VP1000 Vibration Trainer
a.      Vibration training is relatively new to the fitness industry, but the technology was developed in the 1960s for Russian cosmonauts to prevent muscle atrophy and loss of bone density due to the lack of gravity in space. This proven technology is now used by elite athletes, those rehabilitating from an injury, senior fitness enthusiasts, and those interested in expanding their exercise regiment to take advantage of the health benefits achieved by using whole body vibration therapy.
b.      Health Benefits
Whole body vibration therapy is an excellent complement to traditional cardiovascular exercise and strength training. It is beneficial for seniors. Benefits of using a vibration trainer include
·        Improved Muscle Strength
·        Improved Flexibility and Joint Range of Motion
·        Improved Balance and Mobility
·        Increased Bone Density
Improved Hormone Levels
a.      Where Can I Get It? How Does It Work?       www.lifespanfitness.com
b.      How Much? $899

4. Lifesmart Premium Pack 130 Jet Spa with Remote, Spa Caddy
a.      Everyone loves hot tubs, but not everyone has a good place to install one. Enter the LifeSmart Premium Pack 130, the company’s most powerful self-inflating spa. The Premium Pack 130 installs almost anywhere, indoors or out, including in your backyard, on your patio, or in your sunroom. You can even bring it to a friend’s house or take it on a road trip. The hot tub is also easy to inflate: just remove it from the box, plug it into a 110-volt outlet, and watch it self-inflate in minutes. Once the spa is standing, simply fill it with a garden hose and turn on the 900-watt, thermostatically controlled heater, which maxes out at a relaxing 104 degrees. There’s no better way to escape from your day-to-day grind. Plus, the Premium Pack 130 includes a massaging bubble system with 130 air jets, so you can soothe your aching muscles in luxurious warmth. Perhaps the handiest feature, however, is the tub’s LifeSmart spa caddy, a combination hand rail, drink holder, and towel rack that attaches to the side. The spa caddy keeps the most important spa accessories close at hand, so you don’t have to run across the deck on a cold evening just to grab your towel. Other features include a special remote that lets you control the settings while in the water, a durable vinyl construction, room for up to four people, a filtration pump and zippered thermal cover, and a one-year supply of spa treatment supplies. The spa–which holds approximately 211 gallons–measures 73 inches in diameter and 28 inches tall when fully inflated and weighs 50 pounds. The spa carries a one-year warranty on the controls and heater and a 90-day warranty on parts.
b.      Where Can I Get It?    www.amazon.com
c.      How Much?    $999.00

5.      Hydro Glass
a.      Recovery and relaxation is just as important as exercise
b.      Product Description –
A truly new and innovative way to engage the senses during wet room treatments.  First impressions count and are often responsible for what you feel, sense, and desire from that point on.  Hydroglass by HydroCo can be used to create an array of environments–the deep ocean, a dry arid desert or even a plush, green tropical rain forest–let your imagination stroll. Body scrubs, wraps, and thermal experiences can be efficiently and responsibly performed.  Individual showerhead flow control enables a reduction in water consumption by as much as 80%, compared to traditional Vichy Shower treatments, remembering that saving water saves energy! Hydroglass’s organic design accommodates tile, wood, or metallic trim so virtually any interior or exterior design requirement can be achieved. HydroCo is an Australian company creating for the future of Spa or high-end home luxury.
c.      Where Can I Get It? www.hydroco.com

Gadgets Are a Guy’s (and Gal’s) Best Friend Every Holiday Season

By Anthony Heredia

1.      MiFi Wi-Fi 3G Wireless Router

a.      Wish you had an iphone with Verizon coverage? Tired of never having decent internet connection? This little baby extends 5 of your devices 3G Wifi internet simultaneously so you can browse on your ipod touch and laptop at the same time. Great business tool. The Intelligent Mobile Hotspot is your portable, wireless Wi-Fi hotspot. From wherever you are in the coverage area, it detects the Verizon Wireless network and allows you to access a reliable broadband connection. In Wi-Fi mode: Connect up to five Wi-Fi-enabled devices at once. Use the lithium-ion battery for up to 4 hours (40 hours standby) of usage or plug the device directly into an outlet. In USB mode: Connect the MiFi device to your notebook via the included USB cable to use it as a modem.

b.      Where Can I Get It?      www.verizonwireless.com

c.      How Much?     $100 or $50 with a 2 year contract

2. Acer Aspire One 11.6″

a.      Need the world at your busy fingertips, then it’s time to take on a netbook. Thesewonderful machines do it all in the compact size of your palm now.

b.      Product Description –

i.      The definition of a Netbook keeps getting fuzzier around the edges, with displays growing from the original 7-inch designs, and the selection of CPUs expanding to include Intel, AMD, and Via. If we are to take 12-inch systems such as the HP dv2 and Samsung NC20 as Netbooks (we’ve so far let them slip in under the wire), then an 11.6-inch model is a sure thing. The slightly larger $379 Acer Aspire One AO751h-1545 is an excellent compromise between size and usability as too small can be a pain if you type a lot. The catch is that Acer has decided to use the 1.33GHz Intel Atom Z520 as its CPU, instead of the faster (and much more common) 1.6GHz Atom N270 version.

Price as reviewed $379
Processor 1.33GHz Intel Atom Z520
Memory 1GB, 533MHz DDR2
Hard drive 160GB 5,400rpm
Chipset Intel SCH US15W
Graphics Mobile Intel GMA 500 (integrated)
Operating System Windows XP
Dimensions (WD) 11.8 x 8.5 inches (8.8 inches with battery)
Height 1.0 inches
Screen size (diagonal) 11.6 inches
System weight / Weight with AC adapter 3.0/3.6 pounds
Category Netbook

c.      Where Can I Get One?  http://www.acer.com/aspireone/ or any computer store

How Much?     $379

3. Vuzix® Wrap(TM) 920

a.      Wish you could carry your massive big screen around with you or work on a larger computer screen when on your laptop? Well it’s time.

b.      Product Description –

With unmatched styling and performance the Vuzix® Wrap(TM) 920 video eyewear is the most advanced wearable display available today! This sunglass-style eyewear, with a virtual 67-inch screen as seen from 10 feet, displays crystal clear 2D and 3D video while sitting by the pool or in an airplane at 35,000 feet. With support for standard 2D movies as well as virtually all common 3D video formats, you’ll be able to watch all the latest movie releases, as they were meant to be seen.

Vuzix’ Wrap 920 eyewear connects to all NTSC or PAL audio/video devices with video-out capabilities and composite video connections. An included* Composite A/V Adapter for iPod®/iPhone® ensures simple plug ‘n play connection to today’s most popular portable media player. Optional Wrap Adaptors provide connections to HDMI equipped devices and even desktop PC and laptops for watching movies. A single pair of video eyewear for all occasions. Never before has a single pair of eyewear offered this degree of connectivity.
The Wrap 920 is designed to connect to all NTSC or PAL audio/video devices with video-out capabilities. Supported devices include

·        Apple® iPod® / iPhone® / iPod touch® media players

·        Portable DVD players

·        Cellular phones with video out

·        All composite video devices

·        Digital cameras

·        Camcorders

·        PC and Laptops with VGA port*

c.      Where Can I Get It?    www.vuzix.com

How Much? $ 349.95

4. Fueltank DUO

a.      Tired of your iphone, itouch, earpiece, Smartphone or other gizmos running out ofpower with none around? It’s time for a Fueltank.

b.      Product Description –

(1.) Fueltank® can simultaneously charge two small electronic devices without the use of an outlet. It contains a rechargeable lithium ion battery which has more than 7 times the capacity of a standard mobile phone. The Fueltank utilizes device-specific adapters – the same ones used for Chargepod® – so you can customize your Fueltank(TM) to meet the exact needs of you and your family. Proprietary voltage regulator technology senses the amount of power required to charge your devices. LED fuel capacity indicators display when charging indicator button is pressed.

(2.) Performance

·        Rechargeable power for two devices simultaneously

·        Indicator lights display battery capacity level

·        Charge your devices multiple times without refueling

·        Weighs less than 8 ounces and is perfect for traveling

(3.) Compatibility

·        Works with thousands of mobile devices such as iPods, cell phones, Bluetooth headsets, PDAs, digital cameras, navigation units, mp3 players, digital readers, and portable gaming systems

·        Uses the same device adapters as Chargepod

(4.) What’s Included

·        Fueltank base unit

·        AC/DC Wall Plug

·        Mini-USB adapter (MUSB-0001)

·        Carrying pouch

·        Voucher for 1 FREE adapter redeemable at Callpod.com

c.      Where Can I Get It?    www.callpod.com

How Much?     $49.95

5. Kodak Zi8 HD Pocket Video Camera

a.      Missing great moments that need to be captured on video because you don’t want to carry a bulky camera around? Capturing 1080p HD video from a pocket cam is now available.

b.      Product Description

Define yourself in high definition.

It’s small enough to fit in a pocket, but why would you ever want to put it there? Whether out on the town or just hanging with friends, the Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera captures every experience in stunning 1080p HD video. Stay in focus while you’re on the move with integrated image stabilization. Then kick back and watch all the action on your HDTV or share your scene on YouTube with the built-in USB. The Zi8 pocket video camera has all you need to define yourself in high definition.

Product Features

·        Take full HD 1080p videos wherever you go

·        Get sharper videos and less blur thanks to built-in image stabilization

·        Premiere your videos in the palm of your hand with the vivid 2.5-inch color LCD

·        No cables to worry about-just swing out the USB arm to upload, share and charge

·        Get a new perspective-take amazing 5 MP 16:9 widescreen HD still pictures

·        Share on Facebook and YouTube with ease-built-in software makes editing and uploading simple

·        Compatible with PC and MAC (Use with Apple iLife Suite of products) operating systems

·        Compatible with iTunes for syncing with Apple TV, iPhone and iPod Devices

·        Plenty of room for more-record up to 10 hours of HD video (Record ~20 min per 1 GB at 720p HD at 30 fps) with the expandable SD/SDHC Card slot that can hold up to 32 GB

·        Capture your friends in their best light with smart face tracking technology

·        See more details and accurate colors in low light

·        Make audio awesome-the external microphone jack lets you record in stereo

·        Be ready for the big screen right out of the box with complementary HDMI cable

·        Record from a distance or play back on your TV with ease with available remote control

Grab attention and define your style with the ultra-compact design, stunning looks, and a range of colors

What’s in the Box:

·        Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera

·        KLIC-7004 Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery

·        Adapter and cable for battery charging

·        HDMI and AV cables

·        Wrist strap

·        User’s Guide

·        ArcSoft MediaImpression Software for Kodak (on-camera)

a.      Where Can I Get It? www.amazon.com or www.kodak.com

How Much?     $149.99 – 179.99