5 Hour Energy

I tried 5 Hour Energy in the morning instead of coffee - it works pretty well for me!

The claims from the commercials seem to be true... hopefully I won't find out later that it caused a tumor or something terrible ;)

Undereating - Another way to GAIN Weight

I'd like to amend what I posted earlier in "How Much Should You Eat?"

Yes, weight loss is dependent on eating less and exercising more.  But, I over did it!

By restricting my calories too much, it stressed my body and made it dysfunctional.  A dysfunctional body will not metabolize calories properly and will end up storing extra fat.  Stress = fat.  Healthy = thin.

Healthy diet is based on the types of foods you eat, not by the number of calories.  And, how often you eat.  A steady stream of regular, small meals is the easiest for your body to process, which results in even blood sugar levels, less stress on your body, and achieving healthy weight.  Add some light exercise in there and your body will be happier - and thinner - than ever.

Just make sure what you are eating is a high quality food.  Eat something that God made: fruits, vegetables, grains, lean meat, fish, water, seeds, nuts, tea, honey, etc.  Avoid overly processed man-made foods: fast food, deep fried food, neon-orange cheese puffs, white flour, refined sugar, soda, artificial sweeteners, alcohol, etc.

Fresh, natural foods are rich in nutrients that your body needs.  500 calories of fish, steamed veggies, and brown rice will be welcomed by your body as easily digestible nourishment.  But, a 500 calorie double cheeseburger will cause nothing but stress - it is hard to digest, spikes your blood sugar, turns to fat, and offers no nourishment.

Lean Cuisine Fish Lunch Competition

And the contenders are:

Tortilla Crusted fish turns out crispy and filling, but the peppers in the rice taste funny.  I give it 3 out of 5 stars.

Lemon Pepper fish is also good, but its just the peppers in the rice that gives it a weird taste - 3 out of 5 stars.

Parmesan Crusted Fish is the winner!  The zuchini and yellow carrot pasta is the perfect side dish for the parmesan crispy fish.  As an added bonus, there's also a few bites of melted cheese on top - yum!  5 out of 5 stars!

Special K Bars 90 Calories

I love Special K bars - they are only 90 calories and I buy a box just about every week.  They are great for a quick breakfast with coffee or as a between meal snack.  My favorites are peach, strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla, so I usually buy a variety pack (chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry) and a box of peach.  If you are between meals and want a very filling snack, try one of these bars and a diet soda.

Frozen Lunches I Actually Like

I don't like having to rely on processed foods.  However, I found it helps me stay on track with my diet if I buy some prepared meals for my lunches while at work.  They are fast, easy, portioned... and usually gross.  However, I have found some that I actually like.

Weight Watchers Smart Ones - Salisbury Steak with Asparagus
Not bad - like a hamburger patty.  200 calories, but drink extra water to help with the added sodium!

Lean Pockets - Whole Grain Ham and Cheddar

Tastes pretty good - no weird processed cheese taste. 

270 calories great for breakfast with coffee and pretty filling.

Healthy Choice - Spicy Shrimp Diavolo

250 calories of shrimp, pasta, steamed veggies, and delicious berry dessert

10 Minute Mini Trampoline Workout

Ways to Burn 500 Calories

Luckily you can mix and match so its not so monotonous!

1 hour on stationary bike, medium effort
2 hours canoeing, light effort
1 hour canoeing, medium effort
2 hours cleaning house
1 hour 15 min hiking cross country
1 hour jogging/running 5 mph
1 hour 15 min mowing lawn
1 hour 30 minutes jogging on mini trampoline
45 min jumping jacks
45 min jumping rope
45 min sit ups
1 hour 45 min trampoline
1 hour roller skating
1 hour stair machine
1 hour 45 min yoga
1 hour 15 min swimming, light effort
3 hours shopping
2 hours walking 3 mph
1 hour 45 min walking 4 mph
2 hours light to moderate weight lifting