F Factor Cereal

Always on the hunt for high fiber cereal to munch on and especially ones without artificial sweeteners, I was thrilled to find F Factor Cereals at my local food co-op.

Created by F-Factor Diet guru, Tanya Becker, these cereals are loaded with fiber and none of the nasty fake stuff found in some brands.

I purchased all three varieties - High Fiber SKinnys, Skinnys n' Fruit and Mini Cinnamon O's with Raisins and Almonds.

All three are really great!

The Skinny's are just that - skinny strips of fiber filled cereal. I eat mine with unsweetened almond milk. They get soggy fast, but they are almost better that way!

The O's are crunchy, lightly sweetened yumminess that I've been slamming with cottage cheese for a filling, satisfying breakfast.

Do they taste like Cheerios or Honey Bunches of Oats? Um, hell no. But, the nutritional punch of a load of fiber makes them worth adding into your diet.

Learn more here: http://www.ffactorfoods.com/cereals.php

(Image from: http://ffactorfoods.com)

Vixibar

I hear it all the time from my clients.

"I was out running errands/traveling/whatever and I got hungry and the only thing to eat was fast food."

Bologna. Literally. Ewwww for such a lame excuse NOT to eat healthfully!

Eating healthy on the go takes a little preparation to ensure you don't blow your diet by becoming ravenous on the road.

I always give my clients a run down of healthy snacks to stash in the car and their purse to prevent bingeing on junk.

I have a new item to add to the list! Vixibars - "a bar without compromise." I am always searching for a bar that doesn't have a list of unpronounceable mystery ingredients and Vixibar more than passes the test.

Vixibar is an all natural, gluten free, no sugar added, soy free, dairy free portable bar created by athlete, nutritional coach and certified personal trainer, Kate Criswell. My kind of girl!

So, if there's no bad stuff, what's in Vixibars? Just natural whey protein, fruits, nuts and natural flavors. I'm in.

I was sent an assortment of flavors to try by Vixibar: Peanut Butter and Jelly, Cherry Biscotti, Peanut Butter Cup, Chocolate Macaroon and Apple Crisp.

Sampled them all while on a whirlwind trip ... Vixibars were my healthy snack stash!

Just when I thought a flavor couldn't be beat ... I'd try the next one and be all about it! But, Cherry Biscotti was a true stand out for me! YUM!

Learn more and purchase Vixibars here: http://vixibar.com

Curry Coconut Shrimp Stir Fry

Sometimes a girl has gotta scrape together a healthy meal with what's layin' around.
I was looking for something yummy that would taste "damn good" while helping to keep me looking damn good.
So, I came up with this delish dish. Enjoy!

Curry Coconut Stir Fry
Ingredients:
1 package uncooked frozen shrimp (I use Trader Joe's) THAWED
1/4 cup water
1/2 can Trader Joe's Light Coconut Milk
1/2 onion
1/2 package baby carrots - chopped
1/2 pound sliced mushrooms
1 cup peapods
1 cup sugar snap peas
1 tbsp coconut oil
4 tbsp Bragg's Liquid Aminos
1 tbsp curry powder
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp turmeric

In a large stir fry pan or wok, heat coconut oil until it melts. Add onions and cook until they start to turn clear.
Add water, coconut milk, Bragg's and all spices and bring to simmer.
Add rest of veggies and cook for 3 minutes.
Add thawed, rinsed shrimp.
Cover and "steam" for two minutes.
Uncover and stir fry for one - two minutes until shrimp is cooked.

Spoon with sauce into bowl and enjoy! May serve over quinoa or brown rice or just eat alone.

Paleo

Perhaps no diet concept is as entrenched in history as The Paleo Diet.

Based on the principle that we should eat a diet of unprocessed foods just like Hunter/Gatherers did, The Paleo Diet consists of eating protein, nuts, fruits and veggies. Foods like corn, wheat, dairy and beans that were developed as agriculture developed, are forbidden.

The "bible" for this diet is Robb Wolf's "The Paleo Solution," which was provided for me by the publisher. An engaging, fast read, Wolf's research and logic makes a lot of sense. Basically a "lower" carb diet of unprocessed foods, most people will respond positively and with weight/fat loss by making the changes Wolf suggests.

Wolf also includes a workout plan consisting of mult-joint, functional movements that amp up the effectiveness of the food.

I often prescribe a modified Paleo Diet to clients who tell me they work out and eat a certain way, but aren't getting results. After a week of Paleo-like eating, they are thrilled.

The book also includes some really delicious, easy recipes.

And like all diets, The Paleo Solution has inspired a cook book!

Tuttle Publishing also sent me a copy of "Everyday Paleo" by Sarah Fragoso, a trainer at Robb Wolf's gym.

This large, full color book is more than a cook book, it's a fantastic "how to" for those who want to really embrace the Paleo lifestyle. This book has quickly become my favorite, inspiring new meals and reinvigorating my passion to eat healthfully.

While Wolf's book is filled with tons of research and science, "Everyday Paleo" is an easy read that really gets to the heart of how to eat and live a Paleo lifestyle, even extending it to your entire family.

This book is more than just a cookbook filled with delicious recipes that even a kitchen novice could execute, "Everyday Paleo" also includes a workout schedule with illustrated exercises, shopping list and meal calendars. It's really everything you need to kick start a Paleo lifestyle eating and fitness plan.

I highly recommend this book - especially to those who need to cook for more than just themselves. The recipes and strategies Fragoso details make Paleo palatable for everyone!

Learn more here:
http://everydaypaleo.com
http://robbwolf.com/

(image from: everydaypaleo.com)

Acai Smoothie

My smoothies have gotten exotic lately, with the addition of Acai!

Acai has gotten a lot of hype and some criticism especially when packaged as a multi-level marketing juice. Always a purist, I use pure, unsweetened frozen acai that comes in individual "smoothie" packets.

Acai is bursting with antioxidants, omegas, fiber and protein. Acai had me at the antioxidants, the other stuff is a major bonus!

With a hat that size, you will have no trouble

Here is a great smoothie recipe to try using Sambazon Organic Acai Berry Puree packets:

In a blender combine:

1 cup - Unsweetened vanilla almond milk
1/2 cup water
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 packet Stevia in the Raw
1 scoop Vanilla or plain flavored protein with no added sugar: I use Egg White Protein or Hemp Protein
1/2 frozen banana
1 packet - Sambazon Acai
1 - 2 cups spinach or a scoop of green food powder

Blend and enjoy!

Learn more and purchase Sambazon Acai here: http://sambazon.com

(image from: sambazon.com)

Spring Cleaning

I don't know about your "neck of the woods" ... but, Spring is definitely here where I am!
Light rains mixed with milder temperatures ... Daylight savings time ...

What a great reminder to do some inner Spring Cleaning!

This is the time to start kicking your goals into high gear!

A great way to do that is to do a little "digestive" cleaning ... get things moving a bit, eh?

Be sure you are chewing your food well, taking your time to eat undistracted and drinking at least your bodyweight in ounces of plain water per day. Yes - plain water.

Water is IMO the BEST cleansing, detoxing agent out there!! It naturally flushes out your system, while hydrating you!

Adding in a cup or two of green tea is helpful too!

As far as food goes ... GREEN is the color for spring! Eat unlimited cooked/raw, plain green veggies. Add these into your current nutritional plan!!

Add spinach to your egg whites, a big salad to your lunch and steamed broccoli/asparagus to dinner!

You may also want to add some cleansing yoga twists into your workout warm up/cool down.

Here is a five minute twist series to try:
http://life.gaiam.com/video/energize-am-quick-yoga-twist-sequence-how

Have fun with your clean out!

(image from istockphoto.com)

Oldie, but look damn goodie Sunday

Need some motivation to not let your eating get out of control during the Super Bowl Game?
(Go Packers!!)
Then heed the advice of the always disciplined, Victoria Beckham:
http://lookdamngood.blogspot.com/2009/12/victoria-beckhams-three-bite-rule.html
(photo from: ppshop.co.uk)

Week in Review Jan 31 to Feb 4, 2010

It's great to be back! Here's what you missed this week!

A skin care product that delivers: http://lookdamngood.blogspot.com/2011/02/sk-ii-facial-treatment-essence.html

Start the day with quinoa: http://lookdamngood.blogspot.com/2011/02/yummo-huevos-rancheros.html

Blingtastic ideas for Valentine's Day: http://lookdamngood.blogspot.com/2011/02/trio-jewelry.html

A dose of inner beauty for the weekend in the new On the Inside Friday: http://lookdamngood.blogspot.com/2011/02/Look Damn Good - On the Inside Friday


(image from: atriojewelry.com)

Yummo Huevos Rancheros

This is an uber-healthy, great start to any day!
I use quinoa instead of tortillas for a fiber and protein packed meal!
This meal works for lunch and dinner too!
Enjoy!

Yummo Huevos Rancheros

Ingredients:
Cooking spray
2 - eggs
1/2 cup cooked quinoa (I make a one cup dry batch and use throughout the week)
1/4 cup rinsed, canned black beans
Your favorite salsa (no sugar added)
2 tbsp guacamole (I use Trader Joe's prepared Fresh and Spicy)
Franks Red Hot Sauce (to taste)

1. Reheat quinoa and black beans in microwave
2. Cook eggs over medium in frying pan using cooking spray.
3. Layer ingredients starting with quinoa on bottom as follows:
quinoa, black beans, eggs, salsa, guacamole, hot sauce
4. Enjoy!

Watermelon

I have gone through at least six watermelons in the past two weeks.

The sweet, juicy fruit is "mayjah" right now!

And super affordable ... I saw seedless melons here in the Midwest for just $2.99 each!

Whether you prefer wedges or chunks, these orbs pack a nutritional wallop. Watermelon contains more lycopene than even tomatoes!

Plus, munching on melon is a great way to hydrate due to it's high water content!

I prepare my watermelon LA Frutas style, by cutting off both ends and then using a large knife to slice away all the skin and rind. You are left with an elliptical of concentrated watermelon flesh, ready to be sliced and diced as you desire.

Try adding watermelon to salad, grilling it as a side dish or adding it to smoothies.

Oldie Sunday - Carrot Soup

Try this light recipe for a summer meal! It's even good cold!

http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/02/cleansing-carrot-recipe.html

Week in Review June 28 to July 2, 2010

A DVD that personal trains you: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/lalofit.html

A taste of LA street food: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/frutas.html

Self Tanner that smells great AND contains NO parabens: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/hempz-touch-of-summer.html

More great workout wear: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/07/hardtail-forever.html

Breakfast with spuds: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/07/sweet-potato-pancake.html

Frutas

Inspired by the "I Love Fruit Cart" and my memories of Los Angeles fruit carts, I have been making this spicy, sour, sweet, crunchy, cool treat:

Frutas:
Watermelon
Pineapple
Cucumbers
Jicama
Mango
Fresh Coconut (if you really want to get authentic)
Lime
Salt
Pico de Gallo seasoning or chile powder

Slice fruit into bite size chunks.
Squeeze lime over fruit
Add a tiny sprinkle of salt and pico or chile to taste.

Yowza! Yum! MMMMMMMMMM!

(image from: thekitchenfiles.com)

Week in Review June 21 to 25, 2010

Crystalized citrus, who knew? http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/true-lemon.html

Organic street fruit in LA : http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/i-heart-fruit-cart_22.html

Think yourself into looking and feeling damn good: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/confidence.html

Add some weight to your walk: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/walking-with-hand-weights.html

Post workout fashionista bargains: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/american-apocolypse.html

I Heart Fruit Cart

Living in Los Angeles for a decade, it was hard to miss or marvel at the "Frutas" stands. Metal carts with rainbow umbrellas, melons, cucumber, jicama, mango and pineapple sat on ice, were sliced and diced before your ices and served in a plastic bag or container with lemon, pico/chile and salt on top.

Ahhhh, those were the days.

But, I must say - I used to wonder where the fruit came from, how sanitary these carts were and just how "healthy" these seemingly innocent fruity snack was.

Well, a clever Los Angeles couple have started a "Frutas" alternative, The "I Heart Fruit Cart."

Here, they serve organic fruit, sliced up in a sanitary commissary and served in 100% recyclable containers."

Cool. It's compassionate "Frutas."

I'm totally there next time I'm in LA.

Check out the "I Heart Fruit Cart" here: http://iheartfruitcart.com

(image from: iheartfruitcart.com)

True Lemon

I received some samples of True Lemon, True Orange and True Lime 100% natural, cold pressed and crystalized packets of citrus flavor.

I had been searching for a Crystal Lite replacement, since it is made from Aspartame and I think I found it!

I mixed a packet of True Orange with a packet of stevia and 24 oz of water and downed the entire glass promptly.

The packets are a convenient way to flavor water, tea or whatever you choose without added calories.

Learn more and purchase here: http://truelemon.com

Here is a recipe for a chilled berry lime dessert:

Strawberry Lime Treat
1/2 cup fat free cottage cheese
1 packet True Lime
1 packet Stevia
1 tsp vanilla
3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk or whole grain milk
1 cup frozen strawberries

Place all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth. Enjoy with a spoon.

(image from: truelemon.com)

Week in Review June 14 to 18, 2010

Be macro like Madonna: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/mayumis-kitchen-madonna-macrobiotic.html

Popped Fuji Chips: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/yogavive-chips.html

Get clean for a cause: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/peace-soap.html

Frozen Yogurt truths: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/frozen-yogurt.html

Add to your home gym: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/ultimate-body-press.html

Frozen Yogurt

My cousin emailed me the other day asking for my opinion on Frozen Yogurt. She has been marveling at all of the fro yo shops popping up claiming to offer "healthy" treats.

My response was: the only yogurt that is GOOD for you is plain, non or low fat, organic or at the very least hormone-free, greek style or regular, refrigerated yogurt with active cultures and probiotics.

Most any frozen yogurt is processed and full of added stuff including sugar. Even the sugar-free frozen yogurts are full of processed chemicals without much nutrional value.
They are also often whipped with tons of air so they are not ultimatly satisfying. You end of full of cold, airy, chemicals.

The bottom line is that frozen yogurt is a treat. If it was "good" or "healthy" for you I would have my mouth attached to the spout of one those machines!

If you want to enjoy frozen yogurt, do so in moderation. Always get the smallest size and no toppings except fruit.
Better, in my opinion to have a 1/2 cup serving of all natural real, deal ice cream like Hagen daaz 5.
It's ultimately yummier and more satisfying.

Want my opinion on a beauty, fashion, fitness or nutrition issue? Write me!

(image from: istockphoto.com)

Mayumi's Kitchen - Madonna Macrobiotic

The moment I heard that Madonna's long time Macrobiotic chef, Mayumi Nishimura was coming out with a cook book, "Mayumi's Kitchen," I contacted the publisher to receive an advance copy.

Kodansha International kindly sent me one and I immediately dove in.

The book is an interesting, quick read documenting Mayumi's path to becoming a macrobiotic chef to the stars and contains a wealth of macro recipes to follow, meal by meal, on her eating program.

The photographs are stunning and reel you right in to the allure of macrobiotic eating.

Initially, I had the intention of following the eating plan, but quite honestly, I found diving into the macrobiotic lifestyle a bit overwhelming.

Instead, I have been integrating pieces of the diet and individual recipes into my current diet.

Some great ways to start incorporating macrobiotics into your life are to eat small portions of brown rice, introduce a variety of sea vegetables into your life and limit sweets.

I especially enjoy Mayumi's Miso Soup with Daikon and Onion recipe.

Learn more and purchase "Mayumi's Kitchen" here:
http://www.amazon.com/Mayumis-Kitchen-Macrobiotic-Cooking-Body/dp/4770031106/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1276442748&sr=1-1

(image from: amazon.com)

Week in Review June 7 to 11, 2010

A Team Fitness inspiration: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/a-team-movie.html

Cocktails that won't result in beer belly: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/cocktails.html

Tend to your digits: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/manicures.html

Ways to cope when you get sidelined: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/handling-injury.html

Feel damn good by giving blood: http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/06/world-blood-donor-day.html