Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Keeping A Food Diary
Yet, keeping score of your daily food, water and exercise is a good idea when trying to change old habits.
In a small whimsical pink floral notebook, I'm recording the little details that over time will equate to more pep in my step.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Up, Up With Greeting Cards!
I love receiving thoughtful cards in the mail! Since starting my diet with Winner's Weight Loss, I have been thrilled by the cards that Lori, my Weight Loss Counselor has mailed to me. They always put a smile on my face and make me feel so special that Lori cares enough to send along a note of encouragement.
Losing weight is a BIG deal. Especially during the holidays. It is awesome to receive well-timed notes to help me stay focused on sticking to the diet, at a time when sugar plums and rich chocolate yule logs dance in my head.
Winner's Weight Loss knows a timeless secret. It is no wonder that they are are Tallahassee's number one diet center.
When I was playing around on the Internet, I happened across a great web site for printable greeting cards that I am going to share with Lori and my other friends who like to be in the know about low cost ways to grow their businesses.
I think sending greeting cards is like investing seeds in a garden! In time your garden will be a blooming with the most exquisite and fragrant beauties!
Monday, December 18, 2006
So Far I've Lost 25 Pounds!
So far I've lost 25 pounds!
The bottom line reality, (as we all know) is that "dieting' is tough.
I am trying not to think of this as "dieting" but rather as a new lifestyle that embraces smart, healthy food choices.
Some days are much easier than others. But trying to choose smart during the holidays can be a special challenge. It seems that wherever you go, during this season of indulgence, it is hard to escape the intoxicating aromas and tastes of home baked goodies.
Therefore, I allow the foods of the season to be my inspiration to draw on my own creativity in preparing meals that won't leave me feeling deprived.
After years of creating some of most exquisite party food in the Tallahassee area, creating equally sensational light dishes should not be all that much of a challenge. I've created great dishes without butter and rich cream in the past and I know that it is indeed doable to experiment with different techniques that introduce a splendid variety of flavor ranges without sacrificing taste in any way. It really boils down to accepting and embracing the art of creative, light cookery and finding new approaches. I love innovation! My heart pops with joy at the rich opportunity to travel with passion and confidence into uncharted territory.
If you are in the Tallahassee area and are looking for help in transforming your body into your best possible version, my friends at Winner's Weight Loss can help you, too! Call Lori at 850-297-2500.
Fire-Roasted Asian Beef, Vegetable and Greens Salad
Before I forget, I want to share an idea for a wonderful, rich fire-roasted salad I made this weekend. It sizzled with delicious flavor and satisfied the craving I had for a substantial meal. I named this one:
Fire Roasted Asian Beef, Vegetable and Greens Salad
In a sizzling hot skillet, cook beef filet on one side, and garden fresh Oriental vegetables on the other side in sea salt and a tiny drizzle of canola oil. About 3/4 of the way done add a splash of beef supplement mixed with water. During last 4 minutes, add salad greens and saute lightly. (Cut beef into mixture.)
On plate put one layer of cold crisp greens (plain or drizzled lightly with a zesty vinaigrette) then top with the beef , vegetables, and sauteed salad greens. Yum!
Christmas Brunch Hazelnut, Apple & Cinnamon French Toast
Here is a lovely little french toast with good flavor that is nice for a Christmas Brunch. I've named it:
Christmas Brunch Hazelnut, Apple & Cinnamon French Toast
1 slice 40 calories honey wheat bread
1 egg white
1 drop hazelnut extract
1 drop vanilla extract
1 sprinkle cinnamon
1 sprinkle sweet and low
very thin slices of apple
Beat egg white. Add extracts and cinnamon. Dip bread on both sides in flavored egg white. Place on non stick pan. Sprinkle with more cinnamon and with sweet and low.
Top with thin apple slices and dust to taste with additional cinnamon and sweet & low. Bake till almost crisp and the intoxicating fragrance spills into the house!
Fragrant Orange, Hibiscus Flower and Exotic Spiced Poached Flounder with Asparagus
Tonight for dinner I created a lovely, delicately flavored poached fish dish I have named:
Fragrant Orange, Hibiscus Flower and Exotic Spiced Poached Flounder with Asparagus & Snow Peas
I began the dish early in the afternoon by marinating the flounder filets in a fragrant brew of artisan spring water, orange peel, hibiscus flowers, rose hips, and a secret blend of exotic spices.
Just prior to the dinner hour, I prepped some fresh pencil thin asparagus and snow peas and added them to my marinating fish and poached the dish for approximately 20 minutes.
A light drizzle of fine white wine and a sprinkle of sea salt, just before serving turned the dish into a divine tasting entree that tickled this gourmand's fickle taste buds.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Unforgettable Cary NC Real Estate Open House
I think it is a nice touch when business related open houses offer some sort of interesting "light" refreshment, like the one in Cary, North Carolina. In addition, to the punch, the agent prepared a lovely assortment of regionally-inspired nibbles that were served from the spectacular dining room of the beautiful and elegant mansion that was for sale.
Raspberries In Champagne
The participants were greeted with crystal flutes of Raspberries in Champagne.
To make this festive and bubbly beverage, just drop a quarter cup of raspberries into the flute and splash with bubbly.
While,the champagne has plenty of calories. You can always substitute sparkling water or even a low-cal ginger ale for the champagne.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
How To Stay Fit During The Holidays
How To Stay Fit During the Holidays
By Kim Roach
With the holiday's approaching, now is one of the hardest times to
hold on to your healthy habits. However, one of the best things you can do for yourself during the holiday season is to pay attention to your diet and fitness program. Otherwise, you could easily start the New Year five pounds heavier. By following a few tips, you can keep your physique and continue with your healthy lifestyle through the holidays and into the new year.
Here are some tips to keep you slim and trim.
Shake up your workout routines. During the holiday's, it's hard to stay dedicated to your usual workout routines. That's why it helps to shake it up a bit. Do some power sessions that are quick but still very effective.
Exercise with the family. Holidays are one of the best times of the year and allow you to gain back some much-needed time with the family. However, why not make fitness a family affair with neigborhood walks, family fitness contests, or even building a snow fort.
Never go to a holiday part on an empty stomach!
This is a rule I've started to live by and you wouldn't believe how much it helps. Simply eat a little bit before you head off to a party and you will be less tempted to indulge in sweets. An apple is a great food to help curb your appetite.
Skip the egg nog (up to 350 calories a cup!), alcohol, and sodas and stick to water. This will save you hundreds of calories. Drinking plenty of water also supresses the appetite and keeps your body in optimal health.
Do your workouts early in the morning. Everyone's schedule is hectic during the holiday's. Those wee early morning's may be the only time you have to get in a powerful workout. Wake up as early as possible and do an exercise video or head off to the gym for some morning cardio.
Eat slowly!
Research has shown that eating slowly reduces caloric intake by
70 percent.
When tempted to eat sweets, snack on fruits, vegetables and high-fiber foods instead. These foods can satisfy your sweet-tooth and your hunger cravings. In addition, dried fruits are one of the healthiest alternatives to sweet snacks.
Surround yourself with a support group. Having a support group is essential to losing weight. Everyone needs to know that they're not in this alone. There's a great online group you can join at Sparkpeople.com. This free website is a community of like-minded people who will help you stay motivated to reach your goals. They also provide plenty of healthy recipes, exercise ideas, and tons of nutrition information. Join today at SparkPeople.com.
Skip the gravy, dressings, and other high-calorie condiments. Many dressings and condiments can add hundreds of unwanted calories. You can enjoy the holidays without sacrificing your figure. The key is knowing which foods to eat and which ones to skip. Focus on fruits, vegetables, and lean meats. These food choices are nutritious options that won't leave you craving second-helpings.
If you're into the sweets, you don't have to skip them. Just remember that one bite is often as good as ten. You can have just a few bites and enjoy your dessert rather than overindulge and suffer later.
Don't skip meals. Your body needs to be fueled properly every few hours with healthy, nutritious meals. This keeps your blood sugar levels in check and prevents the wild hunger pangs that often lead to over-indulgence. Our bodies were not made for the large helpings that are so common during the holiday's. If you want to stay fit, it is best to eat five smaller meals throughout the day. Say goodbye to the turkey hangover!
Bring healthy dishes to holiday parties. If you are wanting to eat healthy, you need to lead by example. By bringing a healthy dish to the potluck, you are allowing yourself and others to choose healthier options.
The majority of the population will gain a few pounds during the holiday's and slack off on their fitness program. Let's NOT follow their example. Instead, let's stay fit and healthy all year long. In the end, the others will wish they had done the same.
Nothing tastes as good as being fit feels....
Kim Roach is the fitness reporter at HealthyEveryDay.com. Come and
visit to find out more about the
benefits of flaxseed and
spirulina.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kim_Roach
Power Walking Techniques - Increase Your Metabolism The Right Way
By Mike Singh
Powerwalking is walking at a fast pace for a sustained period of time. You may have seen this style of walking if you watch Olympics, but it is a good exercise for anyone. Power walking is usually walking at the speed of a 12 or 15 -minute mile. It is an aerobic workout for your body that helps to increase the oxygen level of the cells. This helps to raise the metabolic rate at which the body burns calories and is therefore an important part of any fitness and weight loss program.
Walking at a faster speed than normal helps the body burn more calories than normal walking. This is why power walking is popular among those who are trying to lose weight.
One of the benefits of power walking is that it not only speeds up the bodys metabolism but it also strengthens and tones the upper and lower leg muscles as well as the glutes. As little as three 15 20 minutes walking sessions per week will produce noticeable results in your weight and you ability to walk faster.
The thing about getting started with faster walking is that you can do it in short intervals until you get used to the brisk pace. Try to increase the length of your intervals each day until your full walk is actually a power walk.
When starting a power walking program there are a few things you should keep in mind. You do need to have a good pair of running shoes, even if you are walking indoors. Keep your arms relaxed because when you hold your arms at a 90 degree angle it tenses up the muscles in the lower back.
You should also take small steps and gently swing your arms from the elbows. This technique helps to promote movement in the entire body and allows the muscles to move evenly.
Check out http://www.1-stop-fitness.com/ for articles on used stairmasters and discount rowing machines.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Singh
Could Thyroid Problems Be Causing Your Weight Gain?
By Susannah Young
Dr. Merril W. Edmonds describes the thyroid’s function as similar to a car’s cruise control. Just as the cruise control keeps the car at a constant speed without effort from the driver, the hormones released by the thyroid ensure that your body is functioning at a constant and correct speed.
The thyroid regulates the body’s metabolism. When the hormone level decreases, all the cells in your body become less active. Because the cells are less active, they need less energy to perform and thus more energy is stored in the form of body mass. In other words, you gain weight. This is a condition called hypothyroidism, and due to the wide variety of symptoms, it can often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. The condition occurs in 1.5 to 2 percent of women and only 0.2 percent of men.
When hypothyroidism-related weight gain begins, you lose your ability to burn off or waste extra calories – that is, any calories your body does not need to maintain its normal functions. This is something most people with normal thyroid function are able to do. If someone has hypothyroidism, they can eat less than people with normal thyroid function and still gain more weight.
Once diagnosed, hypothyroidism can easily be treated by taking extra thyroid hormone in pill form. This will speed up the patient’s metabolism and help him/her lose weight, though the process is often still difficult. Taking the correct dosage is crucial, because too much thyroid hormone induces protein weight loss, which can result in heart problems and osteoporosis. Though it seems like a simple solution, thyroid hormone in pill form may not help indefinitely. After taking thyroid hormone for a long period of time, some people begin to gain weight again, even though thyroid hormones may be at the correct level.
The following symptoms may indicate hypothyroidism:
• Slowed speech and a hoarse voice. Sometimes the voice will deepen or break.
• Impaired memory, slowed reflexes, and general brain fog
• Hives
• Migraine headaches
• Increased sensitivity to heat and cold
• Shortness of breath
• Puffy or swollen skin, especially in the face, hands, and feet
• Hair loss
• Brittle fingernails
• Decrease in libido
• Abnormal menstrual periods, sometimes coupled with infertility
• Anemia
• Constipation
• Unexplained weight gain, or weight gain in spite of diet and exercise
• Unexplained fatigue
Helpful information on maintaining normal thyroid function may be found at http://www.alvidar.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susannah_Young
Monday, December 11, 2006
Oh, Happy Days!
Oh, Happy Days! The North Monroe Street Winner's Weight Loss Center in Tallahassee across the street from Tallahassee Mall, received a new shipment of the Variety Pack of Hot Cocoa Mixes.
Pausing inbetween strokes of the keyboard, as I write this blog, to sip and savor the steamy and delish Chocolate Mint Hot Cocoa. Yum! This is so good!
It is treats like this one, that helps me to not feel deprived that I am not indulging in the seasonal festive holiday goodies, that tend to overflow in sugary abundance at this time of year.
Imagine a diet where you can have steamy mugs of:
Mocha Hot Chocolate
Cinnamon Hot Chocolate
Raspberry Hot Chocolate
Amaretto Hot Chocolate
Mint Hot Chocolate
and of course, Classic Hot Cocoa sans additional flavors
And to think, that this is just one type of supplement that Winner's Weight Loss offers to help their patient's experience success on their weight reduction programs.
If you are looking for a great weight loss facility in Tallahassee, Florida... personally, I believe Winner's Weight Loss on N. Monroe Street is tops. For a free consultation, give Nutrition Management Counselor, Lori a call at 850-297-2500 and begin your own fabulous journey to becoming the very best possible version of yourself in 2007.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Tricks for Drinking The Water
Some days I struggle to drink enough water. Yet, I understand that water consumption is a necessary function of a healthy diet.
I keep promising Lori, my Winners Weight Loss counselor, that I am going to up my water intake. But I keep falling short.
One of the problems is, I'm not exercising enough. When I exercise, I experience a natural thirst, which is a good thing and really helps with the weight-loss.
Lori suggested that I add Fulfill Mixed Fruit Drink to my water. The first time I tried the Fulfill, I wasn't all that crazy about it. But now I really like it. I water it down more than the package calls for and it is really good. I like the way that the product has a unique blend of soluble fibers and several key nutrients.
I guess I should go over to Lake Ella now and get in a little exercise before nightfall.
BTW if you are in Tallahassee, Florida and looking for a great weight loss center, check out Winners Weight Loss on North Monroe. The phone number is 850-297-2500
Sandler's Recipe For Baked Potato Latkes
Sandler Dickson is one of those wonderfully-present souls, who I have bumped into from time-to-time around Tallahassee.
The conversations we have had, always revolved around food. The first time I ever met Sandler was at a local Greek eatery.
Back at the end of October, when I went to Winner's Weight Loss on North Monroe for a diet consultation, I bumped into Sandler again.
"I know you!" I said after visiting with him in the lobby of the diet center "We met at Captain Pete's years ago!"
Sandler has a wonderful, friendly, outgoing and unforgettable personality. If you ever need real estate in Tallahassee, call Sandler and his wife Barbara at REMAX Professionals Realty at 850-545-7095.
The last time I saw Sandler, he shared about their upcoming cruise and the menu that he had sent to the cruise lines. On this menu, was a low-fat heart-healthy recipe for Baked Potato Latkes. I love Potato Latkes! But I didn't think of these sumptuous patties as diet-friendly food.
Sandler shared with me his recipe and I can't wait for an opportunity to bake up a batch soon. I wonder if I can freeze them?
Sandler's Recipe For Baked Potato Latkes
5-6 russet potatoes, peeled
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 bunch of chives, snipped
1 egg plus 1 egg white, lightly beaten
1/4 cup whole wheat flour
3 tsp. safflower oil
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Brush 2 baking sheets with 1 teaspoon Safflower oil each.
Loosely grate potatoes and onion in food processor and place in large mixing bowl.
Season to taste with pepper. Add whole wheat flour and onion and mix well. Mix in eggs and 1 teaspoon Safflower oil.
Spoon out the batter onto baking sheets and flatten slightly, with oven racks in lower and middle positions. Bake until brown on the bottom (about 10 minutes).
Turn and bake another 5 minutes or until brown.
Garnish liberally with chives and serve with non-fat yogurt.
What Should I Bring?
"What should I bring?" is a frequent question, guests often ask during this season of holiday soirees.
For the dieting guest, holiday parties can seem like dangerous territory.
Holiday menus are often the antithesis of heart-healthy eating. In fact, the typical party menus are more akin to a prescription for ushering in Type 2 diabetes.
Oops, my time is running out right now, but when I get home from church, I'm going to share with you a recipe for a Festive Holiday Dip Party Platter that you can bring to your next Christmas party.
Ok, I'm back home! Now, that I'm all prayed up :) here is the recipe for a light holiday appetizer that would be good any time of the year. I've added plenty of red and green garnish to this version, to give it a Christmas season look.
Kathi Dameron's Festive Holiday Dip Party Platter ~ A Heart Healthy Idea
1 carton low fat or fat free cottage cheese
1/2 fresh Florida lemon, squeezed
2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
1 Teaspoon fresh dill, chopped (or dried)
onion powder, garlic powder, Mrs. Dash to taste to taste
sun-dried tomatoes, reconstituted (if necessary)
Fresh spinach, finely shredded
Fresh chives, minced
A colorful cornucopia of garden fresh veggies.
Adjust quantities according to the number of guests.
Mix first 5 ingredient (lines) ingredients together. Put in a decorative bowl. For an intersting bowl, try a hollowed out cabbage... very pretty!)
Artistically garnish the top of the dip with a sprinkling of sun-dried tomatoes, an elegant chiffonade of shedded spinach, and fresh chives.
I would arrange this assortment on a rustic basket, that I would line with big collard green leaves. In the center, I would put my dip-stuffed cabbage. Then around the dip I would arrange a culinary display of exquisite garden fresh vegetables.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Staying Focused On The Big Picture
Frustrations come and go in life. They are inevitable.
For some reason, my past m.o. was to handle and self-medicate frustrations with sugar and carbs. Fortunately, I have learned to only engage in conscientious eating and try to eliminate emotional eating, altogether.
Thank GOD that I have the help of Winner's Weight Loss in Tallahassee, Florida to help me on this journey. The encouragement and support I receive from Lori at Winner's is an important key to success. I couldn't do this without her help!
If you are trying to lose weight, find someone who can help you. If you are in Tallahassee, Florida and you are looking for a supportive, weight loss counselor, personally, I think Lori is tops!