Can Foods Tighten Your Tummy?

It has been said in the past that if it sounds too good to be true then it probably is. Both women and men  day after day tend to look for ways to burn the fat and shake a few pounds, especially at this time of year (and when I say this time of year I am speaking for those of us that live in the eastern or midwest areas where snow still covers the ground but we desperately await sunshine and warm temps.) However, in recent studies, there has talk about food tightening the tummy. No this is not a magical system to shrink belly fat overnight, and if you believe that you are sadly being misled.

Nevertheless, like sand in an hour glass, time is ticking...Is this all speculation? Perhaps it was, or so I thought, but after reviewing these particular items that I am about to share with you and reading facts and statements by others I decided to try it myself and I can honestly tell you that I have noticed an improvement in my tummy. Let me give you some history about me; I am a happy, healthy, cancer free gal with a lot to live for! Prior to a few years ago, weight was never a big issue for me. At my age (50) gravity tends to set in and menopause has made its way through my body tearing it up over the last several years, causing drastic changes and added weight to just appear, especially in areas where it never did before. My stomach and waistline area suffered. The pounds just packed on and all I could do was cry.

Summer months no longer meant sunbathing for me and that was quite difficult as my families owned beach front properties where we vacations frequently. I didn't want to look like the beached whale bathing in the sand. Instead, I sat in my swimming suit with with a wrap around my waist hiding behind my Prada sunglasses hoping no one would see the chubby lady. I didn't like this me. I was determined to say enough is enough. While I am working now from my home office full time, I decided to clean out the refrigerator and only buy foods that would help me, not hurt me. At first I thought it would be really tough but after a month, it didn't really seem so bad. I am able to eat foods that I like and exercise less because they are working their magic and burning fat from my areas that caused me so much grief. Do I exercise? Sure I do a few times a week I pop in my 'yoga booty ballet' DVD and dance along to that, but I am NOT one of those up at 5am get to the gym sorta gals.

So, do you want to learn more? Of course you do because you have a bathing suit with your name on it and in your mind you are thinking "man I have to knock of 10 pounds before summer!"So where does one begin? How about with breakfast? I was awful at choosing the right breakfast foods. I'd go to the fridge and grab a can of pop and something quick such as last nights left overs heated up or worse, candy bars from the pantry. No, no, no! Here's where I made my first change...

I've learned that oats are a wonderful way to start your day. Why? They fill you up quickly making your body think that it's really full, even if it may not be. Let me guess, you don't have the time to wake up and cook oats? Hey, guess what they come in packets. You simply add water. You can microwave them at the office or better in their own small containers even with fruit, etc., where you can pop them in the microwave and take them on the go on your way to work. Need flavor? I'm certainly not at all a cinnamon lover however did you know that by putting cinnamon on it has natural thermionic properties that can increase your metabolism?

OK, so you don't particularly like oats? Some of us don't…then try grapefruit. My thoughts on this one? Thanks but no thanks, I'll stick with the oats. Grapefruit is my absolutely worst source of fruit and would honestly be my last choice of fruit nonetheless it has been proven to lower insulin levels which promote weight loss and get your metabolism racing. My problem was when I was 18 I went on a crazy diet (because I felt fat) where I ate, breathed and drank grapefruit which was unhealthy for me and I landed in the hospital with IV drips. To this day the smell of grapefruit turns my stomach.

Next; Red peppers and almonds. I'll bet you didn't know it but peppers contain capsaicin which help with burning stubborn fat. That's it…from here on out peppers go in everything I cook! Almonds are a super source of protein to help keep your body full and your metabolism kicking! Instead of reaching for a bag of chips at night while watching your favorite show on television, pour a small bowl of almonds and snack on them. These bad boys will burn calories and keep your metabolism going while you are sleeping and dreaming in la-la-land. No, I'm not saying that they are magical, but almonds, unlike those junk foods filled with fat and empty calories are actually doing something good for your body.

Salmon; You probably already know that of all the fish to eat salmon is loaded with Omega Fatty 3 Acids which are super beneficial for fat loss. This is great news, however it does not mean to go to the grocery store and buy a months supply of fish. Trust me, you'll get sick of it real fast. I bake mine in the oven in 1/4 cup of water, lemon juice, and some parsley flakes. Eat it with other combined foods mentioned and together they will all help tighten those fatty areas that give you problems.

Chicken; Now here's a great source of lean protein. Did you know that by doing something as simple as placing more proteins in your diet that you can reduce the amount of carbs you take in which will assist you in weight loss? Yes, you heard me, so go jump on the chicken ban-wagon! There are so many ways to make chicken that you actually could eat it every night and not get sick of it.

Potatoes; Can potatoes help you lose weight? Yes and No, not just any potatoes, sweet potatoes! They keep your blood sugar levels stable while giving your metabolism a jump start.

Avocados are truly considered a fat, so you wonder, "why is she saying to eat avocados then?" We'll, yes it is true that they are considered a fat, however, they are a very healthy fat. Did you know that your body needs these healthy fats to use as energy to promote fat burning?

Blueberries; these little fellas are loaded with antioxidants and they are also low in sugar and great for a healthy low calorie snack!

Green Tea; I certainly don't like tea but it has been known to help speed up your metabolism and keep you super energized which in turn burns more calories throughout the day.

With this being said, isn't it about time you made changes in your life and diet to be a 'better YOU?'

Get Healthy; Foods That Boost Your Body and Mind

When it comes to what we put in out mouth to satisfy our hunger and cravings, we all have our personal preferences in what we like to eat and what we think makes a more healthier you...BUT there are a dozen foods that help your body as well as your mind. Yes, certain foods out there that have come to earn the label super food. Super foods can improve your health by lowering your risk of heart disease and stroke, while boosting your energy, focus, and mental sharpness. The best part is that you get these benefits using all natural foods, instead of items containing chemicals and drugs. Want a better body and improved health? Try switching gears and eating more of these foods. Boost your body and your mind!

Here's a list of 12 super foods and a description of how they'll assist your body and mind to become a better you:

1. Sweet Potatoes. Sweet potatoes are packed with added fiber, potassium and vitamin C. You can cook them in many ways including baked or mashed, as well as cubed in soups. 

2. Blueberries. Blueberries are definitely a super fruit! They contain beneficial antioxidants as well as vitamin C and fiber. They make a healthy treat and they're easy to eat on their own or in smoothies and baked goods.

3. Bananas. Bananas make the list because of their beneficial nutrients as well as high potassium content. They also contain a healthy dose of vitamin B6.

4. Broccoli. Broccoli is a vegetable that contains a healthy amount of vitamin C and folic acid. If you don't like the taste, you can use some spices, cheese, or dip to add some flavor. Just don't over do it.

5. Spinach. Spinach comes packed with many beneficial ingredients. It's one of the best leafy green vegetables that you can eat. It contains folate, potassium, magnesium, iron, and more. Plus it's easy to add to salads.

6. Apples. So now you know there's truth to the saying that an apple a day keeps the doctor away! They contain many of the benefits of the other super food fruits, as well as a decent fiber content. They're also a low glycemic index food. Apples can help you stay full and may help with weight loss. 

7. Baked Beans. Protein, fiber and calcium are just some of the benefits of this low GI super food. Baked beans have also been known to lower the chances of bowel type cancers because of the unique way they're digested.

8. Yogurt. Yogurt is a super healthy way of getting your dairy intake for the day. In addition to being an excellent source of calcium, yogurt has also been known to improve your bowel health overall. Yogurt can help with regulating the digestive system. I love Strawberry Shortcake yogurt! YUM!

9. Salmon. Lean fish are always good alternatives for healthy meats in your diet. However, salmon is extra special because it contains Omega 3's. Omega 3's alone have many health benefits such as reduced risks of heart attacks as well as mental disorders such as depression. Stay happy and healthy, eat more fish products!

10. Olive Oil. Olive oil is one type of oil that's okay to add to your diet in moderation. It's a good idea to keep in mind that a little bit goes a long way. Olive oil can lower bad cholesterol levels and it also contains a healthy amount of antioxidants. Use olive oil mixed with balsamic vinegar for salad dressing, instead of the creamy stuff.

11. Dark Chocolate. This is usually the shocker on the super foods list. Dark chocolate can be yummy and beneficial to your health. Dark chocolate, in small amounts each day, can lower your blood pressure and it also contains antioxidants. 

12. Citrus Fruit. Many like the taste of sweet citrus fruits, which makes it quite the popular super food. You'll still want to eat these fruits in moderation because they have a higher sugar content. However, citrus fruits also come with a high amount of vitamin C, fiber, and folic acid.

There are so many other foods that are earning the title of super food, nonetheless, this list we've compiled should get you started in the right direction. Isn't it time that you get in touch with your body and do what's right for it both mentally and physically?  I say that there is no time like the present to build a better YOU!

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About Simply Delicious Lingerie:

Simply Delicious Lingerie is an online boutique specializing in sexy lingerie from designers such as Carrie Amber Intimates LLC ‘SeventilMidnight’, Be Wicked, Elegant Moments, Fantasy Lingerie, Raveware, and WMS Clothing. Our lingerie is the aphrodisiac of taste, and represents beauty and luxury at an affordable price. At Simply Delicious Lingerie we've personally selected a variety of sexy lingerie just for you and all of your sensuous rendezvous. We sell accessories, Bordello shoes, Pleaser shoes, garter sets, bridal lingerie, bridal undergarments, honeymoon lingerie, wedding day lingerie, wedding garter sets, wedding petticoats, affordable plus size lingerie, Halloween costumes, sexy plus size costumes,  fantasy lingerie, matching lingerie sets, Men’s underwear, men’s Lingerie, sexy thigh high stockings, satin pajamas, plus size sleepwear, adult novelty items and sex swings including the Whip Smart Pleasure Swing. Have a lingerie party with us and experience fun!  Our mission is to take your sexy lingerie needs to the next level of comfort, intrigue, romance and sophistication. For more information or to place an order today please visit http://simplydeliciouslingerie.com/  Say YES (your everyday sexy) to Simply Delicious Lingerie! ® 

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Energy Boosters That Rank TOP 5

These days, our schedules are upside down and we are running from one end of town to the other. Our bodies are getting beat up and worn down quickly...so what do you do? We go to bed hoping to awaken the next morning renewed with energy. But is a little enough? Many people want to have added energy and buy protein drinks and energy drinks to make it happen...OK, so that may work, but so will these healthy 5 easy foods! With so much to choose from... it can be confusing to decipher what's a scam and what's the truth about the foods and drinks that claim they are awesome.  I have compiled a list of the top five energy boosting foods that will give you true, lasting energy to keep you hopping all day and the good news is you can take most of them with you on the go!

Oatmeal

Yep, that's right, oatmeal! Oats contain the energizing and stress-lowering B vitamin family, which helps transform carbs into usable energy. Oats are also low on the glycemic index because they have a lot of fiber. That means that your body gets a steady stream of energy, as opposed to a short-term spike, because the carbohydrates gradually flow into your bloodstream.The key here is to look for high-fiber oatmeal, like oat bran. For the best nutrition kick, avoid instant oatmeal and stick with more natural varieties, then add your own sweetness.

Lentils

Beans are a great source of fiber, which translates to a slow release of glucose, as well as B vitamins, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, calcium and copper. Lentils provide both carbohydrates and protein, making them a great addition to any meal. Lentils help reduce your cholesterol and blood pressure, and they're low in fat and calories to boot.

Bananas

Bananas provide a lot of potassium, an electrolyte that helps maintain normal nerve and muscle function. Unlike some nutrients, the body doesn't store potassium for long periods of time. This means that your potassium level can drop during times of stress or during strenuous exercise when the nutrient is lost through excessive sweating. The sugar in bananas is an easily digested form of carbohydrate. Other fruits such as apples, grapes, peaches and pineapples also make great energizing and refreshing snacks. We all know we need to be eating more fruits in our diet!

Chocolate

Studies show that chocolate can elevate your energy levels by way of certain bioactive compounds such as tyramine and phenylethylamine. Chocolate has also been claimed to improve anemia, awaken the appetite, aid in digestion, and improve longevity. Chocolate contains sugar and caffeine along with fat and calories so consume in moderation. When possible, opt for dark chocolate or raw cacao for the highest source of antioxidants. 

Almonds

These little guys are great if you're looking to improve your focus and mental clarity. Monounsaturated fats such as almonds provide essential fatty acids, known as omega-3s and omega-6s that produce an alert mental state.

Healthy Fats

Other healthy fats to include in your diet are avocados, seeds, nuts, olive oil, and fish oil. Of course, you'll want to check with your health practitioner before making drastic changes to your diet. It's not easy changing your daily diet and activities around, but all in all, your health comes first, so MAKE THE TIME! Incorporating these foods into your daily menu takes some planning, so here are some ideas you can use to ensure you'll have all the energy you need every day.

Breakfast

Smoothies: For breakfast, a banana fruit smoothie is a quick and easy way to get the potassium your body requires for normal function. In a blender, combine a small banana, some frozen berries of your choice, ice, 1/2 cup low fat milk, and a teaspoon of vanilla. You can also add a tablespoon of peanut butter or some raw cacao powder as well.

Oatmeal: If you need a quick breakfast, you may not always think of oatmeal, or you may think of instant oatmeal, which isn't as nutritious. Some companies are making instant oatmeal healthier by not adding as much sugar and artificial flavoring, but you'll always want to compare the sugar and fiber amounts across a few different brands to find the most nourishing oatmeal.

Cereals: Another great alternative to a bowl of hot oatmeal is bran and muesli cereals. They contain a lot of the energy boosting nutrients of oatmeal, and often contain healthy nuts and dried fruits as well.

Snacks

Almonds: My son taught me that these little fellas have lots of protein, so eat up! These nuts are perfect as a mid afternoon snack. Grab a handful and take them to work with you in a snack cup or baggie. They are SOOOO GOOD for YOU!

Dark Chocolate: Did you know?...When you're feeling sluggish, a small dark chocolate bar is all you need for a great pick me up that will last longer than an hour or two.

Dinner Side Dishes- keep this in mind :)

Beans: Lentils are a great side dish to enhance many dinner entrees such as tacos and burgers. You can also make lentils a main dish by combining several types into one dish as a bean soup or bean casserole served with cornbread. Another way to eat lentils is to add some pepper and melted shredded cheese as part of a healthy lunch.Working these naturally energizing foods into your daily routine doesn't have to be difficult. With a little imagination you can get creative and make meals appealing and tasteful!

** Remember, fruits and veggies are quite important for your bodies health. Did you know that there are a variety of fruits to add to your dishes such as strawberries, blueberries and blackberries? Find your favorite and add it to your next meal whether it be oatmeal for breakfast or a salad at dinner time. You'll get  extra flavor and nutrition.

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How to Eat HEALTHY on a BUDGET

Times are tough for so many of us and groceries keep going, up, up up! So how can we eat food that is healthy and good for us on a budget? With the economic situation in the world being what it is, it's important to find ways of eating healthy on a budget. It's not really all that difficult to do but you have to sit down, go through grocery store ads and make a list to find the best buys/deals. then you must make a menu for the week(s) of what you are going to prepare for yourself or your family. Buy freezer bags and freezer storage containers...this saves BIG money in the long run! It is possible to purchase foods that are good for you and your budget; you merely have to plan ahead to get the best food you can for the money you have available. CLIP COUPONS! So many stores offer up to $.75 off and they will double or even triple the coupons. You're throwing your money right out the window if you walk into a supermarket that offers this and you DON'T do it! Believe it or not as a single mother or two, this was a life saver for me. My family always ate well because I sat down and actually took the time to prepare a shopping list and a menu for the week. Having a plan and sticking to it can help you get more food at less cost and allow you to prepare better, more healthy meals.

Here are some of my tips to help you succeed in eating healthy on a budget:

Grocery Shopping

1. Set aside time to make your food plan. Find the sales ads for each of the grocery stores in your area and decide on your meals for the coming week ahead of time.

2. Make a list. After you've planned your meals, write down everything you need for each meal. Check your pantry, freezer, and refrigerator to see if you already have some of the items. Make your grocery list and determine to stick with it!

• Include what you'll need for drinks, snacks and desserts.
• Remember your ingredients for preparation, such as butter, flour, sugar, and spices.
• Replenish cleaning supplies.

3. Clip coupons for items you know you'll use. Leave the remainder of the coupons at home so you're not tempted to "save" money on items you don't need.

4. Never go grocery shopping on an empty stomach because you're more likely to buy items that look good rather than those on your list.

• If you can't go to the store right after a meal, take along a light snack to help you resist temptation while in the store.

5. Buy items on the perimeter of the store first because these items are the healthiest choices. This will include fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy items. The center items are processed or convenience foods. Not only are they more expensive, but they aren't healthy.

6. Look for fruits and vegetables that are in season as these will often be cheaper than non-seasonal choices. While you're looking at the fruits and vegetables, see if there are any sales on these healthy, nutrient rich foods.

• Choose large bags rather than individual pieces of fruit. The larger bags are often cheaper by the pound.

7. Buy store or generic brands. There usually isn't much difference in the way the foods taste but you can definitely see a difference in the price.

Other Ways to Eat Healthy on a Budget

1. Make your own snacks for your family's time away from home rather than allowing them to purchase food from vending machines. Fresh fruit and vegetable sticks with dip are much healthier than the bags of chips or crackers that come from the machines.

2. Eat at home. Whenever possible, make your food from scratch and eat it at home. Not only will this give you more control over what your family eats, but it can also save you a considerable amount of money.

• Eating out also encourages overeating because portion sizes are massive.

3. Drink healthy. Finally, when eating healthy on a budget, don't forget to think about what you're drinking. Expensive, sugar-laden drinks are the bane of your budget and counter-productive to healthy eating.

• Look for 100% pure juices.
• Drink low fat milk.
• Drink more water.
• Cut out soft drinks.

If you follow these tips, you'll soon discover the joys of healthy eating and you'll save money in the process. You may have to spend some extra time preparing food, but the benefits are astounding and the saving will put that extra money back in your pockets to other things that you like such as going to a concert or out to the movies. If you really save it could mean those weekend getaways or vacations! Isn't it time for you to sit down and evaluate your budget and where your money is going? The little things are what make the biggest differences!

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Dieting and the Struggles of Weight Loss...

Day in and day out both men and women struggle with their food intake and watching what they eat... Does it seem like you're constantly on a diet? If so, you're not alone! You may be quite surprised at how many people feel the same way. These weight loss tips for the frequent dieter may be what you've needed to finally make the dieting roller coaster stop so you can get off. Life is meant to enjoy it...not worry on a constant basis as to if you gained a few pounds here or there.

You may have had some success at losing weight, only to gain it back later... Let's face it, it gets discouraging when you hear that most dieters will regain the weight they've lost within three to five years, and some people gain it back even sooner than that. With those kinds of odds against you, you may wonder why you even bother? The reasons you keep trying to lose weight may vary. You know you need to lose weight to improve your overall health or reduce symptoms of disease. You can't fit into your clothes or you have a reunion to attend. This may sound totally off the wall to some of you but for me; mine was always that if I was going on an all inclusive trip and if I paid that much for the trip, I was damn well going to eat that much worth of food...yup, I was determined to get my monies worth. Crazy...yes, but I lost 10 lbs each time I traveled to consume the amount of food that I knew I would in a matter of 5-10 days. 

Those fad diets work for a quick fix, but what I learned long term was that in the future, my body would eventually gain more weight doing this and that as I aged it was now getting more and more difficult to take it off so quickly. For many of you, there could be any number of other reasons why you gain weight after losing it. Regardless of why you want to slim down or how many times you've dieted in the past, if you want to succeed at losing weight once and for all, you may be better served by following the example of those who've achieved their goal and kept the weight off.

Effective weight loss tactics for those who've succeeded include these techniques:

1. Look at weight loss as a life change rather than the means to a particular end. You're not merely losing weight; you're making a commitment to change your eating and exercise habits so your health and life can improve. In the long run, you will feel so much better about life and yourself!

2. Learn all you can about food, the nutrients needed by the human body, and how to provide your body with the fuel it needs, rather than overfilling it with foods that will make it sluggish and unhealthy. This is probably the most important factor. TO lose weight you have to know both your body as well as the foods you are putting into it in order for it to be effective!

3. Learn to work through frustrations, loss, and stress without turning to food. JUST SAY NO! In many cases, those successful former constant dieters have turned to exercise as a means to release the stresses that often cause people to resort to their old eating habits.

4. Recognize when your body is truly hungry. Discover how to recognize your body's signals to stop eating when you've had enough, rather than continuing to eat until you're stuffed.

5. Focus on your health and fitness, instead of dieting to look good. Instead of dieting for a short term goal - getting into a bikini or looking great for a class reunion - be more concerned about how the foods you eat affect your health.

6. Learn to recognize proper portion sizes. Eating correct portion sizes will allow you to eat only the amount of food your body needs. No one needs a mountain of food in front of them. We aren't bears, and we're not hibernating all winter, so don't stuff your face like you are!

7. Acknowledge only temporary failure when you blow it. Hey listen,no one is perfect, so we cheat sometimes,..it happens. Rather than giving up when you've eaten too much, decide to start again the next day and work harder at controlling your appetite with the right foods, not all the wrong ones.

8. Seek and allow support from others. Getting a mentor who's a weight loss success, joining a support group, or including a friend to hold you to your goals will help spur you on to success. hey, everyone needs a little encouragement or inspiration! These weight loss tips for constant dieters are given with the hopes that you can finally find the ideas that will allow you to break the dieting cycle. You don't have to be one of the many dieters who've failed. You can learn how to make changes in your eating habits to make the weight leave for good. Take your time, learn what your body needs, and then provide the nutrients and exercise to become healthy and happy. Surround yourself with healthy fruits and veggies! 

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Easy Tips for Looking Thinner

How many times have you looked in the mirror and thought to yourself...Yikes! Those few pounds can turn into 20 in a matter of a few months and you don't realize what it's done to your body until it's already there...so what do you do? You go on a crazy diet like I've always done in the past, OR you start eating healthier and exercising a little more. Think about if for a moment if you will...those added pounds did not show up over night, so they aren't going to go away in a day or two either, but there are things that you can do until you shed those unwanted pounds until you get back to your desired weight. Did you know that you could look skinnier without losing any weight? While you're waiting to see results from diet and exercise, there are ways to slim down instantly. Try these tips for your wardrobe, hair, face, body, and mind.


Wardrobe Tips for Looking Thinner:
1. Wear one color at a time. Wearing a single color or similar shades for your whole outfit will help you to look thinner and taller. Black is a practical choice, and my all time favorite, but other colors can achieve the same effect. Solids are usually more slimming than prints.
2. Ensure that your clothes fit properly. Wearing clothes that are too small makes you look bigger. Seek a comfortable fit and professional alterations if necessary. Get a personalized bra fitting at any department store periodically to keep up with any changes due to aging or weight fluctuations.
3. Use undergarments with comfortable shaping. Body shapers and other compression garments are more comfortable than ever before. Invest in some strategic undergarments that will make all your clothes look better.
4. Choose slimming pants. Look for pants with a flat front and minimal detail. Skip the pants with hidden zippers and no pockets. Pant legs with a slight flare can also help you to look trimmer.
5. Select flattering tops. Pay attention to the length of your tops. A top that ends below the waist will deflect attention from a thick middle. Similarly, a wide collar will help balance broad hips. No hoochie mama tops gals that hug your boobies, you want classy fit.
6. Wear the right shoes. Chunky shoes can make your legs look thicker. Look for narrow pumps with a slightly pointed toe rather than square or rounded toes. Nude shoes are especially good because they make your legs look longer.
7. Liberate yourself from the fear of swimwear. Many women shrink from shopping for swimwear but there are bathing suits designed for every body type. High cut legs can make you look thinner. Lightweight compression can keep you feeling comfortable and sleek.


Other Tips for Looking Thinner:
1. Use makeup to make your face more angular. Iridescent powder can make your face look slimmer and create contours. Brush it along your brow bones and the top of your cheekbones to bring out your bone structure.

2. Make your eyes stand out. If your eyes look bigger, the rest of your face will appear smaller. Curl your upper lashes and apply extra mascara to your top outer lashes. Keep your eyebrows slightly arched and well groomed.
3. Get a flattering haircut. If you want your face to look less full, try cutting your hair shorter. Instead of bangs, pull your hair away from your face to make your face look longer. Choose a hairstyle that adds a little height and fullness at the crown. My hair used to be longer, or a little over my shoulders, then I moved to Houston and I got a "bob" cut where the sides were longer and closer to my face, and the back was layered and shorter to my neck. I have highlights and with a hair straightener, I use it to bend my hair verse the use of a curling iron to make my style look fuller (which makes your face look rounder.)
4. Practice good posture. Develop strong abdominal muscles and hold your stomach flat at all times. Pull your shoulders back. It's good for your health and makes you look leaner. When you slouch, you get lazy and when you get lazy you just don't care....no no no! Sit up straight, walk with your shoulders and chest out and show posture and balance in your step.
5. Get a safe tan. If you think that tanning makes you look thinner, do it safely. Sunless tanning products have come a long way in recent years. Daily tanning moisturizers are one easy option to get a little color gradually without any increased risk of skin cancer or premature aging. I have to use the spray on tans because I have had melanoma cancer in the past and it would be very unhealthy for me to even consider a dangerous tanning bed. The spray tan lasts me about 4 weeks and it's a level 2 which makes me look tan not orangish brown. No one wants to look like they have the fake spray with streaks. Natural is better. Remember you want to look and feel good, blend in,..not stand out!
6. Project a positive attitude. No matter what your dress or pants size is, you'll feel more attractive when you cultivate a healthy sense of self-esteem and a genuine affection for others. Focus on your most attractive features and qualities. Be happy, and love who YOU are! Life is good and when you are pleasant and confident in yourself, you'll find more bounce in your step!







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Healthy Snacks for Weight Loss

How many times do you try to eat healthy and do what I do? You eat your meals (now cut in half because you are trying to lose weight) and you end up standing in front of the refrigerator at 10pm at night looking for something to satisfy your hunger? Unfortunately, I tend to grab the "wrong" snacks which really don't help take the unwanted pounds off, in fact eating the wrong foods might just pack some extra weight on!

I have found that snacking seems to be the way to keep your appetite under control in between meals. When you go without food for long periods of time your metabolism slows down, your body craves carbohydrates to use for a much needed energy boost. I am guilty as charged! I'll forget to eat for a few days when I get wrapped up with work, especially now that my kids are gone, and when I do finally eat, it's generally the "bad for you foods." When it comes time to finally eat it's hard to consciously choose healthy foods and a proper portion size. Although snacking can seem like your worst nightmare it's more about controlling what types of foods you snack on and how much you choose to consume.

How many of you feel that choosing the right snacks can be difficult, especially when trying to lose weight? I don't know about you all, but if I say I am on a "diet" I pack on 10 pounds without even opening my mouth. I have to trick myself...if I want something I have to tell myself, "Yum yum eat that up Michele, it's so good for you!" When in fact, it's so high in sugar or sodium. If I tell myself I cannot eat something,..it make me only want to eat it more...reverse psychology is what you must use on yourself.

You'll want to eat something to satisfy your craving that is low in calories and healthy. Your snack doesn't necessarily have to be low fat as long as you keep your portion sizes and food choices under control. By pairing two different food types together you will feel fuller for longer, just remember to reduce the amount of each food that you eat. So the next time you're feeling hungry or its time for a snack choose foods from this list to keep you full and satisfied.


1. Fruit- Fruit is excellent for a snack. Whether you eat apiece by itself or pair it with cheese, yogurt or a dipping sauce, it has wonderful nutritional value and is low in calories. Most fruits are naturally sweet, which curb cravings for sugar snacks. Additionally they are a great source of fiber, have high water content and some contain antioxidants, anticancer, and heart disease fighting properties. For the quantity of melons and berries that you're able to eat for a snack they are surprisingly low in calories. Melons include watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, and casaba. Berries include raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, strawberries and cranberries. Dried fruit can also be consumed because it maintains the fiber, vitamins, and minerals, however they tend to be higher in calories and can sometimes contain added sugar. Always remember your portion size when you eat dried fruits. The best fruits to eat for a snack include melons, berries, apples, pears, peaches, plums, oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, and red grapes. Fresh fruits of the season are the best!


2. Vegetables- Vegetables are a great source of nutrients, which makes them a perfect snack food. Vegetables are full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber and are very low in calories. Vegetables can be eaten alone or paired with other foods such as celery and peanut butter, cucumbers and hummus, carrots and low fat rand dressing, etc. Because most vegetables require some type of preparation such as cleaning, peeling or cutting, its best to prepare your vegetables ahead of time and store them in plastic baggies or Tupperware containers. Plant a garden. you be so much healthier, and you'll save a lot of change with the prices of produce sky rocketing with this shitty economy.


3. Nuts- Nuts are a great snack food that can be eaten on the go and stored easily. Nuts are a valuable source of fiber, antioxidants, protein, vitamins and healthy unsaturated fats. However, they run high in calories and fat so maintaining an appropriate serving size per sitting is necessary. Pistachios, almonds and walnuts are preferred for snacking purposes.


4. Legume- Legumes are a "whole food" that provides the body with essential nutrients such as fiber, protein, minerals, amino acids, omega 3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Legumes are complex carbohydrates, which keep you feeling fuller for longer. Although legumes don't seem like a good snack food, most often they are made into a puree, dip, or added to a salad. The best legumes for snacks are beans, chickpeas, hummus, and tahini (pureed sesame seeds).


5. Dairy- Dairy is a great source of calcium, which builds strong bones, protein and vitamins. Its best to use low fat or fat free dairy products for snacking to avoid consuming high amounts of saturated fats. Yogurt, cottage cheese, ricotta, hard cheeses, milk, cream cheese, and sour cream are good sources of dairy foods for snacking. For yogurt beware of the added sugars which hike up the calories. Greek yogurt is thick and has a naturally sour taste, but is also higher in protein than normal yogurt. When measuring out serving size be careful with cheeses because even the low fat or fat free kinds tend to run high in saturated fats. You can consume 1/2 cup of soft cheese in one sitting and a couple of cubes of hard cheese such as mozzarella or Monterey jack.


6. Whole grains- Most snack foods consist of refined grains such as cookies, crackers and snack cakes. Refined grains are high in sugar and fat without any healthy benefits. Whole grains on the other hand have fiber, vitamins and minerals, which provide the body with nutrients and energy. When looking for a snack turn to whole grain food products to fill you up and keep you going. Some whole grain food products include whole grain crackers, tortilla chips, pita wedges, English muffins, rice cakes, cereals and popcorn. Light or low fat popcorn is great for snacking and is naturally high in fiber. Avoid butter, which adds fat and calories. Another option is 100% whole wheat or multi grain, however you want to watch out for added sugar and high saturated or trans fats. Whole grain snack foods are great combined with cheeses, dips, spreads, or fruits. Remember portion size when combining two food groups.


7. Nutrition Bars- Nutrition bars are a great snack to take on the go. They are easy, maintenance free and portable and most often contain a good amount of protein, vitamins, minerals and fiber. They come in all kinds granola, cereal, fiber, protein, and tons of flavors for everyone's different tastes. The fiber and protein will keep you full and satisfy your craving until your next meal. Always check the ingredient list for a high number of calories, sugar, fat and any added chemicals.