Monday, November 18, 2013
I'm on Pinterest!
Here is a link to my Pinterest Board for Healthy Eating and Pinned Recipes! I will even post some of my own recipes! Go here for Juicing Inspiration and Healthy, clean, and full of nutrition recipes!
Is That Safe?
Is Juice Fasting Safe?Contrary to popular belief, YES!
I have seen SO many posts, articles, interviews, and even videos on Anti-Juice Fasting and it really frustrates me. I'm gonna take a little time to explain why Juice Fasts are a safe, easy, and healthy way to reboot your body, lose weight, and get in great shape naturally.
- The Length of your Juice Fast has people concerned that it isn't safe.
- The Length of your Juice Fast should not cause concern because, remember, you are providing your body your daily nutrients as long as you are following The System correctly. You should, however, always consult your doctor if you are on any medications that affect your health or if you have been recently been to the hospital or may be pregnant.
- If someone asks you if it is safe to go on a longer Juice Fast past 10 days, don't get caught without saying the right thing. People will always look for a way to talk you out of your journey towards success by masking it with concern and worry or friendly advice. Tell them with confidence: "I am providing my body with a concentrated form of all the nutrients it needs daily to heal, protect, and energize itself. My body is overworked from having to digest my food to obtain its nutrients that it ends up storing it. During my Juice Fast, I am giving it a break to supercharge it, strengthen it, and most of all clean it out. I've done my body a crime, so I'm doing the time"
- A Juice Fast is basically an all liquid diet of your fruits and vegetables and roots, wont that cause an eating disorder?
- I must first ask you this: has any diet you'e tried in the past caused an eating disorder? If the answer is Yes, then you already have health concerns and a Juice Fast may or may not cause your eating disorder to flare up again. Do not attempt unless guided by a counselor and doctor.
- If your answer is No, then you should not be concerned with this. Your body is designed to eat less in certain seasons and eat more in others. You don't really find yourself consuming nearly as much cookies or Thanksgiving-type food in the middle of Summer do you? Humans naturally eat less in warmer seasons; whether it be to fit in the bikini or just because we are more active or simply because our bodies know we don't need to store food. Therefore, it is natural o eat less when you have too much "food" stored in your body.
- I have ready many articles of "doctors concerns" in some fashion and health magazines that try to convince you that you may start having an eating disorder due to the lack of eating during a Juice Fast. Unlike other diets, you can drink as much juice as you want. It's really a Juice FEAST, actually! There is no reason for you to starve yourself as long as your fridge is stocked and your juicer is ready!
- What about the lack of Protein and Grains your body needs?
- Vegetables and Fruits have SO many nutrients that our body not only needs, but can survive on. There are even small amounts of protein and of course plenty of fiber! The image below shows just a handful of vegetables and their nutrients: (Keep in mind, that the less you cook produce, the more nutrients it will have, and that is why Juicing is such a necessity to a healthy, daily diet.)
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Eat Like a Rabbit for Two Days
I'm doing it again! Another Juice Fast, so that means another post on my process and more great info on Juicing! I came across a Juicing Vegetables page on Facebook and I recommend "Liking" the page. They have great inspiration, recipes, and knowledge on the Juicing world. Seriously... Go "Like" them, Now!
All, right, onto what I'm REALLY posting about. I'm here to extend a little bit on the first two days that prepare for you for your Fast. I did a little more research on Eating Raw this time around and found that it can be quite easy, and you don't have to starve yourself. I have discovered that Eating Raw doesn't only mean eating fruits and veggies in their natural form. Did you know there are RAW Brownies? What about Chocolate Pudding? Perhaps you're not willing to try those recipes, but the Salads are very filling (and delicious!) and remember, you can eat as much as you want!
For beginners, eating Raw seems like a boring way of eating. I remember I kept thinking, "How could anyone eat this way all the time?" But as I looked eagerly into the fridge for some sort of idea to appear on the shelves, I thought to myself: "That's it! They eat that way ALL the time! They got it figured out, so I just gotta dig a little deeper."
I grabbed an the container of blueberries and went to work. I found a couple of sites that made it a lot clearer to me. As an Adventurous Chef, I am always ready to learn and to change my way of thinking about food. This list of sites gave me great ideas on how to eat Raw the next time I do Juice Fast Prep Days. Check them out, learn, and then go grocery shopping!
The best way to educate yourself on Eating Raw is to extend your research to YouTube and beyond. Read some articles, look for books or magazines, and if you're lucky enough to have a friend who eats Raw, ask lots of questions! If not, and most of your friends are like mine and eat like regular people do, DON'T ask their opinion on eating Raw and DON'T complain about eating Raw to them. I'm not saying your friends aren't good people to talk to, but why would you ask a Cat what it's like being a Dog? Unless they've done it themselves and were successful at it, they probably are just gonna look at you like you're nuts. (No pun intended.)
Remember that you are doing this FOR YOURSELF to get HEALTHY and surround yourself with inspiration, motivation, and positive company. Push out the negativity, stick to it, and you will be successful!
-Chef Marie C.M.
P.s.- No, eating Sushi doesn't count!
All, right, onto what I'm REALLY posting about. I'm here to extend a little bit on the first two days that prepare for you for your Fast. I did a little more research on Eating Raw this time around and found that it can be quite easy, and you don't have to starve yourself. I have discovered that Eating Raw doesn't only mean eating fruits and veggies in their natural form. Did you know there are RAW Brownies? What about Chocolate Pudding? Perhaps you're not willing to try those recipes, but the Salads are very filling (and delicious!) and remember, you can eat as much as you want!
For beginners, eating Raw seems like a boring way of eating. I remember I kept thinking, "How could anyone eat this way all the time?" But as I looked eagerly into the fridge for some sort of idea to appear on the shelves, I thought to myself: "That's it! They eat that way ALL the time! They got it figured out, so I just gotta dig a little deeper."
I grabbed an the container of blueberries and went to work. I found a couple of sites that made it a lot clearer to me. As an Adventurous Chef, I am always ready to learn and to change my way of thinking about food. This list of sites gave me great ideas on how to eat Raw the next time I do Juice Fast Prep Days. Check them out, learn, and then go grocery shopping!
The best way to educate yourself on Eating Raw is to extend your research to YouTube and beyond. Read some articles, look for books or magazines, and if you're lucky enough to have a friend who eats Raw, ask lots of questions! If not, and most of your friends are like mine and eat like regular people do, DON'T ask their opinion on eating Raw and DON'T complain about eating Raw to them. I'm not saying your friends aren't good people to talk to, but why would you ask a Cat what it's like being a Dog? Unless they've done it themselves and were successful at it, they probably are just gonna look at you like you're nuts. (No pun intended.)
Remember that you are doing this FOR YOURSELF to get HEALTHY and surround yourself with inspiration, motivation, and positive company. Push out the negativity, stick to it, and you will be successful!
-Chef Marie C.M.
P.s.- No, eating Sushi doesn't count!
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
Juicing FAQ's
I get plenty of Juicing questions that range from starting to finishing to the benefits and I think posting some of those questions here may help some people out. Please keep in mind that I am NOT a doctor and that these Q & A's are simply based on personal experience, research, and what other highly experienced juicers and nutritionists have taught me. (I know it's long, but it's ALL worth the great info!)
Starting:
How do I get started?
What do I do to prepare myself for it?
Follow the SYSTEM! I can't tell you how many times I get frustrated because someone didn't start a Fast correctly and they're so much more miserable then they need to be! Second, tell everybody even if they think you're crazy; its better to tell someone who is a health nut, so they can hold you accountable. If you want, you can tell me and I will do my best to motivate you, keep you on track, and help you in any way I can.
Regular or Organic?
The best way to get ALL of the benefits of a Fast is to go all organic. I know for some areas, this may be difficult or too expensive to do, but it really is the best option. Plus, why would you go through all this and still put chemicals in your body? If you must use regular produce, I haven't had a problem with doing so. I did my first Fast all organic and my second regular. I cleansed faster, felt better sooner, and lost more with organic than I did regular. That's gotta tell you something!
What about protein?
You are welcome to blend your juice with protein powder or creatine. I would make a "smoothie" before and after a workout to help boost my recovery. However, what many don't know is that produce has protein! Sure it's not a steak, but it will sustain your body during a cleanse. Your body will thank you for the break from having to break down and sort hard, tough muscle and just recieve its nutrients in a liquid form.
Will this create an eating disorder?
I recently read an article about the danger of Juice Fasts creating eating disorders. It was a scary read! I discovered that most of the people who had this result either didn't do the SYSTEM correctly, were waaaaaay too hard on themselves, or already had a minor eating disorder before starting. If you do it right, your stomach will shrink and your cravings will lessen, but you shouldn't have an eating disorder. Speak with your doctor first and above all, go easy on yourself during this fast! You're body is already going through enough, don't add worry and stress to it.
During the Fast:What should I expect my first time?
It's gonna be a doozy! It's different with everyone, but at least for one day, you'll feel terrible. I'll be honest and blunt, I felt like I was going to kill my roommates just because they were eating regular food. Some people feel terrible the entire time, while others feel better by the second day. Just remember to juice whenever your hungry or thirsty and drink plenty of water. I mean that! Shoot for about a gallon. The picture gives one example, but I figured that if you have about 2 cups every two hours, you'll get all your water in for the day. Lastly, you will use the bathroom, a lot! Whether it's solid or liquid, be near one at least for the first 48 hours. (However, I've also had people "hold onto" their solids for three or four days!)
What do I do if I feel like crap?
Just like a massage or sauna, your body has been exposed to toxins releasing themselves from your inner walls. Drinking water and staying away from caffeine and absolutely NO alcohol will help you purge all that out rather quickly. Decaf tea is fine, but NO water additives like those TO-GO powders you put in water bottles. I like adding lemon juice to my water and you'd surprised how sweet that tastes!
I'm Starving! Why?
You may also feel hunger pains. Keep in mind that your body isn't used to a liquid based diet and will work over time and faster to process the "food" you consumed. It will eventually slow down and you'll begin to feel less and less hungry. Also, water will help you stay full. I would drink a glass of water every time you drink a glass of juice. Another point I can't stress enough, is to juice when you're hungry. That means you can juice unlimited times a day. When was the last time you saw ANY diet say that?
Should I workout?
Of course! Just take it slow. Don't start a Fast and start something like P90X or Insanity too. This fast is a time for your body to heal itself from all the damage you've done to it from the inside. Doing yoga, pilates, hula hooping, walking, swimming, and biking are all good exercises to do that still work your muscles, but won't "kill you." After a Fast, you are welcome to begin you regular routine again, but again, consult your doc, research, or contact a nutritionist for the best advice on how to keep your body clean and workout safely.
I'm not losing as much weight anymore! WTF?
->I can't tell you how many times I've heard this one! My first question back is: Are you doing this to get healthy or just to lose weight? If you are doing it just to lose weight, stop. Why? You will be disappointed afterwards when you go back to eating regularly and gain everything back. You are better off doing other diets that will give you the same results in weight loss and popping a colon cleanse pill along the way. at least you won't feel hungry.->If that ISN'T your issue and you are doing this to change your way of eating to a better one, my next question is: What is your activity level? If you don't do any sort of movement (like a walk) your body will just purge the toxins and then clean itself gradually dropping a pound here or there.
->That not your issue either? My last answer is that everyone is different and that you will loose a lot of weight the first couple of days because, remember, it's all water, toxins, and waste. Your body will slow down after and drop weight naturally as it sees that it no longer needs to store the food anymore.I don't weigh myself during a Juice Fast becuase I don't like to get all excited and then fizzle out. If I like what I see in the mirror, the scale won't matter. And you WILL notice it and so will the mirror!
Ending:
What's the minimum I should go?
I recommend going at least 5 days of actual juicing. This does NOT include the prep days and the going off a Fast days. During that time, you will have cleansed your colon and a good chunk of your body's toxins. However, any of the weight you lost during those days is the result of the toxins, other "backed up" things in your body, and water weight. If you go back to eating like you did before, you will yoyo back with more weight. On the flip side, you could go as long as you want as long as you have prepared yourself correctly, consulted your doctor, and you are following the SYSTEM. Remember, it's just juiced produce! I do recommend not going any longer than 60 days if you're doing a lifestyle change, have a significant amount of weight to lose, and plan on eating regular food again. Remember, do your research and what is healthy and safe for you.
How do I end?Any length of time you go on a Juice Fast, you should slowly incorporate other foods and solids back in. It's a day by day, patience-trying process, but worth it! You just did ALL this work and you don't want to shock your body and have it try to process new food too soon. For a regular 10 day fast, it is a 7 day process. The 5 day fast, its a 4 day process. Following this is very important for your body and for yourself. Remember, we did this to get healthy! We want only good things present in our temple.
I didn't lose as much weight as I thought I would, why?
Again, everyone is different and may not lose like their friend. First, STOP comparing yourself to someone else. It's a bad habit; like picking your nose, it's just gross. Second, if you did mostly fruit juices and didn't expore the wonderful world of veggies, you are still consuming fruit sugar and will not lose nearly as much as a balanced juicing diet. Lastly, check your protein powder and creatine. There should be NO sugar additives at all, even if the label says "organic." These chemicals impair weight loss almost as bad as diet sodas. You are only substituting what you used to consume with chemicals. The best way is to CUT BACK, not substitute. Plus, the "extra flavoring" changes the pure taste of juice anyway.
After:
Now What?
EAT RIGHT! I added this picture of comparisons from what you used to eat to what you, hopefully, eat now. Continue to consume what you drank during your Fast, and try to eat like you did when you came off the Fast. Your body will thank you and you will be happy with the results and get more nutrients out of the food you eat.
I don't want to gain all the weight back, what do you recommend I do?
Live and breathe the "Everything in Moderation" rule. Remember when you used to drink a beer every night? Then you didn't have a single one during your Fast, and now you want one? Great! Have one! Have two! But let's keep in mind what that does to your body and what it feels like to have to purge that. Having a few drinks on the weekend, or having a cookie twice a week won't cause you to gain it all back. Even the most in shape people (like The Rock, for example) don't have a drink every night. They understand the importance of the shape their temple needs to be and to respect it. Plus, I'm sure they savor every drop when they do have it, which makes you not take the drink for granted.
Should I (and why) do it again?
Absolutely do it again! I have some friends who do it at the beginning of every season and others that do one every 6 months. (After Christmas and before swimsuit season!) The seasonal juicers are very healthy and are always cleaning out their bodies. Even the every 6 months guys are healthy too and feel better every time they do it. You will be surprised how much toxins exit your body on regular Juice Fasts although you eat healthy. There are still chemicals in the air, water, restaurant foods, and other foods we eat. Remember that "healthy" means "not processed" and not high in fats, carbs, and sugars. Just think of eating healthy as the Fast & days you got "off a Fast" schedule.Will I continue to see benefits after I'm done?
Yes! You're body is like a newly polished motor now and will continue to take in, process, and push out the waste at a very good pace. Just like any machine, it can get worn down, and that's why we take it into the mechanic who fixes it up like a Juice Fast does. You're body is clean and will do so much better now, so take advantage of it, and keep it nice and tighty!
Benefits:
Will I lose weight?
Yes! You will always lose the waste weight, some water weight, and the weight from toxins. After about day 4, you body will start purged unnecessary weight your body has stored.
What else does this do for my body?
There is definitely a colon cleanse, but I personally and others have told me that they have also experienced increased energy, better skin and hair and nails, thinking clearly, better eyesight, disappearance of skin conditions, rashes, or acne, better moods, increased metabolism, better functioning nervous system, catching less or no colds and allergies, cleansed liver and kidneys, smaller stomach and better digestion, better sexual moods, less or no cravings, stay full longer, better breath and teeth, sleeping well, stopped taking or lessened medicine doses, less stress, more confidence, and simply just laughing more.
What was it like for you?
My first time was hard during the first four days. I acted like a total B*tch! But when I saw myself in the mirror on day 7 I was smiling and checking myself out! The second time was easier and "the pain" only lasted til day 3. I was feeling better inside, making better decisions, and had less cravings. I plan on going on another fast very soon and will be happy to blog about it! Oh, and my husband is currently on one, so guys can do it too!
Should I recommend this to friends?
Yes! Refer them to my blog or to contact me on Wizpert and I'll help them get all set up. Share your results and your plans for your future temple and if they do decide to jump on, encourage them, stick with them, and show them some of your own taste juice recipes!
That about wraps it up! If you have a question that isn't listed here, feel free to contact me and ask!
Happy juicing!
-Chef Marie C.M.
The Juice Fast SYSTEM
In other posts, I've mentioned this system. I mostly redirect you to another site or two, but here is the entire system for a regular 10 day juice fast for easy reference. There is no caffeine, sugar, sugar substitutes, water additive packets, or alcohol consumed during a cleanse. This works best with organic produce.
10 Day Juice Fast:
Total days: (20)
- Set up your body with two days of eating raw. This will get your body ready for the cleansing.
2. Eat like a rabbit again.
- Next, start your juice fast. I like starting on Mondays for easy tracking! Plus, I can go grocery shopping over the weekend.
- Juice fruits in the morning, fruit/veg in the afternoon, and veg in the evening. Remember to drink 2 cups of water every 2 hours and you'll stay full.
3. Juice 4. Juice
5. Juice
6. Juice
7. Juice
8. Juice
9. Juice
10. Juice
11. Juice
12. Juice
- Yay! You made it through the tough part! As you continue the next seven days, continue juicing like you were, but now we get to add solids! (Serving = 1 Cup, one apple, a few stalks of celery, or 4 oz. for meat)
14. Juice, 2 servings each of solid fruit and veggie
15. Juice, 2 servings each of solid fruit and veggie, 1 serving of lentils
16. Juice, 2 servings each of solid fruit and veggie, 1 serving of lentils and/or nuts, 1 serving of whole grains
17. Juice, 3 servings each of solid fruit and veggie, 1 serving of lentils and/or nuts, 1 serving of whole grains, 1 serving of fish.
18. Juice, 3 servings each of solid fruit and veggie, 2 serving of lentils and/or nuts, 1 serving of whole grains, 1 serving of fish or chicken.
19. Juice, 4 servings each of solid fruit and veggie, 2 serving of lentils and/or nuts, 2 serving of whole grains, 1 serving of fish, chicken, pork, or beef.
- The last day! Good job! I'm proud of you and so is your body! Pat yourself on the back!
Friday, May 24, 2013
Do the Hula!
I recently came across an article in Self Magazine featuring Kelly Osbourne's weight loss and new life style change. She went through a dramatic change after her mysterious seizure that took place on a recording of Fashion Police. She has lost about 80 pounds by various ways of exercising and by simply changing what she eats at what time of day. I'll briefly go into her changes here, but really, you could just read the Article, its fantastic!The first thing she did, and I'm 100% on board with it, is Hooping. Yes Hula Hooping! Did you know that you could burn up to 500 cal just hula hooping for an hour? Not to mention all the fun tricks you can learn and the arm workout you can do. Let's not forget all the different colors, sizes, weights, and effects hula hoops can have! I personally have purchased a Foam 2.5lb (36") Rainbow Hula Hoop, a 3lb Supa Hoop (48") with the Rain effect, and a 38" light weight LED Rainbow hoop. Take it from me, find out which hoop is the right size and weight for you before purchasing hula hoops. Getting hoops via Amazon or Ebay will help save you some money, but if you can afford the Hoopnotica sets, those are the ones Kelly O. uses, they are pretty good, durable, and come in plenty of varieties.
Another change she made was a very balanced daily diet, like took a really hard look at herself, kind of daily diet. (Again, not a "diet" kind of diet. A "What am I consuming daily and want to consume daily" diet.) She also doesn't completely deprive herself from her guilty pleasure foods. ONCE IN AWHILE isn't bad, but having a doughnut everyday for breakfast is not good for you. That doughnut is now part of your daily diet. If you have a good one on one with yourself, you can start changing that doughnut for a bowl of oatmeal, and now the oatmeal is part of your daily diet and your consuming half the sugar, carbs, and calories!
Weight loss also has to do with the time of day you eat something. Kelly O. told Self that if she craves pizza that day and she's been "good" during the week, she'll have it for breakfast, a salad for lunch, and oatmeal for dinner. Consuming the naughty foods in the morning gives you all day to burn them off. That sounds great, but remember, it's not to be an every day thing and it's okay if you have a late dinner with friends occasionally. Everything in moderation and remember to take responsibility.
Since her recent accomplishment, Kelly O. has inspired many to start out simple and to not beat yourself up. People who have always struggled with weight are switching towards better choices and easier workout routines that are more doable that the feared P90X or Insanity programs. If you can do those, more power to you, but the rest of us need something a little easier. Kelly O. says to start just walk, or do some light yoga, or even pick up a hoop. Whatever you feel like doing, it should be fun and you should be able to accomplish it.
I'll be honest, I never knew how to hoop and I'm still learning, but I won't quit, I find hooping fun to do whether its inside watching tv or outside with my LED at night. I even took on adding a squat to pick up my hoop every time it falls. I encourage you to give it a try if hooping interests you and try to get others involved. Kelly O. and Adam Lambert hoop together, so grab a friend, head to the park, and laugh your way fit!
Hoopers bring their own Sunshine!
-Chef Marie CM
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Diet Plan, Set Up for Failure
I recently came across a post that a very famous celebrity had listed on her FB wall and a friend of mine "liked" it. I took a look at this celebrity's Diet Plan and was very disturbed. (I won't mention the name out of respect, even though I can't stand the celebrity family and their sense on entitlement.)
I thought o myself: "This girl has access to personal chefs and great foods and personal trainers, donuts gotta be good."
I was wrong! I couldn't believe what I was seeing! How could someone with that much cash and be that famous eat that kind of crap and call herself healthy and fit? I call "fake" on that load of crappy foods and her description of healthy weight loss and body. No "diet" that allows you to eat cookies every day is healthy!
I pray that some how and some day she will discover the right way to eat and be healthy and that she gets better. I can't fault her completely, because I'll give her the benefit of the doubt. Maybe, perhaps maybe, she, and her trainers, and chefs, and family, honestly don't know about optimal nutrition.
I thought o myself: "This girl has access to personal chefs and great foods and personal trainers, donuts gotta be good."
I was wrong! I couldn't believe what I was seeing! How could someone with that much cash and be that famous eat that kind of crap and call herself healthy and fit? I call "fake" on that load of crappy foods and her description of healthy weight loss and body. No "diet" that allows you to eat cookies every day is healthy!
I pray that some how and some day she will discover the right way to eat and be healthy and that she gets better. I can't fault her completely, because I'll give her the benefit of the doubt. Maybe, perhaps maybe, she, and her trainers, and chefs, and family, honestly don't know about optimal nutrition.
Weight Loss vs Getting Healthy
I don't talk to everybody I come across that complains about their weight, and there is a good reason too. The general public today is so focused on their weight and yet we keep getting bigger and wider every year.
Why?
Because we LOVE diet fads. I've heard almost everybody say that they hate diets, but they go on them anyway because they don't want the weight. What's happening then? If all these diets say they work, why are we as a community getting fatter?
It's because diets have failure built into them. "But I was successful in my diet! I lost 15 pounds when I was on it! Even though I gained it all back and then some around Christmas time."
My reply: it's because you went "ON" a diet. A diet isn't something you go on and off of. A diet is your day to day eating for month after month, year after year. Not a short term fad, like the mustache obsession or the next hottest boy band among kids and adolescents.
Here's how a diet works: you go on it, eat a certain amount, a certain type of food, exercise, lose weight, fight cravings, maybe cheat, reach goal, then go off they diet, and return to eating they way you did before the diet... And then gain it all back and then some, leaving you five steps back from the two steps you took on the diet.
Now I understand that there are some people who went in diets, were successful, and changed their ways of daily, monthly, an yearly eating to a healthy one and are happy. However, that is not the general public.
Juice Fasting is NOT a diet fad. It's a revolutionizing way to get healthy, restart your systems, stifle cravings, improve your moods, give you energy, cure your ailments, AND then lose weight.
The thing is that Juice Fasting is setting your body up for success on a wholesome diet that gives your body optimum nutrition. Your body will rid itself if excess body fat as it heals itself and then slow down to almost stop when it reaches the balance it requires to function. Of course your weight will fluctuate from season to season because it us natural, but you won't lose because your starving yourself.
So all in all, the reason I don't talk to everyone about Juice Fasting, is because most people are looking for the next diet fad that will allow them to eat whatever they want and then, unfortunately, gain the weight back.
How do I know if some one is serious? They say they want to: "get healthy" or "lose weight and get healthy" or "go off my meds" or "I wish I had more energy" or, my favorite, "Wow you look great! What are you doing?"
Why?
Because we LOVE diet fads. I've heard almost everybody say that they hate diets, but they go on them anyway because they don't want the weight. What's happening then? If all these diets say they work, why are we as a community getting fatter?
It's because diets have failure built into them. "But I was successful in my diet! I lost 15 pounds when I was on it! Even though I gained it all back and then some around Christmas time."
My reply: it's because you went "ON" a diet. A diet isn't something you go on and off of. A diet is your day to day eating for month after month, year after year. Not a short term fad, like the mustache obsession or the next hottest boy band among kids and adolescents.
Here's how a diet works: you go on it, eat a certain amount, a certain type of food, exercise, lose weight, fight cravings, maybe cheat, reach goal, then go off they diet, and return to eating they way you did before the diet... And then gain it all back and then some, leaving you five steps back from the two steps you took on the diet.
Now I understand that there are some people who went in diets, were successful, and changed their ways of daily, monthly, an yearly eating to a healthy one and are happy. However, that is not the general public.
Juice Fasting is NOT a diet fad. It's a revolutionizing way to get healthy, restart your systems, stifle cravings, improve your moods, give you energy, cure your ailments, AND then lose weight.
The thing is that Juice Fasting is setting your body up for success on a wholesome diet that gives your body optimum nutrition. Your body will rid itself if excess body fat as it heals itself and then slow down to almost stop when it reaches the balance it requires to function. Of course your weight will fluctuate from season to season because it us natural, but you won't lose because your starving yourself.
So all in all, the reason I don't talk to everyone about Juice Fasting, is because most people are looking for the next diet fad that will allow them to eat whatever they want and then, unfortunately, gain the weight back.
How do I know if some one is serious? They say they want to: "get healthy" or "lose weight and get healthy" or "go off my meds" or "I wish I had more energy" or, my favorite, "Wow you look great! What are you doing?"
Friday, June 8, 2012
Caloric Overload
I went into my local smoothie place to purchase a yummy orange, carrot, banana, and wheatgrass juice. Next door is a sandwich shop franchise that I will not name out of respect for the restaurant. My mother and brother had gone in there for their lunch and some ice cream. As I entered, sipping happily in my juice, I asked my mother what she was eating.
She told me, "A roast beef and avocado sandwich with the works."
"Mmm! Yummy!" I replied. And then she told me that she didn't order what she wanted because of how high the calories for the 6" sandwich would have been.
"How much was it?" I asked, sitting down next to her.
"900 calories," she took another bite.
"What?!" I swallowed hard.
"Yeah. I'm glad that they put the calories next to the sandwiches bow so I am more conscience of making better choices."
I looked over her at the menu above the line of people ordering sandwiches. 700 calories for a 6" meatball sub, 1010 for a 9". 800 calories for a hot pastrami sandwich, 1100 for a 9". 600 for a 6" turkey club, and 970 for a 9".
The list went one and on and this is just the sandwich! That doesn't include drink (100-300 calories) and chips (200-400 calories per bag)!!
I was shocked, SHOCKED! At the high calories count involved for one meal! My stomach churned as I realized that I used to partake in this amount of calorie overload. I remember being in high school, not being very active because I hated to sweat; and chilling with friends and my fiance's friends at each others houses, and stuffing our faces in between video games and movie rounds! No wonder I got to where I was! No wonder why my fiancé lost so much weight before, during, and after bootcamp for the Marines! We didn't see it on us, and I doubt the people standing in that line did either.
I write this to warn you! It's okay to eat that way once in a blue moon. What does that mean? Once or twice monthly. Yes, MONTHLY! Sharpen your culinary skills at home, and cook your own meals where you know what you're eating, and how many calories, fats, sugars, and sodium your consuming.
And that is why I created this blog. That us why u joined Thrive. And that is why I Juice Fast.
She told me, "A roast beef and avocado sandwich with the works."
"Mmm! Yummy!" I replied. And then she told me that she didn't order what she wanted because of how high the calories for the 6" sandwich would have been.
"How much was it?" I asked, sitting down next to her.
"900 calories," she took another bite.
"What?!" I swallowed hard.
"Yeah. I'm glad that they put the calories next to the sandwiches bow so I am more conscience of making better choices."
I looked over her at the menu above the line of people ordering sandwiches. 700 calories for a 6" meatball sub, 1010 for a 9". 800 calories for a hot pastrami sandwich, 1100 for a 9". 600 for a 6" turkey club, and 970 for a 9".
The list went one and on and this is just the sandwich! That doesn't include drink (100-300 calories) and chips (200-400 calories per bag)!!
I was shocked, SHOCKED! At the high calories count involved for one meal! My stomach churned as I realized that I used to partake in this amount of calorie overload. I remember being in high school, not being very active because I hated to sweat; and chilling with friends and my fiance's friends at each others houses, and stuffing our faces in between video games and movie rounds! No wonder I got to where I was! No wonder why my fiancé lost so much weight before, during, and after bootcamp for the Marines! We didn't see it on us, and I doubt the people standing in that line did either.
I write this to warn you! It's okay to eat that way once in a blue moon. What does that mean? Once or twice monthly. Yes, MONTHLY! Sharpen your culinary skills at home, and cook your own meals where you know what you're eating, and how many calories, fats, sugars, and sodium your consuming.
And that is why I created this blog. That us why u joined Thrive. And that is why I Juice Fast.
Eve's Gift/Curse
Ladies, you know exactly what I'm talking about and it's both good and bad.
The thing I'm coming to realize is that it is not so easy to have our little "gift" during a Juice Fast, but it is completely doable. So I wanted to write a post just for us gals during that time of the month where we feel bloated, emotional, crampy, have head aches, break out in acne, and crave more chocolate than a candy factory can supply!
Juice the following for how your feeling or what ever your issue is:
Complexion: for a fresh face you can feel and see.
-Cucumber
-Grapefruit (this one is okay to just eat)
-Apples
-Ginger
Bloating and Cramps: for when the roaring monster inside you will not allow you to put on your jeans.
-Cucumber
-Watermelon (eat this too!)
-Zucchini
-Red Grapes
-Cantalope
-Celery
-Tomatoes
-Bananas (I like to make my juice and then blend a banana in.)
Emotional: I love/hate you!
-Bananas
-Oranges
-Pineapple
-Carrots
-Spinach
-Watermelon
-Apples
Headaches: for when all you want to do is put the covers over your head.
-Ginger
-Spinach
-Cucumber
-Apples
-Carrots
-Blackberries
-Celery
Cravings: before you devour the nearest chocolate mousse cake.
-Apples
-Bananas
-Kale
-Turnips
-Celery
-Green Bell Pepper
-Tomatoes
-Pineapple
-Grapes
-Lemon
Any combination of these fruits and veggies have great physical, mental, and emotional benefits that we women desperately need during that week. I recommend juicing most to all of those listed above! I do, and you can ask my fiancé, sometimes he has to ask if I'm "on it," cause he can't even tell! :)
The thing I'm coming to realize is that it is not so easy to have our little "gift" during a Juice Fast, but it is completely doable. So I wanted to write a post just for us gals during that time of the month where we feel bloated, emotional, crampy, have head aches, break out in acne, and crave more chocolate than a candy factory can supply!
Juice the following for how your feeling or what ever your issue is:
Complexion: for a fresh face you can feel and see.
-Cucumber
-Grapefruit (this one is okay to just eat)
-Apples
-Ginger
Bloating and Cramps: for when the roaring monster inside you will not allow you to put on your jeans.
-Cucumber
-Watermelon (eat this too!)
-Zucchini
-Red Grapes
-Cantalope
-Celery
-Tomatoes
-Bananas (I like to make my juice and then blend a banana in.)
Emotional: I love/hate you!
-Bananas
-Oranges
-Pineapple
-Carrots
-Spinach
-Watermelon
-Apples
Headaches: for when all you want to do is put the covers over your head.
-Ginger
-Spinach
-Cucumber
-Apples
-Carrots
-Blackberries
-Celery
Cravings: before you devour the nearest chocolate mousse cake.
-Apples
-Bananas
-Kale
-Turnips
-Celery
-Green Bell Pepper
-Tomatoes
-Pineapple
-Grapes
-Lemon
Any combination of these fruits and veggies have great physical, mental, and emotional benefits that we women desperately need during that week. I recommend juicing most to all of those listed above! I do, and you can ask my fiancé, sometimes he has to ask if I'm "on it," cause he can't even tell! :)
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Before You Decide on Happy Pills...
Juice!
Yes, Juice!
Try a ten day Juice Fast before deciding on asking your doctor for anti-depressants. (Note! Do not go cold turkey off your anti-depressants before consulting with a doctor!)
Juice Fasting is better than all the happy pills put together in a delicious and nutritious food drink! Yes, it is FOOD! Why juice? Why not eat more fruits and veggies? Look at the picture and see just how much fruits and veggies you would have to eat to get all the nutrients of a tall glass of juice! I don't know about you, but I'm not one for eating all that and I also am not keen on the bitter flavors of some leafy veggies. :P
Also, the liquid form of those fruits and veggies gets into your system faster and your body does less focusing in digesting and more focusing on doing other important jobs, like making you NATURALLY happy!
I have been juicing for over a month, on and off juice fasts and the effects of the juice is miraculous! Before I was always tired, seemed like I was walking in a daze most of the time, depressed that I couldn't talk to my fiancé whenever I wanted (who is deployed in Okinawa, Japan for the Marine Corps) and missing him dearly, and most of all, I was in bad attitudes. I would snap at everyone and it almost seemed like I was bullying my little brother! I kept seeing him as the little annoying brother and never wanted to really listen to what he was saying half the time.
Then the juice changed me completely. I am more positive, more energetic, I think and see more clearly, I am always happy and very thankful when I do talk to my fiancé and say positive things to him all the time to ease his mind off his work, and I'm much more patient, kind, and understanding to people around me and my little brother. We even jump on the trampoline together and play silly games! And I've come to discover so much more about my brother and his interests, his habits, and his inspirations.
So to sum this all up, even though work stress may be killing you, or perhaps stress at home with finances, or even if it's just stress in general about the world around you, you gotta try two things.
1.) Make a list, split it in two, on one side write down the problems you can control on one side, and what your can't control in the other. take some time to do this right and when your ready, tear off the can't control side and toss it, burn it, bury it, what ever you like and don't stress about those things again. Your "can control" list is now a to do list that you can gradually check off. ;)
2.) Juice. Even if you supplement 2-4 meals a day (based on eating every 2-3 hours) you will feel the Juice revolutionize your body and you'll feel incredible!
Best of luck and don't forget to smile!
"You are one smile away from improving your mood." - Andy Andrews.
- Chef Marie CM
Yes, Juice!
Try a ten day Juice Fast before deciding on asking your doctor for anti-depressants. (Note! Do not go cold turkey off your anti-depressants before consulting with a doctor!)
Juice Fasting is better than all the happy pills put together in a delicious and nutritious food drink! Yes, it is FOOD! Why juice? Why not eat more fruits and veggies? Look at the picture and see just how much fruits and veggies you would have to eat to get all the nutrients of a tall glass of juice! I don't know about you, but I'm not one for eating all that and I also am not keen on the bitter flavors of some leafy veggies. :P
Also, the liquid form of those fruits and veggies gets into your system faster and your body does less focusing in digesting and more focusing on doing other important jobs, like making you NATURALLY happy!I have been juicing for over a month, on and off juice fasts and the effects of the juice is miraculous! Before I was always tired, seemed like I was walking in a daze most of the time, depressed that I couldn't talk to my fiancé whenever I wanted (who is deployed in Okinawa, Japan for the Marine Corps) and missing him dearly, and most of all, I was in bad attitudes. I would snap at everyone and it almost seemed like I was bullying my little brother! I kept seeing him as the little annoying brother and never wanted to really listen to what he was saying half the time.
Then the juice changed me completely. I am more positive, more energetic, I think and see more clearly, I am always happy and very thankful when I do talk to my fiancé and say positive things to him all the time to ease his mind off his work, and I'm much more patient, kind, and understanding to people around me and my little brother. We even jump on the trampoline together and play silly games! And I've come to discover so much more about my brother and his interests, his habits, and his inspirations.
So to sum this all up, even though work stress may be killing you, or perhaps stress at home with finances, or even if it's just stress in general about the world around you, you gotta try two things.
1.) Make a list, split it in two, on one side write down the problems you can control on one side, and what your can't control in the other. take some time to do this right and when your ready, tear off the can't control side and toss it, burn it, bury it, what ever you like and don't stress about those things again. Your "can control" list is now a to do list that you can gradually check off. ;)
2.) Juice. Even if you supplement 2-4 meals a day (based on eating every 2-3 hours) you will feel the Juice revolutionize your body and you'll feel incredible!
Best of luck and don't forget to smile!
"You are one smile away from improving your mood." - Andy Andrews.
- Chef Marie CM
Friday, June 1, 2012
Restart...
Most people will lie and tell people that they never gave up even when they did. People will also start over half way through what they started. But no one that I've seen it met yet will admit that they did their best and caved at their goals or will they don't take the responsibility that they didn't achieve their goals.I'm gonna be real with you and tell you that I made it 20 days into my 60 days and fell into temptation. Why would I tell you this? Didn't I fail? Didn't I quit? Didn't I fall short?
My answer to you is "NO!" I made it 10 days longer than my last Juice Fast and acquired beautiful skin, lost 18 pounds of excess body fat, and great amounts of energy!
A gentleman in L.A. Who attended the international event for my business invited my mom and I to share a dinner table with him when the restaurant was packed. I learned a lot from him but I took away something very special from him. He told me: "always remember this, no matter what people tell you or what people do to you, remember, 'to thine self be true.'"
So, I believe in being genuine with people and with myself, and by doing so, I give you this post about my restart on juice fasting for 60 days and how I went head to head with myself.
I first looked at myself in the mirror, told myself that I did a fabulous job and that I was proud of myself. Then I smiled wider and said: how bout we kick it up another notch? Let's do it and let's do it hard!
Tips for success:
1. Tell everyone what you're doing and the positive or negative responses are all good. Both build your confidence that you can do it!
2. Tell yourself every morning, in the mirror, that you fully accept who you are and love yourself unconditionally. (it sounds a little silly, but it works!)
3. Pump positive health driven music, videos, movies, or audio into your body every day. (I watch Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead at the beginning of each week and listen to motivating speeches from my other business.)
4. Keep yourself busy. Avoid sitting on the couch at all costs, even when you're tired. (unless it's bed time) you'll avoid the urge to snack when your bored. Get up and walk to listen to music, spend time outside, read, or meditate, or call a friend or family member, or my favorite, spend some time playing with the pets (hamster to dog) and they'll be happy too!
5. Don't beat yourself up and don't surround yourself with people who are eating the foods you want. If you aren't strong mentally to handle it, don't tempt yourself.
You can be successful and love your new life and body!
-Chef Marie CM
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Working Out Tips
So I've lost 15 pounds on this Juice fast. There would have been more, but like I said in the previous video, I was under a lot of stress. So what better to relieve stress than a work out? I found this picture and realized that it was a really goo diagram for "Jiggle Prevention!" (Hahaha)
60 Day Juicing Fast
Are you Crazy?!
I couldn't be without real food!
I need to be chewing something!
I have to eat!
That sounds unhealthy!
Those are the top five things I hear every time I go shopping and buy only fruits and veggies, or lose pounds and people ask me what I'm doing, or family ask me what's new. My favorite is the last. Think about it. Juicing fruits and veggies and peole who are eating highly processed foods and high sugary drinks are telling ME that I'M eating unhealthy? To be brutally honest, by saying those things up there, you sound like an addict. Do you really have so much lack of self control that you couldn't do it even for a week?
Sounds silly doesn't it? However I can't blame them entirely. The food that is available in stores these days has literally brainwashed us into thinking that it's good for us.I recently came across a "wellness depot" by a company that I will not name here out of respect. They offered a free 16 oz smoothie, 16 oz. Tea, and an Aloe Vera shot with a wellness profile. Out of curiosity, I joined my mom as she went to receive her free trial drinks. When I was sked for which flavor smoothie I wanted I asked to see the nutritional information. The girl blinked at me in surprise and then went to retrieve the label for both the smoothie and tea. When I was handed the containers the first thing I asked was: "Why is the tea coming as a powder and just not leaves?" She had no real answer for me. as I looked through the Nutritional information I read a key ingredient that showed up on both: Fructose Syrup and Flavoring. I knew exactly what that was, but I asked her what it was and she said it was fruit flavors and sugar derived from fruits. I smiled and shook my head. "Actually, it's one of the 50 names for High Fructose Corn Syrup." Again, blank stare.
Then she asked if i still wanted any, and I politely declined and told my mom that I would go get real Juice from the whole food and organic store instead. The girl asked me what I was doing and I told her a 60 Day Juice Fast. When she asked what it was I told her. I also told her all the benefits of a Juice Fast. She then replied: "That seems very hard and unhealthy." I just smiled back at her and said: "At least I'm not taking in High Fructose Corn Syrup in any of my meals for 60 days, so I'm finding it quite easy to do." After that I left, because I really didn't want to stir up trouble. I'm glad my mom enjoyed her tea and smoothie for the both of us.
Flash forward a week and I lost 10 pounds from my juice fast and was working out one morning at my gym. I go to Curves because I have Scoliosis and the workouts are low impact on my back. So during the circut, someone asked me how I was doing with Culinary and with my weight loss. they know me a the Pastry Chef Instructor, even though I was so much more than that. (I find it funny that they know me as the Sweets Chef in a gym!) I told her my pounds lost and told her about the Juice Fast. Another lady joined in and told us that her son's ex girlfriend had done a cleanse that was prescribed to her doctor. (This was NOT a juice cleanse! Again, I'm not naming the cleanse out of respect) This girl would mix this powdered drink every day for every meal for a period of time and she lost a ton of weight! In addition to her thyroid and gallbladder and another organ I can't remember. I was shocked! How can a doctor prescribe something like that and still have her on it when she lost the first organ?! Her doctor told her that she needed to lose a little more and her boyfriend at the time replied: From what organ this time?
I posted that story because I want people to realize that a Doctor is studied and trained in medicine and not always nutrition. A Nutritionist is specifically trained and studies in the health and wellness of people through micro-nutrients, macro-nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Please ,PLEASE be careful on what your doctor says and what nutritionists say. The doctors doesn't have much training on nutrition and the nutritionist doesn't have much training on medicine. Make sure that you contact your doctor about the side effects from your pills that you may or may not have by changing your eating habits. At the same, time, you may be safe. I did have a doctor tell me that he didn't think anybody should do any sort of cleanse. That told me that he didn't know what I was talking about.
Chef Marie CM
I couldn't be without real food!
I need to be chewing something!
I have to eat!
That sounds unhealthy!
Those are the top five things I hear every time I go shopping and buy only fruits and veggies, or lose pounds and people ask me what I'm doing, or family ask me what's new. My favorite is the last. Think about it. Juicing fruits and veggies and peole who are eating highly processed foods and high sugary drinks are telling ME that I'M eating unhealthy? To be brutally honest, by saying those things up there, you sound like an addict. Do you really have so much lack of self control that you couldn't do it even for a week?Sounds silly doesn't it? However I can't blame them entirely. The food that is available in stores these days has literally brainwashed us into thinking that it's good for us.I recently came across a "wellness depot" by a company that I will not name here out of respect. They offered a free 16 oz smoothie, 16 oz. Tea, and an Aloe Vera shot with a wellness profile. Out of curiosity, I joined my mom as she went to receive her free trial drinks. When I was sked for which flavor smoothie I wanted I asked to see the nutritional information. The girl blinked at me in surprise and then went to retrieve the label for both the smoothie and tea. When I was handed the containers the first thing I asked was: "Why is the tea coming as a powder and just not leaves?" She had no real answer for me. as I looked through the Nutritional information I read a key ingredient that showed up on both: Fructose Syrup and Flavoring. I knew exactly what that was, but I asked her what it was and she said it was fruit flavors and sugar derived from fruits. I smiled and shook my head. "Actually, it's one of the 50 names for High Fructose Corn Syrup." Again, blank stare.
Then she asked if i still wanted any, and I politely declined and told my mom that I would go get real Juice from the whole food and organic store instead. The girl asked me what I was doing and I told her a 60 Day Juice Fast. When she asked what it was I told her. I also told her all the benefits of a Juice Fast. She then replied: "That seems very hard and unhealthy." I just smiled back at her and said: "At least I'm not taking in High Fructose Corn Syrup in any of my meals for 60 days, so I'm finding it quite easy to do." After that I left, because I really didn't want to stir up trouble. I'm glad my mom enjoyed her tea and smoothie for the both of us.
Flash forward a week and I lost 10 pounds from my juice fast and was working out one morning at my gym. I go to Curves because I have Scoliosis and the workouts are low impact on my back. So during the circut, someone asked me how I was doing with Culinary and with my weight loss. they know me a the Pastry Chef Instructor, even though I was so much more than that. (I find it funny that they know me as the Sweets Chef in a gym!) I told her my pounds lost and told her about the Juice Fast. Another lady joined in and told us that her son's ex girlfriend had done a cleanse that was prescribed to her doctor. (This was NOT a juice cleanse! Again, I'm not naming the cleanse out of respect) This girl would mix this powdered drink every day for every meal for a period of time and she lost a ton of weight! In addition to her thyroid and gallbladder and another organ I can't remember. I was shocked! How can a doctor prescribe something like that and still have her on it when she lost the first organ?! Her doctor told her that she needed to lose a little more and her boyfriend at the time replied: From what organ this time?I posted that story because I want people to realize that a Doctor is studied and trained in medicine and not always nutrition. A Nutritionist is specifically trained and studies in the health and wellness of people through micro-nutrients, macro-nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Please ,PLEASE be careful on what your doctor says and what nutritionists say. The doctors doesn't have much training on nutrition and the nutritionist doesn't have much training on medicine. Make sure that you contact your doctor about the side effects from your pills that you may or may not have by changing your eating habits. At the same, time, you may be safe. I did have a doctor tell me that he didn't think anybody should do any sort of cleanse. That told me that he didn't know what I was talking about.
Chef Marie CM
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Fake Foods... They're Everywhere!!
The movies I listed in my previous posts are a must see, but here are few of the Fake foods I have discovered and have completely cut out of my daily diet.
NOTE: When I say "Diet" I don't mean being on a diet or starving myself. I mean the foods I eat everyday that are good for me! :)
What is a "Fake Food?"
Anything that is processed, prepackaged, flash frozen, contains high fructose corn syrup, contains sucrolose, contains "flavor enhancers", contains the really bad dyes, anything deep fried, and definitely anything non-organic. That doesn't mean that all Organic foods are good for you. All it means is that the ingredients are organic, but it may contain high levels of sugar.
My list of Fake Foods:
-Top Ramen and other non organic and whole grain Pasta
-Canned Soups
-Boxed, Bagged, or Frozen Macaroni and Cheese
-Oreos and other like Cookies and sweets
-Candy Bars and most Protein Bars
-ALL soda and most Juices and Protein Shakes and sugary milks
-Dressings and other Sauces
-Instant Oatmeal
-Protein Powder that contains Sucaralose or other artificial sweeteners
-Artificial Sweeteners
-Chips and Crackers that aren't whole grain and organic
-Nasty Spreads like Nutella and Skippy Peanut Butter
-Pizza and Burgers and Pasta dishes that aren't Organic and whole grain
-Creamers, Jamba Juice, Starbucks, and other Drive Throughs
-Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt
-Bacon, Chicken Strips, and other bad Meats
-Butter and Canola Oil and MSG
You might be asking yourself: "My gosh! There's nothing left to eat! This is too much, too hard, and too ridiculous!"
But is it really? All of those foods have little to no nutritional value and you want to feed your body something it cannot use and stores?
That list doesn't mean that I will never eat those things again, but it does mean is that I don't eat them on a regular or weekly and sometimes monthly basis. Try not eating a hamburger for a month; cut fast food from your diet for a month, and replace those meals with good wholesome foods and see how much better you feel.
And there is something to eat: Veggies! Fruits! Water! Whole Grain, low sugar Breads and Grains! Lentils and Beans! Eggs! Tea! Organic Milk/ Unsweetened Almond Milk/Unsweetened Soy Milk! Coconut Oil! Cocoa Nibs! Water! Raw Evolution Protein Bars! Home made Protein Shakes, Smoothies, Coffee, and Juice! And more Water!
When you begin to explore the world of whole foods and Organic foods, you will start to not only see the world in a new light, but feel better about your body, and reach fulfillment by being healthy! Throw in some good excersize and you're all set! ^_^
Best of Luck and if there are any questions, tips, or further advice, comment!
Happy and Healthy Eating!
--Chef Marie CM
NOTE: When I say "Diet" I don't mean being on a diet or starving myself. I mean the foods I eat everyday that are good for me! :)
What is a "Fake Food?"Anything that is processed, prepackaged, flash frozen, contains high fructose corn syrup, contains sucrolose, contains "flavor enhancers", contains the really bad dyes, anything deep fried, and definitely anything non-organic. That doesn't mean that all Organic foods are good for you. All it means is that the ingredients are organic, but it may contain high levels of sugar.
My list of Fake Foods:
-Top Ramen and other non organic and whole grain Pasta
-Canned Soups
-Boxed, Bagged, or Frozen Macaroni and Cheese
-Oreos and other like Cookies and sweets
-Candy Bars and most Protein Bars
-ALL soda and most Juices and Protein Shakes and sugary milks
-Dressings and other Sauces
-Instant Oatmeal
-Protein Powder that contains Sucaralose or other artificial sweeteners
-Artificial Sweeteners
-Chips and Crackers that aren't whole grain and organic
-Nasty Spreads like Nutella and Skippy Peanut Butter
-Pizza and Burgers and Pasta dishes that aren't Organic and whole grain
-Creamers, Jamba Juice, Starbucks, and other Drive Throughs
-Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt
-Bacon, Chicken Strips, and other bad Meats
-Butter and Canola Oil and MSG
You might be asking yourself: "My gosh! There's nothing left to eat! This is too much, too hard, and too ridiculous!"
But is it really? All of those foods have little to no nutritional value and you want to feed your body something it cannot use and stores?
That list doesn't mean that I will never eat those things again, but it does mean is that I don't eat them on a regular or weekly and sometimes monthly basis. Try not eating a hamburger for a month; cut fast food from your diet for a month, and replace those meals with good wholesome foods and see how much better you feel.
And there is something to eat: Veggies! Fruits! Water! Whole Grain, low sugar Breads and Grains! Lentils and Beans! Eggs! Tea! Organic Milk/ Unsweetened Almond Milk/Unsweetened Soy Milk! Coconut Oil! Cocoa Nibs! Water! Raw Evolution Protein Bars! Home made Protein Shakes, Smoothies, Coffee, and Juice! And more Water!
When you begin to explore the world of whole foods and Organic foods, you will start to not only see the world in a new light, but feel better about your body, and reach fulfillment by being healthy! Throw in some good excersize and you're all set! ^_^
Best of Luck and if there are any questions, tips, or further advice, comment!
Happy and Healthy Eating!
--Chef Marie CM
Creating a Healthy Kitchen
Part two of my juicing and whole food advice and tips!
Moat refrigerators in America look like this:
Overly STUFFED with sugary, high sodium, and prepackaged foods from the store that promise you nutrition.
I have news for you, most of the foods in this refrigerator are not good for you to consume. I would rather make a trip to my local supermarket and pick up a few apples than eat something from this fridge.
What I see is food that is packaged, bagged, and frozen, raw and cooked and ready to eat foods all touching each other spreading pathogens, a lack of the color green, a lot of creams and sauces and dressings that are packed with sugar , carbs, and bad fats, and lastly FAKE food that has no nutritional value to them.
What do you see? Your favorite food? When was the last time you looked at every label that you're putting into your basket when you go shopping?
Your refrigerator should look like
this:
TOP SHELF: Organic Milk or Organic
Unsweetened Almond Milk or Organic Unsweetened Soy Milk, Cottage Cheese,
Unsweetened Greek Yogurt, smaller fruits such as Berries and Lemons and Limes, Organic Cheeses, and Bottled Juices or Chia drinks or Non Bottled
Water and Iced Tea.
SECOND SHELF: Organic Eggs, Freshly made Hummus, Fruits and Veggies
that are easily bruised such as Spinach, Romaine, Bananas, etc. and freshly
made lunches for the kids or yourself for work.
THIRD SHELF or DRAWERS: Fruits and
Veggies that are round and loose like Apples,
Oranges, Avocados, Tomatoes
Etc...
BOTTOM SHELF or DRAWERS: Your USDA
Organic Meats
FREEZER: Ice, USDA Organic Meats that are portioned for meals, freshly made whole grain, organic dough that is portioned as well for future meals, and more ICE.
NEVER waste your money on frozen fruits and veggies! The Ice crystals that form from the produce's water tears up the structure of the fruit or veggie and when it is cooked, the liquid takes all of the nutrients with it, into the water or pan, and down the drain or evaporated.
All of your fruits and veggies
should be prepped the day you purchase them to expand shelf life, avoid
contamination from the fridge, avoid the combining of flavors (You don't want a
tomato tasting like an orange!) and to keep them clean!
You're gonna want to invest in some
good plastic containers or freezer bags that you can reuse over and over.
When you go shopping, go to produce LAST, the shorter the amount of time the produce is exposed to warm air, the less chance it has to pick up pathogens. They should also be the very first thing you put away and portion out. As for Meats, they should never touch your produce! If you want, bring a reusable bag to place your produce in after you picked up your meat.
Rinse your sink with soap (not cleaners) and warm water. Fill up your sink with cold water and ice (it should be really, really cold!) and lay down towels all over your counters. On one side of the sink, place your fruits and veggies. Starting with the leafy greens first, separate out the leaves from the heart (unless its like cabbage or artichoke, and you want it served whole), with a soft brush dedicated only to the produce, lightly rinse and scrub your Celery, Romaine, Kale, Collards beets or any thing that has a strong stalk. Then put it into the cold water (one veggie at a time) to quickly chill it but not freeze it. Then lay the veggie spread out on the towels. Gently pat dry and store them in a bag or container with a paper towel or light weight towel to capture and other moisture. Do this for all of your produce and if your ice water starts to look brown or green or has little specks floating int it, change it and rinse your sink.
Next, portion out your meat. Meat servings shouldn't be any larger than the palm of your hand for each meal. Try to avoid freezing the meat as well due to the same rule of thumb with the produce. However the effect the ice has on veggies is much more severe than meats. Store them properly and sealed tight in plastic, not foil.
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| Plate A |
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| Plate B |
One last tip, really pay attention to what you are purchasing and cut back on those boxed, bagged, and prepackaged foods. Don't just look at the calories and carbs, but the ingredients listed below the Facts chart. If there are ingredients you don't know or can't pronounce or the list is so long, it's best you don't buy it. It's better to take two trips weekly, than have a bunch of preserved foods that poison your body.
Happy Eating!
-Chef Marie CM
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