♥ Let's Talk Diet (Healthy Snacks Haul & Diet Tips) ♥

♥ My Vitamin & Diet Routine ♥

Secrets of the skinny!

Have you ever wondered how some people just don't seem to struggle with their weight?
Genetics play a role of course, but there are a few things you will notice about people who stay skinny.

1. They stay active- Even if exercise isn't your thing, you should stay active throughout the day. Thin women are usually always moving. Take a walk, do the laundry, vacuum the floor. Unless you are sitting at work, don't allow yourself to sit longer than an hour.

2. They don't over eat- Skinny girls generally eat very small portions. Try eating small portions often.

3. They avoid chemicals- Staying away from processed food is essential in staying skinny. Avoid sugary, and highly processed foods.

4. They allow treats in moderation- Even when skinny girls splurge, they only allow very small portions of that indulgence.

5. They makes sacrifices- Don't allow yourself to eat everything you crave. Make a set rule of what you will allow yourself to eat, and stick to it. Just because you crave a cookie, doesn't mean you should eat it.

6. They keep their refrigerators bare- If you have it in the house, you WILL eat it. Only keep the necessities in your fridge, and don't keep any junk around the house.

Image courtesy of: successfulperspectives.com

My 5 Must-Have Healthy Snacks

Snacking is tough for a lot of people. I have 5 must- have snacks that I keep around the house. When the clock strikes 12, and I am hungry, I know there are healthy options awaiting. Frozen Grapes- I am absolutely addicted to these. Great summer, healthy snack. Larabar Apple Pie- Fruit and nuts. No sugar, No sweeteners. Quaker- Chocolate Rice Cakes. A little naughty, a lot nice. Whole Grain, 60 calories.

Zevia- Sugar Free, Calorie Free, and made with Stevia (a natural plant based sweetener.) Tastes like diet coke, and makes me a very happy and healthy girl.

Extra-Watermelon Flavored Gum Satisfies my sweet tooth.

Acne Free Diet

Eating the proper foods, and avoiding bad foods can make a huge impact on your skin. If you maintain your skincare regime, and start eating a proper diet, you'll be on your way to clear glowing skin.

EAT PLENTY OF:
Nuts and Fish- are both rich in omega fatty acids which are said to be anti-inflammatory. Although scientific studies have not yet been done to prove that omega fatty acids reduce inflammation, most people notice a difference when they consume these foods regularly.

Blueberries- Are rich in antioxidants and also reduce inflammation.


AVOID:
Milk- has hormones, so avoid milk and dairy products if you experience acne breakouts.

Sugar- Cookies, cakes, fruit juices, and sodas increase glucose and insulin levels in the body. This can increase acne breakouts, so avoid these foods at all costs.

1000 Year Old Diet ™

I was talking with a friend about diets the other day, and I told her "if we all only ate foods that were on the planet a thousand years ago, we would be so much healthier." Thus, the 1000 year old diet plan was born!! It's simple, and it cuts out virtually everything that is processed, preserved, and toxic for the body!! Here are some tips to follow my 1000 year old diet plan!! =)

1. Was It On The Planet 1000 Years Ago?- Obviously we have come along way in 1000 years, BUT, in regards to foods, studies are finding that we should stick with foods that are natural and whole. This is how I came up with the 1000 year old diet. Foods that were available 1000 years ago, were natural, whole and not processed. Obviously meats, veggies, fruit, seeds, nuts, grains etc. were all available. So in essence, this diet, or lifestyle change, is not much different than any of the other whole food diet/lifestyle change plans on the market. When grocery shopping or choosing to eat a food, ask yourself "Was this on the planet 1000 years ago?" If the answer is no, avoid it! SIMPLE!

2. 80/20- Obviously, in moderation, foods that weren't around 1000 years ago can be consumed. You just don't want to eat them regularly. Follow the 1000 year old diet 80% of the time, and eat more modern foods %20 or less of the time.

3. Shop Right- Shop at stores that have foods from the earth, and not overly processed and packaged quick munchies. Whole Foods is ideal, but Trader Joe's carries many whole foods also.

Image Courtesy Of: nutrition.preschoolrock.com

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What are psyllium husks?

Have you ever heard of Psyllium Husks? Psyllium is a portion of the seed of a plant. They are soluble in water and expand when wet. Psyllium husks are indigestible by humans, but are very commonly used as a source of dietary fiber. Psyllium is often used to promote a healthy G.I. track.
When the husks are added to water and consumed, they expand in the stomach leaving a "full" feeling.

This is a trick often used in individuals that are on a weight management programs, or simply want to improve the health of their digestion. Mix a tablespoon with a glass of water, and consume it. Follow with an extra glass of water. Be careful to read the instruction.

Psyllium husks are completely natural, but should be consumed following the instruction stated on the container. Consuming the husks in the morning will keep you feeling full. You will notice your portions are not as large, and you reach for less snacks throughout the day.

Juicing For Optimum Health!

If you follow me on Twitter, you have probably already noticed that I am a juicing advocate. I started juicing years ago, when my Aunt was diagnosed with cancer. She began the GersonTherapy, which consisted of juicing everyday day, multiple times a day. I was so intrigued by her self discipline, and I became more aware of my health at a young age. I truly believe that if most of us found out we had cancer, our eating habits would change drastically. My aunt was so bound and determined to heal her body through the discipline of proper diet, and it worked in extending her life for many years.

Juicing doesn't have to just be an action taken once diagnosed with a serious disease.

Not only is juicing great for your health, in regards to giving your body a very high dose of absorbable vitamins, it tastes delicious. Once you start juicing, you will notice that you feel better and look better. Many Americans are deficient in nutrients, because we are feeding ourselves nutrient deficient foods. You will see a world of difference when you start juicing, because you are getting the nutrients of multiple fruits and vegetables in one drink.

I would suggest investing in a juicer and starting to juice in the morning, and at night. It takes a couple more minutes a day, and a lot of fruits and veggies, but I personally don't find it to be overly time consuming or expensive. I will give you a couple of my favorite recipes, and I promise you will enjoy! Be sure to choose only organic fruits and veggies while juicing, and always wash before juicing.

My Favorite:

2 Organic Red Apples

4 Organic Large Carrots

1 Organic Whole Lemon *Just throw the whole thing in there ;0)

Alkaline Juice:

1 Cup Organic Spinach

1/2 Organic Cucumber (including skins)

2 Stalks Organic Celery (including stalks)

3 Organic Carrots

1/2 Apple

Kidney Cleanser:

2 Organic Apples

3 1/2 Organic Watermelon pieces with rind

Image Courtesy Of: healthyjuicecentral.info

Cellulite Banishing Foods

Although there is no fast and easy cure to cellulite, your diet can contribute to it. Here are a few foods and beverages to incorporate and avoid in your diet for less cellulite!

ENJOY:
Asparagus: Helps strengthen veins and capillaries.

Bananas: Great for assisting in healthy circulation, they're also a good source of potassium. Potassium reduces water retention.

Fish: Salmon is rich in cellulite-fighting proteins and minerals.

Pears: Pears aid in detoxifying the body, and are also rich in potassium.

Pineapple: Pineapple aids in reducing water retention in the body, through various enzymes.

Coconut Water: Coconut water is rich in potassium and other minerals.

AVOID:

White Sugar & Flour: Pastries, cakes, and cookies are all cellulite contributors. Foods high in carbohydrates stimulate excess insulin in your blood, and insulin causes your body to store fat.

Image Courtesy Of: howtogetridofcellulitefast.us

SuperFoods To Add To Your Diet For Better Health

1. Goji- Goji is rich in the beta-carotene, which the body turns into retinol. Retinol is a form of vitamin A that may boost the immune system. Also, Goji berries burst with vitamin C, which aids in immune support and better skin. Vitamin C can aid in collagen production.

2. Pomegranate- Is rich in a variety of antioxidants and vitamins, and is said to protect against cancer. It also tastes great! Try eating the seeds or drinking a glass of the juice a couple times a week.

3. Spirulina- Is a blue algae that can be purchased in powder form and can be added to shakes and juices. Spirulina has loads of protein, which helps your body repair damaged tissues and build bones, skin, and muscle. It also contains vitamins and minerals such as iron, vitamin E, zinc, B-complex, copper, calcium, and magnesium. It is also rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and the essential fatty acid gamma linolenic acid (GLA).

4. Acai- Acai berries are a good source of antioxidants, fiber and heart-healthy fats. There are a a variety of juices that contains Acai and taste very good. Try mixing a little Pomegrante and Acai together for added benefit.

Image Courtesy Of: Pollynoble.com
Parts Of This Article Courtesy Of: Oprah.com

Be Healthier In 2011

We all set New Years resolutions, but committing your year to your own health is a great start. Here are a few tips to keeping that resolution.

1. If you are overweight- Commit to losing at least a pound a month in 2011. Studies show, being overweight increases your risk of heart attack, diabetes, and arthritis by 50 percent. Plan out your strategy for losing weight, and make sure you have accountability.

2. Sweat More- Try committing to some simple exercise regime. Keep it simple and easy at first. Try jumping jax or jumping rope during tv commericals, or walking with a friend a couple days a week!

3. Have More Sex- Studies show that regular intimacy with your spouse increases immune function, and reduces stress. Hit the sheets for a better mood! :)

4. Get Fishy- If you aren't already, start taking a fish-oil supplement. Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce cancer risk and lower your risk for depression. If you are a veggie, flaxseed oil is a good alternative.

5. Out With The Old, In With The New- Clean our your refrigerator, and throw out anything that contains hydrogenated oils, or high fructose corn syrup. Also, get rid of anything made with white flour (enriched, bleached, refined.) Generally you should consider removing all sweets and junk food. Commit to reading food labels this year and bringing in healthier options for both you and your family.

Image Courtesy Of: FoodFoodBodyBody.wordpress.com
Some information in this blogpost courtesy of: OprahMagazine

Benefits Of Coconut Water

Many of you may not know the benefits of coconut water, and you are missing out. Coconut water is low in carbs, 99% fat free, and very low in sugar and sodium. Coconut water also contains more potassium than a banana, and potassium aids in reducing water retention. Here are some of the other benefits of coconut water:

1. Re-hydrates your body with essential nutrients and electrolytes.
2. Carries nutrients and oxygen to cells.
3. Aids in weight loss.
4. Boosts immunity.
5. Helps fight against viruses.
6. Aids in digestion.
7. Balances PH levels.
8. Boosts circulation.
9. Benefits the kidneys and bladder.

Coconut water is a good alternative for sports drinks, and great for replenishing after a workout. It gives your body superior hydration, so it is a great beauty drink as well.

Image Courtest Of: zicococonutwater.org

Thanksgiving Day Diet Tips!

Not to ruin all the fun, but here are a few tips to survive Thanksgiving on a diet.

1. Be sure to eat a light breakfast and lunch before the big dinner. If you hold out, you may eat more than you had planned!

2. Be sure that a few healthy vegetable dishes are on the menu, and ultimately make it onto your plate.

3. Eat the skinless part of the turkey to lower fat intake.

4. Choose to drink water instead of sodas or juices. Alcohol adds calories, so avoid alcohol and stick to water, or tea.

5. Opt for sweet potatoes which have lots of nutrients, and avoid cooking with loads of butter if possible!

Remember to make sacrifices. Choose to take a small bite of 2 or 3 desserts instead of having full pieces, ect. Don't be too strict on yourself, HAVE FUN!!

Image courtesy of: Igourmet.com