Live Better
Unlocking amino acid potential and building lean muscle

(BPT) – While the global protein category is nearing $6 billion annually, there are many conflicting theories and reports about the best combination of ingredients for success as it relates to building muscle. In addition, many consumers are easily confused by the wide variety of products available to them at any given time.
Being able to choose the right supplement always starts with a solid understanding of the fundamentals of amino acids and knowing what you need to successfully build muscle.
Amino Acids 101
Amino acids are critical to supporting muscle growth and strength. A common misconception is that Branch Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs), isoleucine, leucine and valine alone can build lean muscle. But in fact, the body needs all nine essential amino acids (EAAs), histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine and valine in order to build muscle.
In general, an effective way to help build muscle is to consume these EAAs, commonly found in protein powders, in connection with a healthy diet and weight/resistance program. Such protein powders consist of a variety of EAAs that have been shown to aid in muscle building.
Supplements that provide the “full package”
When combined with a balanced diet and consistent training in weight/resistance programs, well-rounded supplements containing all nine EAAs allow consumers to take their workouts to the next level. Solutions such as the XS(TM) Muscle Multiplier EAA Supplement (when combined with regular weight/resistance training and a healthy balanced diet), leverage a blend of EAAs to assist in building lean muscle. Developed by a leading expert on essential amino acids and protein synthesis, XS(TM) Muscle Multiplier Essential Amino Acid Supplement contains the exact compositions and ratio of all nine essential amino acids necessary to help build lean muscle.
The formula delivers 3.6 grams of EAAs in a blend patented to assist in building lean muscle when combined with regular weight/resistance training and a healthy balanced diet. The recommended use is to consume 1-3 servings per day, before, during or after exercise or in between meals. (Of note: The above statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.)
Unlike BCAAs alone, this solution uses 35 percent leucine, 20 percent lysine and 15 percent valine, with the remaining amino acids (histidine, isoleucine, methionine, phenylalanine and threonine) in an additional 30 percent.
Looking to the future
Although the protein category has remained largely unchanged throughout the past 40 years, solutions like the XS(TM) Muscle Multiplier Essential Amino Acid Supplement have the potential to reignite long-awaited innovation in the growing sports nutrition market. As active generations seek to educate themselves on the benefits of essential amino acids, they will continue to further master the proper way to work out and supplement those workouts. It is simply a matter of building a strong understanding of how the body works and what can be done to help sustain its overall wellness.
Live Better
Reasons to consider an up-an-coming career in 2025

(Family Features) If you’re thinking about making a career change, re-evaluating your long-term career path or looking for a career with purpose, there is one path you may not have considered – and it might be the perfect fit: funeral service.
Consider this: Funeral service is facing a critical shortage of skilled professionals in the next decade due to retiring funeral home owners and rising death rates. In fact, the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) estimates 5,700 openings for funeral service workers during each of the next 10 years.
In a world where Gen Zers said having a sense of purpose is important to their overall job satisfaction and well-being, according to a study by Deloitte, there’s an opportunity for business-minded individuals, young professionals and those seeking second career paths to explore this distinguished and fulfilling profession. While 1 in 10 (12%) adults would consider a career as a funeral director, Gen Zers (44%) and Millennials (38%) admit they do not know enough about the profession based on a survey by the NFDA.
There are several reasons to consider funeral service as a career, whether you’re a new grad, a young professional looking to get your foot in the door or someone with years of experience who’d like to test your transferable skills in a new career.
1. Fulfillment and Purpose
Funerals and memorial services are an important part of the grieving process and an opportunity for family and friends to gather to comfort one another and say goodbye to their loved one.
Funeral directors are not just in charge of logistics. They play a vital role in helping families navigate one of the most challenging times in their lives. They provide emotional support, guide families through funeral arrangements and ensure the service honors the deceased’s life.
2. Community Involvement
Funeral directors are often deeply involved in the communities they serve, volunteering with local nonprofit and community organizations, sponsoring little league teams and organizing collections for troops overseas. This sense of community extends beyond the immediate responsibilities of the job, as many funeral directors take on the role of mentors and leaders, guiding the next generation of professionals.
“As I look ahead to the next 15 years of my career and beyond, I ask myself one question and encourage others to do the same, no matter what career they are in: Are you doing the work to inspire a new generation of leaders and being the person you needed when you first started out?” said Allyse Worland, CFSP, licensed funeral director. “For me, the answer is always yes, and I am excited to see what the future holds.”
3. Ability to Own a Business
A career in funeral service offers the opportunity to own your own funeral home. With experience and business skills, you can manage and grow a company that provides essential services to your community. It’s a unique blend of compassion and entrepreneurship, allowing you to make a meaningful impact while running a successful business.
If you’re looking for a meaningful career that combines purpose, community and the opportunity for growth, funeral service might be the path for you. With the occupation’s demand for skilled professionals on the rise, now is the time to consider how you can make a difference in the lives of others while shaping the future of a growing profession.
Learn more about the career path and take a quiz to determine whether it’s right for you by visiting rememberingalife.com/careers.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
Live Better
Meet a colorful new Supertunia

In This week’s Home and Garden page, The Garden Guy Norman Winter introduces us to an award-winning Supertunia with bright yellow color. Also read about New Year resolutions for your yard.
Supertunia Mini Vista Yellow annual of year
As we headed into December we start to glance to the future, to the award-winning flowers for 2025. This is always a terrific choice for your garden dollar, whether you are looking toward the landscape, porch, patio or deck.
One such award winner is Supertunia Mini Vista Yellow, Proven Winners 2025 Annual of the Year.
Live Better
On the Table focuses on proteins

In “ON THE TABLE” this week read how to pack flavorful protein into snacks and the Dos and Don’ts of canned food.
Pack more protein in your lunch
As 2025 begins families are looking for healthier alternatives for certain foods and ways to pack more protein in their diet. Chicken of the Sea offers these yummy ideas for a snack.
Living a happier, healthier life often begins in the kitchen. From lunches on the go to sit-down family meals, keeping flavor at the center of your meal planning is key to maintaining healthy habits.
Based on Mintel’s 2025 Global Food and Drink Trends, experts predict that sweet, sour, smoky and spicy flavors will continue to rise in popularity among families in the United States this year. Show your family how much you care with delicious and nutritious dishes that don’t skimp on flavor. After all, it’s easier to stick to healthy eating when you find joy in the foods you share.
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