Sweets and Skinny Jeans

Beauty Detox

2011-08-21T20:20:00.003-04:00

I've been reading a book that has completely changed my life. Its called "The Beauty Detox Solution." The author, Kimberly Snyder focuses on helping readers understand the importance of a plant-based diet to increase digestion, lose weight, increase energy, and be the healthiest you can be!

However, its not just about increasing the amount of fruits and vegetables in your diet.
Its much more than that...

This lady obviously knows what shes talking about!

Look at how great her skin looks!

Here are some key principles:
1. Beauty Food Pairings:
      a. Only eat animal protein (chicken, fish, beef) with vegetables
      b. Do not mix animal protein and starch (ex: sweet potatoes, rice, etc.)
      c. Fruit should only be eaten on its own (30 minutes away from meals)

2. Cut out wheat and dairy (slow metabolism and cause inflammation in the body)

3. Don't drink liquids with meals (this diminishes your digestive enzymes)

4. Start the morning with a glowing green smoothie
         This is the main focus of her program and is what she considers to be essential to any diet.

Glowing Green smoothie (Blend and drink!)
Ingredients:1 1/2 cups water
1 head organic romaine lettuce, chopped
3-4 stalks organic celery
1/2 head of a large bunch or 3/4 of a small bunch of spinach
1 organic apple, cored and chopped
1 organic pear, cored and chopped
1 organic banana
Juice of 1/2 fresh organic lemon

Enjoy!

Guilt-free indulgences!

2011-07-27T13:43:00.007-04:00

We all know I am always on the look out for super healthy/low calorie desserts and treats that will keep my in my skinny jeans. Recently, I was sent a product that I am officially in love with. I have no trouble admitting that yes, I am in love with an ice cream; an ice cream that is so so so creamy and delicious.

The product? ARCTIC ZERO.

Now, I admit, I have been a fan of Arctic Zero for a while. But, with some new flavors out there, I figured this would be a perfect time to do a review and let me tell you why...

This ice cream is so low calorie that you can eat the ENTIRE PINT for 150 calories, 16 grams of protein, and 8 grams of fiber. Lets be honest, how can you beat that? Plus, they're gluten-free and perfect for those with lactose problems! I can vouch for this statement, that these products will not bother you if you have a dairy problem!

The people at Arctic Zero were nice enough to send me EVERY single one of their delicious flavors.

The flavors include:

Pumpkin (MY FAVORITE)

Cookies and cream

Chocolate

Chocolate peanut butter

Vanilla maple (MY FAVORITE)

Coffee (MY FAVORITE)

Strawberry
Mint chocolate cookie (MY FAVORITE)

OK fine, so I pretty much like them all...

I have heard people complain that their stuff is on the icy side, but to be honest, if you microwave them for about 20 seconds, its not icy at all! In fact, its quite creamy! If I can eat an entire pint without feeling guilty, I'm sorry, but I'm going to do it. I don't care if its a little "icy."

Their newest products, the ice cream bars, were just as good as the pints! This was the first time I ever tried them, and I am so lucky that I did! The chocolate coding was absolutely delicious and they did not taste low calorie at all. Each bar weighs in at only 85 calories! ARE YOU KIDDING ME? The flavors ranged from vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and orange cream! My favorites? The orange and the vanilla! YUM.

My advice to you? GO ARCTIC. and never have to throw out your skinny jeans AGAIN.

Follow them on twitter!

Have you tried Arctic Zero?
What are your favorite flavors

The best PROTEIN COOKIE I have ever had!

2011-07-16T16:26:00.003-04:00

I know its been a while! After graduating and figuring out where I'm going with my life, I am happy to say I am here to stay and back in the blogging world! To celebrate, I created for all of youuuu a high protein cookie that by no means TASTES HEALTHY.

I may be bias or crazy, but honestly, this is the best cookie I have ever had that contains any form of protein powder. Now, listen, to make this cookie please only use sunwarrior. I attempted this cookie with other forms of protein powders, and sunwarrior is BY FAR your best bet!! This cookie is chewy, moist, and it tastes, according to my mom, somewhere in between an oatmeal cookie and a teddy graham! I promise you, after you make this, you will be officially ADDICTED.

You will need: Recipe makes 1 serving-
280 calories, 20 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber, HUGE fullness factor.

1 scoop sunwarrior protein
40 grams oat flour (~a little less than 1/3 cup)
1/4 cup almond milk
1 tbsp light butter
lots of cinnamon
1 tsp baking powder + 1 tsp baking soda
2 packets stevia
1 tsp honey
1 tsp of vanilla extract
1 sprinkle of salt

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine all ingredients. Form into a cookie and spread as thick or thin on a cookie sheet (THIS COOKIE IS GINORMOUS for the great stats it packs). Sprinkle on top with loads of antioxidant-packed cinnamon and cook for about 12-14 minutes!

ENJOY!

I want to PUMP-kin you UP.

2011-04-21T17:12:00.005-04:00

Just because its getting warmer, doesn't mean we have to put away the pumpkin people. Pumpkin is an ingredient that should be enjoyed at all times! Why?

1. Its packed with anti-oxidants (beta carotene)
2. Low calorie

3. High Fiber

4. PREVENTS WRINKLES (my personal number one reason I eat it so often)

Here is a delicious Pumpkin spice muffin recipe adapted from Bethenny Frankel.

You will need: Makes 8 LARGE muffins: 110 calories each!

1.5 cups oats (put in food processor to make into a flour)

1 can pumpkin

1 egg white or 1/4 cup egg beaters

1 tbsp maple syrup + 2 tbsp granulated sugar
3 packets stevia (or 2 tbsp maple syrup/honey)
1/2 cup 2% greek yogurt
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp salt

Mix all ingredients. Put in a 400 degree oven for 25-30 minutes. Enjoy!

Im Back!

2011-04-12T12:18:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone! Its so good to be back---and done with my thesis! I have a lot of great post ideas! For now, here is a delicious recipe that got me through my "procrastination cravings." In my world, a procrastination craving is a craving for food that only occurs when you DON'T want to do work. Haha. I am sure all of you can relate!

In the midst of all my researching, I came up with a delicious chocolaty brownie that's vegan and pretty much raw!

You will need: Makes 1 brownie (~235 calories)
1 scoop chocolate Vega protein (in my opinion you need to use this!)
1 tbsp chia seeds
2 tbsp almond milk + 1 tbsp water (you may need to add more or less depending on desired consistency)
1/2 tbsp almond butter
1 packet stevia
1/2 tsp honey

Mix all. Roll into a ball and then smush into a brownie. Put into freezer for about 30 minutes.

Unfortunately, I ate it too soon to take a picture. But trust me on this one. IT IS DELICIOUS!

Be back!

2011-03-18T11:01:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I just wanted to apologize for not posting. I am in the middle of writing my senior thesis in psychology and have not had a lot of time! I will be back in about a week and a half when it is all finished--with lots of new and exciting posts! If you have any post requests, leave them beloww!

Im going vegan and raw people...

2011-03-10T08:46:00.001-05:00

As you all know I have been reading the Crazy Sexy Diet. Reading this book really opened my eyes to the benefits of a plant-based diet. I've really noticed that eating a lot of foods has not been good for my skin. I want to do this cleanse not just for weight loss, but to reset my body and heal it. Its more important right now for me to get rid of my constant sugar cravings, my bad skin, and feeling bloated all the time. Im striving here for outer and inner beauty!

For the next 10 days, I am setting up a challenge. I will go about 50% raw, 50% vegan. What does this mean? I will eat the following:

Raw fruits and vegetables
Vega protein shakes (65% raw)
Max 1.5 cups cooked grains a day (quinoa, oat bran, brown rice)
Max 1/4 cup almond butter a day
Beans and legumes-1/2-3/4 cup a day
Green juices
Raw protein bars
An occasional piece of fish (easier to digest)

I will post my daily meals as much as I can so everyone can see how this goes. I would love if anyone wanted to do this with me--its a great way to reset cravings and help your body repair itself!

Crazy Sexy Diet!

2011-03-02T20:30:00.001-05:00

I recently strarted reading the new Crazy Sexy Diet Book and I am IN LOVE. This book is so informative and it is packed with the truth about the typical American diet. Lets just say after reading this book, I am going to really think twice about what I eat! My next few posts will be recipes from the new book-stay tuned!

Top 15 Crazy Sexy Diet Tips
1. Get back to nature and back to the garden – preferably the organic garden – when affordable – when not, try to choose fruits and veggies that are less sprayed. You can find a Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides at foodnews.org. There are over 80,000 chemicals in our world today, eating them and putting them on our bodies is a dangerous proposition.

2. Create an anti-inflammatory diet and lifestyle. Learn about pH, the acid/alkaline balance, and say goodbye to the SAD, acidic diet in favor of alkaline raw organic veggies, sprouts, green drinks, green smoothies, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, love and oxygen.

3. Make juice not war. Green smoothies are great too. My favorite juicer is the Breville Ikon, and the best blender is the Vitamix. Instead of your morning cup of Joe, (or nightly cup of booze) try filling your day with fresh vegetable juice.

4. Drink lots of clean, purified water.

5. Decrease the amount of animal products you consume (especially dairy products) and move towards more of a plant-based diet.

6. Refined sugars and processed starches are the devil – dump them. If it’s made in a lab it takes a lab to digest. If it has a shelf life longer than you, don’t eat it. Choose low glycemic foods as much as possible.

7. Shake your booty. Your lymph system, which carries away waste, needs you! Unlike your heart, it doesn’t have a pump. Aerobics is the pump. Brisk walking is the pump. Yoga is the pump.

8. Give your colon a regular spring-cleaning. That’s right, flood your body with alkalinity and flush it of toxins. As the good stuff goes in the bad stuff should come out – on a regular basis.

9. Use natural skincare products. Your skin is your largest organ and what you put on it you literally drink in. Everything you consume either gets assimilated or eliminated. Chemical creams and perfumes tax your body big time.

10. Stress also creates acidity, so turn down the volume on chaos and turn up the joy factor up. Find and regularly commit to activities that help you bring it down a notch. Some ideas: meditation, gratitude journaling, guided relaxation or visualization CD’s, nature.

11. Snooze. Snooze. Snooze. Optimal hours: 11-7am.

12. Chew. Your stomach does not have teeth.

13. And stop eating late so that when you snooze, your body can focus on repair instead of digestion.

14. Set boundaries so that you have the physical and emotional time to take care of yourself – it’s not selfish, it’s self-preserving.

15. Make time for fun, for love, for laughter!

Winner!

2011-02-25T15:44:00.001-05:00

The winner of the Fiber Gourmet Pasta Giveaway is.... #3! (I promise I used the random generator, I just have no idea how to paste it on here!)

Alycia at Fit and Fresh!
How have I never heard of this brand before?! The Italian in me is ashamed.
My favorite way to make pasta is ai olio with a ton of veggies and topped with a metric ton of parmesan. Love <3

Alycia, please email me at sweetsandskinnyjeans@gmail.com with mailing info!

For those of you who did not win, I will be doing another one very soon, PROMISE! =)

Pasta Giveaway!!

2011-02-21T10:18:00.002-05:00

As you all know, I am ALWAYS on the look out for low-cal delicious brands that satisfy my cravings. My newest obsession? FIBER GOURMET.

I was introduced to this company by a friend of mine. Ever since, I've been completely obsessed. Fiber gourmet offers about a dozen different products ranging from cakes (coffee and brownies), pasta, lasagna, crackers, and mac & cheese. These products not only taste delicious, but are packed with fiber (average of 12-18 per item), are lower in calories, and are not filled with any junk or preservatives!

My favorite items? The coffee cakes which are 90 calories a piece and pack 12 grams of fiber. My second fave? The mac and cheese which packs only 160 calories and has 18 grams of fiber, PER SERVING. Can we just talk about how the average serving of mac & cheese packs about twice that?!

Fiber Gourmet was kind enough to send me crackers, which I ate already, I am sorry. I ate them too fast to even take a picture... The good news though? They also sent me pasta for a lucky reader!

If you win, you will receive a large pack of spinach fettuchine and light rotini!!
You have until Thursday night at 10:00 p.m. to enter--A winner will be annouced Friday morning!

To enter, all you have to do is leave me a comment about your favorite way to make pasta!

PEANUT BUTTER COOKIE DOUGH. Need I say more?

2011-02-17T09:02:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, something BIG happened to me while I was going through my daily routine of checking out my favorite blogs. When I came across Gracie's page I was introduced to a recipe that will be a part of my daily diet for the REST OF MY LIFE. What is it?

Source

Peanut butter-Cookie dough hummus! Yeah, I know it sounds kinda weird. But its delicious! I admit it doesn't taste completely like cookie dough, but it is packed with fiber and protein and does taste similar to cookie dough! Hey, I'll take it! Plus, you can eat it for any meal--since its high in nutrition!

You will need: recipe makes 1 serving
1/2 cup chickpeas or garbanzo beans (the same thing--google told me so).
1 tbsp agave nectar or 1 tsp agave + 1 packet stevia
1.5 tbsp chocolate chips
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1.5 tsp peanut butter

~270 calories (10 grams protein, 7 grams fiber)

Mmmm chocolate, for your FACE!

2011-02-15T08:56:00.003-05:00

Every girl loves chocolate, including myself. What's SO GREAT about chocolate is that it has so many benefits for your health, especially your skin. Here is an excuse to rub chocolate ALL OVER YOUR FACE. The best part? ITS CALORIE-FREE (well, only if you don't consume it!)

You will need: recipe serves one face.
2 tbsp cocoa
1 tbsp honey

1 tbsp oats

1 egg white

1 tbsp water (optional: if its already pretty liquidy, skip!)

Mix all and rub onto face gently in a circular motion. Leave on for 10-15 minutes or until your sudden chocolate craving becomes UNBEARABLE. Gently clean off with warm water.

Why these ingredients?

The cocoa= fights free radicals and helps prevent aging

The honey= fights sun damage (its an antioxidant) and it moisturizes skin deep in its layers
The oats=is a natural exfoliant so it nourishes and soothes the skin
The egg whites= help support and boost collagen in the skin (what does this mean? It fights wrinkles baby!)

Antioxidant Smoothie!

2011-02-10T08:34:00.001-05:00

Any time I have an excuse to eat chocolate, I am all OVER it. Dark chocolate is packed with something called flavonoids, which help to fight inflammation in the body and have been found to be fighters of cancer.

Here is a recipe for a dark chocolate smoothie PACKED with heart and skin healthy antioxidants.

You will need: Makes 1 serving
1 cup almond milk

1/2 banana

1 tbsp raw cacao (highest in antioxidants)

1 tbsp agave nectar (natural sweetness)
1 cup ice

Total cal: 170 calories of GOODNESS.

Blend and drink up to give you skin a boost of health! Stay tuned tomorrow for a healthy chocolate recipe for your FACEEEE!!

Flax Banana Muffins!

2011-02-01T14:29:00.006-05:00

Flax banana muffins: A way to get a serving of fruit and bring on a poo...sorry, but its the truth.

You will need: (makes about 6-8 muffins)

1 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup oats
5 packets stevia + 1 tbsp agave nectar (or 1/4 + 1tbsp agave nectar)

2.5 mashed bananas
1/2 cup almond milk
2 tbsp flaxseed
1/2 cup 0% Greek yogurt

1 tsp banana extract (you can use vanilla)

1 tsp baking powder + 1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt

1. Combine all ingredients (I'm not the kinda girl to tell you to seperate wet from dry, because let's be honest, I don't have any patience for that)
2. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they rise.

Enjoy!!

What's your FAVORITE kind of muffin recipe? Any suggestions for me to whip up?

SPICCAYYYYYY

2011-01-25T20:53:00.004-05:00

I love spices. They are a great way to boost flavor without the extra calories and fat. But whats even better? Spices pack a serious NUTRITIONAL AND HEALTH PUNCH.

The winners?

1. Cinnamon: helps to balance blood sugar and prevent type 2 diabetes

2. Cloves: serves as an anti-inflammatory

3. Cumin: helps to prevent cancer

4. Tumeric: is believed to prevent Alzheimer's

5. Garlic: is an antioxidant that serves as a natural antibiotic (who cares if you smell-you gotta do what you gotta do)

While were on the topic of spices, I thought it would be a perfect opportunity to give you a recipe with my FAVORITE SPICE: cinnamon.

My girl Oprah supplied this picture. Yeah, we did some cooking together today.

Cinnamon roasted almonds:

4 cups whole almonds

1/2 cup sugar

1 tsp water

1 egg white
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp cinnamon

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Spray a cooking pan with cooking spray. Beat the egg white and slowly add the 1 tsp of water and beat again until its a little bit frothy. Add almonds to the bowl.

Combine the sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Coat the almonds with the mixture so each one is in a blanket of cinnamoney goodness. Bake for about 45 minutes. ENJOY!

Hydrating COCONUT WATER smoothie!

2011-01-16T13:15:00.001-05:00

I have been obsessed with coconut water lately. If you haven't heard of coconut water before, its basically a nutritious hydration drink that's very beneficial after or during your workout. The benefits?

1. Carry's nutrients and oxygen to cells
2. Raises your metabolism
3. Promotes weight loss
4. Detoxifies and fights viruses

5. Provides your body with potassium: helps reduce water bloat

Here is a drink recipe that I am OBSESSED WITH.

6 oz coconut water

1/2 cucumber

1 cup pineapple (or mango)

1.5-2 packets stevia or 1.5 tbsp agave nectar

1/2 scoop protein powder (I use the Vega one for this since it adds 2 servings of veggies)

Put into blender and blend until THICK AND CREAMY. Its so filling, delicious, and not to mention GOOD FOR YOU.

Chocolate-Blueberry Pudding

2011-01-11T11:22:00.001-05:00

Right now I am following the Tracy Anderson Method fitness regime. I have been a fan of hers for a while. It focuses on dance aerobics and toning to give you a long-lean look, something I am definitely after. A few months ago she put out a 30 day Method book (you can purchase this on amazon) that includes a meal plan along with a step by step guide/fitness dvd on how to achieve that dancer's body that her clients (Gwyneth Paltrow, Courtney Cox, Ashley Greene) have achieved. And, let me tell you this is NO JOKE. In my opinion the fitness is 5x as hard as running on a treadmill or doing any intense fitness dvd. You hit muscles you never knew existed. And the meal plan? This meal plan is packed with nutritious recipes to help you really detoxify your system. One of my favorites? Chocolate Blueberry Pudding. Its sweet and decadent and REALLY satisfies your craving.

You will need:
1 cup blueberries
6 tbsp dark chocolate chips
1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

Melt chocolate chips. Puree blueberries. Mix together and add 1/2 cup water. Let cool to thicken!

The benefits? ITS PACKED with antioxidants!!

A cleanse for BEAUTY!

2011-01-08T17:35:00.002-05:00

As many of you know, I am all about eating for beauty. It helps me stay on track! Here is a free cleanse from nutritionist Keri Glassman (from the 02 diet). This diet focuses on antioxidant rich foods and counts something called an ORAC, which helps to reduce the free-radicals in your system, which cause distress to your body and aging. I am all for this, as focusing too much on calories makes me so so anxious--and not to mention obsessed! This cleanse looks delicious. Its simple and I love that you can ACTUALLY eat. Keri promises that you will lose weight, feel radiant, and help to in a sense "re-set" your body, something I think we could all use after the holidays! Enjoy!!

4-Day O2 Cleanse (taken from her website)

Follow this plan exactly for the next 4 days!
BREAKFAST

Scrambled eggs (1 whole DHA/EPA fortified egg plus 3 egg whites)
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 cup green tea
1 cup water with 1 ounce lemon juice

SNACK

Sliced Granny Smith apple with 1 teaspoon cinnamon

LUNCH

Spinach (cooked or raw); have fun dressing the spinach with flavored vinegars, such as fig, raspberry, or orange!
3 to 4 ounces salmon, mackerel, or halibut (grilled, baked, or broiled) with 1 teaspoon dried spices, such as oregano
8 pecans halves
1 cup water with 1 ounce lemon juice

SNACK

Steamed artichoke or 1/2 cup artichoke hearts in water
1 cup green tea

DINNER

Large romaine lettuce salad with carrots, tomatoes, and red bell peppers; dress with 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil and lemon juice to taste
Steamed asparagus
3 to 4 ounces any lean protein (grilled, baked, or broiled) with spices such as 1 teaspoon oregano
1 cup water with 1 ounce lemon juice
1 cup blueberries

Mozzarella and sun dried tomato PIZZZA!!

2011-01-03T18:25:00.004-05:00

The other night, my family ordered pizza. To be honest, the deliciousness of it never is worth the bloatedness I feel afterwards. Yes, pizza is delicious, but its hard to just have one piece and I would much rather have MORE PIZZA for less calories, rather than less pizza for MORE CALORIES (well, that sentence was confusing, HA).

I came up with a delicious sun dried tomato pizza with fresh mozzarella. The star of the show? The tomatoes.

The benefits? (YES, gives you an excuse to indulge without guilt).

1. Contains vitamin C: which helps to prevent cell damage from free-radicals

2. Contains lycopene: a powerful antioxidant which helps prevent aging

3. Contains vitamin A: Helps with vision

What do you need?

1 low calorie-high fiber tortilla (I like Trader Joe's. They have about 130 calories)

3 sun dried tomatoes (in olive oil: you can find these at most grocery stores)
1/4 cup tomato sauce

1 tsp olive oil
1/2 clove of garlic chopped

1 oz sliced fresh mozzarella

Basil leaves

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Drizzle 1 tsp olive oil on tortilla and spread evenly with a spoon. Spread 1/4 cup tomato sauce on tortilla. Place basil leaves evenly over tortilla. Cut mozzarella thinly and place on tortilla. Top with chopped sundried tomatoes and garlic. Bake for 10 minutes.

Enjoy!

What is your favorite kind of pizza?
Do you ever make your own pizza? If so, whats your fav. kind to make?

A new year cleanse!

2011-01-01T10:38:00.001-05:00

I'm always on the look out for healthy ways to cleanse. Here is a healthy and nutrition approved one, if you want to start your new year on the right foot!

Here are the links that go along with it:
http://ashleykoff.wordpress.com/2009/04/21/to-cleanse/
http://ashleykoff.wordpress.com/2010/01/03/aka-new-year-cleanse/

Enjoy!

An entire pie for less than 900 CALORIES.

2010-12-27T19:54:00.004-05:00

I made it my goal to get through the holidays the same weight that I went in. Success? Yes. The reason why? The following recipe I am about to share with you for pumpkin pie.

A typical piece of pumpkin pie has about 330 calories. But lets be honest, who eat just one slice? Not me. I took a recipe from hungry girl for pumpkin pie and tweaked it a bit to cut the calories by another 200. The grand total for the WHOLE PIE? 880 calories. With nutritional this low and all natural/healthy ingredients, why not eat half the pie (~440 cal.) and not feel guilty about it? Did I do this? Let's just say I've probably eaten about 1 pie in the last day and a half.

You will need:
For the crust:
1.5 cups Fiber cereal (I use Trader Joe's fiber cereal: it packs 8 g. fiber per 2/3 cup + there's no artificial sweeteners)
3 tbsp light butter (I use bummel and brown)
2 tsp cinnamon
1 packet stevia (I use Trader Joe's)

For the filling:

One 15-oz can of canned pumpkin

1/2 can or 3/4 cup fat free-evaporated milk

3/4 cup almond milk

1/2 cup egg whites

2 tbsp pumpkin pie spice

1 tbsp + 2 tsp brown sugar

1 tbsp honey

5 packets stevia

1/4 tsp salt

1. Put fiber one cereal in food processor and blend under very fine.
2. Melt 3 tbsp in microwave for about 20 seconds and add about 2 tbsp water
3. Pour butter/water mixture into crushed fiber cereal
4. Take an 8-9 inch baking pan and flatten cereal to make crust

5. Mix filling ingredients together

6. Pour into crust

7. Bake at 400 degrees for about 40-45 minutes
8. Let sit in fridge until firm (or if you're like me, put it in the freezer so you can eat it a LOT SOONER!).

Enjoy!

Banana Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe!

2010-12-25T21:07:00.002-05:00

I am obsessed with Bethenny Frankel, from the Real Housewives. I admire her commitment to living a balanced lifestyle that is free of the obsession from dieting.

I wanted to share with you all delicious recipe featured on her website. These are some of my favorite healthy cookies! Over the next few days, I will share her tips for living a healthy lifestyle!

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups oat flour
3/4 cup rolled oats
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup raw sugar
1/3 cup chocolate chips
1 teaspoon canola oil
1/3 cup soy milk
1/2 cup banana puree (1 medium-size banana)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

What to do:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Combine all the dry ingredients in a bowl.
3. Combine all the wet ingredients in a separate bowl. Mix the dry and wet ingredients together, until well combined.
4. Use a medium-size ice cream scoop or a large spoon to scoop batter onto a cookie sheet covered with wax paper.
5. Bake for 12 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through cooking, or bake until the edges of the cookies are light brown.

Enjoy!

Burn baby burn BEFORE that bowl of oats!

2010-12-17T17:15:00.007-05:00

I know this post probably looks boring, BUT ITS WORTH THE READ, TRUST ME...

I am always on the lookout for ways to boost my calorie burn throughout the day. I recently came across an article that is so interesting.

Basically, the study divided men into 3 groups:
1. Those who did not exercise for 6 weeks and ate high carb/high fat diet
2. Those who did exercise before breakfast and and ate high carb/ high fat diet (after workout)
3. Those who did exercise after breakfast and ate high carb/ high fat diet (before workout)

All men were consuming about 30% more calories than usual.

The results? Everyone ate the same amount of calories, the only difference was when you worked out (either not at all, before breakfast, or after breakfast).

The group that ate after they worked out, did not gain any weight DESPITE THE INCREASE IN CALORIES. Researchers believed exercising helped to combat the weight gain!

What does this mean for all of us lovely ladies? All we have to do is simply exercise before breakfast to prevent holiday weight gain... My alarm clock is set already!

Stay tuned, my next post will be about my workout routine that I want to introduce you all too!

When do you prefer to exercise?
Do you find working out before breakfast helps you maintain your weight better?

Winner!

2010-12-16T14:59:00.002-05:00

And the winner of the Cookbook is... (For some reason I couldn't get the number generator to come out normal on my page, so exscuse that! haha.)

True Random Number Generator Min: Max: Result: 12

Meg, from Sunshine and Spice! Congrats Meg!
Email me with your address! (sweetsandskinnyjeans@gmail.com)

"This cookbook and that recipe look amazing! Sweeeeet! Thanks for the giveaway! My favorite muffin would have to be cranberry nut!"

Thank you everyone for participating! I will be doing another giveaway around Xmas for some workout clothes!

Recipe and GIVEAWAY!!

2010-12-12T17:59:00.004-05:00

With Christmas drawing near, I thought this would be the perfect time for a giveaway. I was recently contacted my Dr. Axe and his company. He is a wellness physician who recently released a GREAT cookbook called "The Real Food Diet." It features delicious and healthy recipes that provide your body with essential nutrients to allow you to lose weight and nourish your body!

Some recipes in thebook? Green smoothies, delicious pancakes, grainless granola, butternut squash casserole, and a dark chocolate milkshake. Trust me all of these recipes look DELICIOUS and there are almost 230 pages filled with many more! ONE LUCKY READER WILL WIN THIS RECIPE BOOK and you have until Thursday at noon to enter! And just so everyone know's the recipes are as good as he is cute. HA.

I will share a BANANA NUT MUFFIN recipe with you all from the book. You will need:

1 3/4 cup gluten free flour

2/3 cup maple syrup or honey

1 tsp. baking powder and baking soda

1/2 tsp sea salt

1 egg

1/2 c. grapeseed oil

1/2 c. coconut milk

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 c. mashed ripe bananas

3/4 c. dark chocolate chips

1/2 c. pecans or walnuts

Combine all dry ingredients
Combine all wet ingredients
Stir wet ingredients into dry until moistened.
Fold in bananas, chocolate chips, and nuts
Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups
Bake at 350 degrees for 22-25 minutes

To enter this giveaway, you can eo each of the following (each one is a separate entry):

1. Leave a comment about your favorite kind of muffin

2. Add sweetsandskinnyjeans to your blogroll (and comment that you did)
3. Link back to this giveaway (and comment that you did)

Remember, you have until THURSDAY AFTERNOON to enter! Good luckk! =)

Excuses, Excuses!

2010-12-10T20:57:00.003-05:00

I love decadent treats that are healthy. I use this excuse to eat chocolate chips. Hey, there's antioxidants! So, how do I determine what foods make the cut? Well, they have to have under 200 calories, they have to have some staying power, and have to have at least one benefit in terms of health (digestive, beauty, skin, physical health).

I recently discovered attune bars and these things are phenomenal. They come in blueberry vanilla, dark chocolate, mint chocolate, almond milk chocolate, raspberry dark chocolate, and coffee bean dark chocolate. My personal fave is blueberry vanilla. The thing about these bars though is that they really are good for you and you do not need ANY EXCUSE to eat them. Why? Because they're packed with probiotics and fiber (3 grams), which are essential to maintaining good digestive health. This time of year, that's hard to beat especially with overeating and indulging ~~every day~~ holidays. Did I mention they're only about 90 calories!

If that's not enough of an excuse to eat chocolate, check out the benefits:
1. Lowers blood pressure
2. Lowers cholesterol
3. Increases serotonin (mood booster!)
4. Antioxidants: help your skin

What healthy treats do you enjoy?
Have you tried attune bars?

WHIP your haiirrrrr!

2010-12-09T09:39:00.000-05:00

If I could attach music to this post, "Whip your hair" would be playing...so please play this while you read...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymKLymvwD2U

I'm on a beauty kick right now. I am obsessed with natural products to boost my beauty! I figured today I would do a post about hair, since I've already done many about face products!

My hair? I have enough for 4 people.

Again, the power of your diet in maintaining shine and body in your hair is so important. The best foods for your hair?

        1. Healthy Fats (olive oil, fish oil, hemp see oil, flax oil, avocado)
        2. Dark Leafy Greens (vitamins A & C: natural hair conditioner)
        3. Beans: provide your hair with zinc, iron, and biotin (promotes hair growth)
        4. Nuts (selenium: healthy scalp)
        5. Poultry (protein: strong healthy strands)
        6. Eggs (Vitamin B-12: important beauty ingredient)
        7. Carrots (Vitamin A: healthy scalp)

This time of year, I need any motivation I can get to eat healthy. Its hard to pass up cake and pies, so knowing that eating healthy is just going to make me more beautiful, is GREAT MOTIVATION in my opinion.

An at home hair mask:
Option 1:
1/2 cup honey
3 tbsp olive oil
Coat onto hair. Leave on for 30 minutes and cover hair with shower cap. Shampoo and rinse well.

Option 2:
Beat 1 egg white until foamy. Add 6 tbsp yogurt. Apply to hair in small sections. Leave in hair for 15 min. Rinse well.

What are your favorite hair products?
Do you have any homemadede beauty recipes for your hair?

Nutrition for your face!

2010-12-05T20:22:00.005-05:00

I did a post earlier on my birthday about skincare. I think its so important to take care of your face. I'm a true believer in natural products and a healthy diet for your skin. I know there are a lot of products out there that boast about being all natural and healthy for you, but really are just filled with chemicals. To be honest, I don't really want red dye 40 or anything of that nature being absorbed into my skin. Because of this I tend to opt for all natural products.

My recent obsession, as I showed this earlier, was the Juice Beauty Skincare line. With being 100% percent organic, this line is perfect for maintaining that year long glow. People always talk about nourishing your body with healthy nutrients, so why not do the same with your face?

As part of this blog, I am going to tell you honestly the products that I love. If you want something good for you skin, I highy recommend these products. They are completely organic and so good for you.

Here is a picture of their green apple peel, which is perfect for getting rid of dead skin cells, and adding in instant nutrition and glow to your face, and their lipgloss, which is perfect for those who want to give their lips not only a glow, but a boost of good for you ingredients! I highly recommend the color: champagne. Its so so pretty and it smells delicious! Perfect for a subtle, yet glamourous look.

The other products I love?

Everything in their green apple line, especially their serums and face moisturizers.

I highly recommend these products as part of your Christmas list! Why not look great and radiant for the holidays!? Their travel kits are always number 1 on my list every holiday season. They usually run for about 45 dollars at Sephora. Not bad for being ORGANIC!!

Have you tried the Juice Beauty line?

What are your favorite skin-care products?

P.S. Stay tuned for a giveaway soon girls! =)

December Goals

2010-12-03T08:39:00.002-05:00

I feel like I've been disappearing lately, so I wanted to do a quick post!

Its hard to believe its December ALREADY. I feel like it was the summer like an hour ago haha. I wanted to do a post about my goals for this month. I did one for October or November, but I was not too successful. With the new years coming though, I want to look and feel really good, so I am making it my top priority to reach my goals this month. I am determined!

1. Drink one green juice every day

2. Eat more vegetables

3. Lose 5 pounds by Christmas

4. Don't binge! (This is my number one goal.)

5. TREAT MYSELF WELL (a post about this soon!)

Are you setting goals for December?

DARK chocolate CHUNK cherry OATMEAL cookies!

2010-11-29T15:21:00.004-05:00

First off, I apologize to everyone for not posting lately! The end of the semester is coming near and I am bogged down with work! More posts will come, promise!

Over Thanksgiving, I was experimenting with different healthy recipes that I could bring to the table for the holiday's. I came up with a delicious cookie recipe that will satisfy your craving without all the excess calories and guilt!

You will need: ~Makes 10 cookies

1 cup oats

1 cup whole wheat white flour

1/2 cup egg beaters

1/4 cup + 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips

1/4 cup dried cherries

3/4 cup almond milk or 1/2 cup greek yogurt

3 packets stevia

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 tbsp light butter melted

1 tsp vanilla

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp baking powder

Combine all. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown! Enjoy!

Muffin, minus the MUFFIN TOP.

2010-11-23T14:49:00.001-05:00

Recently I was told that I am no longer allergic to wheat, which was the best news I could ever hear. I was sick of giving up all my favorite treats, one of them being Vita muffins. I recently began my love affair with these tasty treats again. Its been a while, so I've definitely been making up for lost time.

Vitalicious was KIND enough to send me a bunch of their delicious treats. I received a huge box today and this was the PERFECT belated birthday gift. I admit when I received the box I threw them all up in the air, as if it money and I am not embarrassed at all to admit that. They come in a bunch of different flavors including cranberry bran, corn muffin (my fav!), double chocolate (YUM), deep chocolate (YUMM), raisin bran, mint chocolate (YUMMM), fudgy peanut butter chip (OMG.). Each is packed with at least 5 grams of fiber, although most are packed with 8 or 9! Tasty and healthy? That's a hard combo to beat.

And besides, I'd rather eat a muffin that WILL NOT give me a muffin top.

Say NO ladies.

Say YES.

Here are some wonderful ways to use your vita muffins!

Whoopie pies
Yogurt Parfaits
Trifle
Cupcakes
Icecream sandwich

Its my BIRTHDAY and I'll cry if I want to...

2010-11-21T00:49:00.001-05:00

That's right. Right now, its officially my birthday. I am 22 today! It's also Meg's so wish her a HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOO!! Usually people are a fan of birthday's, but I am NOT one of them. I hate getting old. In fact, this feeling has always been a part of me on EVERY BIRTHDAY. From age 3 and on, I would cry on every birthday. I hated being sung too. I remember having birthday parties where my mom would have my friends MOUTH the song happy birthday, otherwise I would cry... PATHETIC? I know. What's more pathetic and kinda weird? I started using wrinkle creams at age 16. I figure starting that young would save me money from getting botox.

The only part I like about birthdays obviously is cake. That and presents (number one on that list? obviously face and beauty products!)

Might as well share with you my favorite wrinkle creams. Is it just me, or is this a weird post on someone's birthday?

Juice Beauty Organics (Find this kit at sephora!) It's absolutely amazing

2.
Garnier Nutrisse

Mark face products (I strongly recommend this stuff)

Okay, I totally hope I did not freak anyone out by this post. I am not weird I promise! Have a wonderful weekend everyone! =)

My newest obsession!

2010-11-19T14:02:00.002-05:00

Yes, I know this is my like 100th post about pumpkin. But I just cannot get enough. My newest obession right now (mind you I already had 3 of these today)?

THE PUMPKIN PIE MILKSHAKE

Almond milk, stevia, pumpkin puree, vanilla, pumpkin pie spices, 1/4 cup of vanilla stonyfield organic frozen yogurt= 100 calories of pure DELICIOUSNESS.

And, I just want a give out a shout out to Emily. The girl was nice enough to send me a bunch of coupons for delicious and healthy organic foods! Check her out!

What are your latest food obsessions?

Are you a coupon user?

Workout of the month!

2010-11-15T14:21:00.003-05:00

I am obsessed with home workout DVDs. I have dozens and dozens. Its honestly such a great way to keep you motivated. I'm the kind of person who needs workouts that are challenging and fun. The more options I have and the more times I can switch up my workouts, the easier it is for me to stick with a fitness program. There's only so many times running on a treadmill is exciting.

This month, my obsession is the Tone It Up girls DVD, "One Day Fat Blast." This duo has swept YouTube, which is where I first found them about a year and a half ago. They are in phenomenal shape and theirworkout DVD, pretty much tells you why.

The DVD comes with two workouts, and while each really TONES IT UP, one is focused more on cardio/interval training, the other on toning your abs and butt. I mean, come on, who doesn't want that?

I did this workout again this morning following a 30 min interval run on my treadmill. It was so tough, but by the end I was dripping with sweat.

If you really want a challenge I recommend purchasing this dvd now: http://toneitup.com/

You can check out these lovely ladies on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/user/ToneItUpcom

What are your favorite workout dvds?
What is your favorite form of exercise?

Food and Workout clothes, the essentials of LIFE.

2010-11-14T09:30:00.004-05:00

So yesterday I went to New York City with my family just for fun. I live in CT, so I go there fairly often. I admit, I love the shopping and all the stores, but I just don't like how busy it is. Okay this is kinda weird, but after I leave there, I feel really dirty and I want to put wrinkle creams on, because I feel like all the smoke damages my skin. Haha, a post will follow about that soon! Please don't judge.

After shopping for hours, I was starving so we stopped at Whole foods and got ourselves some lunch. I was so EXCITED because in this one they had a salad bar where they had things like roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa, and all of these vegetables that were not in any oils. I hate when places do that! I just want the damn vegetables plain PEOPLE. I am one of those people who throws EVERYTHING in a salad. I don't care if it mixes or not.

After this, phenomenal lunch, which I did not stop talking about for hours, we went to Forever 21 where I shopped like it was my job. I am OBSESSED with that store. The first place I went? THERE WORKOUT SECTION, which I heard is supposed to be very good. Well, it WAS. I got the cutest workout shorts and shirt for how much? UNDER 10$ people. What a deal!

I am going to do a giveaway soon, probably close to Christmas for these kind of workout clothes, so stay

tuned!

What are your favorite stores to shop at?

Do you ever go to the city?

BANG for your BUCK.

2010-11-11T23:34:00.002-05:00

I find it so fascinating of how much healthy stuff you can eat for the same amount of calories of junk. I always think about this when I'm eating. For instance, I love sugary breakfast things. Pancakes, muffins, donuts. OMG. But the truth is I can have like 3/4 of a muffin, 1 donut, or like 2 pancakes for the same amount of calories as like a bowl of oatmeal, 6 oz. of Greek yogurt, and like 3 egg whites. Isn't that RIDICULOUS. This kind of thinking always comes into my mind when I am making my meal choices. Would I rather have that moment of satisfaction from something sweet or something that will keep me full for hours?

I admit a lot of times I would rather EAT THIS.

Not THAT.

I admit, I struggle with eating what I want without that GUILT that leads to a BINGE, because I already feel like I might as well throw in the towel on my healthy eating that day. Sometimes its hard to accept that imperfections do not mean failures. When I want to "EAT THAT". I should just eat it.

THE END.

Do you ever think about the "eat this, not that" concept?
How do you deal with the the guilt that comes along with treats and indulgences?

A Fall Detox.

2010-11-06T13:21:00.001-04:00

I always here loads of info about detoxing. For weight loss or health reasons, a lot of people go about it in the wrong way. I've read so many articles about how the body naturally detoxes itself. While this is true, in order for your body to really detox itself as much as possible, I feel like you need to really clean up your diet. If you feel sluggish and really bloated, as I feel often, its important to really tune into your body and give it what it needs to "repair itself." Unfortunately, your body doesn't want candy and cookies. I wish it did and I'm not saying you shouldn't enjoy yourself, but truth of the matter is, your body runs best on whole and clean foods. It also digests these foods far more easily. When you digest more easily, your body runs more efficiently, and this allows for much quicker weight loss.

Here are some REASONABLE ways to detoxing your body, that anyone can incorporate into their diet, without going nuts (and by the way make sure you are eating plenty of these, nuts are great source of omega 3's!)

1. Water with lemon: Preferably in the morning. It helps to not only detox your body and well, not to get gross, but it really helps to get your bowels moving, but it kick starts your metabolism.

2. Green juices: Try any combination. Aim to have at least one a day! I am obsessed with these right now. They make you feel so good.

3. Lots of fruits and vegetables. Lets face it. I think anyone of us can increase our fruit/veggie quota for the day. Its what our bodies want.

4. Nuts/Seeds. I've read numerous times over and over that a plant-based diet is what the body most easily digests.

If your interested in some reasonable detoxes or ways to overall improve your health. Check out this book, its an absolute favorite of mine and this woman is a GENIUS. I strongly recommend it. I have learned so much! http://www.amazon.com/You-Are-What-Eat-Change/dp/0452287170/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1289063946&sr=8-1-spell

Here is a great diet by Self Magazine:

http://www.self.com/fooddiet/2010/08/the-healthy-way-to-detox-slideshow#slide=1

Do you ever detox?

If you do, what are your go to foods. What do you try to avoid?

Beautiful.

2010-11-04T16:07:00.001-04:00

This happened to me again this morning, but this time at school. I walked into a bathroom stall, which by the way, there were about 20 in the bathroom, and of all the ones I could of walked in, I chose to go into the stall with this...

Ever since I started this blog I keep running into them. This is the second time in the last 2 months. I love it!

The power of a GREEN JUICE.

2010-11-02T18:40:00.000-04:00

Lately I have been obsessed with making green juices in hopes of helping my digestive system and improving my health. This month I am making it my goal to have a green drink at least for one meal a day.

The reasons?

Juicing eliminates wastes, gives the digestive system a break, and provides your body with essential vitamins and nutrients.

A favorite of mine? (make sure you use organic vegetables/fruits or even local: you don't want to be ingesting pesticides! This is counterproductive)

1 Green Apple

6 Stalks Celery

1/2 Cucumber

1 few squeezes of lemon

Kale

Trick or TREAT (or not).

2010-10-29T07:52:00.003-04:00

I love the feeling of fall that comes around this time of year and I absolutely love Halloween, especially the goodies! However, every year I tend to overdo it on the candy. You name it, I wanna eat it or even dress up as it (Thats me as a red M&M). Butterfinger, reeses, twizzlers, MALT BALLS (weird, I know), milky way, hersheys chocolate bars. Yum!

This year I have a new strategy, especially with my weight loss goals, which I am trying to reach by Christmas. I am cheesy and saying that getting back to my happy weight is my GIFT TO MYSELF!

Instead of binging on candy like I do every year, I am allowing myself about 1/4 of my calorie intake (I eat about 1400 a day) to be devoted to my favorite treats for the next few days. I also have been doing this every day, not with candy, but with grain sweetened dark chocolate chips. Hey, they have antioxidants, so I have an excuse right?! One of these Halloween treats I already had for breakfast. I just couldn't wait! The lucky first pick?

I am NOT embarrassed to admit I already ate 2 fun size ones and its not even 8 o'clock in the morning.

What are your favorite Halloween treats?

Do you ever eat candy or special treats as breakfast on certain holidays?

My fighting shape.

2010-10-27T08:31:00.007-04:00

Halloweeeennn is right around the corner. Do I know what I want to be? No. Do I know what I want to look like, not only for Halloween, but for the rest of my life? Yeah, myself 2 years ago, when I was in the shape that I want to be at again. Don't ask me what I was that year, because it was somewhere between a Britney Spears photo that I liked and a pop star (I am not afraid to admit I love B Spears, regardless of all her "meltdown stage." I just happen to naturally be reaching for the garbage can in this photo, please dont ask. Ha.

Here I am last year, about 15 pounds heavier, which is just about where I am now.

I admit, you can't really tell the difference, but the 15 extra pounds are there and I am at the upper range for weight at my height.

For the last few years I always relied on celebrity shapes and body weights to motivate me. While many of them were healthy and obtainable:

Exhibit A: Britney at her PRIME.

Exhibit B: Lauren Conrad

I've realized that this constant comparison to others was in no means healthy. Sure, I think its important to have a motivation when working out. At least the bodies I looked up to were healthy. But, they drove me in the wrong way. Why couldn't I just accept myself and want to look like myself? Comparing put me in the mindset that I was never good enough, pushing me to work our harder and harder.

This time around I am choosing to get back to a time where I felt the best about myself. Its not a picture of a celebrity and its NOT Britney spears.

its Lisa.

Are there certain celebrity bodies you admire?

When your trying to lose weight, what do you use as your motivation?

Too count or not to count...

2010-10-24T20:09:00.003-04:00

I admit that I have at times become obsessive about calorie counting. I would keep record not only in food journals, but in my head. Throughout the day I would go over how many calories I'd eaten and how many left I could eat, over and over again. This frustration led to binging, overeating, and feeling bad about myself.

For me, binging was a way to free myself from the calorie counting and the anxiety that was around my weight to begin with. Because when I did binge, I didn't care at all about calories or the scale. It was a moment of freedom from the anxiety that was consuming me every moment of every day; anxiety that I did not even need to have to begin with.

I have expressed before how I am in the process of finding my happy weight. I am about 10-15 pounds over where I feel comfortable and feel my healthiest. These days, I still struggle with calorie counting, but I am by no means doing it to the extent to which I was before. Though, its hard for me to give it up especially since I found out that I have hypothyroidism. I'm worried that if I don't count calories, I will just end up gaining weight. In reality, I know that I am capable of eating the right amount of food for me and I know how to eat right. The problem is I just don't trust myself enough to actually do this, so I rely on counting calories to let me know that I am doing it right, rather than my own internal cues.

I guess I would like to know from all of you:
Do you calorie count when your trying to lose weight?
If not, how did you learn to trust yourself?

Another cheesecake fakeout!

2010-10-21T20:57:00.013-04:00

Okay, I admit. I am a little obsessed with cheesecake these days. A couple months ago, I saw a recipe on the Rachel Ray show for a cheesecake made with greek yogurt. Unfortunately, I cannot find it. I have been searching for hours. So I am going off of my own recipe here. Its packed with protein!

This makes 1 cheesecake: I cannot make a whole one because lets be honest, I cannot have this stuff around, I will eat it all. Self control, I know. Too bad I DO NOT HAVE ANY.

Ingredients:
2 tbsp low fat cream cheese

1/2 cup 2% Greek yogurt

2.5 packets Stevia + 1 tsp honey
2 tbsp egg whites

1 keebler graham cracker crust mini (you can find these in the baking section of S&S.)

1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

2 strawberries

What to do:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Combine cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and egg whites.
Mix in honey and stevia, vanilla extract, and salt (just a pinch, please).
Put into graham cracker crust.
Bake for approximately 15 minutes or until firm.
Let sit to cool, then place in refrigerator until a little bit firmer.

Top with sliced strawberries

MMMM. Perfect for thanksgiving! Especially, if you added pumpkin! Or, you could even add some lime to make key lime? I mean idk, but its worth a shot! =)

An EXCUSE to eat a cupcake!

2010-10-20T08:15:00.002-04:00

I always am on the lookout for delicious and decadent desserts that I can make low calorie and healthy. Luckily, I came across one today that is already not only low calorie, but GREAT for your skin, which I am all about. I love sharing recipes with you all! Another plus, its made with PUMPKIN. I mean come on, who in the blogger world is not OBSESSED with this delicious stuff!?!

I give credit for this one, ALL to glamour. I changed it around a bit to make it even more calorie, though!

Ingredients:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons bummel and brown butter (or any low fat kind)
1 egg white
1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
2 tablespoons almond milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract, divided
8 mini muffin liners

For the frosting:
2 tablespoons fat-free cream cheese, at room temperature
2 teaspoon low fat butter
2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons nonfat greek yogurt
Grated zest of 1 lemon

Preparation:
Heat oven to 350°F. Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and salt until combined. Set aside. Mash granulated sugar and butter in another bowl until combined. Stir in egg white, then pumpkin, milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Add dry ingredients; stir until just combined. Pour batter into lined mini muffin cups to three quarters full. Bake until cupcakes spring back to the touch, 10 to 15 minutes.
Beat cream cheese, margarine and confectioners’ sugar in a bowl with a hand mixer until smooth. Add yogurt and remaining 1/2 teaspoon vanilla; beat until combined. When cupcakes cool, frost and garnish with zest.

MMMM pass me some CHEESECAKE.

2010-10-19T08:13:00.002-04:00

I love cheesecake. Its creaminess and sweetness, has always had me. But with an estimated 100 calories per bite, is this moment of happiness really worth it? I mean, yeah. But still.

With the holidays coming, it becomes hard to pass up decadent desserts. You name it, I want to eat it. One of the desserts I love is cheesecake and luckily I came across a low-cal cheesecake recipe that I wanted to share with you. Its adapted from Bethenny Frankel, who I am a HUGE fan of. She loves cheesecake, but like my, hates the calories. So here is a simple cheesecake recipe you can make in under 3 minutes.

What you need:
1/2 cup low fat or fat free ricotta cheese
2 tbsp chocolate chips
1-2 packet stevia or 1 tbsp honey
Vanilla extract

Top with 4 tbsp fat free reddi whip or cool whip

Stir and Eat!

Paula Dean minus the BUTTER.

2010-10-17T14:07:00.001-04:00

I think I have made it quite CLEAR over this blog that I have an obsession for all sweet things, especially peanut butter and chocolate. I also have a love for Paula Deen on the Food Network. She is just adorable. I saw an episode the other day where she made peanut butter cup brownies. Naturally, I decided to come up with my own, one without a stick of butter. Sorry, Paula.

Ingredients:

1 package no pudge brownies
12 tbsp marshmallow fluff
8 pb2 peanut butter cups (~3/4 cup pb2, 1/2 cup chocolate chips)

Cook brownies as directed on box.
Freeze peanut butter cups until hardered (about 10-15 minutes)
Once cooled, cut brownies in 24 squares.
Top brownies with 1 tbsp marshmallow fluff and pb cup and sandwich it with another brownie on top.

Paula's version= a million calories
Lisa's version= 185 calories

ENJOY!

COCONUT milkshakeee!

2010-10-12T18:50:00.004-04:00

Banana coconut milkshakeee! So good! (Makes 1 serving)

1 cup coconut kefir or coconut milk (a good one is by So Delicious)

1/2 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk

2 packets of sugar or 1.5 tbsp honey

1 tbsp low-fat shredded coconut

1/2 banana

cinnamon

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

optional: 1/4 cup low fat icecream (I like vanilla stonyfield yogurt)

Top with fat-free whipped cream, white chocolate, or anything your stomach desires!

Blend
and OBSESS.

Feel the BURN.

2010-10-12T07:50:00.001-04:00

Exercise is crucial to any healthy lifestyle. As someone who grew up playing basketball since I was 10 years old, I have always been active. I crave a workout that makes me sweat. Same goes for when I teach my fitness class. I don't want to waste my students time, so I go intense for a full 60 minutes. I don't always have time for the gym though, so I rely on exercise dvds for the BURN.

My FAVS?

Dance with Julianne

Yoga Meltdown

Tracy Anderson dance cardio

Cathe Friedrich

Mandy Ingber: Yogalosophy

If you want results quick make sure your switching up your routines at least once every few weeks. When your muscles aren't being challenged, you burn less calories and your body will inevitably plateau. To BUST out of this, you need to change it up! If you love to run trying adding intervals where you sprint for 2 minutes and then jog for 1. Be creative!

My favorite treadmill interval workouts can be found here:

http://www.self.com/fitness/2006/05/treadmill-interval-workout or http://www.self.com/fitness/workouts/2009/01/sizzle-calories

Another really great thing to do, especially if you have cardio machines at home is to do a few minutes of running, the elliptical, or the bike and every few minutes add a strength training move or a cardio move like pliometrics (these are great for burning fat in a short period of time). Once you do that move for a minute or two go back to the machine! Some of my favorites are:

http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/workout/cardio/no-treadmill/boost-energy-blast-fat-cardio-workout/

http://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/jumping-workout

What are your favorite workout dvds?

Do you take fitness classes at local gyms?

How do you boost your motivation?

Wish I could be a little bit more like this girl...

2010-10-11T06:54:00.000-04:00

All I have to say is, ISNT THAT HILARIOUS. She is my newfound inspiration for the week. Thats right, every morning, I am going to recite a little tune in my own mirror about everything that is great in my life and ladies...

I expect you to DO THE SAME. Go, GET TO IT!! =)

Books and BUTTAAAA

2010-10-10T06:33:00.002-04:00

So yesterday, I took a trip to Barnes and Noble. I admit I am one of those weirdo's who loves going there on a weekend and just reading a bunch of books on health and fitness. I bought 3 new ones, which I am VERY excited about. One about eating cleanly/healthilyy (Gillean McKeith-she does that BBC show "You are what you eat"), I bought Lauren Conrad's book "Style," (Yes, I do have a fashion sense, but I felt like there were really good tips, plus I really liked the cover haha. I thought it would look cool in my room on a shelf!) I also bought a book about juicing, which has hundreds of recipes!

Lately, I have been really getting into juicing and eating very cleanly, especially with my thyroid all messed up, as a way to repair it naturally (along with my medication). This morning, when I got up, I thought why not GIVE MYSELF A REASON TO JUICE. I am not embarrassed by this at all... Honestly, I think logically this really made sense.

I went into the cabinet and took out a gluten free cookie mix, which is made with brown rice flour and brown sugar (nothing else). Its very healthy and free of wheat, nuts, and soy! At 70 calories for 2 tbsp, this is not bad at all.

So what did I do? I took 6 tbsp of cookie dough mix (3 servings: I am not ashamed) and I added a tbsp of water and 1/2 serving low calorie butter. There are no raw eggs in this. The result?

A DELICIOUS (and I mean DELICIOUS) bowl of cookie dough with only 235 calories, which in my opinion is not BAD AT ALL and its a pretty good size! =)

Well, I'm off now with celery and carrots IN HAND, to the JUICERRR!

What to SAYYY?

2010-10-08T20:47:00.003-04:00

I love love LOVE the blogging world so far. I am so fortunate to have the support of so many people. But, right now, I am stuck. I am confusedddd about where to take Sweets and Skinny Jeans; a confusion that I am ATTEMPTING to demonstrate in this picture. HA.

I love posting recipes for you all, but I want to do more with this blog and I am not sure what to do? I was wondering if I could get ANYONE'S input. Of course, I want to focus on diet/nutrition/fitness, but I want to do something more, I would appreciateee ideas! I don't care what they are, any advice would be veryyyy veryyy helpful! =)

A LOAF you wil LOVE

2010-10-08T14:14:00.003-04:00

I've been getting a couple emails to feature that recipe for the HUGE 250 calorie pumpkin loaf!

So here it is. This badboy is so gigundo and so satisfying. It keeps you full for hours...which, I can't complain about.

What you need: this creates 1

1/2 cup Bob's redmill g-free flour

1/2 cup canned pumpkin

1 tbsp egg whites

2 tbsp almond milk

2 packets stevia, 1 packet truvia
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1.5 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup water

Lots of cinnamon

Mix and put into a mini loaf pan or you can use a muffin tin. On the top of the batter (once placed in pan) drizzle on the batter 1/2 tsp of honey and sprinkle with cinnamon!

Place in oven at 400 degrees for about 20 minutes. Enjoy!

A day in my life of EATING.

2010-10-07T08:45:00.002-04:00

So, many bloggers talk about what they eat throughout the day. I feel like I would bore everyone with this info, but I am going to try it out anyway. It's actually kinda fun! Here is my first attempt at this. Be warned though: THERE IS A LOT OF PUMPKIN and not enough VEGETABLES.

Breakfast:

Greek yogurt with pumpkin, banana extract, and cinnamon

Lunch/Dinner:

Chicken and apple salad with slivered almonds and almond cheese (SO GOOD) and 1/2 cut up sweet potatoes. I also had apple slices (not pictured)

Snacks:

Mini pumpkin loaf (so simple and low cal: got this HUGE thing down to ~250 calories, by using the most simple ingredients: g-free flour, pumpkin, egg white, 1 tsp honey, stevia, a lot of baking powder, and cinnamon). I admit, I eat about 2 of these a day on some days.

Mint chocolate chip protein icecream

(1 banana, vanilla protein powder, choco chips!)

Carrots and hummus

Pretty much, this is what I eat every day. When I get obsessed with foods (i.e. the pumpkin bread, I eat them till I am sick of it!

Do you usually eat the same things very day?

What foods do you always have in your diet?

Feed your FACE LADIES.

2010-10-06T08:57:00.004-04:00

I am obsessed with all things that have to do with beauty and making you look your best. Though makeup is a great way to do this, there are many secrets right in your house. They can be found in YOUR PANTRY. That's right, your pantry has many MANY items and can be your very own personal drugstore. First off, lets talk about fruits and vegetables. Produce is key to hydrating your face and providing it with the essential vitamins and minerals to give your skin that healthy glow. They help your skin exfoliate itself and repair dead skin cells, they help provide collagen, which prevents against aging, and they give you an overall GREAT complexion. I have to admit, I tell myself this, when I feel like passing up that salad for lunch! Whatever works for ya right?

The saying "you are what you eat" is very true. If you give your body nutritious foods, you will see the difference. Fruits and veggies are essential to not only feeling your best, but looking your best. They're low-cal and store powerful vitamins and antioxidants that will ensure that your skin will look the best it ever can!

1. A great book that I absolutely LOVE is called the BEAUTY COOKBOOK, which shows you dozens of recipes you can make for your skin right at home! You can find that here:

2. A great diet you can follow/article you can read can be found here (It's one of my favorites): and here:

3. Want to feed your face right now? All you need... EGG WHITES: These protein pack foods are great for your foods too! You can more than for more than just scrambling.

Egg Whites for an Instant Facelift Method: Mix egg whites together in a small bowl; apply to your face. Let dry and wash off. Verdict: It works! Egg whites contain proline, an amino acid that serves as a building block for collagen. Egg whites contain more proline than most foods we eat, making this facelift a winner.

Another great one? GREEK YOGURT. You can thank fage for this one

Next time you wanna throw that extra scoop of yogurt or forkfull of egg whites away, DON'T. Instead....

Just put it on yo' FACE!

The best cookie on THIS PLANET.

2010-10-05T08:23:00.000-04:00

Since this blog is devoted to mangaging sweet treats, while fitting in your skinny jeans, I thought I would share with you all a gluten-free treat that I love!

The lovely people at Lucy's cookies sent me a box of their FANTASTIC cookies. Because I have a lot of food allergies and being a college student, its hard to find snacks that are both good for you and satisfying, not to mention snacks that won't bring you up a jean size. These cookies are tree nut free, dairy free, and gluten free! Perfect if you ask me. What can you ask for more in a cookie?

I discovered these cookies about a year ago and let me tell you guys, they are DELICIOUS. They come in chocolate chip, cinnamon, sugar cookie (my favorite), and oatmeal! They are crunchy and super sweet and at only 130 calories for 3, you cannot get a better deal! I love them with a cold glass of almond milk. They are also perfect with banana soft serve!

OK, stop reading this post and go out and get some! Order them on their website, find them at Whole Foods, and Stop & Shop!

Maple Sugar Vanilla Cookies!

2010-10-03T18:14:00.001-04:00

Who DOESN'T like sugar cookies? I know I do. I came up with a hearty oatmeal maple vanilla sugar cookie that is low cal. and DELICIOUS. Each weighs in at 85 calories (compared to your average of about 150 cal.)

The ingredients: Makes 8 cookies.

3/4 cup flour

1/4 cup oats
3 tbsp Brummel and Brown Yogurt Butter
2 tbsp honey
1 egg white
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp maple extract
2-3 packets stevia (about 1.5 tsp)
1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp cinnamon

Bake at 375 degrees for about 15 minutes. ENJOY!

Fall Favorites!

2010-10-03T08:52:00.009-04:00

My Foods I cannot live WITHOUT this fall season!

1. Greek Yogurt

2. Healthy Donuts

3. Flavor extracts (A must for every bowl of oats!)

4. Chicken salads with apples!

5. BIG BOWL of oats

6. Pumpkin loaf

7. And of course, PUMPKIN

I give you my friends...my cabinet!

Just kidding, that is my local Stop & Shop. Ha!

8. G-free Peanut butter, banana, greek yogurt stuffed french toast (adopted from this lovely girl!)

9. Low cal reeses!

What are your fall favorite foods?

What is your favorite way to use pumpkin?

Just when you need it the most...

2010-10-02T00:14:00.002-04:00

I just wanted to share with everyone the post-it note I found at a bar in the bathroom. This was the first time I ever saw one! Very excited! =) Not to mention, this came at the perfect time, as I have been feeling really low lately...

Bring it on, REESES.

2010-09-30T17:25:00.005-04:00

Yup, I am challenging another company again today. My competition: REESE'S.

I love peanut butter and I loveeeeee chocolate. I don't like though, just how unhealthy those suckers are. At 210 calories a piece, each weighs in at a hefty price. I wanted to create something just as good, but for almost half the calories. I give you: my version of a Reese's peanut butter cup!

Just an indication of HOW GOOD this is... My mom sampled this and the first thing she said was "THIS TASTES LIKE IT HAS 500 CALORIES!"

p.s. I am sorry that it is not actually a cup. I did not have the patience and honestly, I just wanted to eat the damn thing!

The stats: 1 LARGE peanut butter cup has.... only 140 calories and its 2x the size! That's right ladies!

You need:

3 tbsp PB2

2 tbsp chocolate chips (I use Sunspire organics-70 cal. for 2 tbsp)

Heat chocolate in microwave for about 30 seconds

Add to pb2

Mix, put into a cupcake tin, and FREEZE for ~20 minutes.

ENJOY. I hope I JUST changed your life.

No longer "Running" towards perfection...

2010-09-30T07:02:00.002-04:00

Unfortunately, I found out a few days ago that I had hypothyroidism, which is an under active thyroid which leads to a slow metabolism. The last few months I have been trying endlessly to lose my extra 15 pounds, but have barely even made any progress. Not seeing any movement on the scale and to not understand why, led to constant frustration, which led to binging. I have to admit, yesterday, I had another one of my "overeating days." I feel hopeless about the whole situation, as right now my self-esteem is at its all time lowest, since I am at my heaviest, and just plain uncomfortable.

Binging and feeling guilty about what I eat has always been a problem for me. In fact, this is part of the reason that I am at my heaviest weight ever at this moment. I used do think eating over 1700 calories was a failure. I was too hard on myself. I counted every calorie. I would binge. I'd get frustrated. It was all a cycle. If I didn't work out every day I wasted the day, so why not eat? Might as well start tomorrow.

Yesterday I felt so hopeless that I would ever be able to lose the weight, especially with this not in my control. I guess I just felt bad for myself. I thought "oh well, I guess I'll just have to stay this weight." But, I know this is not the right mindset. This is just going to make it worse. I'm slowly learning that there is no such thing as perfection. My goal is to focus on quality of the foods I eat, since counting calories and worrying about every single thing caused me to put the weight on in the first place, and possibly why my thyroid gave out (over-exercise has been known to cause it).

Working with my body, is something that I need to do rather than against it.

Have you ever had thyroid issues?
Do you ever get down on yourself about overeating?
How do you practice balance in your eating?

Bring it on, PILLSBURY.

2010-09-29T07:57:00.003-04:00

Cookie dough has to be the most delicious thing ever. But everyone knows its not very healthy, UNFORTUNATELY. Seriously, I could bathe in cookie dough (weird, I know, I always say weird stuff like that, but you know what I mean). Its just too too good!

In an effort to eat very cleanly (see goal post below!). I wanted to figure out a way to satisfy my sweet tooth, while putting good things into my body. This morning I made some chocolate-peanut butter flax cookie dough balls! I admit, they are not as good as regular cookie dough (this picture does them no justice!), but hey they're pretty good and for only 95 calories and the nutritional punch they pack, I'll TAKE IT!

Recipe: makes 7

    6 tbsp flaxseed
    2 tbsp peanut butter
    2 tbsp chocolate chips

2 tbsp coconut flour (you can omit if you don't have)

2 tbsp honey

1 tbsp cacao powder

Just mix everything together. Roll into balls. Put in freezer!

Do you strive to eat a very clean diet?

What are your favorite go to healthy foods?

A Recipe that will CHANGE YOUR LIFE.

2010-09-28T06:32:00.016-04:00

Doesn't that picture above make you suddenly feel like you want a piece of chocolate? Okay, let me ask you another question, "would you love a recipe for fudge that had about 200 calories, 7 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein + is filled with antioxidants?" Something chocolately you could eat without GUILT?

I have a HUGE sweet tooth (Hence the name of this blog). I came up with a DELICIOUS chocolate-almond fudge that will satisfy any chocolate craving and I mean ANY.

All you need is:
1. 2- 2.5 Tbsp raw cacao powder (found at WF: see pictures)
2. 1 tbsp + 1 tsp agave nectar or honey
3. 1/2 tbsp almond butter (or any flavored peanut butter such as white chocolate wonderful, maple, dark chocolate dreams)
4. A few sprays 0cal butter spray (you can use regular butter, but the calorie count will be higher. I suggest bummel and brown if you want to add it!)

**if it is still dry, add a bit of water or a tsp of almond milk.

Mix all together. Put in freezer or fridge to harden.

It is pretty dark, so you only need a little satisfy your craving. Top with almond butter or anything else that you like! =)

The power of a GOAL.

2010-09-27T13:36:00.004-04:00

I think everyone can improve in some area of their life, whether it be self esteem or health. For me, its in regards to both of these things. I came across the idea to each week set three for myself in terms of diet, exercise, and self-esteem thanks to Charmaine over at Perfectly Picked. In the past, I have set goals for myself, but became overwhelmed, as sometimes looking too much into the future makes me anxious. I don't know why! I think that its easier for you focus on the moment. So from now on, on every Monday morning. I will write my weekly goals!

My goals this week are to:
1. Eat more vegetables and fruits
2. Only weigh myself once this week
3. Look in the mirror and say one thing I love about myself and my body each morning

Do you set weekly goals for yourself?
Do you practice positive affirmations?

Bring on the salad baby!

2010-09-26T18:35:00.000-04:00

For dinner tonight I made a delicious apple chicken salad with light balsamic vinaigrette and a little goat cheese (its not that bad, weird I know.) I paired this with cut sweet potatoes with 0cal butter spray, cinnamon, and garlic salt. To dip them, I mixed 1 tbsp honey with 2 tbsp mustard (do do do do HONEY MUSTARD)!

Ahh, another meal perfect for fall!
Do you have any favorite fall foods that you like to eat?
What kind of salads do you like to create?

Lemonade!

2010-09-26T09:02:00.000-04:00

I love lemonade. Even when its not the summer. I whip it out as much as I do a can of pumpkin. Thought I love it, I do not love the sugar content. I came up with a 0cal lemonade without any sugar. The ingredients? STEVIA + WATER + ICE + LEMON.

Thats it.

Oats as sweet as CANDY.

2010-09-25T09:48:00.002-04:00

This morning I made butterscotch oats with I came up with the help of Gina at the Fitnessista who helped me discover that there was such a thing as butterscotch extract!

The ingredients?

1/2 cup oats

1 tbsp low-fat butter (I use bummel and brown yogurt butter)

1 tsp butterscotch extract

2 packets stevia or sweetener

1 tbsp butterscotch chips

1 tsp cinnamon

Mix together once oats are cooked and ENJOY!

Mmm!! Definitely perfect for fall.

Holey Donuts!

2010-09-24T07:18:00.009-04:00

Lately, I have been craving something sweet, especially with fall in the air. I came across a doughnut recipe from Health magazine that is so good and to mention a huge investment in the calorie bank. I wanted to share it with all of you! And, lets be honest. Who DOESN'T like donuts?

Here is what you need:
1 cup whole wheat flour

1 cup all purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup low-fat buttermilk (1%)

2 large eggs

1/4 cup honey

2 tablespoons melted butter

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees and lightly coat a doughnut pan

2. Combine flours and next 4 ingredients (through salt) in a large bowl, stirring well with a whisk

3. Combine buttermilk, eggs, honey, butter, and vanilla. Add buttermilk to mixture; whisk just until combined

4. Spoon batter into doughnut pans, filling two-thirds full. Bake in middle of oven until doughnuts spring back when touched and are golden on bottom (about 8 minutes)

If you want to top them with toppings, do it while they are a bit warm, especially if you want to roll them in cinnamon and sugar, which is what I made!

I also know of a website that has low-fat gourmet donuts that are in low in calories and fat. Perfect for a healthy splurge!

Thumbs up for PUMPKIN!

2010-09-23T12:43:00.006-04:00

I went to the grocery store the other day and I am finally happy to report that after about 2 weeks of going to the grocery store pretty much every other day, THERE IS FINALLY PUMPKIN. I took every single can off the shelf and I only left 2. Whoops! After all the time I waited, I feel like I deserve it! These cans are MONSTER size. I love it and I am so excited for it to finally be in my cabinets again. I couldn't contain myself and I already made a pumpkin loaf, which is a recipe from hungrygirl. I substituted g-free flour for wheat and made only half the recipe!

The recipe can be found here

A pint of icecream is HEALTHY?

2010-09-22T13:32:00.009-04:00

I want to share something with all of you today. I am about to let you in a little secret. Today I am eating an ENTIRE pint of ice cream. BUT, this is not any ordinary pint of ice cream. This ice cream is healthy and satisfying. It is gluten free and ALL NATURAL, nothing artificial and I mean NOTHING. It has 150 calories in the ENTIRE PINT. Yes, you heard that right. It also has 8 grams of fiber and 16 grams of protein. About a year ago, I discovered an amazing ice cream called ARCTIC ZERO. This icecream is delicious. It is all natural and made from whey protein and is safe for people like me who are lactose-intolerant. The best part is that you can eat an entireeee pint and not feel bad. Trust me, I have eaten pints of this at a time. It comes in many different flavors including mint cookie, chocolate peanut butter, coffee, vanilla maple, PUMPKIN SPICE (favorite obviously!), and chocolate. I love that I can just sit back and just eat an entire pint, knowing that I am not putting crap into my body. You can purchase it right off of amazon or visit there website for more info http://www.myarcticzero.com/. This stuff seriously changed my life. Its so good and its a perfect postworkout snack! What could be better?! Today I am eating this for my lunch. I just have the craving for something sweet. In the past, I would always plan my meals. When it came time to eat whatever I planned I ate it even if it wasn't truly what I was craving, which ultimately left me unsatisfied and wanting more. Now I try and acknowledge what I'm wanting and live in the moment with my meals. I am finding that I am much less stressed and much more satisfied! Do you ever eat something your craving as a meal even if its not typical meal food? Do you find planning your meals helpful?

GO GO GO!

2010-09-21T07:55:00.011-04:00

I have just been all over the place lately. I have so much to do and not enough time to do it! Tuesday's and Thursday's for me are especially busy. Today I have my classes all morning/afternoon then I go straight to teach my fitness class. I really don't get to sit down and relax until about 9:00! Although, I really like the feeling of being productive. For some reason it just makes me really happy =).

This morning I woke up right at 6:00 a.m. I ate a big bowl of overnight maple and vanilla oats, which are my new obsession. I won't be able to eat again until about 1:30 so I had two servings, which made this bowl GIGUNDO. It keeps me full for hourssss (and I mean HOURS).

For lunch today, which has to be QUICK I am having a salad with Trader Joe's chicken/salsa, which I am pairing with Trader Joe's sweet potato fries (there just sweet potatoes cut up with no seasonings) and carrots and hummus. Trader Joe's is seriously the best store on the planet, I just don't understand how everything could be so cheap yet all natural?!

I am planning on running 3 miles today after my fitness class. Since I've started this blog I am finding that I am more motivated than ever to not only exercise, but practice balance. I have been an athlete all my life, so exercise and staying active is just a part of my lifestyle. However, I tend to overdo it lots of times, burn myself out, and then not do anything for 2 days. During these 1-2 days it is always hard for me to lose the "all or nothing mentality" which makes me overeat. I guess I just feel bad that I'm not exercising and I figure might as well take the whole day off (being healthy). In the past this has really made me frustrated with myself. For the first time, I take days off. I have started listening to my body and I am starting to realize that its okay not to exercise, which has made me ALOT less anxious.

This anxiety is what leads me to overeat in the first place. I've started to learn that I don't even need to have that anxiety in the first place and there are other ways to deal with it, such as going out with friends or watching my favorite t.v. shows, which tonight will be THE BIGGEST LOSER. WOOT WOOT! Off to teach my fitness class. Have a great afternoon everyone! =)

Do you ever have exercise guilt?

What do YOU tell yourself to overcome this? Do you tend to overeat on days you don't exercise?

The Kitchen is NOW Closed.

2010-09-20T13:40:00.010-04:00

This morning I woke up and was really in the mood to exercise which is great because most mornings I do not feel that way. I started off with 50 minutes of cardio.

I'm the kind of person who needs to be entertained while I'm exercising. Sometimes music just doesn't do it for me. I have my treadmill in my house facing my TV which keeps me on the treadmill longer than 5 minutes! I put on one of my favorite shows (Keeping up with the Kardashians) and I am not embarrassed by this, as I also enjoy Full House and Boy Meets World! I ran as fast as I could during the actual show and then during the commercial breaks I ran up and down my stairs until it came back on. This kept me from being bored and I love changing up my workouts- otherwise I'll go nuts!

After working out I enjoyed a HUGE bowl of vanilla maple overnight oats. I would have put pumpkin, but no grocery store around me has any yet!

Now brings me to my next topic: Stress. As a college student I always have a lot of work to do. In the past this stress has led me to the kitchen MULTIPLE times as a way to procrastinate and distract myself from the unnecessary anxiety. I would do homework all day and I would not leave time for any breaks or time for fun. This eventually drove me nuts and this year I made it my TOP priority to practice balance. From now on, I not only make a list with breaks worked in, but I have a cutoff time where I stop doing work. Even if I have to remind myself to RELAX, I know this works for me. At 9:00 p.m. I put everything away. I find that when you give yourself a time where you know you'll stop working, you'll not only be more productive, but less stressed overall, which saves me tons of anxiety and not to mention CALORIES.

How do you deal with stress? Do you tend to eat as a way to procrastinate when you have things to do?

Wheat free pastaaaa

2010-09-19T14:20:00.005-04:00

As someone who is allergic to wheat, eating pasta is just NOT an option. Recently, I discovered polenta, which is so delicious, low cal (just 140 calories for that whole bowl), and not to mention good for you!

Today for lunch I enjoyed polenta with rosemary, squash, and a little but of 0 cal butter spray! It was delicious. Its creamy and tastes like mashed potatoes... mmmm! I suggest you all make this immediately!

Sweatin' in privacy!

2010-09-13T07:29:00.005-04:00

As a fitness instructor, its only natural for me to have a love of working out. Though I love to work out at gyms (I just love the atmosphere of people being healthy with me), I'm all about home gyms. I think that having a gym at home, whether it be a workout space or an actual gym, you can never give yourself that excuse that "you don't have the time to get to the gym." With a gym right in your house, you can't get away with such excuses.

I recently created my own home gym in my house. I love it because I can get up early in the morning, throw on whatever workout clothes I want, and just go into my basement and sweat! I don't have to wake up 20 minutes earlier to get dressed and actually drive there, which can be an absolute hassle!

I'm also a huge fan of workout dvds. Everyone has some sort of space in their house to work out and lets be honest, if you do go to the gym, sometimes the treadmill can be boring and repetitive. So why not switch it up with dvds? Aerobics, pilates, yoga, circuit training. Amazon.com has it all! Go wild! I definitely have...

Pumpkin Love!

2010-09-12T06:27:00.004-04:00

(My breakfast: oats, pumpkin, cinnamon, almond milk, banana extract)

I love love love pumpkin. I think that is hands down, the BEST INVENTION on the planet. Its fall now so what does that mean (even though I have it all the time). Its OFFICIALLY pumpkin season (you can tell how excited I am by cap use). Not only is it DELICIOUS, but its so so so so healthy! Some of this jam packed superfood's benefits include: 1. High in fiber 2. High in beta carotene (great for skin, vision) 3. High in magnesium (great for muscles) 4. Alpha carotene (reverses skin damage) who doesn't want that?! 5. High in carotenoids (boost immunity) The best thing about pumpkin is that is is PACKED with antioxidants, which are so essential in any diet and its perfect for giving your skin a healthy glow and moisture. So next time you whip out a can and you have a bit left, don't waste it. PUT IT ON YOUR FACE! Here is a great recipe for a skin saving face mask: http://www.bellasugar.com/Homemade-Pumpkin-Mask-Recipe-5452160

Just call me Ms. Resourcefulness!

2010-09-08T09:55:00.017-04:00

I am a VERY avid reader of fitness magazines. I love shape, self, fitness, womenshealth, and health magazine. But what comes with this obsession are stack loads of magazines. And, I admit, what you see in the picture above is only about half of what I have accumulated!

For the last few months, these magazines have been taking up ALOT of space in my room. I've read them over and over on the treadmill and during my free time. There's only so many times you can read them, until you start to memorize every article! During the summer, I came up with the great idea to be resourceful with these magazines and rip out the articles that I found very helpful (ones that had to do with beauty, fitness, and nutrition advice).

I also love to cook, so I decided to tear out all the yummy recipes that these articles put in EACH AND EVERY issue. What your left with is a HUGE book of your very own cookbook tailored to your TASTEBUDS.

While this is still an on going project for me, as the articles in the picture above are still magazines I have to go through, I have so far put together a recipe book which outlines healthy breakfast, snacks, lunches, and dinner recipes! It's a great way to not only create delicious healthy meals, but a way to be resourceful with the old magazines laying in your house that you spent your money on!

Sneaks and Sweets

2010-09-07T06:32:00.005-04:00

Last night, I knew I would be in the mood for something sweet in the morning. When I woke up today, was I right! I had some delicious vanilla protein fudge, which I left in the refrigerator last night so that it would be extra fudgy. I paired this with some apple slices. I need to make sure I have extra energy today as I have classes all morning and am teaching my first aerobics class of the semester!

*Recipe

2 scoops vanilla protein powder

2 tsp sweetener

1/2 tbsp almond butter

I am also so pumped because I got a new pair of the Nike Air max sneakers. My other ones are getting worn, so I was in desperate need of a new pair! There great because they absorb the impact when you run and jump, saving your knees!

Skinny Jeans.

2010-09-06T09:51:00.018-04:00

Skinny Jeans. We all have em'. When they fit, we feel great and excited. When they don't we get angry and upset. Right now, I am trying to conquer my skinny jeans for good. As many of you know, I am trying to lose weight. In the past, when I have tried to, I have deprived myself of the foods I loved and exercised intensely for a good period of time. When I would reach my goal weight, I would stop exercising and eat whatever I wanted, only to gain the weight back. I never found that balance. I thought "I don't need to exercise anymore, I'm already where I need to be!"

Well, obviously that didn't work for me, as I am the heaviest I have ever been and not where I want to be physically. I have been working hard at maintaining balance between sweets/desserts and exercise, hence the name of this blog!

Right now, I am not focusing on any number that I want to get to. I am going to stop losing weight when I feel my best and when I fit into my clothes better. One of my greatest motivations right now, is trying to fit into a pair of jeans that I absolutely love and have not been able to wear because they are too tight. I'm hoping to fit into them by my 22nd birthday (middle of November). This gives me a little more than 2 months. I keep telling myself that, that is my birthday gift to myself, to finally feel comfortable physically with myself. For the last year, I haven't felt "good" about where I am, not only physically, but emotionally. The extra weight I have on me is from binging, overexercising, and restricting myself in unhealthy ways. Fitting into these jeans is not just for vanity reasons. Sure I want to look good, but these jeans represent to me health and happiness. This is the first time that I am losing weight in a balanced and healthful way.

When you want to lose weight, do you set goals/dates for yourself?

Do you have a pair of skinny jeans that you gauge your progress in?

Gotta love Trader Joes!

2010-09-03T13:50:00.003-04:00

Trader joes is a great place to get natural organic foods at low prices. Today, I had a delicious lunch, all of which, were complements of Mr. Trader Joe.

I devoured a delicious array of asparagus spears, 4 peices of turkey bacon, and sliced sweet potatoes which I seasoned with garlic salt and 10 sprays of 0 cal. spray butter! So good!

A cookie dough, that won't leave you DOUGHY.

2010-09-03T06:42:00.010-04:00

I've really been into reading a million health blogs these days, and I was fortunate to find a DELICIOUS recipe on http://www.girlmeetshealth.com/, that will change your life. Its a protein cookie dough. All you need to do is: 1. Mix 2 scoops or 1 serving of your favorite protein powder (I use Terra whey: chocolate) 2. Add 1/2-1 tbsp nut butter (such as PB2, almond butter, or regular peanut butter) 3. Add 2 tsp of a sweetener (such as agave or stevia) 4. Add about 1-2 tbsp of water 5. Stir and Devour! Mine is more similar to cake or brownie batter, but if you use vanilla protein powder instead it will be more like a cookie dough. You can even add some chocolate chips! Some of my favorite protein powders are: Terra's Whey (any kind) and Biochem (chocolate fudge and carmel swirl). It really is so delicious. It tastes very similar to a tootsie roll. Its chewy and candy bar like! The chocolate one I make tastes phenomenal and it has 21 grams of protein, only 4 grams of sugar, and 3 grams of fiber! How's that for a COOKIE DOUGH?!?

No Longer "Nuts" About it.

2010-09-01T06:51:00.000-04:00

I recently found out that I have a lot of allergies to food. For a good amount of time I was bloated every time I ate. I would be uncomfortable and frustrated. I decided to have some blood tests done and it was found that I am allergic to wheat, dairy, tree nuts (all nuts except almonds), peanuts, and I have a slight allergy to soy. I am not going to lie its very hard to maneuver my diet around this. But its my health were talking about here. Through my own research, I learned that the foods you most often crave, which for me is pretty much all of the above, are the ones that you are most likely allergic too, which is quite interesting! The point of this post is to remind you again to listen to your body. My body can't handle those foods. When I eat them, my body feels the negative effects and lets me know by making me feel bloated and heavy. Try and focus on the foods that don't make you feel your best. My suggestion is to do an elimination diet, where you take out some of the main culprits, especially wheat and dairy and see how you feel! Let your body tell you!

Listen to your body. It has all the ANSWERS.

2010-08-31T13:06:00.000-04:00

Lately, I have been trying to really listen to my body. In the past when I have tried to lose weight, I would make diet plan after diet plan only to fail. Eventually, after 3 days, I would feel so stressed and restricted that I would binge, ultimately leading to me undoing all the work I had put in. This made me frustrated and angry, only to repeat the cycle, and cause a battle with the scale. These extra 10 pounds I have on my body are from not listening to my body. I struggle with emotional eating, but am starting to see that its possible to overcome. The first step is acknowledging how your feeling at that very moment and asking yourself what you really need. Will food really solve it? Sure, eating something decadent and unhealthy will make you feel good, but long term, that will not last. Wouldn't you rather put something in your body that will keep you fuller longer and make you feel better longer? In my own experience, I am finding that when I have a craving, the best thing for me to do is use alternative strategies. These strategies involve really listening to yourself and your natural tendencies. 1. For me, I know that if I have a box of cookies in the house, I will eat them. Knowing this about myself, I will not bring food into the house that temps me. In the past, I felt like a failure because I couldn't control myself around these foods. But I've begun to accept the fact that I enjoy sweets a little too much. I no longer feel bad about this, but I acknowledge it and move on. This ultimately saves me from binging uncontrollably. 2. Second, I exercise to release endorphins. In the past, I have said to myself, to go exercise when I felt like binging, but really, what would anyone want to do. Eating your favorite foods is much more enjoyable than exercising. I have found that when I exercise first thing in the morning I feel healthy both physically and mentally. It also really helps with my cravings and my appetite. I know how hard I work out in the morning and I don't want to mess that up with cookies. 3. Naturally, I am a very anxiety-ridden person. I get stressed by the littlest things. Often times, when I am the most stressed, I eat to preoccupy myself and to calm me down. In the moment it works GREAT. However, talk to me about 2 hours later, and I feel depressed that I turned to food and now I feel even worse. Lately, I have been craving meditation and yoga, not food. I admit, that its not as great as the piece of cake, but those great feelings last much longer long term. Try really listening to your body. At each meal really ask yourself, what am I hungry for (As Oprah would say!). Don't rely on the clock to tell you when your hungry. If its lunch time and your not hungry, don't feel obligated to eat. Food is not as enjoyable when your not really and truly hungry. For some people, planning meals helps them stay on track, but for me I find that what I may plan to eat for lunch the next day, is not really what I want when it comes time for it. This leaves me not feeling satisfied. Your body knows when your hungry. It tells you what it really wants. You just have to listen. Next time you eat a peice of cake, think hard at your next meal what you want. Most often times it will be something nutritious. If its not, then have that second peice of cake, just dont beat yourself up over it. *I would love to hear if any of you practice eating intuitively. Are there foods that you have trouble around? How do you deal with cravings?

Sweet Sorbet! Oh, how I love you.

2010-08-30T14:37:00.000-04:00

Like many of you out there, I have a huge sweet tooth. When a craving hits for me, its hard for me to get my mind off of it. I love icecream, but as someone who has an allergy to dairy, icecream is no longer an option. Desperate for something sweet that was healthy and nutritious, I came up with a sorbet recipe that is one of the most delicious and satisfying things when you are in desperate need to satisfy a sweet tooth! Lets talk a little bit first about sorbet. In small amounts (about ~1 cup) sorbet is a great treat to have, as it has about 180 calories. However, it barely has any fiber and is often packed with sugar, which personally leaves me craving more. Well, I am about to solve that problem for all you sorbet lovers out there who don't want to give it up. All you need is a food processor. I give you my fruity sorbet. And listen to this. This picture you see to your left, is only 1/2 of a serving. This huge glass has about 85 calories. The entire recipe which makes 2.5 cups has only 170 calories. Regular sorbet has about 400. You also get antioxidants, vitamins, and hydration which helps your skin. Plus, a LOT of fiber, which keeps you fuller longer. There's no junk or anything processed, which in my opinion makes me feel a lot better at the end of the day both physically and mentally. This smoothie has frozen peaches, strawberries, and pineapple (1 cup of each). You can use any fruits you want. The options are endless. All you have to do is: 1. Put the fruits in a food processor (or a blender) 2. Add about 2/3 cup water and any low-cal sweetener ( Iuse stevia) 3. Let it run for about 1 minute and VOILA! You can even experiment with cocoa powder/bananas/and greek yogurt to make a decadent chocolate mousse. Another favorite of mine is doing a raspberry sorbet and adding about 1 tbsp of chocolate chips to make "raspberry chocolate chip icecream." Enjoy!

Finding the best you...

2010-08-29T22:02:00.001-04:00

Hello everyone! Thank you for visiting! As you can see, this blog is dedicated to finding the "best you." This can mean anything for any one of you. For me this is a journey about figuring out what works best for me. I am not by any means overweight, but I am not comfortable with where I am weight wise. I simply do not feel my best! Through my own journey I hope to get to a weight where I feel comfortable, one that is in a healthy range for my 5 ft. 5 frame and one that I can sustain. For me this is about 10-15 pounds. For others of you who choose to visit this blog, you may feel great weight wise, but want to incorporate fitness and healthy eating into your daily lives. Either way, good for you for recognizing its time for a change. I strongly believe that fitness and eating healthy are the keys to success in our lives. When you feel good about yourself, this attitude projects into all areas of your life. So please take this journey with me to finding the best you! Each day I will post recipes, fitness and nutrition advice. I would also love to hear from everyone else, so please feel free to comment below in any post. I look forward to sharing this journey with those who continue to follow and learn how to life a healthy lifestyle, one that is not only sustainable, but suitable for not anyone else, but yourself.