Chickpea and Cherry Tomato Salad with Cilantro Dressing Recipe
(serves 6)
2 pounds cherry tomatoes (mix varieties when possible)
3 cups cooked chickpeas
4-5 scallions, chopped
DRESSING
1 garlic clove
1 large bunch cilantro (about 1 cup)
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Cut tomatoes in half and place in large bowl of chickpeas and scallions.
With food processor running, drop in whole garlic clove and mince. Turn off processor, scrape down sides, add cilantro, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Pulse to combine. Drizzle dressing over salad, toss to coat and serve.
Welcome to My Story of Motherhood, Weight Loss Challenges and My Life through photography and quotes!
Friday, May 27, 2011
Ground Turkey Sliders Recipe from a Friend :)
Turkey Sliders Recipe
(makes 11 sliders)
1 pound ground turkey
3/4 cup chopped scallions
3/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
2 1/2 teaspoons orange zest
2 1/2 teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
4 limes cut into quarters
Place all of the ingredients (except the lime) in a small mixing bowl and, using your hands, gently mix until everything is evenly incorporated. Form into a patty and make a small indentation about the size of a dime in the middle of each side; handle as little as possible: do mot work more than necessary.
Place a cast iron skillet over high heat and when it is hot but not smoking, add the burger to the dry pan. Cook until well seared on both sides, about 5 minutes. Garnish with the lime quarter.
For one slider: 104 calories, 5.7 g fat, 21.8 g carbohydrates, 11.8 g protein, 0 g fiber, 400 mg sodium
(makes 11 sliders)
1 pound ground turkey
3/4 cup chopped scallions
3/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
2 1/2 teaspoons orange zest
2 1/2 teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
4 limes cut into quarters
Place all of the ingredients (except the lime) in a small mixing bowl and, using your hands, gently mix until everything is evenly incorporated. Form into a patty and make a small indentation about the size of a dime in the middle of each side; handle as little as possible: do mot work more than necessary.
Place a cast iron skillet over high heat and when it is hot but not smoking, add the burger to the dry pan. Cook until well seared on both sides, about 5 minutes. Garnish with the lime quarter.
For one slider: 104 calories, 5.7 g fat, 21.8 g carbohydrates, 11.8 g protein, 0 g fiber, 400 mg sodium
Healthy Kabob Recipe (GLUTEN FREE)
Kabob Recipe
(makes 12 skewers)
1 pkg white whole mushrooms (Since I am allergic to mushrooms, I am going to use yellow peppers instead.)
1 medium red onion
1 green bell pepper
2 zucchini
1 pint cherry tomatoes
12 skewers
Wet a paper towel and clean mushroom caps. Remove stems from mushrooms. Cut onion in half and then cut 4 pieces of each half. Clean and cut bell pepper into 1/2 inch pieces. Peel zucchini and slice into 1 inch pieces. Place ingredients onto skewers. Heat grill and cook on medium heat for 5 minutes per side until vegetables are your desired doneness. Enjoy!
These can be made ahead and reheated on the grill or in the oven.
16 calories, 0.2 g fat, 3.5 g carbohydrates, 0.8 g protein, 1.0 g fiber, 5 mg sodium
(makes 12 skewers)
1 pkg white whole mushrooms (Since I am allergic to mushrooms, I am going to use yellow peppers instead.)
1 medium red onion
1 green bell pepper
2 zucchini
1 pint cherry tomatoes
12 skewers
Wet a paper towel and clean mushroom caps. Remove stems from mushrooms. Cut onion in half and then cut 4 pieces of each half. Clean and cut bell pepper into 1/2 inch pieces. Peel zucchini and slice into 1 inch pieces. Place ingredients onto skewers. Heat grill and cook on medium heat for 5 minutes per side until vegetables are your desired doneness. Enjoy!
These can be made ahead and reheated on the grill or in the oven.
16 calories, 0.2 g fat, 3.5 g carbohydrates, 0.8 g protein, 1.0 g fiber, 5 mg sodium
Not your ordinary Rice Crispy treat.... 128 calories for one!
Crispy Rice Treat Recipe
(makes 12)
2 tablespoons coconut oil or butter
2 cups miniature marshmallows or 20 large marshmallows
2 1/2 cups crispy rice or other healthy cereal
1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
1/2 chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, peanuts, etc.)
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Spray non-stick spray on 8x8 inch square pan (or equivalent). Melt coconut oil in large saucepan over low heat and add marshmallows. Stir CONSTANTLY until melted and mix in cereal and whatever else you choose to add in. Press into prepared pan. Cool for 10 minutes and cut into squares.
For one treat: 128 calories, 5.6 g fat, 17.4 g carbohydrates, 1.7 g protein, 0.7 g fiber, 57 mg sodium
(makes 12)
2 tablespoons coconut oil or butter
2 cups miniature marshmallows or 20 large marshmallows
2 1/2 cups crispy rice or other healthy cereal
1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
1/2 chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, peanuts, etc.)
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Spray non-stick spray on 8x8 inch square pan (or equivalent). Melt coconut oil in large saucepan over low heat and add marshmallows. Stir CONSTANTLY until melted and mix in cereal and whatever else you choose to add in. Press into prepared pan. Cool for 10 minutes and cut into squares.
For one treat: 128 calories, 5.6 g fat, 17.4 g carbohydrates, 1.7 g protein, 0.7 g fiber, 57 mg sodium
Dill-Yogurt Dip
Dill-Yogurt Dip
Fat-Free Greek Yogurt (6 ounces or so)
One half cucumber
2 tsp. fresh dill
Red wine vinegar to taste (splash or two)
Salt and Pepper to taste
Mince cucumber and dill. Mix together with yogurt, vinegar, and salt and pepper. Serve with sliced carrots, broccoli, celery, sugar snap peas, etc.
New Potato Salad Recipe from My Nutritionist....
Here is a great recipe to sub for potato salad :)
Hope you are all doing well!
Hearts of palm "potato" salad
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Digon mustard
1small garlic clove minced
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil -
2 -14 oz cans heart of palm drained and cut into 1/2 inch slices-I rinse mine off as well to get some salt off. You can buy it at Costco in jars and very in expensive
2 tablespoons chopped chives
Fresh ground black pepper
Note: you can use cilantro, tarragon, basil, parsley in place of or along with chives
In large bowl whisk together lemon juice, mustard and garlic. Continuing to whisk, add oil in slow and steady stream. Add hearts of palm and chives toss to combine. Season with pepper to taste.
3/4 cup serving. Makes 4
77 cal. 4 gr fat, .5g saturated fat, 4 g protein, 8 g carbs, 4 g fiber. 665 g sodium less if you rinse
Hope you are all doing well!
Hearts of palm "potato" salad
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Digon mustard
1small garlic clove minced
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil -
2 -14 oz cans heart of palm drained and cut into 1/2 inch slices-I rinse mine off as well to get some salt off. You can buy it at Costco in jars and very in expensive
2 tablespoons chopped chives
Fresh ground black pepper
Note: you can use cilantro, tarragon, basil, parsley in place of or along with chives
In large bowl whisk together lemon juice, mustard and garlic. Continuing to whisk, add oil in slow and steady stream. Add hearts of palm and chives toss to combine. Season with pepper to taste.
3/4 cup serving. Makes 4
77 cal. 4 gr fat, .5g saturated fat, 4 g protein, 8 g carbs, 4 g fiber. 665 g sodium less if you rinse
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Trial with Heated Yoga....
I was able to try heated yoga for the first time in my life and even though I was alot heavier than most people I still was able to perform to my best ability. Since I have only tried it one time I would like to try it again I am shooting for next week. As I was doing the class I realized that it wasn't really about the size of the person but instead the capability to try it and embrace what you were learning in the class. I learned the ability of BREATHING! Yes, I said BREATHING...that alone made me feel so relaxed and a sense of comfort to encourage myself to keep going. I am very lucky to have been introduced to this by my nutritionist Lauren and I am looking forward to attending another class. When I left that day it felt as though I went through a two hour massage and yet the next two days I did feel some discomfort like you would after any hard workout. It also helped my manage my stress levels during that entire week. I have posted below some information regarding heated yoga.
Hot yoga is to be believed that the heat extends the ability of the ligaments, tendons and muscles. Immersing yourself in hot yoga practice is said to:
•release toxins
•improve flexibility and range of motion
•increase the chances of weight loss
•develop muscle tone
•build the immune system
Proponents of the practice also believe that hot yoga exercise reduces the symptoms of certain chronic illnesses, such as thyroid disorders, arthritis and circulatory problems
The Yoga Studio I attended was Annutara in Deerfield Beach and They were super nice and very clean. You had a variety of experienced and beginners in the class and that made me a lot more comfortable. Its important when going to a class you bring a mat, beach towel because you do sweat some more than others and also a nice big water bottle! I took breaks when needed and the best pose to do when taking a break is child's pose. (picture example below)
This is also a more relaxed pose and gives you a sense of calmness over your body.
I will take photos of me doing some pose's soon...
Thanks for reading!
Namaste!
Ashley M.
Hot yoga is to be believed that the heat extends the ability of the ligaments, tendons and muscles. Immersing yourself in hot yoga practice is said to:
•release toxins
•improve flexibility and range of motion
•increase the chances of weight loss
•develop muscle tone
•build the immune system
Proponents of the practice also believe that hot yoga exercise reduces the symptoms of certain chronic illnesses, such as thyroid disorders, arthritis and circulatory problems
The Yoga Studio I attended was Annutara in Deerfield Beach and They were super nice and very clean. You had a variety of experienced and beginners in the class and that made me a lot more comfortable. Its important when going to a class you bring a mat, beach towel because you do sweat some more than others and also a nice big water bottle! I took breaks when needed and the best pose to do when taking a break is child's pose. (picture example below)
This is also a more relaxed pose and gives you a sense of calmness over your body.
I will take photos of me doing some pose's soon...
Thanks for reading!
Namaste!
Ashley M.
More about Gluten Free Living....
Healthful Gluten-Free Eating
Many foods are naturally free of gluten, unless it was added in manufacturing. People who follow a gluten free diet can enjoy a variety of foods, including:
•Plain beef, pork and lamb
•Plain fish and shellfish
•Plain chicken and turkey
•Plain fruits
•Plain vegetables
•Plain beans
•Eggs
•Milk
•Rice, Wild Rice
•Quinoa
•Lentils
•Corn
•Potatoes
•Soy
•Nuts and seeds
•Flax
Frequently Overlooked Foods that May Contain Gluten
•Broth
•Candy
•Coating mixes
•Croutons
•Imitation bacon
•Imitation seafood
•Marinades
•Processed meats
•Sauces and gravies
•Seasoning
•Soy sauce
•Thickeners
•Vegetarian meat substitutes
New Recipe- Southwestern Stir-Fry Shrimp
Southwestern Stir-Fry Shrimp
Bring a little of the southwest to your dinner table with this sassy shrimp and pepper stir-fry.
Prep Time
20
MinutesTotal Time
1 Hr 20 Min Makes
6
Servings Recipe Details
Ingredients:
•2 tablespoons lime juice
•1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
•1/4 teaspoon salt
•1/4 teaspoon pepper
•1 lb uncooked deveined peeled large shrimp (about 24), thawed if frozen, tail shells removed (NOTE: I used cooked medium shrimp because it was easier and faster cooking time.)
•1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped (1 1/2 cups)
•1 large red bell pepper, chopped (1 1/2 cups)
•1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
•1/3 cup Progresso® chicken broth low sodium (from 32-oz carton)
•2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
•1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne)
•2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Preparation Instructions:
1.In medium glass or plastic bowl, mix lime juice, cumin, salt and black pepper. Stir in shrimp. Cover and refrigerate 1 hour.
2.Heat 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add yellow and red bell peppers, onion, broth, garlic, red pepper and cilantro; cook and stir 2 minutes. Add shrimp mixture; cook and stir 3 to 4 minutes or until shrimp are pink and firm.
Nutrition Information
Beta-Carotene:70%; Calories:90; Calories from Fat:10; Carbohydrate Choice:1/2; Cholesterol:110mg; Very Lean Meat:1 1/2; Omega-3:200g; Potassium:290mg; Sodium:280mg; Total Carbohydrate:8g; Dietary Fiber:1g; Total Fat:1g; Protein:13g; Sugars:5g; Vegetable:1;
Compliments of http://www.glutenfreely.com/
Bring a little of the southwest to your dinner table with this sassy shrimp and pepper stir-fry.
Prep Time
20
MinutesTotal Time
1 Hr 20 Min Makes
6
Servings Recipe Details
Ingredients:
•2 tablespoons lime juice
•1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
•1/4 teaspoon salt
•1/4 teaspoon pepper
•1 lb uncooked deveined peeled large shrimp (about 24), thawed if frozen, tail shells removed (NOTE: I used cooked medium shrimp because it was easier and faster cooking time.)
•1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped (1 1/2 cups)
•1 large red bell pepper, chopped (1 1/2 cups)
•1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
•1/3 cup Progresso® chicken broth low sodium (from 32-oz carton)
•2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
•1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne)
•2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Preparation Instructions:
1.In medium glass or plastic bowl, mix lime juice, cumin, salt and black pepper. Stir in shrimp. Cover and refrigerate 1 hour.
2.Heat 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add yellow and red bell peppers, onion, broth, garlic, red pepper and cilantro; cook and stir 2 minutes. Add shrimp mixture; cook and stir 3 to 4 minutes or until shrimp are pink and firm.
Nutrition Information
Beta-Carotene:70%; Calories:90; Calories from Fat:10; Carbohydrate Choice:1/2; Cholesterol:110mg; Very Lean Meat:1 1/2; Omega-3:200g; Potassium:290mg; Sodium:280mg; Total Carbohydrate:8g; Dietary Fiber:1g; Total Fat:1g; Protein:13g; Sugars:5g; Vegetable:1;
Compliments of http://www.glutenfreely.com/
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
60 Day Challenge--- GO RED TEAM GO!
WELL TONIGHT'S WEIGH IN WENT WELL I LOST 2 POUNDS AND ON AN EVEN BRIGHTER SIDE I STARTED MY 60 DAY WEIGHT LOSS CHALLENGE WE SET A GOAL FOR ME TO WEIGH IN AT 150 POUNDS BY JULY 29TH! IT MIGHT BE HARD BUT I AM SURE I WILL SUCCEED...MIND OVER MATTER. MY TEAM SEEMS TO BE FOCUSED AND TRUELY A GREAT BUNCH OF PEOPLE. I'M STILL LOOKING FOR A WORKOUT PARTNER SO FAR HAVEN'T GOTTEN ANY LUCK AS OF YET. BUT EITHER WAY I'M STAYING ON TOP OF IT, EACH WEEK WE ALSO HAVE A GROUP CHALLENGE AND THIS WEEK IS TO TAKE PICTURES OF EVERY MEAL AND ENSURE WE HAVE A LITTLE NOTE OF THE BREAKDOWN FOR EACH MEAL SUCH AS CALORIES, FAT AND CARB INTAKE. SHOULD BE BOTH FUN AND INTERESTING.
I GOT TO KEEP TRUCKING ONLY HAVE 33 MORE POUNDS TO LOSE IN THE LONG RUN BUT THE SHORT TERM GOAL IS ABOUT 18.6 POUNDS BY 7/29/2011.
ASHLEY M.
I GOT TO KEEP TRUCKING ONLY HAVE 33 MORE POUNDS TO LOSE IN THE LONG RUN BUT THE SHORT TERM GOAL IS ABOUT 18.6 POUNDS BY 7/29/2011.
ASHLEY M.
Overcoming the Chip Addiction
To help overcome my chip addiction, I have been trying new healthy options like Gluten Free Pirate Booty's... these things are AWESOME and taste really good unlike some other healther snacks that taste like cardboard.
The Joys of Having Supportive Best Friends....
I can say that I am blessed to have such great and supportive friends in my life. My Best Friend Nikki is my ROCK! She has been such a huge supporter in the journey every tear and everytime I complain about losing weight she always tells me I CAN DO IT! I am greatful for her always being by my side not only for supporting me but also making fun of my potato chip addiction and constantly making me laugh. I love it when she tells me when I get upset to say "WUSAAAAAAAAAA!" Some days it works and some days it doesnt! Thank you Nikki!
Also a Big Shout Out to Christina for always being such a great friend and always willing to give advice and hear me out when I really need someone to listen!
My Meghan! Thanks for always pushing me to work out and I am so happy you are doing your own weight loss and you look FABU I might add! Love Ya Chica!
To My Sammy Sam!!! Although we have only known each other a short bit of time I can say I have grown to love you! You are always ready to chill and I consider you my Ride or Die type chick!!
Thanks to my girlies and all my other supporters that I did not mention!
Ashley M.
My worst enemy...The Infamous Bathing Suit
Any chubby girl knows the when summer rolls around and those bathing suits come out we literally cringe. Before I felt I was an oversized water animal wearing a two piece bathing suit and to be quite honest even though my weight has went down I felt like a beached whale last weekend when I went to a water park with my god daughter and best friends. Even though my bestie Christina said I looked good I still didn't feel it inside. Previously weighing 211 and now weighing 168 I still have my "fat girl" complex- and IT SUCKS! I'm trying accept each day as it comes but then when you turn around and see six packs and tiny waist (ahh the joy's of living in south florida) you get self conscience. I can't believe I am going to do this but I am posting a picture of me from this past weekend, yup you guessed it in my bathing suit...(CRINGING) But this only motivates me to continue what I am doing to get where I need to be. Its so crazy because I won't wear a bathing suit in front of certain people because I feel their words would be reckless and to think now I am posting it for the world to see it makes me feel as though I am overcoming leaps and bounds when it comes down to weight loss. In a few months I will take another picture of me in a bathing suit and let's see if theres any more changes.
Thanks for Reading!!
Ashley M.
(168 POUNDS)
Motivation Picture- when I was 150 pounds
I really hope that I can reach 150 pounds within the next two months. Here is a reflection photo of me when I was that weight.
Cannellini Bean Recipe- Only 180 Calories
Cannellini Bean Salad
Prep time: 10 minutes
4 servings
Ingredients
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon minced red onion
3⁄4 teaspoon dried oregano
2 medium cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and diced
1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Let me tell you this is an awesome and healthy snack or meal...it taste the best after being in the refridge....
Prep time: 10 minutes
4 servings
Ingredients
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon minced red onion
3⁄4 teaspoon dried oregano
2 medium cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and diced
1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Let me tell you this is an awesome and healthy snack or meal...it taste the best after being in the refridge....
Pink (P!nk) - Fuckin' Perfect (Music Video) HQ [2011 *NEW*]
This is my weight loss song, I can relate to this song very much. I use this song as a motivation tool as well to help re-train my thoughts to the positive.
Empower yourself, and become the person you dream about....
Remember when you feel the battle is too much... stop and reflect on why you started this journey to begin with.
Quote:
"When one approach is not working to reach the desired goal, that's not a reason to abandon the goal. Instead, it is time to devise another approach."------Ralph Marston
Principal Nutrition's Information...
http://principlenutrition.co/index.html
Many people have been asking me for the information on the Nutrition Company I've been working with so here is the link to the company's website.
But You Have Such A Pretty Face...
Don't you just hate when people tell you "But You Have Such A Pretty Face..." its like what is the rest of me ugly??? I don't understand how some people really think that this a helpful thing to say; I have even been told " well you know you were pretty when you were skinny" so are you saying since I have more cushion for the pushin that I am ugly. Dealing with people and their comments can be somewhat nerve racking but I'm slowly understanding why people say these things. Either they are really unhappy with themselves or they just have no common sense and are quite ignorant. Its important to remember that we all have to start somewhere when it comes to weight loss, you can be 150 pounds or 350 pounds but at least your making the effort to lose these pounds. It all comes down to how you feel within you and not really what others might think of you. I am dealing with this daily and I have really great days and some really horrible ones. I just remind myself that I was able to stop myself from a distructive pattern and take control of my own life.
Ashley M.
Ashley M.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Just Be...
Tonight I went out to dinner with my friend Manuela who is also currently a member of Principal Nutrition, it was so good to have someone to eat out with who also is dealing with similar struggles I am when it comes down to weight loss. We discussed our journey a bit and also shared our meals to make it that much easier to ensure we were staying on top of our caloric intake. So like Manuela always tells me... JUST BREATHE! Learn to let things just be....
Thanks Manuela!!
Ashley M.
Thanks Manuela!!
Ashley M.
Operation Beautiful- Such an Inspiration
I was introduced to Operation Beautiful just a few months ago from my friend Stacey, when I am feeling down on myself I go check out their website http://operationbeautiful.com/ and I read all the postings and it makes you truely see yourself and the world a little brighter. I love the photos and quotes and the stories are inspirational. I am enclosing in this post some of the photos from their site.
Thanks for reading....
Ashley M.
Thanks for reading....
Ashley M.
CRAVINGS....
Well we all have them yup, you guessed it--- CRAVINGS!!!
Lately, mine have been crazy I think because my stress levels have been evalvated and we all know what happens then...yup we cave in to those chips or cookies.... I heard this quote the other day and it is true to me thats for sure....
"Why food makes me feel better while eating it, I don’t know but it sure makes me feel worse when I’m immediately done."
I get the guilty thoughts and the thoughts of oh, man this is gonna make my butt look even bigger and then I take a deep breath and remember that keeping the weight off is going to be a constant life changing thing. I just need to learn to adjust and heck maybe having one serving of chips might make the craving stop but I need to be able to step away from the bag before the bag is completely empty.... that is the ticket!
If I feel I can't stop myself then I try not to give in at all but if i feel its ok to have a serving and then be able to stop then I do it - but I also log it in my livestrong account so I can be accountable for my own actions.
Ashley M.
Lately, mine have been crazy I think because my stress levels have been evalvated and we all know what happens then...yup we cave in to those chips or cookies.... I heard this quote the other day and it is true to me thats for sure....
"Why food makes me feel better while eating it, I don’t know but it sure makes me feel worse when I’m immediately done."
I get the guilty thoughts and the thoughts of oh, man this is gonna make my butt look even bigger and then I take a deep breath and remember that keeping the weight off is going to be a constant life changing thing. I just need to learn to adjust and heck maybe having one serving of chips might make the craving stop but I need to be able to step away from the bag before the bag is completely empty.... that is the ticket!
If I feel I can't stop myself then I try not to give in at all but if i feel its ok to have a serving and then be able to stop then I do it - but I also log it in my livestrong account so I can be accountable for my own actions.
Ashley M.
Where is the path leading me....
Someone asked me the other day where do I see this weight loss leading me... I wasn't quite sure how to respond so I sat down and really thought about it. I felt that it would lead me to a healthy life and maybe better self esteem since I've been beaten down alot by the way I look but not how I am on the inside. I realized that since September I have lost "friends" or people I considered friends just because they became jealous that I was taking control over my own life and my own body. For too long I let myself slip and I feel now more than ever that its my time to shine and drop this weight. I've allowed people's negativity to bring me down and I am now trying to figure out how to reflect the negative and hold on to the positive in my life and this is a daily struggle but I know once I make it theres going to be no breaking it.
Ashley M.
Ashley M.
Logging your food and the Whole Gluten Free Idea....
I was recently introduced to the concept of Gluten Free and let me tell you being Italian and not being able to have breads is really quite hard. I was told that I might have a sensitivty to Gluten (Wheat) and to try some gluten free things and see how I do. Well so far I feel less bloated and I actually enjoy the gluten free foods all except for the gluten free bread....Yes not so hot! So I've become creative when it boils down to sandwiches I either eat my lunch meat in rolls of their own or take a lettuce leaf and wrap my lunchmeats in that. Occasionally I also will eat my lunchmeats with Almond Crackers (Nut Thins- Blue Diamond) and its both yummy and crunchy! I also recently tried some gluten free recipes such as the Canellini Bean Salad which consist of Cannellini Beans, Cucumbers, Red Pepper, Red Wine Vinegar, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Sea Salt/ Pepper and Oregano.....let me tell you this is def a yummy in the tummy type of snack! :) That's just to name one...soon in another post I will post some links of where to find some awesome Gluten Free Recipes! :)
Logging your food is a great tool because it will show you exactly how many calories you intake daily. I use livestrong.com/myplate and it helps me too stay on top of only eating 1200 calories six days a week with one alotted "cheat day"....Oh boy how I love those cheat days! This system has a graph also so it shows how much of your food is carbs, protein and fat as well as being able to track your water intake daily also. I normally in take between 10-12 glasses of water per day. I reccommend anyone trying to lose weight to document what you eat on a daily basis whether that is having a small food journal or using a system such as livestrong.com/myplate
Hope this Helps!
Ashley M.
Livestrong.Com /Myplate |
Hope this Helps!
Ashley M.
About Ashley....
September 2010 |
I started my weight loss journey back in September of 2010 since then I have lost roughly around 42.5 pounds by using a personal trainer and then I hire a nutritionist about two months ago. I started weighing in at 211 and I am now between 168-170 depending on my body's fluid. Goal weight is to 130-140 pounds by December 2011. I am working very hard to accomplish this goal and I can tell you losing weight is a constant battle but so rewarding once you see it for yourself. I wasn't always so overweight in high school my max weight was around 125 pounds. Over time things changed and life changed me, at 22 years old I was going through a domestic violence situation. I dated this man for seven years but once I was secluded from my family and friends he started to verbally and physically attack me. I started using food for comfort I would eat medium pizzas, whole bags of chips, nachos and cheese and tons of fried foods to make up for what I was lacking at the time. I was never an emotional eater but slowly I fell into that. Over time I went from 140 pounds to hitting 211 pounds, I was in a size 18/20 pants and was constantly having stomach problems. I knew something had to be done, I felt disgusting in my own skin and not to mention I had met someone and felt it wasnt fair for them to have to deal with my obesisty and all the problems associated with that. So I first decided to join a gym-(Youfit Health Clubs) and then I hired my trainer Jon and he helped me lose 30 pounds. I am greatful for his work and patience with me. However Jon and I no longer work out together because he was promoted to manangment and can't train anymore but we constantly keep in touch and I see him when I go workout and he makes sure I am working out to my best ability! A friend of mine Rob G. was also battling with his weight loss, he is trying to loose 300 pounds by the end of the year himself. He was working with this company called Principal Nutrition and I inquired about the program. Principal Nutrition is AMAZING, they are not only knowledgable but patient and really care about the client's well being. Lauren and Christi have both encouraged me to keep going and document what I have been doing since September and so here we are! I really hope you enjoy my blog and I hope this provides help for those who are battling the weight loss woes like I am.
December 2010- March of 2011 |
Ashley M.
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