This is for my TEAM HAMMERTIME ladies!
@monique510 & @Remitheone
Warm-Up :: choice
4x { Superset :: 30step Dumbbell Walking Lunge (50%, 60%, 75%, 85% of Max Weight) + 15rep box jump (26")}
3x Each Superset :: 15-30sec rest MAX between Rounds; 2minute rest MAX between stance transitions.
A. {15rep Horizontal LegPress WideStance (HEAVY) + 15WideStance squat jumps w.MedBall (5-10kg)}
B. {15rep Horiz. LegPress NeutralStance (HEAVY) + 15NeutralStance squat jumps w.MedBall (5-10kg)}
C. {15rep Horiz. LegPress NarrowStance (HEAVY) + 15NarrowStance squat jumps w.MedBall (5-10kg)}
4x 20/20 Step-Ups (20-30") with Mini BarBell (50%, 60%, 75%, 85% of Max weight)
3x Max Rep Quad extensions at 50-60% Max weight
Cardio 40-60mins
NOW MAKE THAT MUH'FUGGA HAMMMERTIME!!
A Lil About Me!
- Mia
- ACE Certified Personal Trainer; NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist; CSEP Certified Personal Fitness & Lifestyle Advisor; MaddDogg Spinning Instructor; NCCP SwimCoach; NLSC Aquafit Instructor; Wellness & Weight-Loss Consultant.
Wednesday, 16 November 2011
Friday, 11 November 2011
Foodie Friday!
So normally I would post a RECIPE, but today I'ma take a slightly different approach.
Let's talk about PROTEIN!
Some Benefits ::
Complete vs. Incomplete Protein
Some of the protein you eat contains all the amino acids needed to build new proteins. This kind is called complete protein. Animal sources of protein tend to be complete. Other protein sources lack one or more "essential" amino acids—that is, amino acids that the body can't make from scratch or create by modifying another amino acid. Called incomplete proteins, these typically come from plant sources. (*except Quinoa & Soy)
NB -Vegetarians need to be aware of this. To get all the amino acids needed to make new protein – and thus to keep the body's systems in good shape – people should eat a variety of protein-containing foods each day.
Best Sources ::
Animal-Based
Grass-fed Beef, Organic Poultry, Farm raised pork, Wild-caught fish (salmon, tuna, mahi-mahi). DHA-enhanced eggs, Fat Free Organic Kefir or Greek yogurt (plain is best).
When choosing animal proteins, go with the leanest cuts of red meat & pork and check out alternative meats, like Goat & Bison, which tend to be leaner. White meat poultry (chicken, turkey, Ostrich) Omega rich Wild Salmon, tuna, & tilapia and cod with Lower caloric counts. And try game fish like shark, swordfish, Mahi-mahi. These are great amino sources.
NB - I tend to advise people to limit / avoid dairy outside of yogurt – as much as i LOVE ice cream & cheese, I limit them due to their additional calories and mucous-forming in our bodies. If you are going to eat cheese, stick to the least processed cow-alternative cheeses Buffalo mozzarella / goat cheese or choose aged-drier cheeses, since you will eat less, because they are richer in taste.
Plant-Based
Quinoa is a grain with so high a protein count, the body processes it primarily as a protein (instead of a carb). It is also gluten-free. Oatmeal is also a good protein source, but has gluten. Beans & Lentils, are GREAT clean proteins when as eaten close to whole as possible. Plus they’re a fab fibre source. Nuts are also a fibre-rich protein source Aim for almonds and almond butter, Walnuts, pecans and Pistachios over peanuts (*they can be mucous forming)
Tempeh (*fermented, whole bean & un-processed soy) is your best bet with complete plant-based soy proteins.
Solid Tofu, and other soy-based protein sources tend to be extremely processed and reconstituted. There is also some studies claiming that they are estrogenic & can be harming to the thyroid. They also contain high levels of phytic acid blocks the absorption of essential minerals in the digestive tract, putting vegetarians who eat soya as the major source of protein in their diet at severe risk of mineral deficiencies, including calcium, copper, iron, magnesium and especially zinc. Also, be advised: gluten-based replacements tend to have higher sodium AND can have adverse reactions, as a lot of people are unknowingly gluten-sensitive.
FYI – a study in the New Engl Journal of Medicine^ showed that eating more vegetable protein, while cutting simple carbs may benefit the heart. A 20-year prospective study of 82,802 women found that those who ate low-carb diets, high in vegetable sources of fat/protein had a 30% lower risk of heart disease, vs. women who ate high-carbohydrate, low-fat diets
Common Questions ::
How much is “the right amount” of protein?
Most people take in too LITTLE protein in their daily diet intake to be concerned with this. Most Americans only take in 1/3 – 1/2 of their RDI. Proteins should consist of about 40% of your daily caloric intake, another 40% being mostly complex carbs and the other 20% being good fats.
Muscle is made mainly of the proteins myosin, actin and tropomyosin. you need at least 80g of protein per day; more if you are training intensively (some is needed just to replace the myosin fibres broken down by the training. Bone has a calcium phosphate backbone with collagen (protein filler). The basic rule is trying to consume ½ - ¾ g of protein per pound of goal weight for females, and 1-2grams of protein/pound of goal weight in males.
Can I have “too much” protein?
Yes & No –Keep in mind, a lot of body builders consume upwards of 400-500 g of protein daily, so to put a cap, is tricky.
Here’s where it gets SCIENCE-Y. Some studies say its molecular structure allow so that all protein which is unused by the body is flushed out of your system through excretion. Other arguments are that it is just like carbs/fats and the surpluses will be converted into body fat.
The key is YOUR ACTIVITY LEVEL. What can’t be digested & flushed must be USED or will be STORED. What you DO need to be concerned with is absorption limits. Most studies claim that the MAX Protein which can be absorbed per sitting is 30-40grams. Anything more & it's waste, regardless if it's flushed or stored.
Note – in either case, after absorption/usage/storage, any additional protein which is not coupled with fiber or healthy fat can lead to “blockage” in the bowels. So, PLEASE, eat balanced meals.
What About SHAKES?
Liquid foods digest more quickly than solids, and therefore enter your bloodstream at a faster rate. As a result, liquid proteins prove more effective than solids during the hour window following a training regimen when muscle protein uptake increases. Additionally, liquid protein digests easier during workouts and proves less likely to disturb your stomach than solid foods. This quality benefits endurance athletes because carbohydrate and protein drinks enhance performance of endurance activities.
Benefit of liquid protein (powders/ supplements) – Easier source of delivery, can fill in protein gaps between meals in high levels without hassle – can also try puddings, or nut-butter based bars (*be aware of fat, sugar & preservatives with these, however). My fave “protein on the go” snack handful of raw almonds with a small fruit.
What about Pre- /Post- Workouts?
For Pre-Workout: Unless you are performing an endurance activity (*marathon etc) where an “empty stomach” prevents discomfort, I recommend people take in a small meal/snack roughly 200cals of low-fat & protein-rich foods about 20-40 minutes prior. Being slow-digesting, it will keep will you longer through-out the workout.
For Post-Workout / Recovery: Liquids are digested more easily & absorbed more quickly. You want to consume your post-workout meal within 15-45mins following the workout. "Protein shakes" are ideal immediately after a workout due to their fast absorption/digesting abilities for muscle repair & replenishment. According to fitnessleak.com: Consuming your post workout meal or shake more than an hour after your workout decreases immune system recovery by 31%
Hope that clears some questions up!!
Mia
^Halton TL, Willett WC, Liu S, et al. Low-carbohydrate-diet score and the risk of coronary heart disease in women. N Engl J Med. 2006; 355:1991–2002
Let's talk about PROTEIN!
Some Benefits ::
- Increase & Maintains lean muscle tissue
- Strengthens immune system
- Faster recovery from workouts
- Helps in weight (fat) loss
- Enhances energy
- Highly nutritious
Protein molecules take longer to digest. Meaning, you’re likely to feel hungry as soon as you might with more carb-dense meals. The simple reason for this: Protein takes longer to digest & uses more energy in the body to break it down. The slower digestion is also important because it keeps your blood sugar from spiking causing a release of insulin. (*Insulin signals surplus sugars &glycolic fat storage) so you want to stick to food options that digest slowly. For an even higher metabolic effect, the majority of protein consumption should be in the form of whole food sources rather than shakes.
Animal protein and vegetable protein probably have the same effects on your cellular health. It's the protein package that's likely to make a difference on your overall fitness. 6oz of Steak has 38g of protein. But also couples that with a WALLOPING 44g of fat (16g saturated! < ¾ of your RDI!) The same amount of Wild Salmon hold less protein 34g BUT only 18g of fat (*with only 4g sat-fat) and compare THAT to 1cup (8oz) of cooked lentils with “only” 18g of protein but less than a gram of fat, all unsaturated.
Complete vs. Incomplete Protein
Some of the protein you eat contains all the amino acids needed to build new proteins. This kind is called complete protein. Animal sources of protein tend to be complete. Other protein sources lack one or more "essential" amino acids—that is, amino acids that the body can't make from scratch or create by modifying another amino acid. Called incomplete proteins, these typically come from plant sources. (*except Quinoa & Soy)
NB -Vegetarians need to be aware of this. To get all the amino acids needed to make new protein – and thus to keep the body's systems in good shape – people should eat a variety of protein-containing foods each day.
Best Sources ::
Animal-Based
Grass-fed Beef, Organic Poultry, Farm raised pork, Wild-caught fish (salmon, tuna, mahi-mahi). DHA-enhanced eggs, Fat Free Organic Kefir or Greek yogurt (plain is best).
When choosing animal proteins, go with the leanest cuts of red meat & pork and check out alternative meats, like Goat & Bison, which tend to be leaner. White meat poultry (chicken, turkey, Ostrich) Omega rich Wild Salmon, tuna, & tilapia and cod with Lower caloric counts. And try game fish like shark, swordfish, Mahi-mahi. These are great amino sources.
NB - I tend to advise people to limit / avoid dairy outside of yogurt – as much as i LOVE ice cream & cheese, I limit them due to their additional calories and mucous-forming in our bodies. If you are going to eat cheese, stick to the least processed cow-alternative cheeses Buffalo mozzarella / goat cheese or choose aged-drier cheeses, since you will eat less, because they are richer in taste.
Plant-Based
Quinoa is a grain with so high a protein count, the body processes it primarily as a protein (instead of a carb). It is also gluten-free. Oatmeal is also a good protein source, but has gluten. Beans & Lentils, are GREAT clean proteins when as eaten close to whole as possible. Plus they’re a fab fibre source. Nuts are also a fibre-rich protein source Aim for almonds and almond butter, Walnuts, pecans and Pistachios over peanuts (*they can be mucous forming)
Tempeh (*fermented, whole bean & un-processed soy) is your best bet with complete plant-based soy proteins.
Solid Tofu, and other soy-based protein sources tend to be extremely processed and reconstituted. There is also some studies claiming that they are estrogenic & can be harming to the thyroid. They also contain high levels of phytic acid blocks the absorption of essential minerals in the digestive tract, putting vegetarians who eat soya as the major source of protein in their diet at severe risk of mineral deficiencies, including calcium, copper, iron, magnesium and especially zinc. Also, be advised: gluten-based replacements tend to have higher sodium AND can have adverse reactions, as a lot of people are unknowingly gluten-sensitive.
FYI – a study in the New Engl Journal of Medicine^ showed that eating more vegetable protein, while cutting simple carbs may benefit the heart. A 20-year prospective study of 82,802 women found that those who ate low-carb diets, high in vegetable sources of fat/protein had a 30% lower risk of heart disease, vs. women who ate high-carbohydrate, low-fat diets
Common Questions ::
How much is “the right amount” of protein?
Most people take in too LITTLE protein in their daily diet intake to be concerned with this. Most Americans only take in 1/3 – 1/2 of their RDI. Proteins should consist of about 40% of your daily caloric intake, another 40% being mostly complex carbs and the other 20% being good fats.
Muscle is made mainly of the proteins myosin, actin and tropomyosin. you need at least 80g of protein per day; more if you are training intensively (some is needed just to replace the myosin fibres broken down by the training. Bone has a calcium phosphate backbone with collagen (protein filler). The basic rule is trying to consume ½ - ¾ g of protein per pound of goal weight for females, and 1-2grams of protein/pound of goal weight in males.
Can I have “too much” protein?
Yes & No –Keep in mind, a lot of body builders consume upwards of 400-500 g of protein daily, so to put a cap, is tricky.
Here’s where it gets SCIENCE-Y. Some studies say its molecular structure allow so that all protein which is unused by the body is flushed out of your system through excretion. Other arguments are that it is just like carbs/fats and the surpluses will be converted into body fat.
The key is YOUR ACTIVITY LEVEL. What can’t be digested & flushed must be USED or will be STORED. What you DO need to be concerned with is absorption limits. Most studies claim that the MAX Protein which can be absorbed per sitting is 30-40grams. Anything more & it's waste, regardless if it's flushed or stored.
Note – in either case, after absorption/usage/storage, any additional protein which is not coupled with fiber or healthy fat can lead to “blockage” in the bowels. So, PLEASE, eat balanced meals.
What About SHAKES?
Liquid foods digest more quickly than solids, and therefore enter your bloodstream at a faster rate. As a result, liquid proteins prove more effective than solids during the hour window following a training regimen when muscle protein uptake increases. Additionally, liquid protein digests easier during workouts and proves less likely to disturb your stomach than solid foods. This quality benefits endurance athletes because carbohydrate and protein drinks enhance performance of endurance activities.
Benefit of liquid protein (powders/ supplements) – Easier source of delivery, can fill in protein gaps between meals in high levels without hassle – can also try puddings, or nut-butter based bars (*be aware of fat, sugar & preservatives with these, however). My fave “protein on the go” snack handful of raw almonds with a small fruit.
What about Pre- /Post- Workouts?
For Pre-Workout: Unless you are performing an endurance activity (*marathon etc) where an “empty stomach” prevents discomfort, I recommend people take in a small meal/snack roughly 200cals of low-fat & protein-rich foods about 20-40 minutes prior. Being slow-digesting, it will keep will you longer through-out the workout.
For Post-Workout / Recovery: Liquids are digested more easily & absorbed more quickly. You want to consume your post-workout meal within 15-45mins following the workout. "Protein shakes" are ideal immediately after a workout due to their fast absorption/digesting abilities for muscle repair & replenishment. According to fitnessleak.com: Consuming your post workout meal or shake more than an hour after your workout decreases immune system recovery by 31%
Hope that clears some questions up!!
Mia
^Halton TL, Willett WC, Liu S, et al. Low-carbohydrate-diet score and the risk of coronary heart disease in women. N Engl J Med. 2006; 355:1991–2002
Thursday, 10 November 2011
Thirsty Thursday!
Since, I'm CONTINUOUSLY preaching about water intake on Twitter & in person...
Figured "Hey, I should blog about it!"
Recall, from 6th grade science class, that almost 75% of our body is water. More specifically...
Protoplasm, the basic material of living cells, is made of fats, carbohydrates, proteins, salts, and similar elements combined with water. Water acts as a solvent, transporting, combining, and chemically breaking down these substances. A cell exchanges elements with the rest of the body by electrolysis, and in a normal case, minerals and micro elements pass through the cell membrane to the nucleus by electro-osmosis. The body needs electrolytes (minerals like: sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate) for its basic functions, water is the delivery element.
The extended message is that if we drink enough water to keep good stuff floating in our cells and bad stuff passing through (& floating out of) our cells, it will keep our cells (and concurrently, US) alive.
Some Basic Guidelines ::
1. Drink water FIRST
First thing in the morning : drinking 16-32oz of cool to cold water, before any other intake, has been shown to increase daily energy, and to rehydrate the cells from the sleep-cycle fasting.
First, before eating : Before every meal & snack try to drink 8-12oz of cool water. This will signal some fullness in the stomach, preventing over eating & also lubricates the glottal region for more efficient digestion.
First, before alcohol : Out at the club & ready for those DRANK? Have some water. Again, it will prevent you from imbibing too many extra calories & will also help temper out the liquor about to lay havok on your cells!
2. Daily Recommended Intake
The old adage of "drink 8 glasses (8-12oz) of water per day" is a pretty good guideline, when considering the average sedentary person. However, it doesn't take note of size differences (*Someone 300lbs would need ermarkably more water than someone 100lbs); climate-induced water losses (*Caribbean-living persons sweat 4-7x more fluid loss than the average North American, monthly); nor make mention of active people's additional hydration requirements (*Marathon runners vs "office guy").
Basic math for DI :: 1/2 Body weight (measured in pounds) to be consumed, in fluid ounces, + 8-12oz per 15mins of vigorous exercise, daily.
e.g. You're 160lbs. Half that is 80 fl.oz of water to consumed, for the day if you are sedentary & add on (avg) 40oz for a 60min gym session. 80/8 (*8oz = 1cup/250mL) + 40/8 = 15cups (*Just shy of 4L, or 1Gallon) of water per day.
For a more accurate (*intensive-training specific) water-intake calculation, go HERE
Benefits - Life/Health
Ok NOW... GET TO SIPPING!!
#WATERBREAK
Mia
ps - I didn't mention it, and I'm not going to go in depth into the differences between Drying out for Competition vs "everyday Dehydration", but essentially it's an extremely focused process, that involves FLOODING the body with water, and then slowly limiting the water-intake while maintaining the electrolyte levels. Through this process, you have the body remove excess water for a taught/ dry look, for competition day, without becoming toxically dehydrated.
Figured "Hey, I should blog about it!"
- Blood is 83% water
- Muscles are 75% water
- The brain is 95% water
- Lungs are 90% water
Protoplasm, the basic material of living cells, is made of fats, carbohydrates, proteins, salts, and similar elements combined with water. Water acts as a solvent, transporting, combining, and chemically breaking down these substances. A cell exchanges elements with the rest of the body by electrolysis, and in a normal case, minerals and micro elements pass through the cell membrane to the nucleus by electro-osmosis. The body needs electrolytes (minerals like: sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate) for its basic functions, water is the delivery element.
The extended message is that if we drink enough water to keep good stuff floating in our cells and bad stuff passing through (& floating out of) our cells, it will keep our cells (and concurrently, US) alive.
Ergo, drinking water is BENEFICIAL to our health, oui? Good. Moving on.
Keep in mind that you WILL get "water" from Fruits, Vegetables & "other" drinks, but for true HYDRATION purposes PLAIN water is best. WHY? Because I said SO! No... it's really because everything ELSE in those alternative fluid sources, ALSO USE WATER to be broken down, digested & expelled from the body, and are not absorbed INTO the cells.
*I'm not going to go into Alkaline water in this article, but you can check out THIS WEBSITE for some info on its benefits.
Some Basic Guidelines ::
1. Drink water FIRST
First thing in the morning : drinking 16-32oz of cool to cold water, before any other intake, has been shown to increase daily energy, and to rehydrate the cells from the sleep-cycle fasting.
First, before eating : Before every meal & snack try to drink 8-12oz of cool water. This will signal some fullness in the stomach, preventing over eating & also lubricates the glottal region for more efficient digestion.
First, before alcohol : Out at the club & ready for those DRANK? Have some water. Again, it will prevent you from imbibing too many extra calories & will also help temper out the liquor about to lay havok on your cells!
2. Daily Recommended Intake
The old adage of "drink 8 glasses (8-12oz) of water per day" is a pretty good guideline, when considering the average sedentary person. However, it doesn't take note of size differences (*Someone 300lbs would need ermarkably more water than someone 100lbs); climate-induced water losses (*Caribbean-living persons sweat 4-7x more fluid loss than the average North American, monthly); nor make mention of active people's additional hydration requirements (*Marathon runners vs "office guy").
Basic math for DI :: 1/2 Body weight (measured in pounds) to be consumed, in fluid ounces, + 8-12oz per 15mins of vigorous exercise, daily.
e.g. You're 160lbs. Half that is 80 fl.oz of water to consumed, for the day if you are sedentary & add on (avg) 40oz for a 60min gym session. 80/8 (*8oz = 1cup/250mL) + 40/8 = 15cups (*Just shy of 4L, or 1Gallon) of water per day.
For a more accurate (*intensive-training specific) water-intake calculation, go HERE
Benefits - Life/Health
- Prevent Pain - Did you know that when you have a headache, back pain, muscle spasm, stomachache, or when you feel depressed without obvious reason, you actually need to drink water? These are ALL signs of primary pre-dehydration!
- Prevent Illness - Experts have also shown that proper water intake will regulate salts, cholesterol and may reduce your risk of Heart Attack by keeping blood plasma at healthy viscosity levels & by flushing out unnecessary toxins and foreign particles, helps to prevent Disease/Infection. Proper fluid intake (*along with rest and vitamins) are always prescribed as the primary remedy to help you get well.
- Lose Weight - All chemical reactions in the body depend upon WATER. If you’re trying to lose weight, you need water to flush out the by-products of fat breakdown. Proper water intake allows you to relieve yourself of any stored water, as well as helping you "stay regular". A lot of additional weight is simply salt & water retention, and excess *crap* (literally) sticking to your insides.
- Prevent OverEating - Studies have shown that 60% of your "unexplained" hunger pangs, are actually Thirst-pangs. Your body is trying to get you to drink water. Craving salty/fatty foods, will elicit a more obvious thirst response & cause you to intake fluids. (Sadly, when you're prone to eating junk, you drink junk-fluids, not water, but I digress...)
- Healthy Skin - What the #1 secret to getting Healthy Skin? Moisturize... AND STAY HYDRATED What?! Put water outside AND inside your skin? GENIUS!!
- Regulate Your Body Temperature - We perspire, in high weather temperatures; during workouts, in order to dissipate the excess heat our body produces. To maintain the fluid levels in our body necessary to keep sweating, we must drink water!
- Burn More Fat And Build More Muscle - Water regulates your Metabolism as the carrier of oxygen, nutrients, hormones, etc. to body parts & providing the medium for removal of toxins, dead cells, & waste material. The proteins and enzymes involved in almost all fundamental processes in the body also require water for their proper functioning.
- Cushion And Lube Your Joints And Muscles - Water is the main component of synovial fluid, found in the bursa (closed sacs of liquid) in the connective tissue between the muscles, the tendons, the ligaments, and the bones (i.e. joints)
- Breathing - Recall, the lungs are 90% water. Water distributes oxygen all over the human body (*via osmosis & blood flow) while collecting the carbon dioxide from all these parts, by dissolving these exchanged gases.
- Get Energized And Be Alert - As the brain is mostly made up of water so drinking more water helps the brain to circulate fresh-oxygenated blood through the body making our body physically and mentally alert and healthy; definitely necessary when lifting heavy ish, or trying not to fell off cardio machines!
Dehydration
Doctors are well aware that dehydration, second only to oxygen deprivation, is the fastest culprit of cell-death. Minor dehydration - not enough to kill - is both the result and the hidden cause of many illnesses. Inversely, good Hydration is key to good Health.
Some Dangers of dehydration ::
People who do not drink enough water or deplete water reserves through overstimulation for a period of time gradually lower the ratio of water volume, inside cells to outside cells.Under dehydrated conditions, the cells may lose over a QUARTER of their water volume.
Whenever there is cellular dehydration, metabolic waste products are retained, causing symptoms that resemble disease but are signs of disturbed water metabolism. Since more and more water begins to accumulate outside the cells, the dehydration may not be apparent as they are more likely to notice water retention & bloating. The hidden danger of this is, eventually the Kidneys begin to store/hold excess water, limiting how often you urinate, and retain WASTE MATERIALS, as well (*this can lead to kidney stones, and Uric toxicity, causing diseases, such as Gout).
In extreme cases, Even the enzymes and proteins living in the dehydrated cells become so inefficient that they are no longer able to recognize the dehydrated state of the body.
Some basic Noteables Avoid counting tea, coffee, sodas and juices in your fluid intake. Coffee and tea contain caffeine which has a diuretic effect and makes you lose water. Sodas and juices are too sweet. Since the body must dilute them, they cause further dehydration
Ok NOW... GET TO SIPPING!!
#WATERBREAK
Mia
ps - I didn't mention it, and I'm not going to go in depth into the differences between Drying out for Competition vs "everyday Dehydration", but essentially it's an extremely focused process, that involves FLOODING the body with water, and then slowly limiting the water-intake while maintaining the electrolyte levels. Through this process, you have the body remove excess water for a taught/ dry look, for competition day, without becoming toxically dehydrated.
Wednesday, 9 November 2011
Workouts with WOW!
Try THIS killer workout, this week!
-- RACK CITY --
A "rack" in slang is $1000 - Stacked in 10s or 100s, So this is 1000 reps (10exercises x100repetitions)
You're aiming for 100 repetitions, but do the max reps you can!
(*and hey, if 100 just isn't enough, and you want to grab some "bonus" GET SOME!)
>> "I'm running around & I'm Getting it! I'm running around & I'm Getting it! It's MINE... I'm GETTIN' IT!"
-- RACK CITY --
A "rack" in slang is $1000 - Stacked in 10s or 100s, So this is 1000 reps (10exercises x100repetitions)
You're aiming for 100 repetitions, but do the max reps you can!
(*and hey, if 100 just isn't enough, and you want to grab some "bonus" GET SOME!)
- Military Pull-ups
- Sumo Squat jacks
- 2 :1 Kicks (*2 legs = 1 Rep)
- Mountain Climbers (*can do 2-4knees = 1 rep ,for more challenge)
- Shoulder width Push-ups
- Tuck Jumps
- 4 : 1 Jabs
- 2 : 1 Lunges
- Bench Dips (*feet up, for more challenge)
- Close-Stance Squats (*knees together - yoga, chair pose squats)
>> "I'm running around & I'm Getting it! I'm running around & I'm Getting it! It's MINE... I'm GETTIN' IT!"
Tuesday, 8 November 2011
Twinning Tuesday!
Me & My "twin" @aliciabellelite making fitness FUN
Who says fitness has to be gruelling AND boring?
Grab a pal & go out and make some MAGIC happen! Think of Fitness challenges and make 'em FUN!
Get outside, Get creative, Get WILD!!
Hill Sprints -- http://youtu.be/ChjL6B6trzw
Outdoor Fitness -- http://youtu.be/YG9wYM4TElw
Double PushUps -- http://youtu.be/tC_Ji5foJy8
Burpee to BoxJump RunArounds -- http://youtu.be/O1kSony8r-Y
ENJOY the Vids!!
- Mia, xo
Who says fitness has to be gruelling AND boring?
Grab a pal & go out and make some MAGIC happen! Think of Fitness challenges and make 'em FUN!
Get outside, Get creative, Get WILD!!
Hill Sprints -- http://youtu.be/ChjL6B6trzw
Outdoor Fitness -- http://youtu.be/YG9wYM4TElw
Double PushUps -- http://youtu.be/tC_Ji5foJy8
Burpee to BoxJump RunArounds -- http://youtu.be/O1kSony8r-Y
ENJOY the Vids!!
- Mia, xo
Winter is coming...
...for those of us outside of the Caribbean (*or Florida) at least...
Check out my post on http://www.runwitb.com/category/health/ about Winter Fitness ideas!
& Here are a few tips for being outdoors in the lower temps
Cold Weather Concerns
Hypothermia
Hypothermia is is a condition in which core temperature drops below the required temperature for normal metabolism and body functions.
As hypothermia sets in, you will begin to notice skin discoloration, lack of capillary refull & shivers. The person will become lethargic and clumsy & speech may become slurred as body temperature further decreases.
How to Reverse it
1. Huddle in a group. Remove any wet clothing, and seek dry, warm clothes/shelter, and MOVE! The best way to raise body temperature is MORE BODY HEAT.
2. (If available) Gradually raise the body's temp with a shower/bath. Start with room temp water, to avoid shocking the system. Adding more hot water as the body begins to adjust.
3. Drink warm drinks. Make sure they are NOT alcoholic. Alcohol drops the blood pressure.
NOTE: If you suspect hypothermia, or someone faints while outdoors in cold temperature, seek medical attention! Especially in children!!
FrostBite
Frostbite happens when the skin and outer tissues become frozen. This condition tends to happen on extremities like the fingers, toes, ears and nose. They may become pale, gray and blistered. The sufferer may feel prickly heat & itching on the affected areas before the outward signs. There will be noticeable redness & then white patches before complete freezing occurs.
How To Reverse It
1. Shelter the person from the cold and move him or her to a warmer place. Removing any constricting jewelry and wet clothing.
2. Do NOT rub the skin. It may cause breaking in the damaged skin cells!
3. Look for signs of hypothermia & treat accordingly.
4. Dress the affected areas with warm, sterile dressings (*prevent infection to blistered areas)
Cold Weather Trauma Prevention
1. Check Weather conditions. ESPECIALLY the wind chill.
If the temperature dips well below 0 F (-17.8 C) or the wind chill is extreme (*over 16%WCF), consider taking a break or choosing an indoor activity instead
2. Protect extremities FIRST! Hands, Feet, Ears. During lower outdoor temperatures, blood flow is concentrated on your body's core, to bathe the organs, leaving your hands and feet vulnerable to frostbite.
3. Keep extremities DRY. Gloves, Hats & Waterproof shoes!
NOTE: For those with Raynaud's Syndrome make SURE you keep your extremities WELL covered; may want to use heat gel packs to keep warmth in fingers/toes.
4. Dress in Layers. Choose layers that you can remove as soon as you start to sweat and then put back on as needed. First, a thin layer of synthetic material, which wicks away sweat. Next, add a layer of fleece or wool for insulation. Top this with a waterproof, breathable outer layer.
NOTE: Dress infants and children warmly for outdoor activities. Several thin layers will keep them dry and warm. Dress older babies and young children in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions.
5. (If possible) Do the second half of your workout with the wind at your back. This way, you're less likely to get chilled, especially if you've worked up a sweat.
6. Stay HYDRATED!! Especially because it's harder to break a sweat, you may not notice you're losing fluids as obviously.
Cold Weather Skin Care
Prevention of dryness
1. Use a moisturizing lotion! with spf. appy a serum underneath to penetrate the skin more, and give yourself more protection from the dry air & rub on Shea butter & Vitamin E in the day & Aloe & Glycerine over night.
2 . Indoor heaters are more likely to cause flaking than outdoor cold. Indoor heat tends to be bone-dry, leaving your complexion parched. What helps: If you can, turn down the temperature a few degrees. You can also pump lost moisture back into the air with a humidifier.
NOTE: for those prone to Eczema some additional winter Skin care Tips
3. In dry weather, water will not make your skin more moisturized (*cells yes, complexion no). Getting enough of one type of omega-3 fatty acids by including flaxseed, walnuts, and Salmon in your diet can be helpful in combating dryness. These are packed with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which lessens inflammation and plays a big role in strengthening the lipid layer that helps skin retain natural oils.
4. Suffer from dry/chapped lips? Stop blaming "over using your lip balm". Licking your lips is more likely to blame. You may be subconsciously licking off waxy balm, or pressing lips together, leaving behind saliva. Which is a bummer, because saliva is acidic (to help dissolve food for digestion) and therefore dehydrating to the thin skin on lips. Avoid licking your lips, and apply balms/salves with jojoba oil or shea butter.
5. Have "electric hair"? Dryer air causes a build up of static. Combat static with Leave in conditioner. or rub 1 tsp of almond oil along the ends & roots to prevent electrical charging between hairs.
Sun Exposure
It's a fallacy that you can only tan/burn in the summer. The sun's rays can still cause sunburn in the winter, especially when they reflect off snow. Make sure to cover your exposed areas if outside for prolonged periods and to prevent winter-blindness & retintal damage, wear sunglasses when out in the snow for prolonged periods.
NOW... GET OUT THERE & Get that SUMMER BODY in the WINTER!!
Mia
Check out my post on http://www.runwitb.com/category/health/ about Winter Fitness ideas!
& Here are a few tips for being outdoors in the lower temps
Cold Weather Concerns
Hypothermia
Hypothermia is is a condition in which core temperature drops below the required temperature for normal metabolism and body functions.
As hypothermia sets in, you will begin to notice skin discoloration, lack of capillary refull & shivers. The person will become lethargic and clumsy & speech may become slurred as body temperature further decreases.
How to Reverse it
1. Huddle in a group. Remove any wet clothing, and seek dry, warm clothes/shelter, and MOVE! The best way to raise body temperature is MORE BODY HEAT.
2. (If available) Gradually raise the body's temp with a shower/bath. Start with room temp water, to avoid shocking the system. Adding more hot water as the body begins to adjust.
3. Drink warm drinks. Make sure they are NOT alcoholic. Alcohol drops the blood pressure.
NOTE: If you suspect hypothermia, or someone faints while outdoors in cold temperature, seek medical attention! Especially in children!!
FrostBite
Frostbite happens when the skin and outer tissues become frozen. This condition tends to happen on extremities like the fingers, toes, ears and nose. They may become pale, gray and blistered. The sufferer may feel prickly heat & itching on the affected areas before the outward signs. There will be noticeable redness & then white patches before complete freezing occurs.
How To Reverse It
1. Shelter the person from the cold and move him or her to a warmer place. Removing any constricting jewelry and wet clothing.
2. Do NOT rub the skin. It may cause breaking in the damaged skin cells!
3. Look for signs of hypothermia & treat accordingly.
4. Dress the affected areas with warm, sterile dressings (*prevent infection to blistered areas)
Cold Weather Trauma Prevention
1. Check Weather conditions. ESPECIALLY the wind chill.
If the temperature dips well below 0 F (-17.8 C) or the wind chill is extreme (*over 16%WCF), consider taking a break or choosing an indoor activity instead
2. Protect extremities FIRST! Hands, Feet, Ears. During lower outdoor temperatures, blood flow is concentrated on your body's core, to bathe the organs, leaving your hands and feet vulnerable to frostbite.
3. Keep extremities DRY. Gloves, Hats & Waterproof shoes!
NOTE: For those with Raynaud's Syndrome make SURE you keep your extremities WELL covered; may want to use heat gel packs to keep warmth in fingers/toes.
4. Dress in Layers. Choose layers that you can remove as soon as you start to sweat and then put back on as needed. First, a thin layer of synthetic material, which wicks away sweat. Next, add a layer of fleece or wool for insulation. Top this with a waterproof, breathable outer layer.
NOTE: Dress infants and children warmly for outdoor activities. Several thin layers will keep them dry and warm. Dress older babies and young children in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions.
5. (If possible) Do the second half of your workout with the wind at your back. This way, you're less likely to get chilled, especially if you've worked up a sweat.
6. Stay HYDRATED!! Especially because it's harder to break a sweat, you may not notice you're losing fluids as obviously.
Cold Weather Skin Care
Prevention of dryness
1. Use a moisturizing lotion! with spf. appy a serum underneath to penetrate the skin more, and give yourself more protection from the dry air & rub on Shea butter & Vitamin E in the day & Aloe & Glycerine over night.
2 . Indoor heaters are more likely to cause flaking than outdoor cold. Indoor heat tends to be bone-dry, leaving your complexion parched. What helps: If you can, turn down the temperature a few degrees. You can also pump lost moisture back into the air with a humidifier.
NOTE: for those prone to Eczema some additional winter Skin care Tips
3. In dry weather, water will not make your skin more moisturized (*cells yes, complexion no). Getting enough of one type of omega-3 fatty acids by including flaxseed, walnuts, and Salmon in your diet can be helpful in combating dryness. These are packed with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which lessens inflammation and plays a big role in strengthening the lipid layer that helps skin retain natural oils.
4. Suffer from dry/chapped lips? Stop blaming "over using your lip balm". Licking your lips is more likely to blame. You may be subconsciously licking off waxy balm, or pressing lips together, leaving behind saliva. Which is a bummer, because saliva is acidic (to help dissolve food for digestion) and therefore dehydrating to the thin skin on lips. Avoid licking your lips, and apply balms/salves with jojoba oil or shea butter.
5. Have "electric hair"? Dryer air causes a build up of static. Combat static with Leave in conditioner. or rub 1 tsp of almond oil along the ends & roots to prevent electrical charging between hairs.
Sun Exposure
It's a fallacy that you can only tan/burn in the summer. The sun's rays can still cause sunburn in the winter, especially when they reflect off snow. Make sure to cover your exposed areas if outside for prolonged periods and to prevent winter-blindness & retintal damage, wear sunglasses when out in the snow for prolonged periods.
NOW... GET OUT THERE & Get that SUMMER BODY in the WINTER!!
Mia
GHOSTWRITER!
well... Ghost-blogging anyway!
Check out my Article on http://www.runwitb.com/category/health/ !!!
and then read some of his other posts & check him out on Twitter >>> @runwitb
Some ideas about Winter Fitness & some Cold weather safety concerns/tips!
Check out my Article on http://www.runwitb.com/category/health/ !!!
and then read some of his other posts & check him out on Twitter >>> @runwitb
Some ideas about Winter Fitness & some Cold weather safety concerns/tips!
Since November is Abs Month...
I'm staying in theme!
SECOND Made during Sleep (6 - 8 hours, restful sleep, nightly)
and THIRD with Abs WORK (varied planes of focus; with resistance)
FACT: It takes 250,000 crunches to burn 1 lb of fat. (Thats 100 crunches/day for 7 years!!)
I consistently *Preach* about water intake & post yummy, healthy & clean recipes. I can't force you to sleep, But to help you work the muscles...
Here's an Abs Cypher that I find REALLY gets that deep belly-burn!
***
Do each exercise for 30sec, with 10sec rest between exercises.
Do 1-3 rounds. 1minute rest between rounds.
and it gets the people GOING!
Mia
I said in my earlier post Abs are
FIRST made in the Kitchen (*clean diet, proper water intake)SECOND Made during Sleep (6 - 8 hours, restful sleep, nightly)
and THIRD with Abs WORK (varied planes of focus; with resistance)
FACT: It takes 250,000 crunches to burn 1 lb of fat. (Thats 100 crunches/day for 7 years!!)
I consistently *Preach* about water intake & post yummy, healthy & clean recipes. I can't force you to sleep, But to help you work the muscles...
Here's an Abs Cypher that I find REALLY gets that deep belly-burn!
***
Do each exercise for 30sec, with 10sec rest between exercises.
Do 1-3 rounds. 1minute rest between rounds.
- Elbow Plank
- Plank Hip Dips (*dips the hips side to side, without bending at the waist)
- Plank Hip Tucks (*plank position, tuck tailbone under and release, holding core tight)
- Plank Up & Downs (*raise from elbows to palms, alternate sides)
- Banana Rolls (*on stomach, raise chest using rear-core, flip onto back in banana shape using front-core)
- Jack Knife (*on back, arms overhead, draw the body up to a balanced position with legs drawn into chest)
- V-sit hold (*Final position of Jackknife, seated balance position)
- 1/2 V-sit Kick-out (*seated balance position, 1 foot on ground, straighten opposite leg, kicking up&down)
- 1/2 V sit Scissors (*same position, both legs up moving in & out simultaneously)
- Seated Core Twist (*Feet up or down, full twist side to side, fist to ground)
and it gets the people GOING!
Mia
Monday, 7 November 2011
Music Monday
What MOVES you?
There have been quite a few studies on music during exercise. There is no "ONE BEST" genre of music to work out to. Who says that everyone is motivated by 168bpm during cardio? I had a client who listens to pieces like Vangelis' Chariots of Fire, Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture and Quintero's 300 Violins (*she's a music teacher at a local high school)
The key to finding great Motivational Music, is deciding your mood, your goals, and what MOVES YOU!
Here's what is moving ME, this week!
YMCMB Tour Mixtape by DJ 4our5ive >>> DOWNLOAD IT HERE
(via @dj4our5ive)
There have been quite a few studies on music during exercise. There is no "ONE BEST" genre of music to work out to. Who says that everyone is motivated by 168bpm during cardio? I had a client who listens to pieces like Vangelis' Chariots of Fire, Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture and Quintero's 300 Violins (*she's a music teacher at a local high school)
The key to finding great Motivational Music, is deciding your mood, your goals, and what MOVES YOU!
Here's what is moving ME, this week!
YMCMB Tour Mixtape by DJ 4our5ive >>> DOWNLOAD IT HERE
(via @dj4our5ive)
Motivation Monday!
One of my favorite quotes of all-time...
"Ask ye not for a lighter load, but for a stronger back"
Here is some visual motivation!
Don't EVER say, that something is IMPOSSIBLE --»
http://youtu.be/M7yE07rJ_54
(via @derekpoundstone)
Ladies... dont be SCURRED to be AMAZING!
http://youtu.be/sTbkNRxQhYE
Now... Not everyone will have the "urge" to move a Truck or a Train, in the physical sense...
but what about those daily endeavours that feel JUST AS HEAVY a load to bare, in your every day life.
The same tips for one can be applied to the other ::
1. Focus, concentrate on the task at hand
- Set your mind RIGHT, and the rest gets LEFT
2. Brace yourself!
- Strap in, find your balance & get ready to MOVE.
3. Overcome Inertia (standstill) with little steps, low to the ground
- Take the LARGE problem/load, and handle it step by step, starting from the ground up
4. Push Forward, Don't stop your FEET
- Even though it's a challenge, the burden is staggering, KEEP PUSHING THRU!
5. BREATHE!
- pretty self-explanitory...
What seemingly immovable objects are in your path, today? This week?
Focus, Break it down, GET MOVING & Don't forget to BREATHE!
Mia
"Ask ye not for a lighter load, but for a stronger back"
Here is some visual motivation!
Don't EVER say, that something is IMPOSSIBLE --»
http://youtu.be/M7yE07rJ_54
(via @derekpoundstone)
Ladies... dont be SCURRED to be AMAZING!
http://youtu.be/sTbkNRxQhYE
Now... Not everyone will have the "urge" to move a Truck or a Train, in the physical sense...
but what about those daily endeavours that feel JUST AS HEAVY a load to bare, in your every day life.
The same tips for one can be applied to the other ::
1. Focus, concentrate on the task at hand
- Set your mind RIGHT, and the rest gets LEFT
2. Brace yourself!
- Strap in, find your balance & get ready to MOVE.
3. Overcome Inertia (standstill) with little steps, low to the ground
- Take the LARGE problem/load, and handle it step by step, starting from the ground up
4. Push Forward, Don't stop your FEET
- Even though it's a challenge, the burden is staggering, KEEP PUSHING THRU!
5. BREATHE!
- pretty self-explanitory...
What seemingly immovable objects are in your path, today? This week?
Focus, Break it down, GET MOVING & Don't forget to BREATHE!
Mia
Friday, 4 November 2011
Some tips for Lifts
A few quick tips for effective strength training
Mia
- Warm up - doing some easy dynamic movements, or a short (5-10min) cardio session will raise the heart rate slowly giving the muscles time to warm and be ready for the load to be implied. A light stretch prior to lifting is fine, but do it AFTER your brief warm up.
- Maintain a neutral spine during all strength-training and use your core for stability. Pull the tail bone into a neutral position, and thinking of drawing the belly button back & upward into the spine.
- Lift with CONTROL. Don't Yank and drop. Keep a smooth track of movement through the range of motion.
- Start with a light weight. This helps with #3. Focus on proper form, and then increase the difficulty with additional load.
- Do not hold your breath. Inhale between repetitions, exhale during the concentric phase (active/hard part) of the lift. *For extremely heavy lifts, you can perform the Valsalva manoeuver BUT again, this involves controlled breathing release, through core tightening for stability, not Breath HOLDING.
- Do not lift a joint beyond it's maximum range of motion. This is different for everyone. Flexibility is important, and comes from challenging the ROM, but if it hurt's, stop. Period.
- Train from Biggest to Smallest. Larger Muscles/muscles take more energy to work. Quads, Hamstrings, Glutes, Pecs, Lats should but first and move into smaller groups like Biceps, Triceps, Delts.
- Save the Abs/ Core training for the end of your workout. They are used in the stability of most of your other exercises, so you need them fresh if you plan to go heavy.
- Rest between hitting the same muscle groups again. 24-48hours is typically recommended.
- Lift with focus & purpose. Why go heavy if it doesn't suit your goals? Why lift at all, if you refuse to challenge yourself? Set goals & WORK to achieve them! #TrainDilligently #WorkPurposefully
- Eat Intelligently! Load up on lean protein along with your healthy fats & quality, fibrous, complex carbohydrates. If you're under-eating, your body will feed off muscle tissue first.
Mia
ANT problems?
Confused, right?
Let me clarify :: I'm talking about a classification of reactive responses.
ANTs = Automatic Negative Responses
Very appropriate, oui? Ants (the insects) are invasive, near-stealthy, get into everything, take over and leave you feeling overwhelmed that such little things can persist and bother you, causing your skin to crawl.
Just like these stealthy pests, negative thought can seemingly *appear* and be everywhere! Some people, when faced with stressful situations IMMEDIATELY go to a Negative mindstate. They are faced with a challenge and their reflex is a feeling of distress, negativity, tension & in extreme instances Despair. These ANTs trigger anxiety and flood the body with Cortisol (the stress-response hormone), which is bad for your mind, and as mentioned in my Abs Post can lead to belly-pouching!
Now, HoldOnPlaya, the next time you are faced with a "crisis", take a BREATH, count to ten and instead of DIVING head-first into that abyss of darkness, try to think of a PAT (positive alternative thought) to moderate the obvious negatives.
*Overtly Sarcastic Example > House Burning Down.
ANT= "OMG! we've lost EVERYTHING"
PAT= "Well, at least we're all safe; and I HATED that living room carpet, anyway"
Clearly, you would have cause to be stressed, but there's no use dwelling on the obvious problems, when you should be trying to create constructive positive solutions, to minimize the time of recovery.
Or, if a PAT doesn't come immediately to mind, don't DWELL on the ANT. Write it down and "put it away". By writing it down and taking it out of your active mind, you can review it later with a more logical/clear head. Remove the emotional knee-jerk reaction of negativity, and handle it at a less-stressful time.
WRITE it NOW - RIGHT it LATER
Both of these help to reduce that negative reaction time, as you learn to do this without the physical writing. You look at alternative perspective, you can compartmentalize and assess the true severity of the situation and you more readily find solutions, instead of seeing problems.
Try it!
Let me know how it works out.
Mia xo
Let me clarify :: I'm talking about a classification of reactive responses.
ANTs = Automatic Negative Responses
Very appropriate, oui? Ants (the insects) are invasive, near-stealthy, get into everything, take over and leave you feeling overwhelmed that such little things can persist and bother you, causing your skin to crawl.
Just like these stealthy pests, negative thought can seemingly *appear* and be everywhere! Some people, when faced with stressful situations IMMEDIATELY go to a Negative mindstate. They are faced with a challenge and their reflex is a feeling of distress, negativity, tension & in extreme instances Despair. These ANTs trigger anxiety and flood the body with Cortisol (the stress-response hormone), which is bad for your mind, and as mentioned in my Abs Post can lead to belly-pouching!
Now, HoldOnPlaya, the next time you are faced with a "crisis", take a BREATH, count to ten and instead of DIVING head-first into that abyss of darkness, try to think of a PAT (positive alternative thought) to moderate the obvious negatives.
*Overtly Sarcastic Example > House Burning Down.
ANT= "OMG! we've lost EVERYTHING"
PAT= "Well, at least we're all safe; and I HATED that living room carpet, anyway"
Clearly, you would have cause to be stressed, but there's no use dwelling on the obvious problems, when you should be trying to create constructive positive solutions, to minimize the time of recovery.
Or, if a PAT doesn't come immediately to mind, don't DWELL on the ANT. Write it down and "put it away". By writing it down and taking it out of your active mind, you can review it later with a more logical/clear head. Remove the emotional knee-jerk reaction of negativity, and handle it at a less-stressful time.
WRITE it NOW - RIGHT it LATER
Both of these help to reduce that negative reaction time, as you learn to do this without the physical writing. You look at alternative perspective, you can compartmentalize and assess the true severity of the situation and you more readily find solutions, instead of seeing problems.
Try it!
Let me know how it works out.
Mia xo
Midnight Snacks...
...posted at midnight !!
Let me start by saying :: the "don't eat past _____pm" myth, is just that. A MYTH.
For those who work 9-5 sitting down all day: You more likely have a slower metabolism; or may have issues with bingeing post-dinner. In these specific conditions, this plan may be a good way to break bad habits.
However, for the other, who have varied schedules: This is CRAZY! If you work 3-11p How are you going to keep awake if you don't eat after 6p? Where is your caloric intake? And if you sleep through the day before your shift, when do you eat?
Or for my fitness posse: Imagine coming out the gym at 9/10p post late cardio, or heading to the gym at 8p to lift & you weren't "allowed" to eat since 6pm... FOH!!!
If you're laid up in bed, or messing about on the internet, and you get the "cravings", FIRST drink 8-12oz of cool water. 60% of the time you feel "hungry" (outside of your normal schedule) it's your body trying to trick you into hydrating. If you're still hungry 3-4minutes after drinking, then by all means grab a snack!
Here are some of my fave "go-to's" if I simply MUST eat, later at night:
1/2c plain (greek / fat free) yogurt and 1/2c chopped fruit - I like pineapple, berries, peach
1 small fruit + 1TBsp almond/peanut butter - keep the nut butters to ONE TBsp (*thats 100cals!)
1/2 sweet potato + plain yogurt & cayenne - spicy, cool, starchy & a little sweet; full of fibre/vitamins
1/2c pumpkin seeds - try my spicy pumpkin seed recipe!
1/4c unsalted nuts - I like to buy raw (or in-shell) and dry-pan toast them
1/2c Oats + 1TBsp nut butter
1 egg - hard boiled, or scrambled (*I use coconut oil in a spray bottle to minimize oils/fat)
1/4c low-sodium tuna + 1tsp dijon mustard, in lettuce leaves
2 pcs Turkey / Ostrich / Low-sodium Beef jerky
These snacks range from 100-250cals, and more importantly, they're clean. In general, stick to whole foods, that are naturally lower in fat/sugars, or have omega3,6 rich fats, and try to avoid animal-based fats.
However, if you haven't eaten in over 3hours (*e.g. since work) & you will be staying up longer than 2 hours, by all means YOU CAN EAT "REAL FOOD". I have had a FULL DINNER (no dessert) at 10pm but I had just come in from 90mins cardio & I had to be awake until 3am!
Hope this helps!
Mia
Let me start by saying :: the "don't eat past _____pm" myth, is just that. A MYTH.
For those who work 9-5 sitting down all day: You more likely have a slower metabolism; or may have issues with bingeing post-dinner. In these specific conditions, this plan may be a good way to break bad habits.
However, for the other, who have varied schedules: This is CRAZY! If you work 3-11p How are you going to keep awake if you don't eat after 6p? Where is your caloric intake? And if you sleep through the day before your shift, when do you eat?
Or for my fitness posse: Imagine coming out the gym at 9/10p post late cardio, or heading to the gym at 8p to lift & you weren't "allowed" to eat since 6pm... FOH!!!
If you're laid up in bed, or messing about on the internet, and you get the "cravings", FIRST drink 8-12oz of cool water. 60% of the time you feel "hungry" (outside of your normal schedule) it's your body trying to trick you into hydrating. If you're still hungry 3-4minutes after drinking, then by all means grab a snack!
Here are some of my fave "go-to's" if I simply MUST eat, later at night:
1/2c plain (greek / fat free) yogurt and 1/2c chopped fruit - I like pineapple, berries, peach
1 small fruit + 1TBsp almond/peanut butter - keep the nut butters to ONE TBsp (*thats 100cals!)
1/2 sweet potato + plain yogurt & cayenne - spicy, cool, starchy & a little sweet; full of fibre/vitamins
1/2c pumpkin seeds - try my spicy pumpkin seed recipe!
1/4c unsalted nuts - I like to buy raw (or in-shell) and dry-pan toast them
1/2c Oats + 1TBsp nut butter
1 egg - hard boiled, or scrambled (*I use coconut oil in a spray bottle to minimize oils/fat)
1/4c low-sodium tuna + 1tsp dijon mustard, in lettuce leaves
2 pcs Turkey / Ostrich / Low-sodium Beef jerky
These snacks range from 100-250cals, and more importantly, they're clean. In general, stick to whole foods, that are naturally lower in fat/sugars, or have omega3,6 rich fats, and try to avoid animal-based fats.
However, if you haven't eaten in over 3hours (*e.g. since work) & you will be staying up longer than 2 hours, by all means YOU CAN EAT "REAL FOOD". I have had a FULL DINNER (no dessert) at 10pm but I had just come in from 90mins cardio & I had to be awake until 3am!
Hope this helps!
Mia
Thursday, 3 November 2011
Be Healthier NOW!
Here are 25 things to help your HEALTH (*almost) INSTANTLY!
25. Check your Pee! (*it takes a Glance!)
Most people walk around dehydrated. “You should drink enough water that your urine looks like pale lemonade,” Chris Mohr, PhD, RD (Nutrition Consult for Cincinnati Bengals)
24. Drink More Water! (*you KNEW that one was coming next... Cmon,SON!)
(Re)Hydrating, stops unnecessary hunger, makes the skin more supple... dehydration reduces energy level, fitness, and hinders good digestion.
23. Feel a migraine coming on? (*Drink some water, and then) Smell / Eat a GrannySmith apple.
In a study done by the Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago, found that the smell of green apple actually reduces muscle contractions in the head and neck, reducing headache pain & anxiety.
22. Spice up your Life! With Cinnamon & Cayenne, that is.
These antioxidant-rich spices, studies show, may reduce blood pressure and lower stress. As well as having thermogenic (Metabolism-increasing) properties.
21. Seventy Minute Stretch!
Stuck at the desk all day? (*blech!) Every hour or so, get up, walk around & STRETCH those legs, arms, knees - bend & flex! Get those joints greased up!
20. Feeling down? Get bubbly!
Club soda, with a little ginger & citrus, are an even better way to perk up during the 2pm slump than sugar-laden sodas, or caffeine-laden coffee.
19. Think about what you ate ALREADY, not what you're craving.
Researchers say that taking a few seconds focusing on what you've already consumed, you're less likely to binge on snacks, later in the day by enhancing awareness of how satiating the food was.
18. Slow Down, Mon! (*the ONLY & LAST cheesy, Jamaican reference I will EVER make - promise!)
Calm anxiety-induced heart racing by cuing up some classic reggae, like Bob Marley on your iPod. The beat of a typical reggae tune is 60bpm, about the rate of a normal resting heartbeat.
17. Be an EYE-SPY with this 10-Second Health Check
Before putting on long-wear contacts, check them quickly for any cloudy spots. A diet full of fat, protein, or alcohol weakens your tears' ability to block cholesterol from adhering to the lenses. If your diet is clouding your vitreous fluid, just imagine what it's doing to your arteries.
16. Save Big, by Going Smaller!
Studies show that people are programmed to load up food when they use large dinner plates. You can reduce the amount of food you eat, and subconsciously increase your perception how much food you have eaten, if you use a salad or dessert plate when you head to the buffet.
15. Make your Good Food Taste BETTER!
90% of taste is SMELL, so take a WHIFF *sniiiiiiiiff* before you take in IN. “The more odor molecules hit receptors in your nose, the more robust your sense of taste” says Alan Hirsch, MD, founder and neurological director of the Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago
14. Don't Forget your AlphaBet!
Find a Multivitamin with A, B1-12, C, D & E; Take a FishOil supplement for Omegas & DHA-3 & get some Garlic in your daily uptake!!
13. Go Bananas!
Rich Fiber & Potassium to help keep your Blood Pressure down, and Simple (clean) Carbs its a for perfect midday snack to keep regulated!
12. Remember the 30-30-30 Rule for your work week!
30 Hours of sleep (minimum) Sunday-Thurs nights.
30 Minutes (minimum) of focused, purposeful, movement (that causes a sweat) daily.
30 Seconds (minimum) of water intake every 90mins.
- Should give you just enough time for that 8-12oz, you're supposed to be having...
11. HEAD > Headaches
Graphic, yes! But it's true! The rush of endorphins released during sexual "release" are known remedies for mild headaches. Hangover head-banging? Bang your.. you get the idea ;)
10. Slow that Sugar rush!
Put some Vinegar on your sandwich, or start a pasta meal with a salad dressed with vinegrette. Nutritionists at Arizona State University say that the acetic acid interferes with enzymes that break down carbohydrates, keeping blood sugar levels from rising as quickly.
9. 20:20 for 20:20!
To avoid eye-strain, remember the 20:20 rule! For every 20minutes in close-proximity in front of your LED/HD screen (Computer/Phone/TV) look away at a distant, dull object for 20seconds.
8. Life Gives you Lemons... add it to your tea!
Food Chemistry Journal shows that acidity in citrus increase the antioxidant uptake from tea by 20%.
7. Gratitude IS the Attitude!
Improve your attitude with a dose of gratitude daily. Studies have shown that 90% of people say expressing gratitude made them happier people and more than 75% said it reduced stress and depression and gave them more energy. Be Grateful!
6. Grab a Mint!
Eat a mint candy, chew some gum, steep some tea, light a candle. The smell of mint has soothing, stress-relieving effects on us. Studies showed that when participants were asked to smell peppermint oil they performed repetitive exercises longer then those who hadn't.
5. Steam Your Veggies
Steaming green veggies increase its concentration of glucosinolates (compounds found to fight cancer) by 30 percent. (*whereas boiling actually lowers the concentration)
4. WRITE!
Writing things down is good for both Accountability to your goals, as well as releasing brain-cell squeezing thoughts! (*not in the same books!)
Keeping a food journal is the number ONE tool for successful adhesion to new diet plans.
Stressed at work, head spinning, can't sleep? Write your thoughts down in the order they come up, close the book and say you will look at them the next day. This symbolic action allows your mind to release the thought from Active short-term memory.
3. BREATHE.
Try this 30-second breathing exercise. Inhale, allowing your belly to rise before your chest. When your lungs feel naturally full, take in even more air. Hold briefly, then exhale. When you feel your lungs are empty, push out even more air to a count of 10 until you have made your lungs as empty as possible. Repeat at least two more times
2. SMILE!!
Yup! Simple! 30-seconds of "forced" smiling increases your mood, almost instantly. Need more reasons? It also improves elasticity in the facial fascia by removing the strain that frowning causes!
1. LAUGH!
Ok so the forced smile didn't work? Check Youtube, Phone a friend, Find a DoubleBubble! Get a Joke - Literally! Research suggests that a moment of mirth increases the body's secretion of immune-boosting growth hormones and endorphins.
Now - DO THEM!!
Be Amazing!
Mia xo
25. Check your Pee! (*it takes a Glance!)
Most people walk around dehydrated. “You should drink enough water that your urine looks like pale lemonade,” Chris Mohr, PhD, RD (Nutrition Consult for Cincinnati Bengals)
24. Drink More Water! (*you KNEW that one was coming next... Cmon,SON!)
(Re)Hydrating, stops unnecessary hunger, makes the skin more supple... dehydration reduces energy level, fitness, and hinders good digestion.
23. Feel a migraine coming on? (*Drink some water, and then) Smell / Eat a GrannySmith apple.
In a study done by the Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago, found that the smell of green apple actually reduces muscle contractions in the head and neck, reducing headache pain & anxiety.
22. Spice up your Life! With Cinnamon & Cayenne, that is.
These antioxidant-rich spices, studies show, may reduce blood pressure and lower stress. As well as having thermogenic (Metabolism-increasing) properties.
21. Seventy Minute Stretch!
Stuck at the desk all day? (*blech!) Every hour or so, get up, walk around & STRETCH those legs, arms, knees - bend & flex! Get those joints greased up!
20. Feeling down? Get bubbly!
Club soda, with a little ginger & citrus, are an even better way to perk up during the 2pm slump than sugar-laden sodas, or caffeine-laden coffee.
19. Think about what you ate ALREADY, not what you're craving.
Researchers say that taking a few seconds focusing on what you've already consumed, you're less likely to binge on snacks, later in the day by enhancing awareness of how satiating the food was.
18. Slow Down, Mon! (*the ONLY & LAST cheesy, Jamaican reference I will EVER make - promise!)
Calm anxiety-induced heart racing by cuing up some classic reggae, like Bob Marley on your iPod. The beat of a typical reggae tune is 60bpm, about the rate of a normal resting heartbeat.
17. Be an EYE-SPY with this 10-Second Health Check
Before putting on long-wear contacts, check them quickly for any cloudy spots. A diet full of fat, protein, or alcohol weakens your tears' ability to block cholesterol from adhering to the lenses. If your diet is clouding your vitreous fluid, just imagine what it's doing to your arteries.
16. Save Big, by Going Smaller!
Studies show that people are programmed to load up food when they use large dinner plates. You can reduce the amount of food you eat, and subconsciously increase your perception how much food you have eaten, if you use a salad or dessert plate when you head to the buffet.
15. Make your Good Food Taste BETTER!
90% of taste is SMELL, so take a WHIFF *sniiiiiiiiff* before you take in IN. “The more odor molecules hit receptors in your nose, the more robust your sense of taste” says Alan Hirsch, MD, founder and neurological director of the Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago
14. Don't Forget your AlphaBet!
Find a Multivitamin with A, B1-12, C, D & E; Take a FishOil supplement for Omegas & DHA-3 & get some Garlic in your daily uptake!!
13. Go Bananas!
Rich Fiber & Potassium to help keep your Blood Pressure down, and Simple (clean) Carbs its a for perfect midday snack to keep regulated!
12. Remember the 30-30-30 Rule for your work week!
30 Hours of sleep (minimum) Sunday-Thurs nights.
30 Minutes (minimum) of focused, purposeful, movement (that causes a sweat) daily.
30 Seconds (minimum) of water intake every 90mins.
- Should give you just enough time for that 8-12oz, you're supposed to be having...
11. HEAD > Headaches
Graphic, yes! But it's true! The rush of endorphins released during sexual "release" are known remedies for mild headaches. Hangover head-banging? Bang your.. you get the idea ;)
10. Slow that Sugar rush!
Put some Vinegar on your sandwich, or start a pasta meal with a salad dressed with vinegrette. Nutritionists at Arizona State University say that the acetic acid interferes with enzymes that break down carbohydrates, keeping blood sugar levels from rising as quickly.
9. 20:20 for 20:20!
To avoid eye-strain, remember the 20:20 rule! For every 20minutes in close-proximity in front of your LED/HD screen (Computer/Phone/TV) look away at a distant, dull object for 20seconds.
8. Life Gives you Lemons... add it to your tea!
Food Chemistry Journal shows that acidity in citrus increase the antioxidant uptake from tea by 20%.
7. Gratitude IS the Attitude!
Improve your attitude with a dose of gratitude daily. Studies have shown that 90% of people say expressing gratitude made them happier people and more than 75% said it reduced stress and depression and gave them more energy. Be Grateful!
6. Grab a Mint!
Eat a mint candy, chew some gum, steep some tea, light a candle. The smell of mint has soothing, stress-relieving effects on us. Studies showed that when participants were asked to smell peppermint oil they performed repetitive exercises longer then those who hadn't.
5. Steam Your Veggies
Steaming green veggies increase its concentration of glucosinolates (compounds found to fight cancer) by 30 percent. (*whereas boiling actually lowers the concentration)
4. WRITE!
Writing things down is good for both Accountability to your goals, as well as releasing brain-cell squeezing thoughts! (*not in the same books!)
Keeping a food journal is the number ONE tool for successful adhesion to new diet plans.
Stressed at work, head spinning, can't sleep? Write your thoughts down in the order they come up, close the book and say you will look at them the next day. This symbolic action allows your mind to release the thought from Active short-term memory.
3. BREATHE.
Try this 30-second breathing exercise. Inhale, allowing your belly to rise before your chest. When your lungs feel naturally full, take in even more air. Hold briefly, then exhale. When you feel your lungs are empty, push out even more air to a count of 10 until you have made your lungs as empty as possible. Repeat at least two more times
2. SMILE!!
Yup! Simple! 30-seconds of "forced" smiling increases your mood, almost instantly. Need more reasons? It also improves elasticity in the facial fascia by removing the strain that frowning causes!
1. LAUGH!
Ok so the forced smile didn't work? Check Youtube, Phone a friend, Find a DoubleBubble! Get a Joke - Literally! Research suggests that a moment of mirth increases the body's secretion of immune-boosting growth hormones and endorphins.
Now - DO THEM!!
Be Amazing!
Mia xo
Wednesday, 2 November 2011
A Workout-WINSday with WOW!
SO MUCH WOW!
Let me clarify, I lift weights as part of my training. I am NOT a Bodybuilder. I do however, help build better Bodies, and I COMPLETELY respect what these guys put themselves through, to get here.
*Sure, some use steroids, but not all of them do. (There are natural BB federations)
I have SEEN these mountainous bodies first hand & they are TRULY AWE-worthy & WINS-pirational.
There's a quote (I'm not sure who is speaking) about 2/3s the way into the vid, which is just so RAW!
When I hear it... I'm instantly READY to go lift heavy shit. To get on the blocks and race. To show PROOF that my Dedication and Hard-Work means I'm doing something MORE than the average bum, and more than I did even a week ago!
Quote (*to my best dictation) >>
"The parasites of society...they've never seen that crowd in field of view. They've also never taken a breath of air, mixed with anxiety & pressure. They've known no victory or defeat. They've never put themselves at risk. They've never shown up. They've never walked their talk. Therefore we tell them to F**K THEMSELVES.
We don't care what they f**king say!"
#Ambition #GrowOrDie #BeAmazing
Let me clarify, I lift weights as part of my training. I am NOT a Bodybuilder. I do however, help build better Bodies, and I COMPLETELY respect what these guys put themselves through, to get here.
*Sure, some use steroids, but not all of them do. (There are natural BB federations)
I have SEEN these mountainous bodies first hand & they are TRULY AWE-worthy & WINS-pirational.
There's a quote (I'm not sure who is speaking) about 2/3s the way into the vid, which is just so RAW!
When I hear it... I'm instantly READY to go lift heavy shit. To get on the blocks and race. To show PROOF that my Dedication and Hard-Work means I'm doing something MORE than the average bum, and more than I did even a week ago!
Quote (*to my best dictation) >>
"The parasites of society...they've never seen that crowd in field of view. They've also never taken a breath of air, mixed with anxiety & pressure. They've known no victory or defeat. They've never put themselves at risk. They've never shown up. They've never walked their talk. Therefore we tell them to F**K THEMSELVES.
We don't care what they f**king say!"
#Ambition #GrowOrDie #BeAmazing
Be Amazing... Become Legendary
Just some more #WINSday WINSpiration >>
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NsCLrcPl88
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NsCLrcPl88
"Maybe it's my fault. Maybe I lead you to believe it was easy [...] that my game was built on flash & not FIRE. Maybe it's my fault that you didn't see that failure gave me strength; that my pain was my motivation. Maybe I lead you to believe that [my skills were] a God-given gift and not something I worked on every single day of my life. Maybe I destroyed the game. or MAYBE you're just making excuses." - Become Legendary - Michael Jordan
S/O to @shead202 for the clip!
#BeAmazing, Today & Everyday!
Mia
My WINSpirational Mantra
Since its #WINSday...
Here is my Mantra, my WINSpiration :: Be AMAZING
Simple, right?
Let me break it down...
Dream fearlessly. Think positively. Speak responsibly. Work purposefully. Act impeccably. Eat intelligently. Train diligently. Live freely. Pray faithfully. Love deeply.
And if you still don't QUITE grasp what each of these facets of "Being AMAZING" mean...
Here are Some other people, who's words offer prose-like elaboration.
"All your Dreams can come true, if you have the Courage to pursue them" - Walt Disney #DreamFearlessly
"Positive Anything is better than Negative nothing" - Elbert Hubbard
#ThinkPositively
"The superior man acts before he speaks, and speaks according to his actions" - Confucious
#SpeakResponsibly
"Concentrate all thought on the work at hand. The Sun's rays do not burn until brought to a single focus" - Alexander Graham Bell
#WorkPurposefully
"If your morality is impeccable, then so shall I be inspired by you" - Yajur Veda
#ActImpeccably
"To eat is a necessity, but to Eat Intelligently is an Art." - Francois deLe Rochefoucauld
#EatIntelligently
"To be successful you must dedicate yourself 100%" - Arnold Schwarzenegger
#TrainDiligently
"To be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects & enhances the freedom of others." - Nelson Mandela
#LiveFreely
"Seek His will in all you do and he will show you which path to take" - Prov 3:6
#PrayFaithfully
"To love deeply in one direction makes us more loving in all others" - AnneSophie Swetchine
#LoveDeeply
BE AMAZING
Feel free to adopt it and apply it!
I feel it will help me change the world :)
Mia
Here is my Mantra, my WINSpiration :: Be AMAZING
Simple, right?
Let me break it down...
Dream fearlessly. Think positively. Speak responsibly. Work purposefully. Act impeccably. Eat intelligently. Train diligently. Live freely. Pray faithfully. Love deeply.
And if you still don't QUITE grasp what each of these facets of "Being AMAZING" mean...
Here are Some other people, who's words offer prose-like elaboration.
"All your Dreams can come true, if you have the Courage to pursue them" - Walt Disney #DreamFearlessly
"Positive Anything is better than Negative nothing" - Elbert Hubbard
#ThinkPositively
"The superior man acts before he speaks, and speaks according to his actions" - Confucious
#SpeakResponsibly
"Concentrate all thought on the work at hand. The Sun's rays do not burn until brought to a single focus" - Alexander Graham Bell
#WorkPurposefully
"If your morality is impeccable, then so shall I be inspired by you" - Yajur Veda
#ActImpeccably
"To eat is a necessity, but to Eat Intelligently is an Art." - Francois deLe Rochefoucauld
#EatIntelligently
"To be successful you must dedicate yourself 100%" - Arnold Schwarzenegger
#TrainDiligently
"To be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects & enhances the freedom of others." - Nelson Mandela
#LiveFreely
"Seek His will in all you do and he will show you which path to take" - Prov 3:6
#PrayFaithfully
"To love deeply in one direction makes us more loving in all others" - AnneSophie Swetchine
#LoveDeeply
BE AMAZING
Feel free to adopt it and apply it!
I feel it will help me change the world :)
Mia
Tuesday, 1 November 2011
IT's TIIIIIIME!!!
Pumpkin TIME! That is!!
It is Ironic, to me, that my fave time of year, falls within Scorpio season (my being a Sagittarius and all) but let me clarify: Specifically, I love the start of Fall! The "season" between Canadian Thanksgiving & US Thanksgiving. Why? I'm sure you are clued in - IT'S PUMPKIN SEASON!
I Love LOVE Pumpkin!
Seeds: alone or in stuff...
Flesh: Baked, Mashed, Crisps, Fingers (*baked "Fries") and to be honest, I'm not a HUGE Pumpkin pie fan, but hell, I'll have a lil piece!
Here are a couple of my fave recipes!
Spicy Pumpkin Seeds
Ingredients
Method
Kale with Pumpkin Seeds & Pomegranate
Ingredients
A Little BONUS INFO (Since November is Men's Health Month) ::
In addition, to being delicious & and excellent source of Magnesium (150mg/oz) & ALA Omega-3s, these seeds may help men experiencing symptoms from an enlarged prostate.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) constricts the urethra, causing discomfort and urinary problems.
Eat Intelligently, Be AMAZING!
Enjoy,
Mia
ps - for more info about Prostate Cancer, awareness, prevention, you can CLICK HERE
To learn more about or participate in fund raising in Support of Men's Health click :: Movember
It is Ironic, to me, that my fave time of year, falls within Scorpio season (my being a Sagittarius and all) but let me clarify: Specifically, I love the start of Fall! The "season" between Canadian Thanksgiving & US Thanksgiving. Why? I'm sure you are clued in - IT'S PUMPKIN SEASON!
I Love LOVE Pumpkin!
Seeds: alone or in stuff...
Flesh: Baked, Mashed, Crisps, Fingers (*baked "Fries") and to be honest, I'm not a HUGE Pumpkin pie fan, but hell, I'll have a lil piece!
Did you know that pumpkins are actually a fruit? Because of their seeds, they are part of the gourd family which includes squash AND melons. Who knew fruit was so versatile?!Looky thayer, you learnt-ed something! LOL! AND, you're getting some FUN food!
Here are a couple of my fave recipes!
Spicy Pumpkin Seeds
Ingredients
- 11/2cup Seeds apprx 1 medium-large pumpkin (Scoop out, wash off seeds, pat dry with paper towel)
- 1tsp onion power
- 2tsp cayenne pepper
- 1tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1tsp brown sugar *optional (They're VERY spicy, so you can use the sugar to tone it down, some)
Method
- Place all spices in a resealable freezer bag, mix & add Pumpkin seeds
- Spread them out in a single layer in a baking dish or pie plate
- Bake in a low oven (250°F) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until well dried (*they puff slightly)
- TIP: If you can smell them, they're done!
- Allow to cool
- Remove to serving dish
Kale with Pumpkin Seeds & Pomegranate
Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 lb kale leaves, coarsely chopped
- 1TBsp coconut oil
- 2tsp Apple Cider vinegar
- 1tsp Pomegranate Juice
- 1 TBsp toasted pumpkin seeds
- 2 TBsp Pomegranate buds
Method
- In a pot, combine 1/2 teaspoon salt and kale in enough water to cover.
- Let stand for 30 minutes.
- Drain the kale, leaving any water clinging to leaves.
- In the same pot over medium-high heat, warm the oil.
- Add the kale and cook, tossing occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until wilted.
- Add the vinegar/juice and the remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt.
- Toss.
- Serve sprinkled with the seeds & Pomegranate
---
Savory Pumpkin FingersIngredients
Large "Eating" Pumpkin (Sugar Mill is nice!)
Savory Spice Mix
1 tsp celery salt
1 tsp smoked paprika
2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp onion powder
1 tbsp olive oil
Method
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Cut the pumpkin in half and remove the seeds (use them for the recipes above!)
- Optional > Remove the skins with a potato peeler.
- Cut into strips, similar to french fries. They won’t be perfect, but close enough. About 1/4 to 1/2 inch in thickness all the way around is perfect.
- Place your cut pumpkin and olive oil in a resealable plastic bag.
- Add 1-2 tbsp of the spices* & Shake until the pumpkin is well coated in oil and spices.
- Arrange the fries on a parchment lined cookie sheet so that they are in a single layer
- Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the squash is soft and easily pierced with a fork.
*These can also be done sweet, with Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Clove & a little Maple Syrup
As I said, I don't really mess with pumpkin pie but you can try THIS RECIPE that was passed onto me!
(*Feel free to let me know what you think of any of these recipes)
A Little BONUS INFO (Since November is Men's Health Month) ::
In addition, to being delicious & and excellent source of Magnesium (150mg/oz) & ALA Omega-3s, these seeds may help men experiencing symptoms from an enlarged prostate.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) constricts the urethra, causing discomfort and urinary problems.
Phytosterols, plant-based chemicals in pumpkin seeds, may be responsible for shrinking the prostate and relieving symptoms. The seeds may also help prevent some transformation of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT); high DHT levels are associated with enlarged prostate.
Eat Intelligently, Be AMAZING!
Enjoy,
Mia
ps - for more info about Prostate Cancer, awareness, prevention, you can CLICK HERE
To learn more about or participate in fund raising in Support of Men's Health click :: Movember
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