Ummm, I think I'll just be Pasty...

I love having a tan and it makes you look so much better in summer clothes, so I was thinking about starting to go to the tanning bed. After reading this article, I'm not so sure it's worth it....

Tanning Beds Triple Melanoma Risk

Sun Damage Pictures Slideshow

~from WebMD.com

"Healthy" Junk Food...On Sale!

I'm officially addicted to the Multigrain Tortilla version of these Archer Farms chips...and they're on sale this week...AND here is a coupon for them! :)

Mmmmm...so yummy!

Consume Less Calories at Cookouts

It's not only a catchy alliteration, it can actually be a reality!

My hubby and I were invited to three cookouts this weekend, and even though we are not going to attend all three, and even if we did, we are not responsible for bringing anything, it gave me an idea. What are some healthier alternatives to the "typical" fare offered at cookouts?






See the list below for ideas from HungryGirl.com...Just click on the links to get the recipes:

I Can't Believe It's Not Potato Salad!

"Pineapple Rings and Things" Cake

Avacado Burger

Guacamole and Chips Swap

Macaroni Salad

Faux Fried Chicken

Apple Pie 

Onion Dip

Teriyaki Burger

Loaded Mashed Potatoes

I Feel Weird!

It's the 8th day of Spring...why am I wearing winter boots and a sweater? Just feels weird!!! I mean, I'm not ready for the sweltering Summer heat just yet, but I will settle for anywhere between 65 and 85 so I can wear shoes like these...

UNLISTED Grape Escape

 b.o.c Daly

Women's Faux-Leather Woven Sandals

 L.e.i. - Women's Arielle Embellished Sandals

SONOMA life + style® Inez Espadrilles

Women's Mossimo Supply Co. Wilona Wedge Sandals - Plaid

Delia's Yang Wedge

Big AND Beautiful

So, I did end up getting sick this weekend...with some sort of stomach bug--yuck! But, fortunately it seems to have been short-lived and even though I am not 100% yet, I am on the up and up.

I didn't get to make my Homemade Mexican Fiesta either, but I did catch up on my zzz's. And I am bummed because this weekend DID NOT turn out to be one of my best. But, amidst my pity party, I thought of a wonderful blog post that is sure to cheer me up.

I thought of some celebrities that are absolutely beautiful, but have had struggles with weight, either now or in the past. This gives me hope and boosts my self-esteem. I hope it does the same for you!

America Ferrera-I can't believe she could have played a character with the name "Ugly Betty"!

Jennifer Hudson-She looked great before and after, in my opinion, but I'm sure she is healthier and feels better now!

Marie Osmond-She didn't seem to have a weight problem until she was older, but she is proof that you can lose weight, no matter your age--You just have to exercise!

 Mandisa-A Christian/Gospel artist who was on American Idol the same season as Taylor Hicks. She knows God made her beautiful inside and out!

Marilyn Monroe-Who can forget the famous bombshell of old, who is rumored to have worn a size 14...(Ahem...which is the same size I wear).

When I feel better, these ladies have given me inspiration to go rock my curves...and love 'em!

Catch More ZZZ's and Feel Good About It!

No matter what your lifestyle, many of us do not get adequate amounts of sleep. For example, full time students may have to pull an occasional all-nighter to finish an assignment. A demanding project at work may cause you to have to work longer hours or even work at home in the evenings. A mother with a fussy newborn (or any type of newborn for that matter) constantly has their slumber interrupted. Even though these are all-too-common occurrences for many American adults, too much of this happening can have a drastically negative impact on your health.

I have been pushing myself harder than usual at work and at home these past couple of weeks and I could tell my body was needing rest. And, if you're like me, you don't have time to catch a cold or some other bug because your immune system is worn down due to lack of sleep. It's exactly for this reason that I felt no shame about staying in bed until lunchtime today and catching some precious zzzz's.

The following is an excerpt from an article on WebMD.com that backs up my reasoning:

"Health problems have no relation to the amount and quality of a person's sleep."
"False: More and more scientific studies are showing correlations between poor quality sleep and/or insufficient sleep with a variety of diseases, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and depression. For example, insufficient sleep can impair the body's ability to use insulin, which can lead to the development of more severe diabetes. Patients with poorly controlled diabetes and sleep apnea have improvement of blood sugar control when treated for sleep apnea. This is also found in patients with high blood pressure and sleep apnea. When the sleep apnea is treated, the blood pressure also improves. In addition, too little sleep may decrease growth hormone secretion, which has been linked to obesity."

Click here to read the entire article, plus get more facts about sleeping. Happy snoozing!

Homemade Mexican Fiesta

Brrr...I just checked weather.com and they forecast it to only get into the 50's on Saturday and the 40's on Sunday. I think there will be lots of staying inside and catching up on some much needed sleep this weekend!

When I finally roll out of bed, I am planning to make a "Homemade Mexican Fiesta"! It's easy, quick, and I can still satiate my appetite for Mexican food. Also, I will consume less calories and fat then I would if we were to go out to eat at a traditional Mexican restaurant.

Ingredients:
1 lb. Tyson Grilled and Ready Chicken Strips
1 can pinto beans (I prefer black beans, but my hubby doesn't like them, so I have to use pintos)
2 cups Minute Rice (the kind you cook in the microwave)
2% Mexican blend shredded cheese
salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste
guacamole (optional)
sour cream (optional)
salsa (optional)
Archer Farms multigrain tortilla chips

Directions:
1. Heat chicken strips on medium heat in a large skillet according to package directions.
2. While chicken is cooking, microwave 2 cups of rice according to packages directions.
3. Once chicken is heated thoroughly, open can of pintos (do not drain) and stir entire can into the pan of chicken. Season with salt, pepper, and chili powder.
4. Let bean and chicken mixture cook for a couple of minutes and then stir in both cups of rice and season mixture again.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for about 2-5 minutes until everything is heated.
6. Serve with shredded cheese on top and with tortilla chips, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream on the side.

Enjoy!

Take it to the Max(i)

I really love the fact that maxi dresses are all the rage right now! They cover a multitude of sins (like the ones sticking to my hips) and look great on almost everyone. Here are some maxis that would be hanging in my closet right now if I had an unlimited dress budget... :)

Old Navy

Target

Kohls

Kohls

Forever 21

The Worst Late Night Snacks

Many of us relish in the nightly ritual of having a snack right before bed. The following article can guide you in making the right choices for your late night snacking urges...

"Chocolate Ice Cream (1 cup premium brand)
510 calories
31 g fat (20 g saturated)
40 g sugar

Just about the worst thing you can put into your body right before bedtime is sugar. Sugar is that fast-burning energy that your body wants to use as quickly as possible, but that's hard to do while you're sleeping. So instead, your body does the next best thing—it stores most of the sugar as fat. But there are plenty of sugary snacks out there, why pick on chocolate ice cream? Because chocolate contains caffeine—not as much as a cup of coffee, but more than you should consume if you're worried about sleeping soundly. To get the sweetness you crave, try yogurt with granola and fruit. Granola is made from oats, which are a good source of tryptophan, and bananas contain a heavy dose of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate your body's circadian rhythm.

Eat This Instead!

Lowfat yogurt (1/2 cup) with 1 chopped banana and 2 Tbsp granola
257 calories
6 g fat (2 g saturated)
26 g sugars

Bonus Tip: Look, you can still eat ice cream, just don't wolf it down right before you hit the sack. And of course, limit your indulgence to varieties that won't turn to flab the second you ingest them. You can find the best right here: 15 Desserts That Burn Fat!"

~Excerpt from an Article from "Eat This, Not That" expert David Zinczenko with Matt Goulding
To read the rest of the article, click here.  

Chai Banana Smoothie

Oh my word...I'm drooling already! I might have to stop by the store after work so I can get some chai tea bags to make this when I get home! -->

CVS brand products~On Sale Now!

Since my diet has been lacking in nutrients (to say the least) since I fell off the wagon a little over 5 months ago, I have been taking a multivitamin and I can really tell a positive difference in how I feel. But, one problem I am still experiencing is brittle hair and nails. I know I need more water, but a co-worker of mine with the same problem told me she takes Biotin supplements and they have really helped her.

Well, I have been putting off buying these because of the cost. That is, until right now--because at CVS.com, all of their store brand products are 40% off! But, you better hurry...the offer ends at midnight tonight!

Don't Be so Glum, Chum

Last Saturday was a beautiful day here in the Piedmont region of NC. I spent the late morning shopping for items to decorate and clean my home and after that, I spent the next 5 hours cleaning (which included scrubbing the bathtub, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, laundry, etc...)

Since it was such a beautiful day, I was so bummed about not taking advantage of it and going for a walk. That is, until I came across this Interactive Calorie Calculator. According to my calculations, I burned 221 calories on my 1 hour shopping spree and 1202 calories for the 5 hours I spent cleaning. That's a total of 1423 calories!

So next time you are down about being too "busy" to fit in a workout, punch in your numbers and see just how many calories you burned!

:)

What Have You Done Today to Make You Feel Proud?

Okay, I know it's cheesy to use Biggest Loser's theme song for my title, but I am kind of proud of the dinner that my hubby and I put together. It was so good!

Burgers (93 % lean ground beef): 185 calories
Sweet potato (small): 54 calories
broccoli (3.1 oz): 30 calories
apple turnover (made with 2 Pillsbury Crescent Rolls and no Sugar added apple pie filling): 220 calories
water: 0 calories

Total for My Supper Tonight: 489 calories :)
Source for Calorie Counts: calorieking.com

You Can Prevent Type 2 Diabetes

"Healthy lifestyle choices can help you prevent type 2 diabetes. Even if diabetes runs in your family, diet and exercise can help you prevent the disease. And if you've already been diagnosed with diabetes, the same healthy lifestyle choices can help you prevent potentially serious complications.

• Eat healthy foods. Choose foods low in fat and calories. Focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains. For every 1,000 calories you consume, try to have at least 14 grams of fiber, because fiber helps control blood sugar levels.
• Get more physical activity. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate physical activity a day. Take a brisk daily walk. Ride your bike. Swim laps. If you can't fit in a long workout, break it up into smaller sessions spread throughout the day.
• Lose excess pounds. If you're overweight, losing 5 to 10 percent of your body weight can reduce the risk of diabetes. To keep your weight in a healthy range, focus on permanent changes to your eating and exercise habits. Motivate yourself by remembering the benefits of losing weight, such as a healthier heart, more energy and improved self-esteem.

Sometimes medication is an option as well. Metformin (Glucophage), an oral diabetes medication, may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes — but healthy lifestyle choices remain essential." ~MayoClinic.com

To Read More about Type 2 Diabetes, click here.

Curb Hunger with Lean Protein

As you’re following the South Beach Diet lifestyle you may notice that lean protein is a core part of your Meal Plan — and there’s a good reason why: Lean protein not only curbs hunger, it also allows you to maintain muscle mass while losing weight. Cutting back on protein during weight loss, on the other hand, contributes to a loss of muscle mass and potentially a slower metabolism. Lean protein also helps keep blood-sugar levels steady, which helps keep cravings in check.
When considering protein choices, be sure to include lean cuts of beef (such as eye of round), ground beef (sirloin, lean, and extra-lean), tenderloin, top loin, and top round, as well as skinless turkey, chicken, and duck breast, pork loin and pork tenderloin, fish and shellfish, and soy-based meat alternatives that contain fewer than 6 grams of fat per 2- to 3-ounce serving. Protein sources that are high in saturated fat should be avoided. These include brisket, liver, rib steaks (like prime rib), chicken and turkey with the skin (as well as dark-meat poultry), and goose.

~from SouthBeachDiet.com Daily Dish Newsletter

Hairstyles for Round Faces: The Good and the Bad

Since I have a round face, I am always looking for the "right" hairstyle for me. Below is an excerpt from an article from About.com on how to find flattering hairstyles for us poor souls with round faces :)

"Both Kate Bosworth and Stella McCartney (pictured here) have classic round faces. However, Kate models a great hairstyle for her face shape. Her soft waves complement her face, whereas McCartney's hard ponytail only manages to show off all her facial flaws. Few women can get away with wearing their hair slicked back into a ponytail. "

For more info on how to deal with your round face, Click here.

Curbing Hunger with Filling Foods

The key to sticking to any healthy eating plan and keeping hunger at bay is to eat nutritious, filling foods. That’s why, on the South Beach Diet, we stress eating nutrient-dense, fiber-rich foods (such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and beans and other legumes), as well as good fats and lean protein.
It’s also why we tell you to avoid the highly processed (essentially fiberless) carbohydrates found in baked goods, many breads, snack foods, and other convenient favorites, which can have the opposite effect on satiety. High-fiber foods, good fats, and lean protein (as well as acidic foods) all help to slow the digestion of the sugars in carbs. When you include a variety of these foods in your diet, your body produces less insulin, and less insulin means fewer swings in blood-sugar levels. It is these swings that are the cause of cravings and constant hunger in the first place. Once your blood sugar is under control, you’ll find that your cravings and hunger greatly diminish and that you’ll feel more satisfied after a meal. Read more about curbing hunger with foods that are filling:
Fiber. Fiber's major role in digestion is to slow the absorption of sugar. The greater the fiber content of a food, the greater its effect. That's why highly processed oatmeal, for example, isn’t as good for you (or for your weight loss) as the steel-cut variety. The latter has all its fiber still intact, the former has essentially none. Therefore, before the stomach can digest the sugars in the steel-cut oatmeal, it has to separate them from the fiber. Once isolated, the fiber passes undigested through your system, slowing down digestion. In other words, fiber is an obstacle to digestion, and a good one, because it promotes satiety.
Fat. Fat, too, slows the speed at which your small intestine accesses the sugars you've eaten. When you eat a piece of white bread, for example (which we hope you will do only occasionally), try to have it with a little monounsaturated olive oil or some reduced-fat cheese rather than eating the bread alone or with highly saturated butter or full-fat cheese. (Just as all carbohydrates are not the same, all fats are not the same. You need to avoid saturated fats and trans fats.) Likewise, having an occasional baked potato topped with reduced-fat sour cream is better than eating it plain. The calorie count might be higher, but the fat contained in the sour cream will slow down the digestive process, thereby lessening the amount of insulin that the potato prompts your body to make. Good fats also make food taste better, helping you to feel more satisfied.
Protein. Because protein foods are digested slowly, they too do not produce the spikes in blood sugar that stimulate hunger and overeating. On the South Beach Diet, you can eat lean cuts of beef, lamb, and pork; skinless white-meat chicken, turkey, and duck breast; game meats; fish and shellfish; soy products; beans and other legumes; eggs; nuts and seeds in moderation; and fat-free and low-fat dairy products.
Acidic foods. Interestingly, acidic foods, such as lemon juice, lime juice, and vinegar, also slow the digestion of carbs and the rate at which your stomach empties. You can dress salads or vegetables with them and enjoy the additional benefit.
~from SouthBeachDiet.com

She Works Hard for the Money...So Hard for it Honey

Even though I am employed at an office, I usually don't have to dress up for work. However, I have a long training meeting in the morning with a vendor, so tomorrow is a different story. Since most of my clothes are casual and the dress clothes I have are a little on the snug side since I haven't lost all of the weight I have gained back, I really need to go shop for some dress pants tonight and that got me thinking about...

Work Friendly Accessories for Spring 2011

And...

Spring 2011 Fashion Trends

Journaling Your Way to Weight-Loss Success

It’s been proven: To succeed at losing weight, you have to pay attention not only to what you eat but also to what you write. As you follow the South Beach Diet, writing down what you put in your mouth will help keep you from overeating. In fact, the National Weight Control Registry, a well-regarded, long-term weight-loss study, found that journaling is one of the most powerful tools used by people who have lost weight and kept it off. Here, four more reasons to start a journal today:

1. You’ll be more aware of snacking.
   Quick: What did you eat yesterday? Sure, you can remember your meals, but what about those between-meal nibbles? On the South Beach Diet we recommend a mid-morning and mid-afternoon snack, but it’s often easy to overlook the other little bites you may inadvertently indulge in throughout the day. And they can add up. Writing everything down can help you be more aware of your eating habits.
2. You’ll discover your diet detours.
   Are you a late-night snacker? Do you find yourself hitting the vending machine during the mid-afternoon lull? Or do you indulge in sweets when you’re unhappy, stressed, or even, paradoxically, when you’re especially happy? Knowing what your eating triggers are ahead of time will keep you on track. To break bad habits, you should record not only what and when you eat but also the circumstances that prompted you to overindulge and make bad choices.
3. You’ll see progress — quickly.
   If you’re committed to losing weight and improving your health, your food diary will give you a quick (and satisfying!) glimpse at the progress you’re making. Just compare entries from week to week. If you’re staying on track, you’ll see more veggies and whole grains listed, while noting a downturn in processed carbs and unhealthy fats. And seeing all those smart food choices will be positive reinforcement as you work toward your health and weight-loss goals.
4. We make it easy for you!
   The best part? The My Journal tool on South Beach Diet Online allows you to log your foods and track your progress. You can also jot down your thoughts and feelings, sort through challenges you’ve faced, and record your successes. Moreover, you can keep your entries private, or you can share them with other South Beach Dieters and compare your experiences. You can also read the Journals of other members (who have made them public) to understand their challenges, rewards, and experiences. Not a member? Sign up to join the South Beach Diet Online today and get access to the My Journal tool.

~from SouthBeachDiet.com Daily Dish newsletter

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!!!

Well, not really, but it is a great time of the year. With the weather warming up and the sun shining, it's the perfect time to dust off those walking (or running if you're really ambitious!) shoes. Or, if you're in the market for a new pair, here are some of my favorite choices:

Earth Glide Walking Shoe

New Balance 850















Reebok EasyTone Reeinspire

And here is an article to help you pick the right shoe for you! --> Best Walking Shoes

Happy Walking!

Exercise: No Excuses!

Your alarm goes off in the morning and you think, “I’m too tired for the gym.” Or, it’s the end of the workday and you skip your evening walk because you’re just too busy. Sound familiar? Since you’re following the South Beach Diet, you already know that exercise is an essential part of leading a healthy lifestyle and achieving your weight-loss goals. There will be times, though, when your job, family, and hectic schedule may get in the way of your workout routine. But that doesn’t mean you should give up on your fitness goals altogether. The trick is to counter the excuses that keep you from exercising. Check out these easy strategies to offset some prime exercise excuses:
Excuse: “I’m too tired/busy!”
Solution: Determine what time of day works best for you to exercise. If you can’t hit the gym or take a walk after work, wake up earlier and try an a.m. routine. Is getting out of bed in the morning the issue instead? Schedule a walk with a friend after work or try an evening group fitness class. Dr. Arthur Agatston, creator of the South Beach Diet, prefers to work out first thing in the morning but recognizes that some people find it easier in the afternoon or early evening. His recommendation: Exercise when — and where — you will most enjoy it, which will make you most likely to remain faithful to your routine. And if you’re too tired or too busy to squeeze in a full workout, try working in some shorter periods of exercise throughout the day: On your way to work, park your car farther away from the entrance or get off at an earlier transportation stop. Or, take the stairs instead of the elevator and go for a brief walk during lunch.
Excuse: “I can’t afford a gym membership.”
Solution: There’s no reason you have to join a gym to exercise — there are many activities that can be done outdoors or in your own living room. Take a stroll around your neighborhood, head to a local track, or hit the park trails to get in a workout. If it’s raining or too cold outside, head to the mall and walk the perimeter. At home, work up a sweat with the help of one of the many DVDs available for purchase or rental, or get inspiration from an online exercise video. It’s a great way to learn basic Pilates and yoga — or even kickboxing if you have the room. Or, if exercising in a group setting is what keeps you motivated, check out a YMCA or a local recreation center in your area that offers fitness classes at an affordable price.
Excuse: “I’m bored with my routine.”
Solution: Boredom is one of the major reasons people give up exercise. If you’ve done the same routine day after day for months, it’s time to try something new. It can be as simple as taking your walks outside rather than striding on the treadmill or finding a new form of exercise entirely (Dr. Agatston likes to remind people not to forget their core muscles). Sign up for a new activity like tennis or golf lessons, or enroll in a fitness class you haven’t tried. Sometimes simply working out with a buddy can break the boredom. Another way to stay motivated? Listen to music while you exercise. Create a playlist for your portable music device and choose songs that will inspire you to get through a workout.
~from SouthBeachDiet.com

Progress Report

I have lost 4 pounds since last week! Thanks Slim Fast Shakes and Atkins Meal Replacement Bars!

There Could Never Be a More Beautiful You

Little girl fourteen flipping through a magazine
Says she wants to look that way
But her hair isn't straight
her body isn't fake And she's always felt overweight

Well little girl fourteen I wish that you could see
That beauty is within your heart
And you were made with such care
your skin your body your hair
Are perfect just the way you are

There could never be a more beautiful you
Don't buy the lies disguises and hoops they make you jump through You were made to fill a purpose that only you could do
So there could never be a more beautiful you

Little girl twenty-one the things that you've already done Anything to get ahead
And you say you've got a man but he's got another plan
Only wants what you will do instead

Well little girl twenty-one you never thought that this would come You starve yourself to play the part
But I can promise you there's a man whose love is true
And he'll treat you like the jewel that you are

Chorus
So turn around you're not too far
To back away be who you are
To change your path go another way
It's not too late you can be saved

If you feel depressed with past regrets
The shameful nights hope to forgets
Can disappear they can all be washed away
By the one who's strong can right your wrongs

Can rid your fears dry all your tears
And change the way you look at this big world
He will take your dark distorted view
And with his light he will show you truth
And again you'll see through the eyes of a little girl

~by Jonny Diaz
courtesy of klove.com

Smoothies: A Healthy Breakfast Idea (from SouthBeachDiet.com)

Tired of eggs and oatmeal for breakfast? Take a break from traditional morning meals and prepare a healthy, delicious smoothie. A smoothie is a blended beverage that is typically made with milk and/or yogurt and flavorings — and also fruit (if you’re on Phase 2 of the South Beach Diet). Smoothies are so easy to prepare they’re a great option if you’re pressed for time.
How to Prepare a Smoothie at Home
When preparing a smoothie at home, use a food processor or blender, which will give this tasty beverage a thick, milkshake-like consistency. There are a variety of ingredients you can use in your smoothie, depending on the Phase of the diet you’re on. Here are some basic guidelines:
If you’re on Phase 1, you can enjoy …

• Fat-free (skim) or 1% milk
• Nonfat or low-fat plain yogurt, including nonfat (0%) Greek yogurt
• Natural peanut butter (choose a brand with no more than 1 g of sugar per serving)
• Silken tofu
• Nuts or flaxseed
• Sugar-free chocolate syrup
• No-sugar-added chocolate powder
• Vanilla or almond extract
• Granular sugar substitute

If you’re on Phase 2 or 3, you can enjoy …
All of the above, plus:

• Fresh or frozen fruit, such as blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, peaches, and bananas

How to Choose a Healthy Store-Bought Smoothie
While it’s best to prepare your smoothies at home (because you know they’ll contain only the healthiest ingredients), you can purchase smoothies in chain stores or grocery stores too, as long as you check the list of ingredients first. Be aware that some smoothie brands contain canned fruit with added sugars, sugary syrups, full-fat yogurt, whole milk, and/or ice cream, which may derail your weight-loss efforts.
Whether you prepare a smoothie at home or buy one, stick to a serving of 8 ounces — anything larger can affect your blood sugar and create cravings.

The Scoop on Sugar Substitutes (from SouthBeachDiet.com)

The challenge of following any healthy eating plan is not feeling that you’re being deprived of your favorite foods — including sweets. While the South Beach Diet suggests you eliminate sugar and sugary products on Phase 1 (because they cause swings in blood sugar, which may lead to cravings) and avoid them except for the occasional treat on Phase 1, the good news is there are sugar substitutes that you can enjoy on all Phases. Unlike regular sugar, sugar substitutes are calorie-free, and consuming them does not lead to swings in blood-sugar levels. So, if you're in the mood for something sweet, you can happily have a treat (like a rich-tasting, no-sugar-added Fudgsicle) made with a sugar substitute.
Here's a look at some common sweeteners.

• Sucralose: At 600 times sweeter than table sugar, sucralose is the sweetest of all artificial sweeteners. It’s used to produce low- or no-calorie frozen and gelatin desserts, beverages, and gum. In addition to being heat stable, sucralose has the advantage of measuring like sugar, so it's a good substitute for sugar in baked goods. There are more than 110 studies on sucralose that verify it's safe for consumers.
• Aspartame: Aspartame is 200 times sweeter than sugar, and it has a wide variety of uses — from sweetening whole-grain cereals (Phase 2) to sweetening cold beverages like iced tea. Manufacturers use aspartame in chewing gum, beverages, and desserts. Since aspartame loses some of its sweetness during extreme heat exposure, it's best to cook or bake with it only using recipes that have been specifically designed by aspartame manufacturers. Aspartame is the most extensively researched sugar substitute on the market, so consumers can be confident that it's safe. However, certain people, including those with the rare metabolic disease phenylketonuria (PKU), pregnant women, and those with advanced liver disease, are urged to avoid it.
• Saccharin: Frequently found in baked goods and diet soda, saccharin is the sugar substitute with the longest history. Saccharin, which is several hundred times sweeter than sugar, is heat stable, so it's an acceptable choice for cooking and baking. It's also commonly consumed as a sweetener for coffee and tea. While there has been concern over a possible link between saccharin and stomach cancer, this suspicion has not been proven in scientific studies.
• Acesulfame K: Acesulfame K, also known as acesulfame potassium, was approved by the FDA in 1988. It's 200 times sweeter than sugar, and manufacturers often use it in combination with aspartame in candies, baked goods, beverages, and frozen desserts. At home, you can use acesulfame K in both hot and cold beverages. More than 90 studies involving the use of acesulfame K document its safety.
• Sugar alcohols: Sugar alcohols provide sweetness and texture similar to sugar, but they contain fewer calories and they don't impact blood-sugar levels. You can identify the many different sugar alcohols available by looking in the ingredient list for words ending in "ol," such as mannitol and sorbitol. The main concern with sugar alcohols is the laxative effect they can produce. Some people are more sensitive to this effect than others, so take note of your reaction to foods that contain sugar alcohols. The limit on Sweet Treats (75 to 100 calories daily) should also help reduce any unpleasant side effects

What to Eat After a Workout (from SouthBeachDiet.com)

Whatever Phase of the diet you’re on, exercise is essential for achieving and maintaining your weight loss. Snacking after exercise allows you to recover lost energy and prepare for the next activity in your day. Research suggests that the best post-workout snack is a combination of protein and good carbohydrates.
The amount you eat will depend on the length and intensity of your workout. If you’re doing 20 minutes of interval or core training, for example as Dr. Arthur Agatston recommends in his book The South Beach Diet Supercharged, then you probably won’t need to refuel. But for those who participate in sustained high-intensity workouts, a snack can be essential.
If you’re on Phase 1, have fat-free or low-fat plain yogurt, natural peanut butter, a two-ounce container of hummus, a little reduced-fat cheese, or a slice or two of a lean deli meat with some veggies. On Phase 2 you can have the same, plus a slice of whole-wheat bread or a whole-wheat pita.

Just Keep Swimming...Part 2

So, the weather has turned ever so slightly warmer and I am going to Wilmington to visit my Bestie this week AND I bought a coconut scented air freshener for my car...Yup, it's official~I've got the beach bug! As a follow-up to my post last week, "Just Keep Swimming, Just Keep Swimming", I want to show you what I just bought!

What a cute suit! Now if I could only drop the rest of this weight and get a tan...

Reunited and It Feels So Good...

Oh no! I was just checking my email and I came across a link to a website that our Class of 2001 officers have set up for our 10 year high school reunion!!! I wanted to be down to a size 10 when I make my appearance in late September, but I just weighed myself and I'm still at 212 and I'm back up to my 16's. Ugh!!! Boy, do I have my work cut out for me!

Well, looks like it's time to start my 10 YEAR REUNION COUNTDOWN!!!

T-minus: 208 days!!! Yikes...

Depression and Diet

Are depression and diet related? Can a junk food diet increase your risk of depression?

from Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D.

Depression and diet may be related. Some preliminary research suggests that having a poor diet can make you more vulnerable to depression. Researchers in Britain looked at depression and diet in over 3,000 middle-aged office workers over the course of five years. They found that people who ate a junk food diet — one that was high in processed meat, chocolates, sweet desserts, fried food, refined cereals and high-fat dairy products — were more likely to report symptoms of depression.
The good news is that the people who ate a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and fish were less likely to report being depressed. These findings are in line with other research that has found that healthy diets can protect against disease. For example, studies show that people who follow the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables and fish, and limits meat and dairy products, have lower rates of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.
More research needs to be done on the connection between depression and diet. In the meantime, you might want to eat your veggies and cut back on the junk food.

Also, check out:

Caffeine and depression: Is there a link?

Vitamin B-12 and depression: Are they related?

"Weird Al" Yankovic - Fat

LOL Happy Friday!

6 Rules of Good Nutrition (from MensHealth.com "Eat This Not That" site)

Per Dave Zinczenko via Twitter:

LOSE WEIGHT ALL DAY: It's easy, when you know these 6 secrets of good nutrition:

6 Rules of Good Nutrition

Happy Eating! :-x

Just Keep Swimming...Just Keep Swimming...

If you're like me, you hate swimsuit season with the same passsion that you love chocolate. Here are some flattering picks for cute swimwear and cover-ups that will make you dread summer a little less:

JCPenney Bisou Bisou pink Tankini

Suit Yourself! Tropical Tankini & Hip Hider Skirtini Set

 

Women's Mix & Match Boyshort Bottoms

Merona® Women's Polka-Dot Print Bandeau Shirred One Piece Swimsuit - Red/White

Merona® Women's Empire Waist Knit Coverup - White

Women's Smocked Jersey Tube Dresses

The Week's Weather: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Good: Set Clock Foward One Hour on March 13th! An hour more of sunlight in the afternoons...yay!

Bad: We miss an hour of sleep :( Also, it's only forcasted to rain on the days I'm off work!

Weather Channel 10-Day Forecast

The Ugly: I'm not liking this weekend forecast at all -->

Chance of walking this weekend: 20%

Staying Alive...Staying Alive

Gotta keep my diet "Staying Alive"!!! Day 4 in a row with no exercise! :( Does walking around the grocery store count?

Weight: still afraid to weigh myself
Exercise: none walking around grocery store (hehe)

Breakfast: Atkins Meal Replacement Bar; 2 cups regular coffee with creamer and Splenda
Snack: Special K protein snack bar, water
Lunch: Deli Creations ham and cheese sandwich, diet coke
Snack: Special K granola bar, water
Dinner: Golden Grahams cereal with almond milk

Conclusion: Need more veggies, less chocolate, more exercise, less carbs!







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Talk is Cheap, But Food Ain't

I am an avid coupon clipper and I am always looking through newspapers, magazines, junk mail, and on the web to find coupons and discounts. Today, I went grocery shopping and I stocked up on "diet food", even though I also found a coupon for Golden Grahams, so that's what I'm eating for supper tonight. But as I said before, I'm not perfect :)

Here are links to get coupons...It's worth checking out~I bought $108 worth of groceries at Harris Teeter for $70 and paid $62 for $79 worth of groceries at Target!

DealTaker.com

Target Coupons


 Happy Shopping!

How to Lead a Healthy Lifestyle (from SouthBeachDiet.com)

The number of people suffering from obesity in the United States has reached epidemic proportions and the occurrence of related ailments, including prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease, has increased as well. In an effort to spread awareness about making smart food choices and developing healthy eating habits, the American Dietetic Association (ADA) recognizes March as National Nutrition Month. Two critical steps in leading a healthy lifestyle are to follow a healthy eating plan and to exercise regularly, so you’re off to a good start with the South Beach Diet.
But remember, the South Beach Diet is about far more than just achieving your weight-loss goals. As you make the diet your lifestyle, you’ll also improve your health and energy and renew your confidence. That said, it’s always good to reflect on what it takes to get there. Here are 5 guidelines that fit right in with our South Beach Diet philosophy. Take a look:

1. Stick to a healthy eating plan. The South Beach Diet is all about incorporating more healthy foods into your diet without sacrificing taste. With the daily release of new and often-conflicting studies telling you what’s good for you and what’s not, it’s important to follow a realistic healthy eating plan that has stood the test of time. The South Beach Diet already has.
2. Try new recipes to keep your diet fresh and exciting. Food boredom can often derail your weight-loss efforts. Experimenting with recipes and ingredients you haven’t tried before will keep mealtime interesting and make sticking to the diet easier and more enjoyable. For easy Meal Plans and more than 1,000 recipe ideas, check out SouthBeachDiet.com.
3. Eat in moderation, but don’t deprive yourself. It’s important to think about portion size at mealtime, but if you get too caught up with “rules” you can set yourself up for failure. One of the benefits of the South Beach Diet is that you can enjoy healthy meals without having to count or measure, whether it’s calories, fat grams, carbohydrates, or anything else. Moreover, if you include a mid-morning and mid-afternoon snack and the occasional dessert, as is encouraged on the South Beach Diet, you’ll feel satisfied all day long.
4. Pursue an exercise plan that you can maintain. Getting regular exercise should be fun. Consider adding a new activity like yoga, Pilates, swimming, or Latin or belly dancing to your routine. Then sign up for classes at a local Y or gym. Or try interval walking outdoors in your neighborhood. Dr. Arthur Agatston, creator of the South Beach Diet, provides an interval-walking program in his book The South Beach Diet Supercharged. Whatever exercise plan you decide to undertake, be sure to create a schedule that you can stick to and that will allow you to work out at least 20 minutes a day.
5. Seek out the right support. Look to your friends and family for encouragement. They may want to join you as you embark on your journey to a healthier life, but even if they don’t actively participate, they can still offer support. If friends or family aren't available, you can find a new friend to follow the plan with you on the South Beach Diet Message Boards. Not a member? Join today!