3 Tips to Start Exercising

shutterstock_258660854 1. Developing positive affirmations:

I learned to develop positive affirmations to counter all of my fears and self-consciousness. Some of the things that I tell myself are, “Keep moving forward and do not look back.” Also, “The harder I work the more I achieve.” In my mind, I craved to be thin. I dealt with my self-consciousness by exercising when it was the least crowded at the gym.

2. Getting started:

Do not be shy about asking for help to work the equipment. I selected the work-out machine that I thought would be the easiest, which for me was the treadmill and bike. During my initial training, I walked the treadmill until I was tired which was approximately 20 minutes. I felt relieved and hopeful that I could accept the challenge. The fitness instructor assisted me with how to start slowly and cool down. At the end, I walked an additional 5 minutes at a slower rate.

3. How to set exercise goals:

Before I started each work out I set goals regarding distance and incline. I went from 20 minutes in my first week and increased my distance by 10 minutes per day at the same speed. I progressed by gradually adjusting the incline to a steeper level. I varied programs from day to day. I changed the program with how I felt during the course of the work out.

To my fellow WEIGHT CLIQUERS, You may think that you are not up to exercise on a regular basis, my experience was losing weight became easier with daily work outs. My confidence, attitude and training exertion made me continue to persevere. I noticed that I felt more relaxed, calm and my health was continuously improving.

Cheers,

Gina

Mediterranean Chicken Salad, Broccoli with Sundried Tomatoes and Italian Green Garbanzo Salad

So very excited to have this one of a kind dish. This morning, I ate mediterranean chicken salad, broccoli with sundried tomatoes and italian green garbanzo salad. Nothing feels better than reaching a healthy weight, especially when I thought it was hopeless. Eating my largest for breakfast has always revved up my metabolism. I enjoy front-loading my meals, so I am burning off the calories all day. Let me tell you about this excellent meal!

This special dish contains the following ingredients: Chicken breast, mixed olives, bell peppers, red onions, feta cheese, spinach, olive & canola oil, lemon juice, parsley, garlic, basil, oregano, salt and pepper. This mixture is the greatest. I know that you can apply more ingredients to this salad and even make it more tastier! Perhaps, you can substitute the lemon juice for balsamic vinegar. There are many options to satisfy your tummy! Enjoy!

Broccoli with sundried tomatoes include broccoli, garlic, sun dried tomatoes, dressing (extra virgin olive oil, garlic, salt, rosemary, crushed red pepper flakes and black pepper). I raved to everyone about this side dish. Really, really happy that I chose this cruciferous vegetable!

Italian green garbanzo salad features awesome ingredients. This is what the salad includes: Zucchini, red bell peppers, yellow bell peppers, grilled onion, plum tomatoes, garbanzo (chick peas), cucumber, broiled garlic, chopped kalamata pitted olives, fresh mint, chopped Italian parsley, balsamic vinegar and ground black pepper. Such a incredible blend to one of my favorite salads. Cheers to this delicious, low-calorie, in-expensive and fresh meal!

Everything you put in your body counts, so be honest with yourself. The above mentioned entree is fun because you can add and delete anything in the above dishes to make it how you desire. Be creative about salad dressings, as well as other toppings not listed above. You can never have enough of salad. This is a well-balanced meal and I know that you will fall in love with every bite!

Cheers,

Gina

Making Good Food Choices

Staying away from unhealthy foods felt like it would be impossible to do. What I found helpful was keeping my goals in mind. I started easing myself away from food by eliminating the obvious culprits such as fast food, soda, chips, cakes and candies. Even with abstaining from foods over the last 25 months, I have occasional cravings for them. I have noticed that with time the foods I used to eat have become less desirable. Learning to be consistent with my food choices showed me how strong I really am. When I made the choice to switch from eating junk food to eating organic food my life drastically changed.

To my fellow WEIGHT CLIQUERS, These are some of the things that what worked for me and now you need to find out what works for you! YOU CAN DO IT!! I BELIEVE IN YOU!!

Cheers,

Gina

Sesame Sword Fish, Grilled Asparagus Salad and Sesame Scallion Quinoa

Welcome to the WEIGHT CLIQUE, Recipe Box. The above mentioned recipe is being featured today. Whole Foods Market offers a rewards card that the cashier scans so you can build points when you purchase food and receive discounts. Be certain to join the rewards program! The sesame sword fish, grilled asparagus salad and sesame scallion quinoa dish is excellent. I am very excited to share a sample of what the entrée includes with you in hopes that you will make healthier choices! Please load your cart with protein-packed foods such as fish, salmon, chicken and steak etc. Here we go with the ingredients to this amazing meal…

Sesame sword fish is marinated with shoyu, sesame oil, crushed peppers, vinegar, garlic and ginger. Basic and simply prepared. This dish is so much better than eating fried protein meals. I don’t have to think about purchasing the Whole Foods prepared food. It works and I have experienced results. Give it a try!

My second selection is grilled asparagus salad which includes, asparagus, onion, bell peppers, basil, roasted garlic, canola oil, balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper. This veggie is the best! It is cut in small pieces, as it is easy to eat. Get ready for this feast!

The ingredients for sesame scallion quinoa includes: quinoa, cucumbers, green onion, cilantro, lime juice, sesame seeds, canola oil, lime zest, salt and pepper. Truly, this is a well-balanced meal!

I am proud of my journey, life and excited to be eating these delicious organic dishes on a daily basis. I guess I realized that I set aside my emotions with food because I was overwhelmed and stressed. I never took care of myself. Now, I have never felt healthier. My inner voice keeps saying that, “I am healthy!” I am ecstatic to be there for you so you can achieve your weight loss goals. Keep up your motivation, dedication and consistency. You will experience outstanding results! Continue moving forward!!!

Cheers,

Gina

Marinated and Grilled Skirt Steak, Broccoli Rabe with Chili and Garlic and Sesame Kale

Eating smaller, balanced portions is one of the key ways to a significant weight loss. Embrace yourself, NOW!!! Do not let anyone discourage you… I know that you can drop weight. It is easier than you think. Put your mind to do it, consistently. Your mind is more powerful than you can imagine!

For lunch, I chose the marinated and grilled skirt steak. The ingredients are skirt steak, vegetarian worcestershire sauce, shoyu, wheat, salt, brewing starter, molasses, tamarino, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, crushed red pepper, cloves, ginger, soy sauce, dijon mustard, fresh garlic, orange zest and black pepper. This tastes soft, tender and is easy to cut. Yes, this is cooked proper- I would say that it is cooked medium rare. Also, this steak is served boneless. Very, very tasty!

Broccoli rabe with chili and garlic is a wonderful combination. It includes: broccoli rabe, garlic, red chili flakes, smoked paprika, vegetable stock, salt and pepper. The broccoli pieces are thick and does not have a bland taste. You can add a little more of a variety to it like a special dressing like non-fat Italian dressing or balsamic dressing etc. Stick to the healthy, organic foods!! What a delicious menu?!

Included with todays meal is sesame kale. This yummy entrée includes kale, carrots, red peppers and dressing: shoyu, water, soybeans, wheat, salt, brewing starter, honey, rice vinegar, canola oil, sherry, sesame oil, black sesame seeds, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes. The ingredients make this vegetable taste incredible! Grab a taste or a try a sample!

I feel really upbeat today! I always knew that I had been fit before, so I thought maybe I could do it again… and I did! So can you! Before, simple things like tying my shoes, walking to the car, shaving my legs became challenging for me. Now, I could not feel more prouder and accomplished in myself. WEIGHT CLIQUERS, Keep aiming for goals and you will ultimately experience success. Make getting healthy your No. 1 priority!!!!!

Cheers,

Gina

Realizing bariatric surgery was NOT an option

shutterstock_197524445 I thought bariatric surgery would be an easy fix. Boy was I wrong!! When I met with the bariatric coordinator and nurse, they were pretty stern with me. I thought they would have been more comforting during my appointment, yet they were all about the facts. I was shocked as to how serious they were with me. My expectations were much different than how they presented all the graphic details of what was entailed for this irreversible surgery. Listening to what they put it in perspective for me and how tough they were (in a good way) was fuel for me to get motivated to prove them wrong.

After a lot of meetings and a huge packet of information, I went home and thought about everything. I came to the realization I needed to take control of my weight and life again. At first, I did not like the idea of having to lose the weight naturally. I thought surgeries would solve my rapid weight gain. I recognize now it was a blessing to have my doctors there to help me focus on what I needed to do. I learned that there are no quick fixes to weight loss or anything in life. By staying consistent with my choices, it kept me going in the right direction.

To my fellow WEIGHT CLIQUERS, There are no secrets to losing weight. All it takes is some guidance, a great support system as well as believing in what you set your mind out to do. Keep people around that want to help you achieve your dreams, not tear them down. Let go of anything toxic in your life and positive things will come in time.

Cheers,

Gina

Chicken Satay with Bali BBQ Sauce, Snow Peas with Carrots and Cauliflower Tabbouleh

Weight Cliquers, Are you ready to jumpstart your weight loss and keep on the right track? You can gradually cut down calories. Making lifestyle changes you can live with is easy. Chicken satay with bali bbq sauce, snow peas with carrots and cauliflower tabbouleh is super yummy! Make sure you add this to your own recipe box!

The ingredients to chicken satay with bali bbq sauce which is grilled on a stick is as follows. Chicken, bali bbq sauce, sugar, ketchup, tomato, salt, spice, citric acid, water, soy sauce, chili, onion, corn oil, garlic, spice, xanthan gum. Also, spicy peanut dipping sauce which includes: water, coconut milk, natural peanut butter, (dry roasted peanuts) sugar, curry paste (chili, garlic, shallot, lemongrass, salt, sugar, spices and galangal). The last ingredients are natural lime juice, tamarino, citric acid and xanthan gum. What a healthy meal for you and your family!

Snow peas and carrots is easy to make, low-calorie, healthy and can be served for any type of occasion. The ingredients to this is basic. Snow peas, carrots, sesame seeds, canola oil, salt and pepper. Simple to whip up and ready in a couple minutes!

The next delicious dish that you can easily prepare at home is cauliflower tabbouleh. To make this, the ingredients are as follows. Let’s get started! Cauliflower, tomatoes, red onion, parsley, cucumber, cilantro, lemon juice, kale, jalapeno, pepper, red wine vinegar, mint, salt and garlic. Everyone will appreciate and enjoy this marvelous dish!

You would be surprised at how creative you can get with food! Especially, the above mentioned vegetables. Please, please, be patient and remember that it takes a while to pack on the pounds, so it will take a bit to melt them off. Sometimes people have to learn how to cook all over again. It will be so fabulous having your hard work recognized! Time to get started!!

Cheers,

Gina

Saying Goodbye to Unhealthy Food

shutterstock_28634692 Food and I used to have a love hate relationship. I used to love the way it tasted, comforted me in times of need, and hated the way it made me feel and look. After doing my fair share of research, I made the decision to join Jenny Craig for their support, and knowing that I would have someone that would hold me accountable daily. I did not purchase the pre-made cuisine Jenny Craig offers. Instead I chose to purchase pre-made organic food from Whole Foods every morning.

The Jenny Craig counselors allowed me to weigh in everyday and my dietitian helped me with ideas on what to eat as well as portion control. The team at Jenny Craig also encouraged me to cut out fast food, soda, sugar and creamy dressings, something I thought I would never give up. Whole Foods was a place where I trained myself to eat clean and nourish my body. This was primal for me in continuing the challenge that was ahead of me. I remember being so angry at how I let myself spiral so out of control with food.

To my fellow WEIGHT CLIQUERS, choosing healthy foods didn’t come easy at first, but with each day that passed the positive results that I started to see and feel made me stop and think of the finish line….I cheer all of you on to keep moving and to make the decisions that sometimes aren’t the easiest but well worth the effort to see solid results….

Cheers,

Gina

Korean Beef Short Ribs, Zucchini Marinara and Roasted Corn Salad

Challenging yourself with small, reachable goals is necessary to achieve big, long-term goals that seem impossible to attain. There was a fantastic selection today at Whole Foods. Guess What? I chose a Korean delight. Korean beef short ribs, zucchini marinara and roasted corn salad. I feel really motivated. I keep a photo of my “before” body to remind me of where I came from and what I have accomplished. Excited to share with you this awesome recipe!

The main dish that I am devouring is Korean beef short ribs. What are the ingredients? Beef, olive oil, sugar, garlic, green onions, sesame oil, ginger, white wine and sesame seeds. I just love “eating clean.” I do not consume anything that comes from a box, and I have clearly focused on organic products.

Zucchini marinara includes zucchini, marinara sauce, parsley, canola oil, salt and pepper. By eliminating packaged goods from my diet, it has been extremely beneficial to my over-all health. Get moving and grab a bite today!

Lastly, I selected roasted corn salad. The ingredients are very easy to prepare at home. Roasted corn salad includes, corn, zucchini, red onion, red bell pepper, cilantro, oregano, red pepper flakes, white wine, lemon juice, canola oil, salt and black pepper. Eating properly is about quality, not quantity.

WEIGHT CLIQUERS, You have to know when to say no. I have declined invitations to go out to eat, because some restaurants give you a lot more food than you need. It does not matter how long it takes you to lose weight, as long as the scale is moving in the right direction. Do NOT give up!!!

Cheers,

Gina

5 Tips for Someone Starting their Weight Loss Journey

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1. Start with small changes:

A change I made in the beginning of my journey was eliminate unhealthy foods. I started by changing creamy dressings to balsamic vinegar on my salads. After getting used to Whole Foods healthy organic options, I realized that I like to eat clean.

2. Be active:

In the beginning of my journey, I started to do little things to increase my activity throughout the day. For example, I would park my car farther away from the store. I also tried different machines at the gym, like lifting weights. I also found that walking with a pedometer was very helpful.

3. Don’t focus on the scale:

Expect there to be plateaus. When I first started, I only lost a little over 1 pound a week before I started exercising. I soon began losing about 2 pounds while going to the gym 5 times a week. Never let the scale ruin your optimism. Try and get weighed in as often as you can and do not be so hard on yourself because your weight may fluctuate daily.

4. Stay Positive:

Keep a journal about your advancements daily so you can see how far you have come. Surround yourself with happy and encouraging family and friends. Always remember to be good to yourself. Every once in a while when you reach a weight milestone, treat yourself.

5. Choose healthy foods:

Be aware of the foods you buy. What you eat is important if you want to lose any weight. Choose a high protein diet with vegetables and fruits for your meals. There a millions of healthy options and recipes to try out and see what you like. Remember, you are what you eat!