Gluten: Friend or Foe?

There's been a lot of talk recently about a gluten free diet.
What's gluten? Does it work? Is it a fad?

Let's tackle each of these questions separately.

What is gluten?
Gluten is a protein that is found in wheat, barley, rye, and similar grains. Gluten is what gives dough elasticity and the ability to rise. Gluten acts as a glue (get it?), helping food retain its' shape. Gluten is not only found in food items such as cereal and pizza, it's also used in cosmetic products for hair and skin. (ummm...)

Does it work?
Individuals with celiac disease are better off adhering to a gluten free lifestyle because the gluten protein causes their immune system to react abnormally. Some side effects could be vomiting, diarrhea, and bloating. Recent statistics show only 1% of the population are affected by celiac disease, however, almost 80% of people with celiac disease are unaware of their condition.

For people without celiac disease or any type of gluten sensitivity: As long as you are getting the same nutrients found in the grains mentioned above through a different avenue, I believe adopting a gluten free lifestyle can be extremely beneficial for the following reasons:

• Reduce inflammation
• Reduce fatigue
• Easier digestion
• Carbohydrate source would mainly be fruits & vegetables, which could increase the net intake of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber, etc.

Is it a fad?

Yes. "Gluten Free" is definitely a fad in today's society. However, it doesn't have to be a fad to the individual. The reason I believe Gluten Free is a fad is because products that were always gluten free are just now beginning advertising it in attempts to take advantage of the demographic that is looking for it. Being gluten free to me means avoiding fried foods, processed carbohydrates, and sugar filled desserts. 

Thankfully, Red Mango Smoothie Factory in Riverdale, NJ offers a vast array of Gluten Free products. Please stop by soon to check out our menu. 

Co-branding: Red Mango + Smoothie Factory

...Sprint + RadioShack...

...DunkinDonuts + Baskin Robins...

...KFC + Taco Bell...

!!! Red Mango + Smoothie Factory !!!

Co-branding is a strategy used by companies looking to diversify their product offering. Co-branding also helps even out customer flow. In our case, Red Mango Yogurt appeals to the after dinner crowd, while Smoothie Factory's Juices & Smoothies appeals to the breakfast and lunch crowd. The biggest advantage to co-branding is making the store a one stop shop for a defined group of people that may have different cravings. It's not rare to see a family of four come in and order off our 4 different menus: A Smoothie for Dad, a Juice for Mom. Johnny has a flatbread sandwich, and Georgie piles on the toppings to her favorite yogurt flavors. Co-branding is most successful when it's done with two complementary brands. Red Mango Yogurt has long been known as the healthiest frozen yogurt option on the market, boasting attributes such as Gluten Free, Kosher, Non Fat, and more. Smoothie Factory also has a commitment to health and wellness. The cornerstone of the Smoothie Factory menu is based on the following: 

• Freshly made to order with real fruit. 
• No syrups or bottled flavorings. 
• Smoothies crafted to fit your needs, from "After Workout Formula", to "Island Delight". There is something for everybody.
• Comprehensive selection of Boost Packs allows you to tailor your smoothie to suit your diet needs: Bee Pollen, Antioxidant, Fiber, Spirulina, Weight Gain, Fat Burner, Creatine, Glutamine, and many more!

America’s Most Loved Fro-Yo: Red Mango Infographic

Red Mango is America's Most Loved Frozen Yogurt!

Red Mango's Yogurt is fortified with Super Probiotics. The yogurt is free of artificial sweeteners and high fructose corn syrup. Red Mango recently opened it's 300th store in the US. Contrary to popular belief, the Frozen Yogurt trend is still alive. However, only the strong will survive. 

Red Mango Riverdale NJ is proud to provide Morris, Bergen, & Passaic Counties some of the best tasting yogurt, smoothies, juices, flatbreads, and snacks anyone has to offer. 

Infographic made by lemonly.com