The Ultimate Proportion Plate

Choose_My_Plate_PhotoIf you are not sure what it means to eat the right proportions, this is the plate for you!  When I first started dieting, my nutritionist suggested using this colorful plastic divider plate to help guide my food portions.  The different food groups are indicated on the plate such as grains, fruit, protein and vegetables.  Grains and vegetables are the bigger portions, while fruit and protein are equal but, smaller portions.

This plate is a visual aid to making dieting choices easier.  In addition, this plate has a convenient lid so you can carry your meal anywhere.  This special plate keeps me from going back for seconds, because I have used all of my food space.  An added bonus is this plastic plate is microwavable and dishwasher safe.  Essentially, I discovered the value of balance through using this plate.  I know you will- as well! Good Luck!

Cheers,

Gina

Are you Resting Enough?

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When most of us think about getting in shape, we imagine ourselves exercising vigorously day after day.  This is actually not the way to do it.  Strenuous exercise is only one component of a good training regimen.  It is highly important to include rest in your work-out schedule.  I make a point of monitoring my energy level and relaxing after 3-4 days a week.  By resting, I mean taking a break from my tough work-out and do something lighter such as walking.  The reason this is vital is your muscle needs time to repair.

Doing exercise correctly is more important than doing it excessively.  If you use muscles one day such as upper body strength training, you should avoid upper body training the next day.  Keeping a balance between training and resting is also a good way to avoid low grade stress injuries.  Have the best work-out ever!

Cheers,

Gina

Staying in Control of your Diet

balance-your-dietAn effective diet means finding strategies that work for you as an individual.  For me, eating carbs (except for fruit) leaves me craving more so I avoid carbs all together.  That approach works for me.  For another person, using your favorite carb as a reward for progress, may be a better plan.  The point is, you have to figure out what works best for you.

Being consistent with my diet has benefited me.  For Example, I always select a pre-cooked organic meal from Whole Foods and enjoy snacks such as cheese and yogurt.  Introducing new flavors, condiments or spices can make food more interesting for you to eat.  Do not let small setbacks get you off course.  Tomorrow is a new day.  Take charge and challenge yourself daily!

Cheers,

Gina

How to Talk yourself into Exercising

exeeWe all have those days where we feel like we can not face exercising or motivate ourselves to go to the gym.  I put on work-out clothes every morning.  Typically, I eat my main meal in the AM.  Eating makes me feel energized.  I start training about a half an hour to forty five minutes before eating.  Generally,  I work-out in the gym, however if I am feeling un-motivated I will try something different like walking a scenic pathway.

Setting a timer to do something enjoyable before exercising can be helpful to you.  After a training session, set aside time for a relaxing activity, as well. Remember, we feel differently – everyday.  Do what your body can handle- today!

Cheers,

Gina

 

Amazing Mediterranean Chicken

INGREDIENTS

1 Medium Lemon
1 1/2 Cup coarsely chopped Onion
1/4 Cup 12 halved Olives
2 Tablespoons drained Capers
1 Can whole plum Tomatoes, drained and coarsely chopped
12 Bone-In Chicken Thighs
1/4 Teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil

DIRECTIONS

1. Squeeze juice from lemon to measure 1 Teaspoon.  Place rind in a small bowl.  Cover and refrigerate.  Combine lemon juice, onion and next 3 ingredients in a 5 quart electric slow cooker.

2. Sprinkle chicken with pepper.  Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium high heat.  Add oil pan, swirl to coat.  Place half of chicken in pan.  Cook 3 minutes on each side or until browned.  Place chicken in the slow cooker.  Repeat procedure with chicken.  Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until chicken is done.

3. Place chicken thighs on plate.  Stir reserved lemon rind into sauce over chicken.

This meal is incredible.  Very healthy & nutritious.  This dish is perfect for a family dinner.  My tummy totally craves this as I write this blog.  How great!?  You can be very creative with this Mediterranean Chicken entrée.  Wishing you a marvelous Spring!!  Enjoy every bite… Indulge in this super, excellent and wonderful chicken dish.

Cheers,

Gina

Very Spicy Garlic Shrimp

INGREDIENTS

12 Piece Jumbo Shrimp
2 Tbsp. Olive Oil
3 Garlic Cloves, Crushed
1/2 Tsp. Red Pepper Flakes
1 Tsp. Seasoning
1 Tsp. Lemon Zest
2 Tsp. Lemon Juice
2 Tbsp. Fresh Italian Parsley Chopped

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat temperature.

2. Add Olive Oil, Garlic, Red Pepper Flakes and Shrimp

3. Add Seasonings

4. Cook Shrimp 3 Minutes or until just Pink

5. Toss with Lemon Zest, Juice and Chopped Parsley

6. Remove Shrimp to a serving plate

This is a super appetizer or dish for you and your loved ones.  Wow- this amazing meal is ready in minutes.  Definitely, add or delete ingredients to this entrée.  Hoping your afternoon or dinner meal is wonderful!  Have a fabulous day, Weight Cliquers!

Cheers,

Gina

How to make Walking Fun as the Weather gets Warmer

funexercise-outsideBy adding variety to walking you can intensify your caloric output and create more fun at the same time.  The more you alter your work-out program, the better your results will be.  I really love walking on the beach because of the beauty aspect of it.  The soft, warm sand will challenge your balance and thereby engage in many other muscle movements.

There are numerous advantages to changing up the way you walk.  Walking in the pool or ocean shifts the way your limbs move.  The water against your body creates resistance as if you are walking with weights on.  It is as if you are walking in slow motion which requires more effort.  Overall, it is just wonderful being outside more.  The outdoors make training a more engaging and sensual experience.  Truly, there are so many opportunities to incorporate outdoor fitness.  Have a great time discovering ways to make walking exciting!

Cheers,

Gina

 

Why I Love Sweet Sweat- Waist Trimmer Belt

shutterstock_97008326I am so very excited to have discovered Sweet Sweat- Waist Trimmer Belt.  It is a neoprene belt that adjusts to my waist with a Velcro. This belt feels comfortable when applied to my waist.  Typically, you can wear this under your work-out clothes.  The main benefit that I have experienced is that it helps shed excess water.  Wow- there is a lot of water release when I take the belt off.

Physically, my body feels more toned with Sweet Sweat.  My skin softens as if I stepped out of a sauna.  This waist trimmer belt improves my posture and energizes me.  I noticed that Sweet Sweat tends to keep my muscles warm.  At $19.99 this belt is a reasonable cost.  The only draw back for this waist trimmer belt is that you have to hand wash it.  You can not machine wash this belt.  I highly recommend this product.  Yes, I was a little skeptical about wearing Sweet Sweat, but now I am a believer!  Give it a shot….

Cheers,

Gina

Make Healthy Eating Exciting

thS2010XYXHealthy eating does not have to be dull and flavorless. A bland piece of chicken without fat is not going to stimulate your appetite. Try eating food that will beckon you to eat it again. Take me for instance, grilled salmon with a herbal rub can be delicious and nutritious with out being bland. Such distinctive spices such as curry powder and paprika can really spice up meat, fish and poultry dishes. Adding a combination of veggies adds pizazz to an entrée. While you should go low on carbs, a good piece of multi-grain bread can be a healthy addition. Salads can be a source of creativity in addition to vegetables. Nuts add crunch and variety. Do not be afraid to experiment with food. You can incorporate small touches into food you already enjoy. For instance, dry tomatoes can add a tang to anything. Have fun indulging your taste buds!

Cheers,

Gina