TODAY'S AJENDA #53

Jaw-dropping! That’s the one word I’d use to describe the initial results from our 8-Week Wellness Experiment. 

We’ve officially completed the first three weeks together, and from the countless breakthroughs in health and happiness to the uplifting stories, we’re seeing incredible results none of us expected this soon. 

New to the Ajenda family and haven’t heard of the 8-Week Wellness Experiment yet? Here’s a recap: Earlier last year, I started a six-month experiment with professional trainer Korey Rowe.  

After I shared the results of my experiment on Instagram, my followers requested that I create a program to help them do the same.  

The 8-Week Wellness Experiment is a condensed version of that journey. It combines scientifically-backed methods with practical, sustainable methods that are tailored for people with busy lives. 

Built on three pillars—nutrition, fitness, and wellness—the 8-Week Wellness Experiment delivers everything you need to achieve your own incredible results. 

That includes daily workouts, meal plans, recipes, grocery lists, and scientific facts and tips to help you try new things and develop health habits that actually stick. 

Plus: There are live weekly Q&As with me and Korey Rowe, where we answer your questions in real-time!

Why We Built This 

The 8-Week Wellness Experiment is personal—for us and you.   

My theory was that this program was distinctive and would produce unbelievable results. But the reality has been even better than I hoped. 

Here’s a small sample of what current participants are saying: 

Experiments Over Challenges 

You might be wondering, “Could this really work for me?” The answer is yes. 

Our members range from 26 to 81 years old—many are in their 60s and 70s—and they’re not just losing weight and inches. 

They’re sleeping better, losing body fat percentage, seeing better heart rate variability and glucose control, lower blood pressure, and elevated mood and spirits. Above all? They’re getting stronger. 

They’re inspired, engaged, and courageous. And this is what the 8-Week Wellness Experiment is all about—not about what is being lost, but what is being gained. I couldn’t be more proud or committed to bringing more of these wellness experiments to Ajenda subscribers. 

The word experiment is intentional. It’s about curiosity: Curiosity about the latest science, curiosity about how your body will react to different approaches, and curiosity about trying something new for your health and wellness. 

I’m calling it now: Challenges are out in 2025—and experiments are in. We’re here to explore, test, and tweak using evidence-based methods to find what truly works for you. 

The Next Cohort Awaits! 

Are you ready to run your own experiment? 

Enrollment is now open for our next cohort (the first 8-Week Wellness Experiment) and this is your moment to see what’s possible.  

If you did not sign up and start three weeks ago, this is your opportunity! You can see and feel what thousands of women are seeing and feeling in just the first three weeks.

Imagine how you could feel—in your energy, habits, and health—in just eight weeks. With summer around the corner, there’s no better time to start your wellness journey—and become more fit and healthy than ever before. 

See you inside!

AJENDA TURNED ONE LAST TUESDAY! 🎂

Thousands of you filled out our birthday survey (thank you!) and we heard you loud and clear: You care about skincare. 

The timing could not have been more perfect for what I’m about to share with you. 

While in London recently, I had the chance to meet one of the UK’s best dermatologists to get the inside scoop on Europe’s latest skincare trends—many of which haven’t yet made their way to the US. It was JENlightening, to say the least!

I was especially impressed with the higher level of safety and purity standards that exist in Europe and the UK (vs the US) and how that translates into safer (and better) skin products.  

I learned so much and can’t wait to tell you all about it. So with that: Meet Dr. Alexis Granite! 

DR. ALEXIS GRANITE isn’t just any dermatologist—she’s one of the most sought-after skin experts in the world. 

With nearly 20 years of experience across two continents, she holds an exceptionally rare dual medical license in both the UK and the US. 

Her expertise is in such high demand that she has a six-month wait list for existing patients (and two years if you’re a new patient!). 

Dr. Alexis Granite is also the founder of Joonbyrd,* a clinical skincare line that redefines the notion of functional skincare. I had the opportunity to be one of the first to try her products, and once I did, I was an instant fan. I couldn’t wait to pick her brain.

Her insights changed my perspective on skincare, and I have a feeling they’ll do the same for you.

Q. What’s the biggest skincare mistake women over 40 tend to make?

A: The biggest mistake tends to be a tale of 2 extremes: Either completely neglecting skincare or overdoing it. The basic building blocks of any good skincare routine are a twice-daily cleanser and moisturizer, as well as daily sunscreen, so at the very least, I would recommend those. 

In terms of active serums and other products, this is where it helps to take a targeted approach so as not to become overwhelmed with a complicated routine. For example: 

• If you’re struggling with fine lines? Opt for peptides or retinol-based products. 

• Got pigmentation? Consider vitamin C or kojic acid.

• Redness? Try niacinamide. 

You can always add in more products over time, but starting gradually with concern-targeted products helps ensure you find a routine you stick with—and avoid the potential for irritation.

Q: What’s the best non-prescription skincare ingredient women over 50 should be looking for?

A: Peptides are a great option for women over 50! These short chains of amino acids act as messengers that essentially tell the skin to create more collagen (and elastin) or prevent its breakdown. 

Since collagen is one of the most abundant proteins within our body and comprises 75% of our skin, keeping those levels up is key to maintaining fitness and elasticity. 

Peptides also tend to be very well tolerated by all skin types, making them a great option for those over 50 who may be experiencing drier skin.

Q. As you know, I’m a massive Joonbyrd Body Serum fan—will it really help with crepey skin on my belly? (Asking for a friend!) (Note: This is one of my hands-down, go-to, favorite products. I am obsessed with the way it feels and smells and love the science behind its creation!)

A: Yes, it will! Our DAYDREAMER Body Serum is quite literally turbocharged with hardworking ingredients to help stimulate collagen and elastin production, reduce skin stress, improve microcirculation, and hydrate, all key to improving skin quality and reducing crepiness.

In fact, clinical trials showed significant improvements in skin elasticity and the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite. You can boost these results by using the serum alongside our HEARTWARMER Body Gua Sha for a gorgeous, skin-sculpting daily ritual.

Q: What are the biggest UK-based
skincare trends right now?

A: Body care is huge in the UK right now, especially as we focus more on wellness, longevity, and overall health. I also see lip products being top of mind, as well as multifunctional products. 

For example, makeup that also contains skincare-grade ingredients (because who doesn’t love hitting two birds with one stone?). 

Q: What sets Joonbyrd apart from
other skincare lines?

A: I created Joonbyrd to redefine the notion of functional body care. Your skin doesn't cease at your chin, so why should your skincare? Joonbyrd believes that clinical skincare doesn’t need to feel clinical to be effective, with science-led, performance-driven formulations that have been designed for JOY. 

Joonbyrd's mission is to wash the world in color one product at a time, transforming your body skin and creating a sanctified space for self-care with clinical-grade ingredients, mood-boosting fragrances, and decadent textures.

Discover expert-developed, powerful skin care for your entire body—head to toe! 

They’re trending now—but I’ve been recommending them for 20 years. That’s right: In today’s Ajenda, we’re covering weighted vests. 

While they’ve been exploding on social media, I first started sharing their benefits in my second book, Your Body Beautiful (which you can find here on Amazon). That was back in 2012, so I guess you could say I was one of the first to the party! 

But why all the hype now? And more importantly, are they worth it? Here's an evidence-based summary of their pros and cons—and who should be careful before jumping in.

The Pros of Weighted Vests 

1. Improved Bone Density

Wearing a weighted vest can help strengthen your bones by placing healthy stress on them—a process known as osteogenesis or bone formation. 

“How?” It’s pure physics: The more weight your body carries, the more force it exerts against gravity, which sends signals to your bones to grow stronger. 

This is one area where being thin could work against us. That’s why adding 5-25 pounds with a weighted vest can give your musculoskeletal system the extra challenge it needs to stay strong.

Now for the evidence: 

• One study found that postmenopausal women who wore weighted vests while walking saw significant improvements in hip bone mineral density (Snow et al., 2000). 

• Another study in Osteoporosis International concluded that weighted vests worn during daily activities boosted bone density in older adults (Jessup et al., 2003).

2. Enhanced Strength and Muscle Activation

Research found that basketball players who trained with weighted vests developed improved explosive power, higher vertical jumps, and overall strength (Khlifa et al., 2010).

While most of us aren’t planning on dunking over LeBron James anytime soon, this study suggests that adding a weighted vest to your training regimen could significantly boost your physical performance. 

3. Increased Caloric Expenditure

Wearing a weighted vest intensifies your workout, helping you burn more calories. Research backs this up: A study found that people who wore weighted vests while walking burned more calories than those without (Puthoff et al., 2006). 

It’s like upgrading your casual stroll from economy to business class—same destination, but you arrive with more calories burned! 

4. Cardiovascular Benefit

People who wear weighted vests during training can run longer before getting tired, climb stairs faster, and even use oxygen more efficiently while running (Rusko & Bosco, 1987). 

What About The Cons? 

1. Increased Risk of Injury or Strain

If used incorrectly or with too much weight, a weighted vest could strain your muscles, joints, and ligaments, potentially leading to injury (Northwestern Medicine). 

2. Discomfort or Reduced Mobility

Never worn a weighted vest before? Studies show participants frequently report initial discomfort, particularly with poorly fitted or excessively heavy vests. So start easy, and work your way up! 

3. Possible Negative Effects on Posture

If improperly fitted or excessively heavy, weighted vests may negatively affect posture or gait mechanics, increasing the risk of musculoskeletal imbalances or injury.

A study examined military personnel carrying heavy loads and found that increased spinal compression forces could damage posture and increase injury risk (Birrell & Haslam, 2009). 

While we’re not carrying military gear, the same principle applies to weighted vests—proper fit and weight are crucial.

Here’s What I Recommend

Ready to hop on the weighted vest train? Just keep this in mind:  

• Gradually Increase Weight ➜ Start at 5-10% of body weight to allow bones, joints, and muscles time to adapt. For example, if you’re 120 pounds, the weight of your vest shouldn’t be above 12 pounds. 

• Ensure Proper Fit and Distribution of Weight ➜ Put the vest across the torso to minimize the risk of injury.

• Monitor for Discomfort or Strain ➜ If you’re experiencing persistent pain or mobility issues? A weighted vest might not be a good choice for you. 

• Seek Professional Guidance ➜ To ensure safe and effective integration into your exercise routine.

Bottom line: Weighted vests can support improved bone density, muscle strength, and cardiovascular conditioning, provided they're introduced gradually and used safely to mitigate potential risks.

ABOUT DR. JEN

In her former roles as chief medical correspondent for ABC News and on-air cohost of “GMA3: What You Need to Know,” Dr. Jennifer Ashton—”Dr. Jen”—has shared the latest health news and information with millions of viewers nationwide. As an OB-GYN, nutritionist, and board-certified obesity medicine specialist, she is passionate about promoting optimal health for “the whole woman.” She has authored several books, including the national best-seller, The Self-Care Solution: A Year of Becoming Happier, Healthier & Fitter—One Month at a Time. And she has gone through menopause…

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