There’s no such thing as a free lunch.
That’s what they say, anyway. Me, I’ve had my share of free meals — usually thanks to punch cards and other fast-food rewards programs — but I see what point the person who coined the phrase was trying to make. Essentially, they’re saying that everything has a cost and nothing is really ‘free.’ Zero-effort solutions simply don’t exist. This is particularly true when it comes to improving your health and fitness.
But that doesn’t stop us from looking… and it certainly doesn’t stop some health and wellness companies from trying to sell “zero effort” solutions to us.
“Get thin without dieting or exercise; look and feel younger without changing your lifestyle!” Yeah right! They may as well suggest that we can ‘have our cake and eat it too’ – literally. But the truth is what we eat and what we do have serious repercussions on our health, our appearance, and our physical capability. And that’s why all of those get-fit-quick wellness trends tend to flare up and fizzle out so quickly.
In case you haven’t picked up on this yet, I’m extremely skeptical when it comes to health solutions that aren’t 100% focused on nutrition and physical activity. I don’t follow the ‘latest thing’ and I certainly don’t pay attention when some new company promises impossible results. But sometimes — sometimes — circumstances make me sit up and take notice. This is what happened to me when I first encountered Le-Vel Thrive.
A little Background on Le-Vel Thrive
I mentioned that I don’t trust new health crazes, and I stick by that. “Brand new” is sometimes just a positive way to say “unproven.” Time tends to weed out the ones that don’t work (which is probably why we don’t hear terms like ‘lemon-water detox’ or ‘activated charcoal’ quite as much as we did a decade ago).
Le-vel isn’t one of these flash-in-the-pan fads; officially called Le-Vel Inc., this company was founded more than a decade ago in 2012. Operating under a direct selling model, Le-Vel quickly gained traction, working with large numbers of customers-turned-contractors to spread the word.
And what word, exactly, was being spread? Enthusiasm. Le-Vel independent sellers were made up almost exclusively of those who had given the product a try and were so impressed that they decided to make things official. Enthusiastic sellers who believe in the product can make a big difference, as evidenced by the fact that Le-Vel has earned nearly $3 billion in sales in only a decade. So, let’s take a look at the products that got these sellers so excited.
The Three-Step Thrive Experience
Le-Vel operates within the health-and-wellness space and offers a range of products, but its most prominent offering has always been the Le-Vel Thrive Experience. Also referred to as Le-Vel Thrive or simply Thrive, this comprehensive line consists of three core products that are designed to be used in conjunction as part of a daily health routine.
The three-step process goes as follows:
- You wake up in the morning and you take two Thrive Lifestyle Capsules with a full glass of water.
- You wait 20-40 minutes and then you drink a Thrive Shake.
- You apply a Thrive DFT adhesive to a dry, clean, and lean patch of skin — I tend to prefer the shoulders or forearms — and leave it on for up to 24 hours. Replace the DFT the next day and rotate where you put it on your body for best results.
Thrive Ingredients
The three products are nutritional supplements designed to give your body direct, bio-available access to many essential nutrients that most people do not get enough of. Vitamins, minerals, probiotics, amino acids, enzymes, and beneficial plant extracts — each one completely naturally sourced and designed to help you fill those nutrition gaps that can have a majorly negative impact on your mood, health, and appearance.
What do I mean when I say ‘plant extracts?’ Take a look. Here are several of the ingredients found throughout the Le-Vel Thrive Experience, and what they can do for you:
- B. lactis, L. acidophilus, L. casei, and L. rhamnosus
These healthy forms of natural digestive enzymes are essential for improving gut health and promoting a balanced gut microbiome. This is crucial for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. A healthy gut also contributes to overall well-being and can enhance immune function. - CoQ10
CoQ10 is a natural antioxidant that has been linked to improved heart function, reduced cholesterol levels, and enhanced energy production. CoQ10 supplementation may be especially beneficial for individuals looking to support their overall cardiovascular health. - Cosmoperine®
Cosmoperine is a derivative of black pepper that enhances the bioavailability of other nutrients. By improving the absorption and utilization of various compounds, Cosmoperine® optimizes the overall effectiveness of the Le-Vel Thrive Experience. - ForsLean®
Forslean, also known as Coleus forskohlii root extract, has undergone extensive research and has been clinically linked to lean muscle growth and fat reduction. It is widely recognized for its potential to enhance body composition and support weight management goals. - Garcinia Cambogia
Garcinia Cambogia has gained attention for its potential in supporting healthy weight management. It contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which is believed to aid in reducing appetite, inhibiting fat production, and increasing fat burning. While individual results may vary, Garcinia Cambogia has shown promise in some studies related to weight management. - Ginger Root
Ginger root provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support, making it valuable for combating oxidative stress and inflammation throughout the body. Additionally, ginger has been associated with supporting weight management by helping to regulate metabolism and reduce appetite. - Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a nutritional resource that the body utilizes to build and rebuild tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and the fluid surrounding joints. By providing the necessary building blocks, glucosamine contributes to the overall health of the musculoskeletal system — making it a popular ingredient in joint health supplements and in supporting joint mobility and flexibility.
Full ingredient lists are available here:
Sounds good? It is, but like I said earlier, real change requires real action, and that goes beyond taking supplements.
The All-Important 4th Step
Some people will tell you that once the three steps are finished you’re all done, but those people are letting their excitement do the talking. The three-step Le-Vel Thrive process is just the beginning. The fourth step — the one that brings everything else together and allows your body to put those essential nutrients to optimal use — is to live well.
This means making and pursuing customized fitness goals. It means taking a closer look at what you eat and why you snack. It means taking a more intentional and comprehensive approach to your personal wellness journey. Or, as they put it on the Le-Vel website “Meaningful weight loss requires healthy lifestyle choices, diet and exercise, and good nutritional intake.”
This may seem like a drawback, but it’s actually very good news. It implies that the Thrive Experience is built on actual science and realistic cause/effect relationships. It’s not some scam propped up by impossible promises; it’s a real system for helping you build a better physical, mental, and emotional life. This is something that’s echoed across Thrive reviews all over the internet and social media: Thrive delivers results, as long as you’re committed to doing your part to make them happen.
Le-Vel Thrive Benefits
Maybe I’m getting ahead of myself. I’ve talked about the steps, the ingredients, and the importance of taking an active role, but none of these are going to be all that impressive if I don’t also touch on the benefits. The Le-Vel Thrive Experience is a comprehensive approach to nutritional supplementation backed by an increased focus on diet and physical activity. As such, it also brings a number of wide-reaching benefits to the table. By incorporating the three-step program into your daily routine, you may experience:
Antioxidant Support
Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body, which can contribute to oxidative stress and cellular damage. By providing antioxidant support from naturally-sourced ingredients, the Thrive Experience may help protect the body’s cells and tissues from long-term damage, promoting overall health and well-being.
Digestive and Immune Support
The Le-Vel Thrive Experience includes several beneficial probiotics (such as the aforementioned B. lactis, L. acidophilus, L. casei, and L. rhamnosus), which promote digestive and immune system health. Probiotics contribute to maintaining a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, support optimal digestion, and aid in nutrient absorption. Additionally, probiotics may help strengthen immune function.
Lean Muscle Support
With its emphasis on providing essential nutrients and promoting fitness goals, the Thrive Experience aims to support lean muscle development that is both achievable and sustainable. ForsLean has been linked to promoting lean muscle growth and reducing body fat. Combined with regular exercise and strength training, the Thrive Experience may contribute to improved muscle tone and overall body composition.
Relief from General Discomforts:
There are many reasons why someone may experience pain or discomfort. The combination of ingredients in the Thrive program, such as white willow bark and ginger root, may offer natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. These ingredients have been traditionally used to alleviate discomfort associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, headaches, and muscle soreness, and may provide more generalized relief throughout the body.
Cognitive Function Support
The Le-Vel Thrive Experience is designed to support cognitive function, promoting mental clarity, focus, and memory recall. Ingredients like CoQ10 are known for their potential cognitive benefits. As a powerful antioxidant, it may provide neuroprotective effects and support overall brain health.
Weight Management Support
Weight management is a common goal for many individuals, and the Thrive Experience aims to support this endeavor. Research suggests that the ingredient Garcinia Cambogia may help suppress appetite, inhibit fat storage, and enhance fat burning, potentially contributing to weight management efforts when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Each of the benefits listed above has been reported in Le-Vel Thrive reviews from actual users, but it’s still important to recognize that individual results may vary. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and pre-existing health conditions can all influence the outcomes. This is why it’s always advisable to consult with your trusted healthcare professional before you make any major lifestyle choices, as they will help you make informed decisions based on your circumstances and goals.
Still, even accounting for different body chemistry and other factors, the possible benefits of the Thrive Experience are impressive. Are there any areas where it doesn’t hold up?
Le-Vel Thrive Limitations
I’ve said it before. I’m going to say it again (and probably a few more times after this): While the Le-Vel Thrive Experience offers potential benefits for users seeking to improve their overall health and well-being, it is important to approach it with realistic expectations and awareness of its limitations. By understanding these aspects, you’ll be able to make informed decisions about whether incorporating the Thrive Experience into your lifestyle is the right choice for you. Here are several things to keep in mind:
Thrive Is Not a Magic Cure-All
The Thrive Experience is not a quick fix or a “magic pill” that will solve all your health-related issues. While it may provide support and potential benefits, it should be viewed as a part of a comprehensive approach to overall well-being. The Thrive Experience works best when used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a well-balanced diet. Seek professional medical care for major health issues.
You Need to Follow the Directions
To maximize the potential benefits of the Thrive Experience, it is crucial to follow the guidelines provided by the company. The program’s three-step process is designed to be used as instructed, and deviation from the recommended usage may affect the desired outcomes. Following the directions ensures proper utilization of the products and helps individuals track their progress effectively.
Be Aware of Allergies and Pre-existing Health Conditions
The Le-Vel Thrive Experience is not associated with any major side effects. However, it is essential that individuals with specific allergies or pre-existing health conditions carefully review the ingredients before trying the products. Again, consult with healthcare professionals if there are any concerns about potential interactions or adverse effects.
By keeping these considerations in mind, you’ll have a better opportunity to get the most out of your Le-Vel Thrive Experience. Above all, approach the program with a realistic mindset, understanding that it is not a magic solution but rather a supportive tool you can use as you pursue better health and an improved lifestyle.
My Thrive Experience
Finally, allow me to share my experience. As I think I have made abundantly clear, I don’t have a lot of trust in health, fitness, or weight management fads. Part of this is that I’m naturally cynical; part of it is that, like many others, I have tried various diets and supplements in the past, only to be left disappointed. However, looking into Le-Vel, my curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to give the Thrive Experience a chance. And I promised myself that I would do it right.
I followed the Thrive Experience diligently, taking the capsules, drinking the nutritional shakes, and applying/replacing the DFT as directed. To my surprise, within just a few days, I began to experience a noticeable increase in energy. It wasn’t the jittery feeling that comes from excessive coffee consumption but a sustained, natural boost that carried me throughout the day. This was surprising, but not as surprising as the effect the Thrive Experience had on my cravings; I found myself no longer reaching for sugary snacks or indulging in processed foods.
Motivated by these positive changes, I decided to take more direct charge of my physical health and started going to the gym three times a week. The energy provided by the Thrive products fueled my workouts, enabling me to push myself further than ever before. Soon enough, those three gym sessions transformed into five or six per week. It became a part of my routine, something I looked forward to each day.
And, wouldn’t you know it? The combination of improved nutrition and increased physical activity had a profound impact on both my appearance and self-confidence. The excess weight gradually started to fall away, revealing a fitter and more toned me. The positive changes in my physique not only boosted my self-esteem but also cleared the brain fog that had become all too familiar in my daily life. I noticed improved mental clarity and focus, which allowed me to be more productive at work, more fully engage in the activities I enjoyed, and more present with the people I love.
The Thrive Experience isn’t a get-fit-quick-scheme, and it’s not a “free lunch.” What it is is a tried-and-true method to help you jumpstart your lifestyle and take your first steps toward sustainable self-improvement. So, if you’re interested in looking and feeling better, and if you’re distrustful of empty promises and impossible expectations, I know where you’re coming from. And if you give the Thrive Experience a try, you may find yourself in a better place than you ever thought possible.
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