Let's DRINK...to our Health...

I am not a big fan of water. Yes, I know all of its benefits, and I know I need it, but I have never really been able to drink a lot of it, unless I was exercising. Though we tend to focus a lot on whole foods, the LIQUIDS we drink can be just as important to our body as the whole foods we consume. Liquids are also easier for most of us to digest. Liquid drinks can also be very helpful in weight loss efforts as the trend for shakes and smoothies has become increasingly popular. Here are 7 drinks that may provide some type of health benefit, and may help in your weight loss efforts:

1.     Tea. Most any tea will do, though many have mentioned the “increased metabolism” effects of green tea. For me, a cup of tea at night before bedtime has a calming effect and lessens my hunger pangs if I am still hungry.

2.     Smoothies-HOMEMADE smoothies are usually high in nutrients and low in calories (100-200 calories or so per serving). Try BLENDING a cup of frozen fruit (I like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries), a banana, 2 cups of orange juice, and half a cup of vanilla yogurt. If you like it a little sweet, add a teaspoon of sugar. This should give you 2-4 servings of a smoothie that can be frozen for later consumption, or shared with others.

3.     Milk (low-fat)-Milk does do a body good, especially when it is low in fat. Milk is a great protein source and has even been proven  to be a preferred fuel for some athletes (chocolate milk instead of Gatorade).

4.     Protein shake- Most protein shakes are high in protein, but several are also good sources of fiber. These shakes can usually be used to supplement a breakfast meal at 200-300 calories.

5.     Prune juice- Prune juice may help with constipation. Some may have not gone to the bathroom for weeks due to the problem of constipation. This is not good for your system and also causes you to carry additional weight.

6.     Cranberry juice (pure with no added sugars)-Cranberry juice contains polyphenol properties that may protect against diseases of the heart and immune system. It may also help in the prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections.

7.     Water-Though I am not a big fan of it, I can’t deny its benefits. It has zero calories. It is a natural cleanser of the body and helps to flush out the system. It helps prevent fatigue and dehydration. It also may help you feel fuller longer when consumed with meals.

I hope this was helpful! I didn’t mention any alcoholic beverages, but there are many noted health benefits of wine. Maybe I will talk about that in another post…Until next time…

-Jenelle Robinson

The Healthiest thing to Eat at the Movie Theater...

The healthiest thing to consume at the movie theater seems to be….bottled water. My mom and I have been anxiously awaiting the opening of the movie “The Help.” We both read the book and loved it, and have been really excited about going to see the movie. But I remember that when we went to the movies on this past Sunday to see "Rise of the Planet of the Apes,” my mom really wanted some popcorn. Sidenote: She is trying to lose some weight, so in accordance with the dietary rules I had given her, she knew she couldn’t have any popcorn. Fortunately, we had stopped at the store previously and purchased some healthier snacks to consume during the movie (I’m not advocating breaking the rules, I’m just telling a story…lol).

            Nonetheless, when we go see the movie “The Help,” again it will be a struggle to see that popcorn, in that big ol’ box, with all that yellow butter, glistening, and not be able to eat any of it…for my mother at least. So in thinking about the popcorn and other foods at the movie theater, I begin to wonder, “what is the healthiest thing to eat at the movie theater?” After research, I came to the conclusion of…bottled water.

Here are some facts:

-The larger popcorn, and nachos are each over 1000 calories.

-Most of the candy is between 500-800 calories, and if it is under 500 calories, it is too high in fat, or too high in sugar.

-Any drink over a large drink will be more than 300 calories.

-A hot dog is about 300 calories (but who wants to eat a hot-dog full of meat filler stuffed into a casing!).

            So what is your best bet? Water. Bottled water. But if the allure to get something is too much for you, my advice to you would be to buy one thing and share it with the people you came with. That way, you don’t over consume calories. Portion control may be the best bet for most of us who have to at least have a taste of that buttery, fattening popcorn. But let me say this: Popcorn, in itself, is not bad for you. It is packed with fiber, and is a great whole grain. It is what they put on the popcorn, and then the amount that is given to you that makes it unhealthy for us. So again, I say, if you CAN’T beat the craving, split it. If you CAN beat the craving, enjoy your bottled water! That’s all I have for today. Until next time…

-Jenelle