Almased Synergy Diet – FAQ
What’s so special about Almased?
Almased is an all-natural product which is clinically proven to help with weight loss, fat loss, muscle mass retention, and increasing individual’s energy level. It will not increase insulin and glucose levels, and due to the high protein content it
will provide a feeling of fullness. These results have been proven in multiple clinical studies. Almased is scientifically proven to work like no other weight loss product! The Almased Synergy Diet program allows the body to lose unwanted fat with a
unique formula of: • Soy • Yogurt • Honey It contains all essential amino acids, including those usually only found in meat products and enzymes for easy digestion. With the Almased Synergy Diet, your body receives more protein than from other similar
products on the market today. Almased has been proven in a scientific study to be safe and effective for people with diabetes. It has a low glycemic index (27) and an extremely low glycemic load (4). Therefore, it has a minimal effect on blood sugar
levels and is suitable for people with diabetes. Almased is a natural product and is not altered in any way with stimulants, chemical additives, artificial flavors, or sugars. No other program on the market today can help you lose weight and feel good
at the same time the way the Almased Synergy Diet can. No other product on the market has the scientific proof that Almased has.
Why do you burn so much fat on the Almased Synergy Diet Program?
On this diet, you are using Almased as a meal replacement which creates a calorie deficit. Since these calories are suddenly not available, the body takes them out of its fat reserves. At the same time, the body continues to be supported by Almased’s high quality protein and ingredients, so muscle mass is protected during the program. Please keep in mind that everyone loses weight in a different manner, so weight loss results may vary.
Will I feel hungry on the Almased Synergy Diet?
No, Almased is a nutrient dense food supplement, which nourishes the body and helps to create a balance within. This balance is what keeps us from becoming hungry and helps to sustain energy. Furthermore, the balance of protein and low glycemic carbohydrates makes you feel full, and keeps leptin, insulin, and blood sugar levels balanced.
If I start the Almased Synergy Diet when can I see results?
Most of our customers can see results immediately! If you stay committed to the program, which would include watching the calories you consume for your regular meals (500-700 calories) and exercising regularly (at least 4-5 times a week), the pounds will melt away. Everyone loses weight in a different manner, so weight loss results may vary. Do not only focus on the scale, also measure your inches, especially around stomach and hips (preferably once a week). Losing inches is a great weight loss indicator as well as realizing that your clothes fit loser! Remember you should take your measurements when you start the program because your weight on the scale only tells you part of your success. Also, incorporate exercise into your daily routine. This does not mean that you have to exercise strenuously. Even some physical activity, such as walking on a daily basis can help. Exercise will help with overall weight loss and weight maintenance, so it is important for your health.
Has Almased and its claims for weight loss been researched?
Yes, unlike many other diet products, Almased has clinical scientific research using the exact formula you can purchase on the shelf. Without exception, all of Almased’s claims have been proven in clinical studies at universities and medical institutions in Germany and/or the US, and published in international scientific journals.
Before beginning the Almased Synergy Diet – What you need to know
Why do I need protein?
Proteins are the basic building blocks of every cell in your body. They are large compounds made of amino acids. In order to build, repair, or rebuild enzymes and muscles, your body needs amino acids that only come from protein. Protein is essential for a diet because you lose muscle mass first when you diet, not fat. With Almased you lose fat, not muscle.
How is honey different than sugar?
Honey is a complex natural product, composed of over 80 single substances. Fructose (fruit sugar) and not glucose (table sugar) is the main ingredient in honey. Almased has been proven in a scientific research study to support a balance of blood sugar and insulin levels. Honey also has prebiotic functions. Prebiotics have beneficial effects in terms of improving digestion and effectiveness of the immune system.
What is the glycemic index (GI)?
The glycemic index is a measure of how the food you eat increases your blood sugar levels. The lower the GI, the better for you. Raw table sugar and refined white bread have high glyemic indices. Almased has a low glycemic index of 27 and an extremely low glycemic load of 3-4.
What is the glycemic load (GL)?
The glycemic load is a ranking system that measures the impact of carbohydrate consumption by taking the GI and the portion size into account. GL gives a fuller picture than does GI alone. You need to know both things to understand a food's effect on blood sugar and that is where GL comes in.
For this reason and for Almased’s unique composition, which speeds up and improves your metabolism, Almased supports balanced blood sugar and insulin levels.
Almased is clinically proven not to raise insulin, blood sugar, and leptin levels.
What is leptin?
Leptin is a hormone that has a central role in fat metabolism. It was first discovered in 1994 and is produced by adipose tissue (fat tissue). Leptin affects your appetite. It signals to the brain that the body has had enough to eat. Even though leptin is a circulating signal that reduces appetite, in general, obese people have an unusually high concentration of leptin. These people are resistant to the effects of leptin, in much the same way that people with type 2 diabetes are resistant to the effects of insulin.
Almased is clinically proven to lower leptin levels and to make you feel full.
Do people who are lactose intolerant have trouble taking Almased?
No, Almased has very minimal (trace) amounts of lactose and because of the special fermentation process, most lactose sensitive people do not have problems. If however you are allergic to soy, yogurt, or honey, talk to your doctor or speak to the Almased nutritionist at 1-877-256-2733.
Can I work during this diet or must I curb my activities?
While on the Almased Synergy Diet you will be fully capable of handling your normal workload and daily activities. Exercise is not necessary to have success on the program but can accelerate your weight loss and help with weight maintenance, and is therefore strongly recommended. A one-year clinical study proved that the participants had more energy with Almased, not less.
Why do I have to consume 8-10 glasses of water per day?
About 72% of our body is water and we must constantly replenish this supply. Water, especially with minerals like magnesium and calcium, is needed to maintain a healthy body because it is involved in almost every biochemical process in your body. Even when you are not on the Almased Synergy Diet, a minimum of 8-10 glasses of water daily is recommended. If you do not consume mineral-rich water, you might want to consider taking magnesium, calcium, and potassium supplements. Please talk to your doctor before using these supplements. We do not recommend consuming distilled water due to the loss of minerals within your body and food.
How much does Almased cost?
If purchased through Almased USA, Inc., one can of Almased costs $34.95 and contains 10 servings. We also offer the Almased Synergy Diet kit which contains of 3 cans of Almased (= 30 servings) for $99.95.
How can I purchase Almased?
You can purchase Almased directly through us by calling 1-877-256-2733 toll-free or online at www.almased.com. We take major credit cards or you can mail in a check or money order. You can also check out our store locator link at www.almased.com to find a store in your area that carries Almased.
Mixing the Powder
How do I mix Almased?
For one meal replacement, mix 8 level tablespoons (= ½ cup) in 10-12 oz of cold liquids, such as bottled or filtered water, skim milk, low-fat milk, soymilk, or yogurt. We do however see best results if Almased is mixed with water (bottled or filtered). Try to avoid mixing Almased with sugared juices. Flavor your Almased drink with your favorite ingredients, such as cinnamon, ground flaxseeds, vanilla extract, or unsweetened cocoa powder. Never use hot liquids because the special enzymes that Almased provides to burn fat will be destroyed. Almased should be made fresh and consumed immediately.
How much Almased do I need to take?
The general serving size for Almased is 8 level tablespoons per shake mixed in 10-12 oz of cold liquids. If you would like to be more specific you can go by your body height:
If you are < 5’5” take 6 level tablespoons
If you are between 5’6” – 6’ take 8 level tablespoons
If you are > 6’ take 10 level tablespoons
Can I mix Almased in my hot coffee or tea?
No. Almased cannot be mixed with hot liquids because extreme temperature change, whether higher or lower, can change the proteins and reduce their solubility, digestibility, and bioavailability as well as destroy the enzymes in Almased.
Can I mix Almased with fruit juice?
You can dilute fruit juice with water (1/4 of juice to 3/4 of water). However, keep in mind that fruit juice contains sugar even if it’s 100% fruit juice. For some people it is harder to lose weight if sugar is added to their diet. If you seem to be having a harder time losing weight, please talk to the nutritionist at Almased (1-877-256-2733) or use only water (bottled or filtered) for mixing.
Can I use tap water?
No. It is not recommended to use tap water since chlorine is added to most city waters. Chlorine destroys the enzymes in Almased which decreases the effectiveness of the product. Therefore, we recommend mixing Almased with bottled or filtered water.
Can I flavor the water?
Yes, you can use flavored water. Also try adding lemon, orange, or cucumber slices to water for a different flavor. You might try a drop of vanilla or a dash of cinnamon.
What does Almased taste like?
Almased does not come in any specific flavor because it is all-natural. It contains no added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or flavors. Depending on what Almased is mixed with, it might have a mild nutty-vanilla flavor. Try Almased with original or vanilla soymilk and you will realize it tastes like melted vanilla ice-cream! The taste can be altered very easily by what you mix it with. Add a dash of cinnamon, which is good for blood sugar control, or vanilla extract to spice up the taste.
Can I blend Almased?
Yes, blending will not cause any damage to the protein. After you have achieved your target weight you can consume Almased as a fruit smoothie (for example with strawberries, peaches, or bananas) which is a great way to have a high protein meal replacement or snack. Keep in mind that adding fruit to the shake will also increase your calories as well as sugar content. For some people it is harder to lose weight if fruit is added to the shake. If you seem to be having a harder time losing weight, please talk to the nutritionist at Almased (1-877-256-2733) or use only water (bottled or filtered) for mixing.
How do I store Almased?
Store it in a dry and cool place. If you live in a very hot and humid climate and your house is not air-conditioned, you should refrigerate the opened can.
How do we blast those free radicals?
What are free radicals?
Free radicals are unbalanced atoms that cause damage to the human body that can lead to aging and degenerate diseases (i.e. heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and cancer). They are a byproduct of normal metabolic processes, but are increased during dieting.
What are antioxidants?
Antioxidants are the natural defense to free radicals. Antioxidants can safely interact with free radicals and terminate damage that can be caused to the body when free radicals are left unchecked. Antioxidants are present in soy, currants, green tea, grapes, honey, and other types of fruits and vegetables.
Can I continue to take a multi-vitamin while on the Almased Synergy Diet program?
Yes, you can continue using a multi-vitamin while on the program as well as on an ongoing basis if needed. Vitamins and minerals are the basic foundation to optimal health. A multi-vitamin is a convenient and easy way to take all the necessary nutrients in one supplement, in order to prevent deficiencies. However, we do suggest trying to get your nutrients mainly from food and use supplements as the 2nd source since absorption of nutrients from supplements might be lower.
What is the vegetable broth for?
We recommend preparing a fresh vegetable broth and consuming it between your Almased diet meals, especially if you are on the liquid diet. The vegetable broth provides you with important vitamins and antioxidants to fight free radicals you might be producing during this phase. It will also help to curb your appetite in between meals and will add to your daily amount of liquid.
How do I make the vegetable broth?
In order to make the vegetable broth, simply cut about ½ lbs of vitamin-rich vegetables into cubes, such as spinach, broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, peppers, onions, leeks, potatoes, etc. Add about 1.5 – 2 quarts of water and cook until soft, approximately 5 minutes in a pressure cooker or longer in a regular pot. Pour the cooked vegetable broth through a strainer, filter out the solid pieces, which can be frozen and eaten at a later date. You can season the vegetable broth with spices and herbs, go lean on the salt.
How much broth do I drink per day?
There is no upper limit of vegetable broth. Ideally, we recommend up to 4 cups per day if you are fasting with Almased (using Almased three times per day). The broth can be consumed at lunch and dinner or be sipped throughout the day. The broth contains antioxidants that help to cleanse your body of free radicals.
Can I skip drinking the vegetable broth?
We strongly recommend consuming vegetable broth or vegetable juice because it provides you with many vitamins and antioxidants. If you do not take the broth, you should make up for this lack of vegetables in your “normal” meal (e.g. steamed broccoli, asparagus, spinach, carrots, etc.).
What can I expect on the Almased Synergy Diet?
Can people with diabetes take Almased?
Yes, a new clinical study over a 6-month period proves that Almased is safe and effective for people with diabetes to lose weight and to control blood sugar and insulin levels. With Almased’s low glycemic index (GI), it will not cause insulin or blood sugar spikes.
How should Almased be used?
In general, we recommend replacing 2 meals a day with Almased, ideally breakfast and dinner. At lunchtime eat a “sensible” meal:
2-3 oz (size of your palm) of skinless chicken, 1-2 cups of green leafy vegetables or a salad with olive oil and vinegar dressing, and ½ cup of brown rice
If the meal plan does not coincided with your regular routine you can eat your normal meal in the evening or morning.
How should someone with diabetes take Almased?
The first thing to do is to see how Almased affects your blood sugar level, if any. Therefore, you will continue with your diabetes medication as usual and measure your blood sugar before and 2 hours after your first Almased shake, which should be mixed preferably in water. This step is important and will tell you if your medication needs to be adapted (e.g. if your blood sugar level tends to run too low). We strongly recommend talking to your doctor about adjusting your medication.
I have diabetes, can I take Almased with my insulin and medication?
Yes, Almased is an all-natural nutritional supplement and does not react with medication. It is important to follow your doctor’s advice, take your medication (if any), and closely monitor your blood sugar level. The safety of Almased for people with diabetes was proven in a clinical study.
What should I do if my blood sugar is too low after drinking Almased?
First of all, continue taking your medication as usual. If your blood sugar is too low (70 mg/dL or below) you need to do something immediately. If you have not checked your blood sugar but have the following symptoms: nausea, nervous feeling, cold and clammy skin, sweating, hunger, and rapid heartbeat, check your blood sugar! Once you determined that your blood sugar is too low, have one of these "quick fix" foods right away to raise your blood sugar:
• 2 or 3 glucose tablets
• 1/2 cup (4 ounces) of any fruit juice
• 1/2 cup (4 ounces) of a regular (not diet) soft drink
• 1 cup (8 ounces) of milk
• 5 or 6 pieces of hard candy
• 1 or 2 teaspoons of sugar or honey
After 10-15 minutes, check your blood sugar again to make sure that it rises. If it is still too low, have another serving. Repeat these steps until your blood glucose is at least 70. Then, if it will be an hour or more before your next meal, have a snack.
Low blood sugar levels need to be treated right away but if this happens repeatedly after having an Almased shake, it might actually be a good “sign”. This could mean that you are able to reduce your diabetes medication and should talk with your doctor about this.
What should I do if my blood sugar is too high after drinking Almased?
It is very unlikely that your blood sugar will rise after an Almased shake. However, there can be some incidents where your blood sugar may rise, e.g. if diabetes medication is reduced without talking to your doctor, if Almased is mixed with fruit juice, and/or fruit is added to the shake. If your blood sugar is too high, check for these incidents. Do not change medication without talking to your doctor. Reduce or cut out fruit if your blood sugar is too high. If you need to talk to the nutritionist, please call 1-877-256-2733.
Can I fast with Almased?
Yes, Almased can be an excellent supplement for people on a fast to supply necessary nutrients. Due to excessive weight loss while fasting, we do not recommend this diet for people with diagnosed health problems. Please contact Almased or consult your health care provider to determine if fasting is right for you.
How do I fast with Almased?
You will only consume liquids during the fast, which can be up to 2 weeks long. You will have 3 Almased meals per day. Mix 8 level tablespoons of Almased in cold liquids such as bottled or filtered water or diluted fruit juice. Ideally, Almased should be mixed in clear liquids for the fast. However, if you need more variety, you can mix Almased also in skim or low-fat milk, or soy milk. You can also flavor your Almased drink with your favorite ingredients, such as cinnamon or vanilla extract. Never use hot liquids because the special enzymes that Almased provides to burn fat will be destroyed. Almased should be made fresh and consumed immediately. During the fast, you will drink three Almased shakes each day as well as vegetable broth or vegetable juice. It is also important that you drink a minimum of 8-10 cups or 64-80 ounces of calorie-free liquids (e.g. Almased Wellness Tea (herbal tea), green tea, water) per day.
How does Almased affect hypoglycemia?
Almased is suitable for people with blood sugar problems. People benefit from our product due to Almased’s low glycemic index. The glycemic index measures how fast a food is likely to raise your blood sugar and can be helpful for managing blood sugars. Therefore, Almased has a minimal effect on blood sugar levels and is suitable for people with diabetes as well as for people who have hypoglycemia.
I take different medications for diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol. Can I still take Almased?
Yes, Almased does not interact with medication.
Besides stabilizing blood sugar and insulin levels, Almased has also been shown to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels if they were elevated before. Important to note is that we do not recommend reducing or getting off any medication before starting the diet. While on the diet it is advisable to discuss with your doctor if medication can be adapted accordingly.
Will Almased affect my thyroid?
You have to consider several facts when having problems with your thyroid or taking thyroid hormones simultaneously with Almased.
Theoretically, consumption of soy products may inhibit the absorption of thyroid hormones. So far, we haven’t seen any correlation between thyroid medication and intake of Almased, if the medication was taken as prescribed.
If you want to be on the safe side, you can talk to your doctor and schedule an exam of your thyroid or thyroid hormone levels before and about 8 weeks after the diet.
However, we can say that other mechanisms such as reduction of insulin levels, improvement of satiety regulation, and complete preservation of muscle mass, are important effects of the Almased diet. These benefits can be utilized, independently of the effect on the thyroid or thyroid hormones, in order to stay healthy and to lose weight permanently.
What side effects are normal when on the Almased Synergy Diet?
Side effects are very rare and if they occur, they usually only last for a few days. For example, in the first 2 days you might have a headache, which is attributed to the large amount of toxins that are being dropped into the blood stream for cleansing from the body. This is a normal process. Drinking more water and taking magnesium, vitamin C, E, and other antioxidants (e.g. green tea) will help alleviate your headache. Some beneficial side effects people notice are clearer skin, higher energy, clarity of the mind, relaxation, better sleep, rejuvenation of the body, enhanced senses, and improved stress levels.
I am losing so much weight on the Almased Synergy Diet, how long can I do it?
You can stay on the Almased Synergy Diet until you reach your IDEAL or TARGET body weight if you do not have any adverse effects. If you are not sure what your ideal body weight should be, contact Almased’s nutritionist at 1-877-256-2733. Once your ideal weight is achieved, slowly break the diet by incorporating well-balanced meals in place of each Almased diet meals. Remember, stay the course and keep eating healthy as described in the diet program.
Almased & Exercise – Do I have to go to the gym?
Will I still lose weight even if I don’t exercise?
Yes, but light to moderate exercise is important in lowering stress, improving strength & flexibility, utilizing insulin better, controlling weight, burning more calories, and increasing lean muscle mass. Therefore, we strongly recommend exercise, even if it’s only light exercise, along with the Almased Synergy Diet.
Why should I exercise?
Physical activity is essential in maintaining total health for the body. A physically fit and healthy body is the result of exercise and good nutrition. Lean muscle mass burns more calories than any other tissue. A few additional benefits of exercising are: improved sleep, healthier body composition, prevention of disease and chronic illnesses, and increased energy. Does this mean that you have to go to the gym everyday for 1 or more hours? No, just 30 minutes of light activity 5 times a week is a great way to start! You can even split it up in 3x 10 minutes a day.
Why is it a good idea to take Almased BEFORE my workout?
Almased’s high quality protein and amino acids will increase stamina and endurance during your workout. Furthermore, exercise provides a signal for your body to build lean muscle mass and breakdown fat. This is the optimal time to take Almased.
Will I get big muscles by using Almased?
No, you can however achieve a lean muscular body by working out moderately and supplementing your diet with Almased. Also keep in mind that on the Almased Synergy Diet as you lose fat and retain lean muscle mass, you will naturally become more “muscular” and toned in appearance.
Healthy Meals – Eating right during and after the program
What does a healthy meal consist of?
The meal should consist of about 500-700 calories. You can have a lean cut of meat (such as skinless chicken), fish or tofu with raw, steamed or cooked vegetables, and whole grains. Try to stay away from refined sugars, white rice, pasta, white breads, candy, cakes, or any overly processed, fried or prepared foods. These contain in addition excessive artificial ingredients and preservatives your body does not need.
Example:
2-3 oz (size of your palm) of skinless chicken, 1-2 cups of green leafy vegetables or a salad with olive oil and vinegar dressing, and ½ cup of brown rice.
If you get hungry between meals, snack on 3-4 tablespoons of Almased mixed in water, low-fat yogurt, or skim milk. You can also eat vegetables or a handful of nuts as a snack.
What are lean meats?
Lean meats are usually white and consist of chicken or turkey without the skin, fish (salmon, tuna, sardines, herring, etc.), and shellfish – yet limit your amount to no more than 6 oz a day and 3-4 oz per serving. Lean meats are what keep your blood cholesterol level low, lower the risk of coronary heart disease, and reduce the risk of colon cancer. Fish in addition provides you with essential fatty acids (omega-3) for heart health.
Do’s and Dont’s – Rules to live by while dieting
Can I chew sugar-free gum?
Yes, you can chew sugar-free gum in moderation. Be aware that most sugar-free gums contain artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol. Sorbitol is a widely used sweetener in “sugar-free” foods. It can act as a laxative and also cause stomach problems if taken excessively. 5-20g of sorbitol could be enough to cause minor stomach problems and each stick of chewing gum has around 1.25g of the sweetener.
Can I drink coffee during the Almased Synergy Diet?
Yes, you can have 1-2 cups of coffee per day. Caffeine might raise the hormone cortisol that can block fat burning. Therefore, try to not drink more than 2 cups a day. Consume green, herbal, or black tea or decaffeinated coffee for best results.