???? BMI Chart?????

 OK, this is a BMI chart! Most of you are familiar with this chart, but many of us might not like what it has to say! Too many people tell me "I'll never be that weight". Some comment "I'm not obese"!!
Remember this is supposed to be a tool, to help you gage where you are, and set goals on where you want to be! Let's get real a weight or a number on a scale is not the only predictor of health!  It is also our diet (food choices) and lifestyle behaviors that determines that!! But the BMI chart does tell us some important facts! If you need to lose weight don't get hung up on the number, just work hard to obtain a healthier weight! Any weight you lose is going to benefit your health! Just losing 10 lbs can impact you health in numerous positive ways! So keep moving forward, continue making positive choices and don't give up! A positive attitude is 50% of your success.
Set some new, obtainable goals for the new year!

• Regular physical activity
• More fruits and Veggies
• Lose 10lbs and keep it off

With these new goals you will see the changes you are looking for!!!

Why GREEK?

GREEK Yogurt! Yes, it's wonderfully delicious! Located right along side the other yogurt, this one boasts a big score in the protein department! And helping you feel fuller longer! Plus it fits well into a healthy diet! With many different flavors to choose from everyone will soon go GREEK!!!

I fell in love with this brand at a conference, when we walked to the nearest food market for a healthy snack! It is rich, creamy and honestly filling! I love to add a few berries for texture! Sure your husband might sigh when he sees it in the fridge and ask, "how much did that cost". But just tell him there is no price tag on his health (or that's what I told mine) ! And it's worth every penny!

Great to use for breakfast or afternoon snack, layer it in a parfait cup with beautiful berries for a healthy dessert!

  Check out more of Chobani recipes at www.Chobani.com/kitchen

Enjoy,

Always Healthy Mom!

New Year, New You?????

Does something magical happen on the first day of the New Year??? 
I know so many people that are frustrated with their health, but unable to make any progress or commitments until 2011! I'm over this, that ship has sailed! Start now!

There is no time like NOW! Think about this logic... I will gorge myself and eat everything unhealthy now, so on January 1st I can start fresh!!! Really? I feel like you would be treading water! Start now, today, so then you will be days ahead of everyone else! The truth is if you are even considering making changes in the new year, something needs to be changed. You are probably better off making a long term commitment instead of a a short term New Years resolution, which has the shelf life of one or two months!! Giving up is like saying that you are better off not making the changes! So stay positive and get prepared to make the changes needed for a healthier you!

Challenge Monday!

 I hope you had a wonderfully healthy holiday! Today I want to focus on stretching out of your comfort zone! My challenge for you today is to sample a NEW fruit or vegetable! You might be asking why and what?

Why: There is a variety of fruits  and vegetables you might not know about or know if you like! The more strategies we have, the better our long term success will look! So have fun go to the store and treat yourself to a healthy new item!!!

What: Did you know they have grapples now?????
 
I bet the kids will have fun with this one! An apple that tastes  like a grape!

One too many!!

OK, I'm not perfect!! Today was so difficult... Wine, Cheese, cookies and more!
                        
                                                    

 I feel like I  ate too much and tomorrow will be more of the same! Does this sound like your story??? If it does have no fear Always Healthy Mom is here... Tomorrow is a new day! Don't put your health on the back burner until the New Year.

                                                        



Start fresh tomorrow with a good filling healthy breakfast! *I suggest a high volume strategy like oatmeal with a fruit to fill you up and get off to a good start! The reality is there is probably left over ham and cheesy potato's in the fridge and you will look at them frequently! Plan out how your day will go... When, what, who and how! The holidays are fun, but they are definitely more challenging!! My plan for tomorrow one less cookie and limit the wine! Enjoy!

Happy, Healthy Holiday!!!
Celebrate and enjoy the love of family and friends! See you Monday!

Lighten up with Sargento!

 One of my favorite low calorie snacks is this 50 calorie  Light Sargento String Cheese! It is great with some fruit or just as you running out the door! Throw one in your lunch for an afternoon snack. Not only do I love these because they are easy to grab, but they taste great too. Too many times I have tried light cheese and been left feeling disappointed! But not with this one, my whole family is in love with Sargento's Light String Cheese!





 I love this next idea for the kids!!!! Great way to get them to eat healthy, make it fun!

This holiday season these “Christmas Tree” shaped cheese snacks will make a festive holiday platter. Made with a combination of natural Colby-Jack and Mild Cheddar cheese for a delicious snack that pairs perfectly with your favorite crackers and fresh fruit.

Coming soon!

Look for more from Always Healthy Mom! Video, Give Aways and Inspiration!!!! Coming Soon!

Healthy Holiday

 Remember the Holiday Season is about celebration , family and friends.It's easy to get caught up in the seasonal food choices and overindulge! How will you feel when you over eat???
Some tips to staying on track this Holiday...

•  eat before you go to any party or celebration
• fill up on fruits and veggies first
• take your own healthy dish to share
• don't drink your calories ( limit alcoholic beverages)
• move away from the kitchen and food display
• plan physical activity into you day!
• put everything you eat on a plate ( don't pick)
• use a smaller plate

I hope these tips will help you and your family have a Healthy Happy Holiday!

Challenge Monday!!!

  Challenge Monday is here again! How is your daily food records and fruits and veggies going?? 

Here is your challenge for this Monday... Try a new type of physical activity today.  Break away from your normal routine and try something new and exciting , even if it's only for 10 min. The more strategies you have the better off you will be long term! Have fun!

Tired Rock Star Mom!

  OK I admit being a Rock Star mom is not always easy! Ummmm... honestly it's never easy! The other night is no exception! It was following a week of earaches, antibiotics, and runny noses, when my middle son came in my room at 3am. I had barely even shut my eyes 3 hours earlier when  his feet hit the side of my bed! "Belly ache" he claimed. Of course I had to question what kind of pain? Silly me, I never learn, go with your gut instinct! Yep sure enough one empty stomach later, all over my floor, it was indeed a belly ache that lasted into the morning hours! I'm sure you have a few stories of your own that sound similar! My point to sharing this is not for sympathy but to bring attention to the fact that we need to support the Rock Star Moms! You know at best what they are going through on a daily or hourly basis. Team together, to raise the happiest, healthiest kids we can! I can't do it alone! So good luck! May all of you get some shut eye tonight!!!

The basics...

 I think eating healthy can sometimes be confusing, like a puzzle missing a few pieces! But I want to try and simplify it for you!

There are four main groups of foods as far as I am concerned (fruits/vegetables,lean proteins,whole grains, and everything else)! To be successful you need fruits and veggies. There is no limit to these low calorie high volume foods! Second lean proteins like chicken, fish, yogurt,veggie burger, even beans.Next whole grains, like brown rice, whole wheat pasta, bread, barley. And everything else category, look at this group on a scale from highest to lowest calories. Focus on the lower calorie items and try to avoid the higher calorie items like chips, ice cream, burgers, fast foods and alcohol. 

So now reflect where the groups of foods fit into your day!

FlatOut GOOD!!!!!

Who would not like these low calorie whole grain options! Coming in at only 90 calories! These ingenious wraps can be versatile ( sandwich, wrap, pizza, power snack and more).  I love to layer mine with hummus and veggies and enjoy a healthy lunch as a mom on the go! I have even tried the pizza with lots of veggies and low fat cheese, talk about a show stopper, you will be the hippest mom in town!  

FlatOut says... The taste everyone loves! Flatout Traditional Flatbreads is where “Better Than Sliced Bread” ® all began! They are low in fat, good source of fiber and of course, perfect for wraps, pinwheels and super easy pizza. Don't forget to grab your at your local store!  With a variety of many flavors to choose from and get this they even come in kids size wraps... whats not to love!! These people get it!!! Always Healthy Mom approved!

CHALLENGE MONDAY!

 You next challenge focus is on fruits and veggies. What do I mean by fruits and veggies??? Fresh, Frozen, or Canned. If you choose canned look for light syrup or choose fruit juice and light or no sodium. When choosing frozen look for steam fresh bags with no sauces. There are so many choices when it comes to fruits and vegetable, have fun go wild! There is a reason this section is always at the front and beginning of the store!

*** Today's challenge eat at least 5 servings of fruits or vegetables.

Remember one whole cup of fruit or vegetable, a medium size whole fruit or vegetable and go wild with salad! Just remember low- calorie dressing and avoid cheese, meats and nuts!

Checking in...

Are you still keeping your food diary? Remember there are many research studies that show people who track their food lose more weight and keep it off longer! So pick up that pen, and start writing for better health!    

Who came up with these ideas?????

       Today my son saw a commercial for a Cotton candy maker for kids! Yes let me say that again a Cotton candy maker for kids! Who comes up with these ideas? I think we need some fresh new ideas in marketing! Some other ones that I scratch my head at are.....

the Dairy Queen blizzard machine for kids                 

• The giant donut cake    

The giant Oreo cake       

• McDonald pretend food for my 18 month old 

So Yes if I want my daughter to pretend she is at a drive-thru this would be the perfect gift!

I might pass on this today!    Love, Always Healthy Mom

Food; health; obesity; No one's a 'victim' of obesity - latimes.com

Food; health; obesity; No one's a 'victim' of obesity - latimes.com

Top this... VITALICIOUS !

When looking to satisfy my sweet tooth, I always turn to VitaTops for a healthy Low-calorie vitalicious treat! Coming in at only 100 calories you can't go wrong! My favorite the double chocolate Vitatop! But with so many flavors everyone will find one that is vitalicious! As a mom on the go there are good to grab and throw in my purse or bag, and when my sweet tooth hits I zap one in the micro for 30 sec or less and top with low cal cool whip and some berries! Here's what they say about them...

VitaTop™ 100 calorie muffin tops have all of the healthy benefits of our delicious VitaMuffin™ - now even more convenient to carry and eat on-the-run. The VitaTop™, a "one-hand" satisfying snack food with the portability of an energy or granola bar, is easy to eat anywhere, anytime. At your desk or on the road, these handy muffin tops fit conveniently into a purse, briefcase, work out bag, backpack and lunchbox. Always healthy Mom gives this a Healthy Family rating! Try one soon, you will love it!

How did Challenge Monday go?
Share with me on my facebook page (alwayshealthymom) !

CHALLENGE MONDAY!

There is something to be said  for a Strong Start to your week! So I present to you your Challenge Monday ! Are you women enough to take it on???

***Today  start a food journal or diary! Write down and track your healthy eating! This is a great tool to keep you on the healthy eating track!

Tip... Remember we need to eat small frequent meals so plan out small meals throughout the day. I suggest every 3-4 hours! Remember focus on the healthy filling foods like fruits and veggies! And eat before you get hungry! Eating when you are hungry usually leads to poor food choices! Have a healthy day!

Some Changes!!!

OK I have decided that "Healthy Reviews" will be every Wednesday! And I'm adding a new idea on Mondays.... A healthy Challenge! Are you "women enough" to take it on?

Letsmove.gov

Check this out for everything you need to know about the concept!
http://www.letsmove.gov/

Your health...How much is it worth?

My question is... How much is your health worth? I know it sounds funny, but seriously! What would you pay or do for your best health? Is there a price to health? Is there time restrains and excuses? Is there forgiveness and break-ups? No, there is not! I want to share with you that there is no time better than the present! Be selfish for you, your health, and your family! When I take the time to eat right I feel confident in my investment, it is priceless. I know I will get more back in the end! So how much are you willing to bet on your health at this very moment??? If it's not a lot, than its a sign to make some positive changes today!

To buy or pack???

To buy or pack ? That is the question! I spent so much time on Sunday at my weekly shopping ritual gathering wonderfully healthy choices for my sons lunch box. The first words that come out of his mouth Monday morning... Can I buy lunch at school? It almost feels as though he ripped my heart out at that very moment! Now don't get me wrong I am not against lunches at school, but I sometimes get frustrated when foot-long hot dogs, burgers and pizza seem like a better choice than my healthy lunch! It is the school lunch choices that I'm not in favor of! What  I am in favor is feeding kids lunch when they might not otherwise have one! So until he asks again... to buy or pack that is the question?

The Skinny Sandwich!

My product review for the week is the Skinny Cow Ice Cream sandwich! Coming in at only 140 calories this little wonder is a surprise to the taste buds! For an evening snack or a hot summer treat you can't go wrong with these! Instead of wreaking a great day with a high calorie ice cream creation from an ice cream joint, pick  these up from your local grocery store!Skinny boasts that their ice cream sandwiches are simply irresistible. Six creamy low-fat flavors, all sandwiched between two delicious, chocolaty wafers. Good for kids and adults, you could win over any party with a package of skinny's ice cream sandwiches! Don't forget to try yours today! Healthy Mom gives this one a healthy rating for her family!

More Veggies Please!

OK I have great news!!!! Last night I went out to dinner with my hubby and friend! A nice evening, great conversation and a healthful meal! First we ordered a healthy app (lettuce wraps) really good, shared with three people! Then ordered  one main dish with a side of steamed veggies!! Again we split everything by three! Our bill  smaller but or bellies full with a least 3 servings of veggies! Definitely the way to go!

• Split an entree
• Order extra veggies
• Look for a healthy soup, salad or app  to get started
• Enjoy the company as much as eating
• Put you fork down and chew
• Pass on ordering dessert
• Look ahead on the website for nutrition info

You will POP over this one!

My next new healthy item is Kim's Magic Pop! These fresh grain snack cakes are great for dipping in hummus yogurt or layering the with the toppings of a taco! Even my one year old loved them, they melt in your mouth ! For only 15 calories per large disk they are a little piece of heaven!Magic-Pop: the crunchy, delicious, grain snack that’s incredibly versatile and magically fresh!  Popped right in your local supermarket, this crisp and tasty treat is perfect right out of the bag, topped with sweet or savory spreads, or paired with soup and salad…the possibilities are endless! Here's what Kim's has to say...You’ll love Kim’s Magic Pop because of the airy, crispy texture and the delicious, filling flavor!

- All Natural
- Vegan
- Only 15 calories
- Low in Carbs & Sodium
- No fat or cholesterol

  This is how it is packaged!  OK all you healthy moms check out there website at Kimsmagicpop.com and enjoy and snack healthy!

Be Thankful

Be thankful today for your family and your health! Enjoy!

Lucky you there is two!

OK because I love reviewing products so much this week you get another Always Healthy Moms pick! So check back after the holiday! You will POP over this one...

Dr. Oz Challenge: The Just 10 Challenge

Dr. Oz Challenge: The Just 10 Challenge

Happy Healthy Thanksgiving!

This holiday does not have to be a belt buster! Remember take advantage of the lean white turkey meat! Also make sure you have plenty of vegetable sides and fruit options to fill you up! How about instead of stuffing have a wholegrain rice dish??? For dessert make sure to think healthy and use pumpkin or fruits like a healthy apple crisp! 
*****Just spray  your dish with a no calorie butter spray and dice apples (3-4cooking apples). Then shake Cinnamon and splenda over them and  add a little vanilla.  Take a few packages of oatmeal (I love maple pecan) and add a little water and applesauce, mix until gooey and crumbly then pour over diced apples. Bake at 350 for about 30-40 minutes or until apples are cooked and topping is crispy. Now enjoy!

Check it out PB2

My first review is this great health invention! I don't know how I would survive without this tastey option! It is powdered peanut butter with only 45 calories per two tablespoons compared to the whopping 190 in regular peanut butter.There is no denying that this is a home run! I can't resist dipping my apples in it and adding it to my chocolate protein shake for a peanut buttery treat! But my new favorite is a flat out 90 cal with PB2 and a sliced banana, it is such a great snack on the go! If chocolate  is  your style you will love the Chocolate PB2 option!  OK all you healthy moms enjoy!  Check them out at Bellplantation.com

All Bell Plantation products are preservative free and contain no artificial sweeteners. And in the case of PB2 and Chocolate PB2, you won’t find 85% of the fat calories of regular peanut butter.

Nutrition facts:

---

PB2: Powdered Peanut Butter
Ingredients: Roasted peanuts, sugar and salt.
Serving size: 2 Tablespoons (12 grams)
Servings per container: 15
Amount per 2 Tablespoon serving (when mixed with water):
Calories: 45
Calories from fat: 13
Value and % Daily Value*
Total fat 1.5 g  3%
Saturated fat 0 g  0%
Trans fat < 0.01 g
Cholesterol < 0.01 mg  0%
Sodium 94 mg  4%
Total carbohydrate 5 g  2%
Dietary fiber 2 g  8%
Sugars 1 g
Protein 5 g
Vitamin A < 1%
Vitamin C 0%
Calcium <1%
Iron 0%

Starting Monday...

Don't forget to check back Monday for Always Healthy Moms first healthy product review! There will be many more to come! You can't miss reading these informative reviews to know what is what in the world of healthy!

ALL AMERICAN COMBO ?!?

Yes this is actually a sign I read for a hamburger joint! It's all American right down to the calorie count! This is just not something we should be shouting from the roof tops with banners and bright colors! We should should be ashamed that we as Americans are known by our high calorie fast food options! Seriously get a new slogan!

Serving one or two?

I went out to breakfast yesterday... have you seen the size  of omelette's today? Either our chickens are laying abnormally large eggs or restaurants need a few tips on portion size!  We need to wake up and start being responsible for what and how much we put in our mouths at one sitting! YES!!! The restaurants will probably continue to keep serving too large portions so we need to wise up! Here's to a box to go!

It's as easy as 1,2,3!

OK I know its seems like whenever we turn around its five o'clock freak out time ! But I have some advise! Sometimes it can seem easier to go thru a drive thru and get whatever is the cheapest and quickest! But you do have some secret weapons, don't forget to use them!
Number one make use of left overs they can double as a second meal, number two the crockpot, this silly invention can make everyones lives easier, and don't forget you can make things up ahead of time and freeze them so they will be ready when you are!!!

What's in that school lunch?

What's in that school lunch?

In the media

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fabclocal.go.com%2Fwtvg%2Fstory%3Fsection%3Dnews%252Fhealth%26id%3D7788885&h=aed92

Coming soon...

Look for reviews of healthy restaurants and healthy products every Monday!

EMOTION!

There is a lot of feeling and emotion that goes along with your health journey! I have had people tell me they have felt guilty and disappointed in themselves when something goes wrong! BUT it's OK to have those feeling, they are natural and part of the process. The big thing is what you do with the emotions and the new behaviors you adopt after them. If you let the emotion get the best of you the you will continue to see failure and weight gain! Let your emotions motivate and empower you! GOOD LUCK!

It's hard work!

No one said this healthy thing was easy it will take hard work on your part. There might be a few occasions when throwing in the towel seems easier! But if you did that then you would be saying that it would be better to go back to your old behaviors and unhealthy ways. Lets face it changing over night will not happen it will take practice and learning from mistakes. No one ever got obese by one cookie... it was the one dozen that came after that!

Would you, should you , could you?

Are you one of those people who looks back and says would of, could of,  should of? Well if you are seize this moment! I always tell people Think TWO steps ahead! Instead of thinking about what you want right now like the huge muffing staring you in the face, think of what you want a week or even a month from now! Don't give in to temporary indulgences when you have concrete goals! You might be tired at the end of the day and might now feel like exercising but what is your decision when you are thinking TWO steps ahead?

Come on all you sexy mamas!

Stop looking in the mirror with regret! Make a healthy change in your day! You're super mom with all your talent and creative powers you can take on any situation! First item of business... YOU! How much time do you focus on your well being? If the answer is none.... Its time to make a plan!  What are yours goals, where do you see yourself in 6 months?

Stop while you're ahead!

My kids each junk, all my husband does is snack, I always get into the ice cream... Does this sound like you? If it does STOP buying it! Really if it's in the house you will eat it, so don't buy it! I told my husband I was not going to buy pop, because when I do all he does  is drink it and the kids will not stop asking for it! Very simple answer, don't buy it! Make a list, and don't go to the store hungry. take some time to menu plan, then you will have a solid plan for the week, with no 5 o'clock freak outs!

Do it for you!

I have heard many reasons for getting healthy! The top  most popular reason is for my kids or family! How about for yourself! When you  model great behaviors to your kids they will understand and learn why it's so important to do the same! Share this gift by example, seriously do it because you deserve it!

A Kind Reminder!

I love the new Toyota Highlander commercial. The young boy says "just because you're a parent doesn't mean you have to be lame!" This is just a kind reminder that we can still be cool. Sometimes we get too caught up in the mommy mode and forget about the woman we aspire to be, and the goals we still want to achieve. Don't give up on those dreams, they can still be a reality! For gosh sake we don't have to be lame!!!!

Fall

There are so many great things about Fall. Some of them are the memories and opportunities to get outside before it's cold! Take a walk with your family to look at the leaves, rake the leaves, clean up the garden, or take a bike ride. Although my husband likes to pack up all the summer goods too soon there is still opportunities for grilling veggies on the grill, and taking a family bike ride! You can even enjoy the orchard by picking your own apples.So open the door and enjoy the fresh air! Get moving today!!!!

Health is Priceless...

Your health health will never mean as much to you as the moment it is no longer in your control! So while it is in your hands 70% anyways "take care of it"!  I have never seen something more precious than  the breath of life and the gift of family!
To my grandmother who I will love a lifetime and more!

Healthy parents, Healthy families!

Life is crazy, and it probably will not slow down any time soon! But take a minute to ask yourself... What will your life look like it if you don't make the changes you  need to? There is never a good time to make the changes but there is no time like the present! The only mistake is being afraid of making one!

Holiday Rush!

Soon many things will be begging for your time... shopping, family, celebration, cleaning , traffic, etc.  Don't forget what your priorities are!!! Remember your health and wellbeing. if we don't take to focus on us, we will be left with the holiday blues! So take action to prevent this... Plan, Prepare and Pull it off! You are super mom you can do it!

Eating Out!

Dinner out can be fun, but challenging! This past weekend I went out to dinner, with a mission. I was going to push the veggies and order healthy! So first I skimmed the menu, but had a good idea of what I would order! Lean protein number #1 then 3 servings of veggies! To pull this off I had to speak up! I had to ask for
a la carte items like steamed veggies with no oil and salad with dressing on the side! Another great tip is to split an entree. My chicken Marsala had 2 pieces of chicken, one for me and one for my husband. We saved money and our waistlines!

TIPS...
1. Split a meal
2. Ask for sauces on the side, hold the oil and butter
3. Order extra veggies and fruits to fill you up
4. Focus on lean proteins and skip the pastas

Truth be told...

OK truth be told I have a messy house! Well not really, but my mom says it is. By the way I also have the best mom a daughter could ask for. She loves my kids like her own, and she helps me out always. So yes my clothes are not always folded, the baskets are overflowing my carpet is probably one sweep behind, the sink could be half full of dirty dishes, but I don't care!!! I am healthy, my kids are well and guess what it will be there tomorrow! I will not loose sleep over these things that could stress me out, I have made my priority's my family and health! The messy house does not matter at the end of the day! Don't stress over the little things focus on the big picture!
PS Thanks mom!

Skill power not Will power!

Someone I know told me it's not about will power its skill power. That is so true! So many people try to rely on will power and strength, inevitably the journey will get tough and we need skill power to be successful. How many years have you learned and practiced your current behaviors, don't expect them to change over night, or for it to be easy! It will not, but when you have the right skills you can do it!!!

Take home message...

Small frequent meals are the best throughout the day, a new study has show when people tend to have a majority of their calories in the evening it could be harder to lose weight. Spread out the calories throughout the day, eat every 3-4 hours! Eat before you get hungry, because when you are hungry you will not be reaching for the right things! Snack healthy!

Who is Healthy Mom?????

OK so who is Healthy Mom?  Hello everyone I am your NEW go to girl for the latest and greatest health info. I am a rock star mom who can help you and your family live the healthy life you dream about! Having 3 kids under the age of 6, a full time career, loving husband and always on the go I have the tips and strategies you need to succeed!  I will help you be the best mom you can be! With the current obesity stats and the increasing  concerns of childhood obesity, we need to take matters in our own hands! I will help you battle the bulge and keep you well informed with everything you need to know about your health! As a Health Educator and Registered Nurse I have inspired many to shed the pounds and take back the life that they deserve to live! Of course it won't always be easy but I am right by your side helping you do this.... If I can do this so can you! Check out my NEW BLOG     http://www.alwayshealthymom.blogspot.com/

Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween! Make sure you have plenty of healthy foods around the house. Plan ahead so the candy will not be a temptation! It takes 5,800 steps to burn off a chocolate candy bar!!!! You can do this!

A Calorie is a Calorie!

Yes, it is true a calorie is a calorie at 8am and at 8pm. Some people ask should you stop eating at a certain time??? My question is what are you eating late at night. For many it is junk foods like chips and ice cream. And that is the problem. It is OK to eat later in the evening. Every evening after dinner I allow myself a snack. With out it I would definitely go crazy and get into the junk foods. But when its planned and I know what I am having and  I can do it!!!! Some ideas... cut up fruit or veggies, low calorie pop corn, I also like a Smart Ones Sundae or a Skinny Cow Ice Cream Treat!

Popcorn Anyone?

I just bought an Air Popper for popcorn. What a healthy snack for me and the family. I also learned about low calorie (zero cal) butter spray and seasoning in the popcorn aisle! Have fun who is bringing the movie?

Is that healthy????

Last night my husband saw a commercial for some Nut Clusters. He asked that is healthy, right??? My response to him or anyone is there are a lot of things that are healthy but do you need them all??? When there are more varieties and choices we tend to take and eat more! Some advise have a routine and try to stick with it! Every morning I try to have the same thing to eat no questions, no decisions at 7am, then snack at 10am . There is a routine I feel comfortable with, and can pull off, no problem!  Does your current routine need some tweaking????

Confetti!

Yes, you read that right! Confetti or the pretty picture you have imaged when you reach that goal weight or jean size!. Guess what there is no confetti, I will tell you honestly you will work , harder than you ever have and you will reach that goal, but there will be no party with confetti and balloons. Health and a healthy weight is not an event but a journey. There is no destination actually when you reach some of your goals you will have to work hard to maintain it, so enjoy the ride, but don't have a fairytale ending in your head just keep moving froward and not back.

Questions?

Do you have a comment or question please post it! I would love to answer any questions you may have!

You fill in the blank...

I have heard too many mothers and women tell me why they cannot succeed, the sooner they figure out that the best plan is to accept what they have, and work with it, instead of fighting against it they will WIN! "The kids are busy, not enough time, I have to work, I have to go to their game, I have to cook them dinner, I HAVE to..." you fill in the blank! What is holding you back? What will your life look like if you don't make the changes that are needed? Instead of stopping when there is an obstacle find a strategy.  If you can succeed through the rough and tough you can succeed!

Calling All Mothers!

I have been doing some research into childhood obesity! Wow, there is a lot to say but first and foremost I want to say I'm on board with the movement to end childhood obesity! Today we are seeing more and more children with adult medical conditions. Sleep apnea, elevated blood pressure and elevated cholesterol to name a few! My advise start at home! Our children are not driving themselves thru the drive thru nor are they packing their own lunches. We ( MOTHERS) are the nutritional gatekeepers! It is our duty and responsibility to be role models and set good healthy behavior examples. It takes a community to raise a child. It is not up to the government,or schools alone, we all need to support each other to put an end to childhood obesity!

Trick~or~Treat!

OK here is a tip for all you moms who throw out all the old Halloween candy around Easter!! There is just way to much candy for their little tummies. Quick tip let them pick a few pieces out then let them take it to a local dentist office who will buy it. They usually sent it over to the troops, no joke my kids each made 10 dollars last year, way better than an old bag of candy in April! Plus you will be less likely to sneak a piece or two in the days and weeks to come! Have fun!!!!

Death by Salad...

I love when people say I ate healthy today, but they ordered a salad topped with bacon, cheese, egg, nuts and way too much unhealthy salad dressing! WOW! Those calories can add up quick... Make sure when ordering your salad to include as many fruits and veggies as you can. Hold the nuts, meat, croutons and cheese and ask for low calorie dressing on the side! A salad can be a great weight loss and healthy tool but if put in the wrong hands a definite belly buster! So go ahead and make changes to your salad your skinny jeans will thank you!

Make it HEALTHY!

Many recipe's have you adding oil and butter, but just leave it out! I have done this to many recipes. Try to  substitute and use Pam non-calorie spray you can cut the calories and really make a healthy dish for your family! It only takes a few minutes but look at the ingredients substitute egg whites for whole eggs, sub applesauce for oil in cookies and breads, spray the pan with Pam instead of using oil to saute! Have fun and enjoy your healthy meal!

~Change~

I heard the term "you must make changes to see changes" this can apply to many things in your life but especially your health and body! There is no time like the present to reclaim your body! Seriously you deserve to take care of yourself and feel the best you can! Having a child or children is hard work and so is the work and changes you need to make to reclaim your body! Many women want a healthier, more fit body but are unwilling to make the changes or take the time to see the changes! If you don't make time now when will you?

Freaky Friday!

Beware it's almost Friday!!!  Plan ahead... do you have plenty of fresh veggies, fruits, and healthy snacks! Most times weekends can be very unstructured and more unhealthy food than we planned. So make sure you have a good solid game plan to get through the weekend without adding inches to your waist line! It can be done with a few great strategies! PLAN, PREPARE and last but not least pull it off, lets face it you are  a mom, you can do anything!! Have a great healthy weekend!

Physical Activity... WHAT!

Physical Activity...Sometimes this can cause anxiety and fear. The thought of going to a gym and pumping iron or worse yet trying to keep up with a treadmill for a hour. But I have great news for you today! Physical activity is moving you body through space, just increasing you daily activity will help you with weight loss and heath management!  If someone told me that I needed to do  30 min a day I would give up, but I can do 3-10min sessions - this is the same thing. Any physical activity you do is better than none!  Many people who only work out for long bouts, work out less than people who do shout bouts... why because people who do short bouts pull this off more times successfully than not! So go for that 10 min walk tomorrow! and enjoy it

I DON'T HAVE TIME!!!! REALLY?

I don't have time to exercise,I don't have time to eat healthy or cook a healthy meal! Do these lines sound familiar to you? If they do please know... you don't have time not to be healthy! As a mom you have my permission to be selfish! Yes you heard me, be selfish, feed yourself breakfast, take a walk!!!! Why? Because you are the role model that your children are looking up to! When you model these great healthy behaviors they will too! One more reason, pretty big... you can't take care of your family if you don't take care of yourself first!!! So go ahead get crazy and  take the time to make sure that you can be the best mom you can be, I dare you!!!!

Tip #1

Never take your kids to the market!!!! There was a reason I was going on Sunday evening by myself!!! Don't know how I forgot, but will never attempt this again! Plan, make a list and go when you can accomplish something after dragging my kids though the store and refereeing a fighting match I had a little less energy to make that healthy meal that seemed so easy this morning! But I pulled it off ! P.S. call ahead Kroger put in my turkey  breast this morning and it was ready when I picked it up. I put on some whole grain rice and cooked some spaghetti squash, also backed a zucchini and yellow squash. Very good! Until tomorrow have a healthy evening!

Good Morning Monday!

Here we go another fun start to the week! Kids are on fall break so change in routine. So much change the pressure was off to get food for lunches, this could be potentially a set up for failure but no need to worry I will hit the local market on my lunch hour or on my way home to pick up the healthy essentials for our meal tonight! OK off to make my breakfast and have a great day!

Stay Tuned

Coming soon . . . . . Everything you need to know to be a Healthy Mom!  Tips and strategies on how to stay healthy and active while balancing your family life!