can you still work on losing weight while pregnant

MAXIE GENERAL HOSPITAL WEIGHT GAIN: THE SECRET BEHIND HER WEIGHT GAIN

General Hospital fans have noticed a significant change in actress Kirsten Storms’ portrayal of Maxie Jones over the past few years. A key part of this change is Maxie’s weight gain, which has sparked curiosity and even concern among viewers. Why is Maxie on general hospital gaining weight? This article will have the answer for you. This topic dives deeper to explore the reasons behind Maxie’s weight gain, separating facts from fiction and shedding light on Kirsten Storms’ personal health journey.

WHO IS KIRSTEN STORMS?

Kirsten Storms is an American actress and voice actress best known for her roles in popular soap operas and Disney Channel original movies. Born on April 8, 1984, in Orlando, Florida, she began her acting career at a young age, soon gaining recognition for her role as Belle Black on the soap opera “Days of Our Lives”. Storms is also widely recognized for her role as Maxie Jones on “General Hospital,” a role she has played since 2005. Her career has been marked by resilience and dedication, despite facing challenges. personal and health challenges especially rumors about her weight gain.

KIRSTEN STORMS WEIGHT GAIN: IS MAXIE FROM GENERAL HOSPITAL PREGNANT?

As of now, there is no concrete proof to support the speculations surrounding Kirsten Storms. Following the start of the 59th season of “General Hospital,” viewers have been discussing Kirsten Storms, who plays Maxie, due to her noticeable weight gain. This has led to various assumptions about its cause.

Fans have speculated about Kirsten’s pregnancy before. In 2021, when her character Maxie was pregnant on the show, similar rumors emerged, despite a lack of evidence. Currently, Kirsten’s weight increase has once again sparked speculation among her followers about a possible pregnancy.

However, it’s important to note that these claims about Kirsten’s weight gain may not tell the whole story. Kirsten has not confirmed whether she is pregnant, and there is no solid evidence supporting the claim of her weight gain. Some fans have pointed out changes in her appearance, particularly in her face, based on certain images she posted on Instagram.

DOES SHE HAVE ANY HEALTH PROBLEMS THAT CAUSE HER TO GAIN WEIGHT?

In June 2021, Kirsten Storms announced on Instagram that she had undergone brain surgery to remove a cyst. The cyst had grown so large that it was pressing on her brain, making surgery essential. Consequently, she took time away from “General Hospital” to recover.

Given her medical history, it is more likely that her current weight fluctuation is due to medication and health issues rather than pregnancy. Throughout her life, Kirsten has faced various health challenges, often attributing changes in her appearance to factors like age and the side effects of medication.

Kirsten, like many people, does not appreciate comments about her physique, regardless of the reasons behind her weight changes. Remarks about weight gain or loss often carry judgment, and she has publicly addressed this issue. She has expressed a desire for her health and medical history to remain private. While some have criticized her for gaining weight, others have criticized her for losing weight, suggesting that her body has fluctuated for various reasons, including health concerns.

KRISTEN STORM CAREER

EARLY CAREER AND “DAYS OF OUR LIVES”

Kirsten Storms knew from the age of five that she wanted to be an actress, with a particular interest in soap operas. Her dream came true on August 5, 1999, when she signed on to play Isabella “Belle” Black on the NBC daytime drama “Days of Our Lives.” Despite some initial viewer backlash due to the sudden aging of her character, Storms quickly became popular. During her five years on the show, she was involved in many high-profile storylines, including a notable romance with Shawn Brady, played by Jason Cook. Storms decided not to renew her contract at the end of her five-year term, partly because she had landed a role in the primetime show “Clubhouse.” Her final “Days of Our Lives” episode aired on July 16, 2004.

“CLUBHOUSE” AND OTHER ROLES

“Clubhouse” was a primetime series on CBS that aired in the fall of 2004. Created by Daniel Cerone and produced by Aaron Spelling, the show focused on Pete Young (Jeremy Sumpter) and his dreams of becoming a professional baseball player. Storms played Pete’s rebellious sister, Betsy, a stark contrast to her previous role as the innocent Belle. Despite her enthusiasm for the role, “Clubhouse” was canceled after only five episodes, with a total of 11 episodes later aired on Trio’s “Brilliant But Cancelled” series.

“GENERAL HOSPITAL” AND LATER WORK

On May 23, 2005, Storms joined the ABC soap opera “General Hospital,” becoming the third actress to portray Maxie Jones. In 2008, she was reunited with her former co-star Jason Cook. Storms received an Emmy nomination for her role in 2009. She left the show in the fall of 2011 due to medical issues, later revealed to be endometriosis. Jen Lilley temporarily replaced her. Initially scheduled to return in February 2012, Storms’ illness delayed her comeback, but she ultimately returned on September 5, 2012. She took maternity leave in January 2014 and returned in April of the same year. In March 2017, Storms took another break for personal reasons but came back to “General Hospital” in August 2017.

In 2015, Storms appeared in the soap opera web series “Winterthorne,” playing the character Selene Winterthorne.

KRISTEN STORM PERSONAL LIFE

In early 2013, Kirsten Storms confirmed her relationship with former “General Hospital” co-star Brandon Barash. The couple surprised fans by revealing they had secretly married in June and were expecting their first child, a daughter, in January 2014. Harper Rose Barash was born on January 7, 2014. However, their marriage ended in April 2016 when they filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. Despite this, they committed to co-parenting their daughter amicably.

In September 2007, Storms encountered legal trouble when she was pulled over on a Los Angeles freeway for throwing a lit cigarette out of her car window. She failed sobriety tests and was arrested for a DUI, with a blood alcohol content of 0.13, above the legal limit of 0.08. In November 2007, she pleaded no contest to the charges, resulting in orders to attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, complete an alcohol education program, pay fines, have her license suspended for six months, and serve three years’ probation.

Additionally, Storms is known for her close friendship with “General Hospital” co-star Kelly Monaco, which was showcased in the short-lived E! reality show “Dirty Soap,” airing in the fall of 2011.

KRISTEN STORM AWARDS AND NOMINATIONS

Throughout her career, Kirsten Storms has garnered recognition for her talent and contributions to television. In 2001, she received nominations for Best Performance in a Daytime TV Series: Young Actress at the Young Artist Awards for her role in “Days of Our Lives.” The following year, she won the Soap Opera Digest Award for Outstanding Child Actor for her portrayal in the same series. Storms continued to impress, winning the Young Artist Award for Best Performance in a TV Drama Series: Leading Young Actress in 2002, again for her role in “Days of Our Lives.”

In 2009, her performance in “General Hospital” earned her a Daytime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Younger Actress in a Drama Series. Storms’ ability to captivate audiences with her versatile performances has not only earned her accolades but also solidified her status as a talented actress in the television industry.

FAQ

1. Has Kirsten Storms spoken out about her weight gain?

While Storms is open about her health struggles, she hasn’t directly addressed the weight gain in public.

2. Is Maxie gaining weight in the storyline?

No, Maxie’s weight gain isn’t part of the General Hospital storyline.

3.  Is Kirsten Storms still on General Hospital?

Yes, Kirsten Storms continues to portray Maxie on General Hospital.

4. Did the show (General Hospital) address Maxie’s appearance change?

No, the show hasn’t incorporated Maxie’s appearance change into the storyline.

5. How much is Kristen Storm net worth?

$6 million.

CONCLUSION

While viewers may have noticed a change in Maxie’s appearance on General Hospital, it’s important to remember that actress Kirsten Storms’ health journey is a personal matter. The show itself hasn’t incorporated this change into the storyline. The best way to support Storms is to appreciate her talent and continued dedication to the show. Her health is private, and speculation isn’t necessary.

12 BEST PROTEIN SHAKES FOR WEIGHT LOSS

Losing weight has never been an easy task. In addition to focusing on building a regular, reasonable exercise regimen, paying attention to a diet with nutrient groups, especially protein, is equally important. There are many protein supplement products on the market and protein shakes are an outstanding product. So, among the countless types of protein shakes that support weight loss on the market, which one should consumers choose the best? We will provide you with the most optimal options for you to choose from to meet your weight loss goals. 

WHAT IS A PROTEIN SHAKE?

A protein shake is a drink that has a lot of protein in it. It’s made to give your body extra protein, which is important for building muscles and staying healthy. People often drink protein shakes after exercising to help their muscles recover. 

These shakes can come in different flavors, like chocolate or vanilla, and they may be made with ingredients like milk or plant-based proteins. Some protein shakes also have vitamins and minerals to make them even more nutritious. Overall, a protein shake is like a tasty and convenient way to get more protein in your diet.

Additional ingredients often found in protein shakes consist of:

  • Various oils, such as sunflower or safflower oil
  • Thickeners, like guar gum
  • Natural or artificial flavors
  • Blends of fruits and vegetables

OUR TOP PROTEIN SHAKES

BEST OVERALL: OWYN PLANT-BASED PROTEIN DRINK

The OWYN Plant-Based Protein Drink is the top choice for protein drinks. It’s made from plant-based stuff, so it’s good for different diets. OWYN is known for its yummy taste and helps your body with important stuff. It’s great for staying healthy and reaching fitness goals. OWYN gives you a mix of tasty flavors and plant-based protein to keep you energized and happy all day. It’s vegan, has no dairy or allergens, has fiber, and probiotics. But, it can be a bit expensive, has some sodium, and only comes in four flavors.

BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY: FAIRLIFE CORE POWER

The Chocolate OWYN Plant-Based Protein Drink costs $2.49 per shake and offers 26 to 42 grams of protein. Made with low-fat grade A ultra-filtered milk, it comes in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry banana. Panelists in our ranking recommend it, and it’s available in different protein amounts. This lactose-free option is committed to animal welfare, containing only 5 grams of sugar. However, it has a limited flavor variety.

BEST VEGAN: RIPPLE

Ripple is the top pick for vegans looking for a protein drink. It’s well-known for being plant-based, making it great for those who follow a vegan lifestyle. This drink is made without any animal stuff, which means it’s kind to animals and good for the environment. Even though it’s wallet-friendly at $0.39 per 12 pack or $2.53 per shake, it’s still organic and free from nuts, soy, and gluten, making it safe for people with allergies. Ripple might have only a few flavors, but it’s a yummy addition to your day. Keep in mind that it has a bit more calories, fat, sodium, and carbs compared to some other shakes. 

BEST FOR MUSCLE GAIN: MUSCLE MILK PRO ADVANCED NUTRITION PROTEIN SHAKE

Muscle Milk Pro Advanced Nutrition Protein Shake stands out as an excellent choice for muscle gain enthusiasts. Boasting high protein content, it provides a substantial dose of this essential nutrient crucial for muscle development and recovery. Additionally, the inclusion of fiber enhances digestive health, contributing to overall well-being. The low sugar content aligns with fitness goals, promoting lean muscle growth without unnecessary additives. While the product excels in its nutritional profile, some users have noted that the bottle can be challenging to open, which may be a minor inconvenience. Overall, Muscle Milk Pro Advanced Nutrition Protein Shake emerges as a reliable and effective option for those seeking a protein-rich supplement to support their muscle-building journey.

BEST HIGH-FIBER : LEAN BODY BY LABRADA

Priced at $3.83 per shake, this plant-based protein shake offers two protein options: 20 grams or a higher 40 grams. It utilizes milk protein isolate and boasts a variety of flavors, including salted caramel, chocolate, vanilla, cookies and cream, strawberry, banana, caffeinated cafe mocha, mint chocolate, and chocolate peanut butter. The shake is sugar-free, gluten-free, and soy-protein free, accommodating various dietary preferences. Independently tested for banned substances, it ensures high quality. With 22 vitamins and minerals, this shake addresses nutritional needs effectively. However, it comes at a higher cost compared to other plant-based options on this ranking.

BEST FLAVOR VARIETY: PREMIER PROTEIN

Premier Protein offers a protein-packed choice with 30 grams per serving. It uses milk protein concentrate and comes in a wide array of flavors, including banana, cafe latte, cake batter delight, caramel, chocolate, chocolate peanut butter, cinnamon roll, cookies and cream, peaches and cream, pumpkin spice, root beer float, strawberries and cream, and vanilla. With only 1 gram of sugar, it’s a gluten-free option. It’s essential to note that Premier Protein’s parent company is currently facing a lawsuit alleging a failure to monitor lead levels in Premier Protein shakes, potentially exposing users to unsafe levels. This raises concerns about the safety of the product and the company’s monitoring practices.

BEST MEAL REPLACEMENT: KATE FARMS NUTRITION SHAKE

Kate Farms Nutrition Shake has more calories compared to other shakes out there. It has a mix of protein, carbs, and fat. You can have it as a quick light meal or pair it with an apple and almonds for a fuller option. It’s also good to recharge after a tough workout when you don’t feel like having a whole meal. The shake has a bunch of vitamins and minerals, giving you 27 nutrients like vitamin D, calcium, iron, vitamin A, B vitamins, zinc, choline, and more.

BEST FRUIT SMOOTHIE: FUEL FOR FIRE ORIGINAL SMOOTHIES

While not technically a shake, Fuel for Fire protein smoothies are a great alternative if you prefer a smoothie-like protein drink that’s ready-to-go. With 10 grams of protein from whey protein isolate and 15 grams of carbs from fruits (and sometimes veggies), they work well as a quick snack before or after exercising. Whey protein is well-researched and is a top choice for athletes or anyone looking to boost their protein intake. These smoothies have no added sugar or sweeteners; the sweetness comes from the fruit. There are six flavors, including one with caffeine. Keep in mind they are pricier than some other protein shakes and might not have enough calories to replace a whole meal.

BEST WITH PROBIOTICS: CHOBANI MIXED BERRY VANILLA SHAKE

Chobani Complete is a good choice if you want a protein drink with whole foods and probiotics for a healthy gut. It’s made with yogurt and gives you 25 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber, and 25 percent of your daily calcium needs in each bottle. It’s sweetened with stevia and monk fruit extract, making it a nice option if you’re lactose intolerant. Even though it needs to be kept in the fridge, which makes it a bit less handy than some other shakes, its extra nutritional benefits make it worth considering. You can get it in strawberry cream, vanilla, mixed berry vanilla, and banana cream flavors, all sweetened with stevia and monk fruit. Because it’s yogurt-based, it’s one of the smoothest and creamiest options out there. Plus, it’s gluten-free, lactose-free (thanks to added lactase), Kosher, and has no artificial flavors.

BEST FOR DIABETES: ICONIC PROTEIN SHAKE

Iconic protein shakes are a tasty choice that’s also lactose-free, made from grass-fed milk. They give you 20 grams of protein, fulfilling 40 percent of your daily calcium needs, and don’t have any added sugars. They use monk fruit extract and stevia for sweetness. Be careful with one flavor that has greens powder, as it might interact with certain medications. For those with diabetes or those watching their added sugar, Iconic protein shakes are a good pick since they have no extra sugar. These shakes are made by filtering lactose from grass-fed milk, making them low-carb and low-fat. The filtering boosts protein and calcium, providing 20 grams of protein and 40 percent of your daily calcium needs in one serving. 

BEST FOR PREGNANCY: RITUAL ESSENTIAL PROTEIN DAILY SHAKE PREGNANCY & POSTPARTUM

Ritual Daily Shake for Pregnancy and Postpartum has important stuff for when you’re pregnant, like choline, calcium, and iron. It’s certified by Informed Sport, gluten-free, and safe for allergies. This shake uses monk fruit extract and Reb-M as sweeteners, and you need to mix it with water or another liquid to drink. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, having protein shakes can be helpful to get more protein, especially if you’re not very hungry or busy taking care of a newborn and need something quick. Safety is of utmost importance during this time period, which is why third party testing is essential. Ritual prioritizes quality and transparency through their Made Traceable™ program. 

BEST KETO-FRIENDLY: PURE PROTEIN MEAL REPLACEMENT SHAKES

Pure Protein Meal Replacement Shakes are the best for keto-friendly diets. They’re good because they are high in protein and low in carbs, which is what you want for keto. They have zero grams of saturated fat, which is good. But, on the not-so-good side, they are low in fiber. So, if you’re doing keto and want lots of protein with low carbs, these shakes are a great choice, but just remember they might not have much fiber.

BENEFITS OF PROTEIN SHAKES

“Protein shakes are convenient, on-the-go nutrition in a cup or bottle,” says Roxana Ehsani, a Miami-based certified sports dietitian and adjunct professor at Virginia Tech. “They are easy to consume and can provide a great source of protein,” she says, noting that they can help you meet your protein needs, which can help promote muscle growth and satiety.

There’s more good news from a study in 2020. It found that people who eat a lot of protein might also lose weight. This could be because protein affects hormones that make you feel hungry or full, and it also takes more energy for your body to process protein.

And here’s the cool part about protein shakes – besides having protein, they can give you other important things your body needs. Some shakes have fruits and veggies, which give you vitamins, minerals, and stuff that’s good for you, like antioxidants.

SIDE EFFECTS OF PROTEIN SHAKES

Protein shakes can be helpful, but it’s important to know about possible side effects too. 

Some people might feel a bit gassy or bloated after drinking them, especially if the shake has dairy. Drinking too many protein shakes with lots of calories might also lead to weight gain instead of muscle gain. It’s smart to stick to the recommended amount and not go overboard.

Some shakes might have added sugars or artificial stuff, which could be not so good for your health. And if you have any allergies, always check the ingredients to make sure the shake is safe for you. 

Overall, enjoying protein shakes in moderation and picking ones with healthy ingredients can help you avoid any unwanted side effects.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A PROTEIN SHAKE

When you’re choosing a protein shake, there are a few things to keep in mind. 

First off, check the protein content – you’ll want a shake that gives you a good amount of protein to support your muscles. It’s also a good idea to look for shakes with low added sugars to keep things healthy. 

Check the flavors too, so you can pick one that you really enjoy. If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, make sure the shake fits with what you need – some are plant-based or lactose-free, for example. It’s also great if the shake has extra vitamins and minerals, making it not just a protein boost but a nutritious addition to your day. 

Finally, consider the cost and convenience – find a protein shake that fits your budget and is easy for you to grab when you need it.

CONCLUSION

Each shake comes with its unique blend of flavors, ingredients, and nutritional benefits. Whether you prioritize plant-based, budget-friendly, or keto-friendly options, there is a protein shake designed to support your weight loss goals. It’s crucial to consider factors like protein content, added sugars, and additional nutrients to find the shake that aligns with your individual needs and tastes. Remember, while protein shakes can be a convenient and delicious addition to your weight loss journey, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle for overall success.