OPRAH; for the love of bread!

While I rarely voice my political or religious views I cannot hold my tongue when it comes to nutrition.

Why is it that Oprah's "I Love Bread" statement has me in personal emotional turmoil?  What started as a rant about an annoyance has thrown me into a blender of sorts filled with curiosity, fascination, pity, aggravation, guilt, all topped with a little awe.

Source: Oprah Magazine

Don't get me wrong. She is a phenomenon. I like Oprah. She has done some amazing things, beyond amazing in many cases, and her weight has not one ounce to do with any of it.

I think what's challenging me is her message beyond the bread.  What I'm hoping people will realize is Oprah endorsed diets are not the answer. If she had the answers, I would not be researching how much weight she has lost and gained over the years. I also hope people realize that Oprah is a human with human struggles and a brilliant marketing plan and business strategy. Based upon her Weight Loss Confession, with Bob Greene
I think she is uncomfortable in her own skin, and has not found the sustainable lifestyle fit to keep her confident and happy with her physical self. This is not to say that Weight Watchers is not working for her. I like Weight Watchers. Really, I have nothing against it. I've seen many people have success with it. I'm hoping it continues to work for her and she finds a place of peace in her life and with her lifestyle.

The additional struggle I have goes back to a statement I made in the past. Perhaps it is mass confusion that contributes to obesity and increased disease. The issue is not one food, one diet or one ingredient. There are also emotions to consider, hormones, stress levels and sleep.  Culture, genetics, ethnicity, income status and more all play into an individuals realistic and idealistic healthy weight.

Source: Cutthroat Kitchen | Food Network

As I see it, everyone has a cook in the kitchen and it's about to get cutthroat. Independent groups have vested interest in how people internalize what the commercial portrays. It's the proverbial food chain of life. Someone needs to eat bread or the grain industry takes a hit. There needs to be a face for weight loss companies or the business will flop and investors will loose out. The gluten free proponents were just finding a rhythm to mass marketing and creating a whole new industry and food group.

That's it. I feel better. Cleansed in a way. Putting things in writing really does help. I think moving forward I shall smile and think of my small friend Molly, who finds joy in all things Oprah and enjoy the commercial on her behalf. After all, its just a commercial.

Oh by the way, did you know Oprah's true drug of choice is potato chips.  Can you imagine that commercial???

THE RAGNAR EXPERIENCE

Over six months ago I added my name to a list indicating interest in a Ragnar Relay for Orange Theory Fitness Maple Grove.  At the time I new very little except that it was something of an adventure race and involved running. I knew no one on the list. So when the time came to commit, I stuck with my decision and paid my deposit.

It is only days post Ragnar and I think some of you may enjoy an insiders view of the experience, minus the smell of the van at race end.  IT WAS AWESOME! Why would one say this? After all, I was committed to 48 hours in a van with 5 strangers, to tag team 200ish miles with another van of six in 90+ degree weather through the hilly Mississippi River Valley from Winona to St. Paul.

So here are my thoughts in no particular order as to what I found in the Ragnar experience.

1. It pushed me out of my comfort zone. We've all heard "life begins" at the other side of it. Well after this experience I would have to say I agree. I just needed the reminder. 
2. Everyone has a story to tell and needs someone to hear it. For knowing very little about these people I will say I made 5 new friends for life that I would call in a crisis situation. Van Support Rocks! We shared sweat (no blood or tears) and a whole lot of laughs.  Each individual inspired me in some way and made this an experience of a lifetime. 
3. We all enjoy a good 'Kill' once in a while.  While this term may seem extreme, competitive or not, it is empowering to pass someone and provide a note of encouragement as you do. :-)
4. We can do anything we set our mind to even on limited sleep. We may question our sanity at some points but our strong bodies will respond when we put things back in perspective.
5. The Rewards far exceed the Risks. It's kind of like motherhood. You will forget the pain of the experience for the bragging rights, the swag, the photos and the team beer. Remember, I said kind of.
6. Fuel is necessary. All kinds, especially fluids. One of my teammates coined the term "Ragnafarians."  In high temps and increased humidity, supplements are key.  We all had our own. I of course brought extra and am proud to say no one dehydrated on my watch.
7. People are extremely creative! Costumes, team names, decorated vans, vehicle tags and signatures, all make for a weekend of entertainment that is fun and funny without the influence of alcohol. Seriously!!  I'm giving credit to the endorphins.
8. You never know who you will run into on a course like this.  I managed to see 3 girls I went to school with (I graduated from a high school of just over 400). I know there were several other people running I knew, but I did not see them. Interesting to say the least. 
9. Did I mention that even with an insane number of hills and extreme heat that the landscape is beautiful and night running is as cool as people proclaim?!
10. Last but not least, it takes time to recover.  I'm lucky to have flexibility in my schedule. I know others do not get to say the same. Sorry Tim, if we could have, we would have sent van support to help you with that load of gravel.  If they are like me they are still riding the wave of excitement when they see pictures and then find themselves ravenous for food and ready for the couch. 

Peace, Love and Ragnar On! Thank you for taking the time to read about this experience.  If you find yourself with the opportunity and even enjoy running a little bit, I would highly recommend a Ragnar Relay. If you really want to make it an extreme adventure, I see they are taking it to Hawaii! ALOHA!

Liz

Liz Blom, RD

Nutrition & Wellness Coach

Independent AdvoCare Distributor | www.healthygirlliz.com

For nutrition and wellness information follow me on Facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness

Food Jag

Call me nuts, pun intended, however my daughter Lucy loves Nutella.  Lucy has been known to go on food jags.

1. 

   food jag
2. A food jag is when a child will only eat one food item meal after meal. Some other common childhood eating behaviors that can cause alarm in many parents include fear of new foods and refusal to eat what is served.

I'm not one to prohibit a treat every now and then, but she loves it so much that her breakfast of choice is Nutella and honey on toast, then after school, a Nutella and honey sandwich and sometimes for a snack she grabs herself a banana and another spoon full of her sweet chocolate goodness.  So, correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm thinking this has surpassed the occasional treat. 

Contrary to the name which implies it is a nutritious "nut" spread, it is packed with sugar. So in effort to compromise I am on a mission to find a healthier substitute. I did find a Skippy Natural Dark Peanut Butter, but it's not making the cut. Not creamy enough and not sweet enough for my Lucy. Note, I have nothing against hazelnuts and we have no peanut allergies in our home so I have faith I will find the right product. 

Nutella Alternatives

What to do next?  I've begun my research and am going to further review this article: Move Over Nutella: Nine Alternative Chocolate Hazelnut Spreads

It will be trial and error and I realize I will likely spend excess money and time searching for, buying and trying products until I find what works. My guess is Lucy will be on to her next food jag by the time I get it figured out. Oh well, as it has been said, this too shall pass. 

Be Well!

Liz

Liz Blom, RD

Nutrition & Wellness Coach

www.healthygirlliz.com

For nutrition and wellness information follow me on Facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness

1. 
   

PB & PROTEIN BANANA OAT MUFFINS

In my preschool days I used to watch my mom bake. She would make recipes that were my grandmothers (including  coffee cake and jelly roles).  Sometimes she would bake us cookies and have them warm from the oven when we got home.  It was an art.  When my dad passed away at the young age of 34, the baking decreased and my mom went to work on an art degree so she could teach and earn an income.  It was several years until I took to baking in Home Economics, which I just recently learned is now called FACS. Let me tell you Mrs Englebretson, the kitchen looks the same as it did in middle school over 25 years ago. Anyhow, as time went on, life got busier. Baking became a rarity. Focusing on nutrition as my trade, baking took on a whole new life in food science.  It was not always about the taste as it was why something would rise, flop, coagulate, etc.  It also became less about taste and more about what the nutritional value was.

Long story short, this weekend I had some ripe bananas: the brown ones no one is likely to eat unless made into banana bread.  Although I still enjoy to bake and love the memories it provokes, I find I rarely take the time.  So based upon the details above, I started looking for a recipe that might work with some added nutrition value.  I added a few changes of my own and to my genuine surprise and pleasure, it turned out. I hope you enjoy it and thank you for letting me share.

PB & Protein Banana Oat Muffins

Ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy natural peanut butter
• 2 large brown bananas
• 2 eggs
• 2 scoops vanilla protein powder ( I used AdvoCare Muscle Gain)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup oatmeal (I used Trader Joe's Gluten free)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400. 
2. In large bowl mash bananas, add egss and combine liquid ingredients. 
3. In seperate small bowl mix dry ingredients.  
4. Add all ingredients together and blend until smooth. 30-45 seconds.
5. Scoop or spoon batter into greased muffin tin. 
6. Bake 10-12 minutes or until muffins have set.

Yield: 12 Muffins  (serving size: 1 muffin)
Calories: 210  Carbohydrate: 20g  Fat: 13g  Protein: 9g 

I apologize to those who asked for the recipe a few days ago.  The dietitian in me had to calculate the numbers. 

Enjoy and Be Well!

Liz

Liz Blom, RD

Nutrition & Wellness Coach

www.healthygirlliz.com

For nutrition and wellness information follow me on Facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness

Need a Pick-Me-Up?

For me it was coffee.  Do not get me wrong - I'm not saying an occasional cup of coffee is bad. I do believe in moderation and I still enjoy a good cup every now and then.  However at age 35 I found myself setting the timer on the coffee maker nightly, stopping in my local coffee shop, located conveniently in my grocery stores and spending extra $ on coffee drinks and sometimes reheating what was left in the pot at home in the afternoon.  Why was it then, I still found myself begging my daughter for naps and falling asleep in my kids rooms at 8:30? I must admit I had a problem.

So what did I do about it?  First, what I did not do. I did not drop all sugar, give up caffeine, drink water only, purchase only organic food, go gluten free, dairy free and fat free nor did I start sleeping 8 plus hours of sleep per night. More power to you if you choose this approach.

I added AdvoCare.  AdvoCare Spark replaced my coffee.

Insert what you must, regular soda, diet soda, energy drinks, high sugar snacks, etc. but I'm inclined to believe most people are craving a pick-me-up at some point during the day; wishing they had energy to play vs. watch those around them do so.  Seriously, how many times have you looked at a productive, energetic person or child and said, "I wish I had their energy or even half of it!"?

What I found with Spark is that the energy was lasting and focused vs. leaving me crashing and craving snacks and naps. One or two strategically placed in my day provides me with what I desperately need to make the most of my day; mental focus, productivity, and great energy for my workouts and some craving control.   I like that it has added nutrition, it comes in a variety of flavors and  it tastes good both hot and cold.

So here are the most common questions I asked (and now get myself):

http://www.pinterest.com/advocare/advocare-shareables/

QUESTIONS: 

1. What is it and what's in it?
2. Is it safe, and how many can I drink?
3. How does it compare?
4. What flavors does it come in?
5. Why/how does it work so the way it does? 

ANSWERS:   The Skinny on SPARK (Product Page)

Q) Where can one get it?
A) It is distributed directly to the consumer through an independent company representative.

• Example: My personal link.

Q) How much does it cost?
A) That depends. You may purchase it retail or obtain your very own discount. The first one might be free. Most distributors will provide you with a sample. I personally think this is a statement in itself about the cost.
Q) So do I have to order a certain amount or sell it?
A) Simply put, "no".
Q)  What and Who is AdvoCare?
A) ADVOCARE

~Be Well

Liz Blom, RD

Nutrition & Wellness Coach

www.myadvocarecoach.com

For nutrition and wellness information follow me on Facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness

Do You Know What I Know??

January 1st, 2014 - Just around the corner.  This is the time I wish my highly advanced, protective workout-wear was really just that and protected me from the masses of people that will be fighting for space and equipment at the big box fitness facilities.  I think I actually went into hiding in anticipation and have been resorting to my basement to work out or I just skip it all together.  I am not proposing you do this, just stating what's taken place in my mind and home.  

So, like you, if I may be presumptuous, I have intentions of returning to society for an occasional class outside the comforts of home.  I will also be emptying the house of left over baked goods, high calorie beverages and any other nutrient deficient, yet tasty treats.  

I will also be partaking in a AdvoCare Herbal Cleanse, which is part of the 24 Day Challenge product bundle that is going on sale January 1. By clicking on this link or reviewing my last Blog you can find out -What is this 24 Day Challenge and Who is if for? 

Along with it I will be placing my an order for the new CU24 Level 2 workout DVD for the days I just cannot muster up the courage to fight the crowds.  

So what makes this any different from all of the other plans and promises you will see flash before your eyes? 

It is not a resolution... It is a lifestyle solution.  You will get coaching, nutritional guidance, recipes and find a supportive online community. You will also have peace of mind in our product safety.  Let me help you customize a plan to fit your needs so that you may have a whole lifetime of Energy, Wellness, Weight Management, Sports Performance and even an opportunity for Income.

Wishing You Happiness and Health for Years to Come!


Be Well,

Liz   

Liz Blom, RD

Nutrition & Wellness Coach

www.myadvocarecoach.com

For nutrition and wellness information follow me on Facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness

Picky or Persistent?

We know what’s best for our children, and we have their best interest at heart. Then why is it, they can be so darned stubborn when it comes to food??  This takes me back to the early childhood programs I used to attend with my now 11 year old Amelia.  Dietary habits of toddlers and growing children were, and I'm guessing still are, a hot topic. One parent exclaims "For the past two weeks all my child will eat are bananas and dry Cheerios for breakfast, snack, lunch and dinner.  Now this morning when I have ten other things to do and have the Cheerios and a banana set out, my child said she does not like bananas and wanted egg and cinnamon toast."  Okay, I admit, that one parent was me!!

There are things that can impact the way a child will approach and enjoy food including temperament, exposure to a variety of foods, environment, growth patterns and sensitivities such as smell taste and texture. For those with kids, you will relate and for those without you might have to think back to your own childhood.  Where did you fall and how many of those habits have stuck with you?  To what level can we impact our children's (or the future generations) nutrition?

Like most things in life we will need to learn to lead by example.  Shop for a variety of foods to keep and prepare in your home that will expose your children to all of the tastes, textures, colors and nutrients available to them.  Create a pleasant mealtime without multiple distractions (television, gaming devices, books etc.)  As it becomes increasingly difficult with active teenagers this still should remain a priority at the very least once or twice a week.  Assign responsibility and adjust them as the child ages to include some meal planning and preparation. Encourage them to try new foods and try your best to avoid the power struggle...they never end well.  One of my favorite tips for a new food is to give them an out.  If they agree to try the food let them spit it politely into a napkin if they do not want to swallow it. Keep trying, tastes change.

Most important of all is to teach the child the why. They might not understand now or pretend to do so, but we also know they have a power to selectively listen.  How many times have you heard "You would not believe what little Johnny just repeated."  Make it something positive!  I once had a child tell me he does not eat a certain kind of yogurt because it had "high fructose corn syrup in it.”  Do you think his Mom was proud?  I was proud for her.  She had instilled a personal food value into her child.  Please do not over analyze that one.  Again, we choose our battles, but when it comes to the why we can have greater influence versus than using "because I said so." 

Give it time.  Regardless of how picky your child is, the main concern should be overall wellness.  Explain wellness to your children, work together, find a middle road if you must.  There will be trials and errors. I've had my fair share in my home and will continue to have them.  If you have a friend who you think might help influence some healthier changes, ask for help.  Everyone likes to be a nutritionist these days (sorry, calling it like I see it).  Just be cautious about where you get the advice from.  Ideally your friend will have some training or an interest which has led them to seek out credible information, however it is often easy to spot someone who is eating the way you might want to learn to eat or living the lifestyle you are striving for.

Be Well!

Liz

If you are looking for basic meal and snack ideas and want to know more about my nutrition philosophy feel free to visit my page on Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness

The Resolution Letter

Holiday Greetings!

I hope your holiday season has been filled with loved ones and much joy!  I find it bittersweet as I contemplate taking down the ornaments and putting the house back together in normal décor.  It is time to start fresh with the New Year!  Three Christmas celebrations gone by for me and now my nutrition and physical fitness are also in need of a fresh start. 

Every New Year brings with it new resolutions, new promises and in many cases, the same attempt at exercise plans and weight loss.  What are your New Year’s Resolutions? Is weight loss or healthy eating on your list?  Perhaps you are trying to find a way to increase your activity without breaking the bank or over-committing.

If so, I want you to know that this year can be different.  This year you CAN succeed. You will succeed and I can help you. This isn’t a fad.  You don’t have to starve. I can help you succeed with a realistic nutrition plan that will become a normal way of life for you.  This is NOT a diet.

2013 is your year.  2013 is the year that you make a plan to get and stay healthy and I want to help. I have the tools that can get you to where you want to be whether you are interested in learning to eat healthier, weight loss or improving performance as an athlete.

As many of you know, for the past 2 years I have been working with AdvoCare products and have seen results not only with friends and family members, but with my own personal goals. I truly believe in these products and offer personal guidance with any program you start (grocery lists, instructions, coaching and more).  

AVAILABLE JANUARY 1ST, 2013, 9AM CST: Take advantage of LIMITED TIME specials on the 24 Day Challenge, 24 Day Challenge & Beyond Bundle AND the RELEASE of Can You 24 WorkoutSeries.  Need added Incentive?  Enter AdvoCare’s $40,000 TransformationChallenge.  Contact me in advance at 763-242-3265 or email me at lizblom@comast.net  to find out more about these specials, how you can gain additional discount and get personalized coaching and accountability. 

One final note:  If your pocketbook took a hit during the holidays you might want to ask me about the AdvoCare Opportunity.  I am always looking for champions to join my team.  AdvoCare provides a proven income opportunity for those that choose to pursue it.  This is a voluntary, part-time, plan B income source.  It has provided me with more than that, including flexible work hours, personal growth and the ability to impact lives.

Be Well!

Liz

Liz Blom, RD

Nutrition & Wellness Coach

Independent Distributor & AdvoCare Team Builder

763.242.3265

www.myadvocarecoach.com

For nutrition and wellness information follow me on Facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness

Confessions of a Wisconsin Girl

What do think of when you hear Wisconsin?  Let's keep it food related sports fans.

Yes, I am thinking about cheese.  As I was eating a salad for lunch it struck me just how far I have come.  I really, really like cheese and I am especially fond of  Wisconsin cheese.  It could be the Wisconsin girl in me, but I find those not from Wisconsin also find themselves in a vulnerable state when a cheese tray presents itself.

Fellow cheese-lovers pay attention.  This is for you.

A little history on my own personal nutrition journey with cheese.  Laugh all you want but this is a true story.  I grew up in the small town of Mauston where cheese was a main staple for a family of 5 girls.  My Mom was a busy lady therefore we ate what was convenient: cheese and crackers, macaroni and cheese, grilled cheese, cheese pizza, lone slices from the big block of American cheese she would buy and of course Velveeta (not sure I consider that cheese anymore). I think you get the drift.  At one point my sister worked at a cheese factory.  This added to my love for cheese. Hello Gouda!!  Of course the squeaky cheese that is near and dear to my heart, cheese curds, are still a favorite.  Yes, non-Wisconsin people, they come without breading and can be found fresh daily in the convenience stores across the state. They have traveled across the border to places including CT, KS and MN.


So, have I overcome this love for cheese?  Not in my lifetime. What I have done is learned to enjoy it and not let it consume me.  I know my limitations; I do not buy blocks of cheese unless I am entertaining and the same goes for cheese trays.  I will order some occasional Colby-jack for my kids from the deli.  Cooler weather will bring grilled cheese, so the American slices will appear.  But my best personal tip.  Buy it shredded.  A little cheese goes a long way.  Crumbled feta, is another favorite.  Parmesan is the bomb! String cheese in a single serving package is also a house staple.  Non-fat cheese...not a favorite.  I will occasionally opt for the the low-fat string cheese just because I like the texture.

 If I'm going to enjoy it, it might as well be real. That's all my fellow cheese lovers.  I am not going to break it down any further and tell you to choose one over the other.  That is not what balance is about.  Enjoy your cheese and eat it too!


If you are looking for basic meal and snack ideas and want to know more about my nutrition philosophy feel free to visit my page on Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness

Challenge

Pop quiz:

• ·         Are you happy with the life you are living?
• ·         Do you love your body?
• ·         Do you love your daily frame of mind and energy?
• ·         Do you love what you do?
• ·         Are you getting paid what you are worth?  
• ·         Will you be happy living the same life 2 years from now?

If you can honestly answer all of the above with YES, good for you! Great for you!!! Enjoy your day and days to come!

Not where you want to be? Then it’s time you explore your options. It might be time to get uncomfortable. It might be time to challenge yourself and those around you to. Find your solution.

If you are a competitive person, a challenge will peak your interest. To others a challenge might not be what you are looking for. A life style change perhaps, but this too can be daunting to some as they have failed prior attempts. A commitment…well for some men, I know you are running the other direction. I forbid the 4 letter D word unless we are referring to the basic nutrition you put into your body, or lack thereof, to fuel it day to day.

So what is this challenge I speak of?  Supplementation. By definition a supplement is something that completes or enhances something else when added to it.  Increased energy, craving control, feeling better, looking better and moving better. A better quality of life: This can be achieved by choosing the right supplement (remember the definition) for you.  Perhaps added income helping others? Finding significance in adding something of value to someone else’s life? Priceless in my book. For me it started with a friend who saw the value in me; who put their fear aside and shared with me; who enhanced me; who provided me with a supplement. Looking for details on my supplement of choice? I am happy to share. If this is not your solution I applaud you for looking.  

One last question:

• Are you ready to Do Something?

If you would like to learn more about the challenge or just basic balanced nutrition you can find more at http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness.

Are you Curious?

Oh My Goodness I am fired up today!!  No worries, this is a good thing.  

Do you consider yourself a curious person?  Do you ever read a book, see a show and then slightly obsess over the fact that you were not ready for the story to end.  Can you relate?  Did they live happily ever after?  Did they get married? Have kids? What about the "Biggest Loser" did they keep the weight off?? Did they help family members to do the same? Whatever happened to the man who....  and it continues.

So today I am going to share just one continued journey/success story with you.  I  want you to know one is very difficult at this point because the stories are many!!!  The majority if not all of the credit goes to the individual because it takes a level of readiness and commitment to choose to change.  I will however point out that the common factor in all of these stories includes a vehicle of sorts; a vehicle that works to promote a lifestyle.  It is NOT a cult but IS a culture, of health, wellness and even the Extraordinary.  

Here it is, the one continued story I am sharing today...

Back in December My Aunt Jennifer sent me the most exciting email   

Dear Liz, 

Hope this holiday season is finding you happy and healthy!I just wanted to share a little of my success with you. Today, I bought asize 4 stretch jean and they fit really well! I used to be a size 10! YIPPEE! OK so, I know that the cut of the pant was large, (a size 8 in other jeans are just starting to feel loose), but I have to tell you that I was jumping for joy! Although my weight has plateaued at around 135, (Not too bad for 53!) my body is still shape changing. I'd like to think it is the AdvoCare and a little dedication! And, even though I am finding it difficult to squeeze in the extra workouts right now, my body is continuing the process. You promised me that if I remained committed to this program that I would achieve my goals! Thanks for those words. They became my mantra of the year! Thanks so much Liz for getting me hooked! Have a most blessed holiday season, dear! Can't wait to see you in the spring!

Much love,
Auntie Jen

I then posted her fitness journey on my facebook page in December of 2011.  The responses were most exciting as her journey inspired many. 

Curious as I indicated at the beginning of this blog post I asked her for an update…

Hi Liz,

I continue to be totally thrilled with the AdvoCare products.  I am happy to say that I have maintained my original 15 pound weight loss for a year and a half now and am slowly creeping down to my goal weight.  It's those infamous and evasive "last five pounds" that seem to elude me!  But you told me once that if I stay committed it would happen, so I continue to persevere!  I love the Spark and Rehydrate, especially this time of year.  Exercising in this heat can really take its toll!   My favorite thing is to mix the Mandarin Spark with the Mango Pineapple Rehydrate.  The flavor is really yummy and intense, and the benefits are even better! I also love the meal replacement shakes.  They really save me when I'm in a hurry, or just don't want to fuss with making something!   I think the thing I appreciate the most is how good I feel and the energy I have when I'm dedicated to the entire regime.  I find my body responds better when I put the work into it.  It is really a great system of balanced nutrition.   Truthfully, my weight isn't as important as how I feel in, and about my body.  I can tell you the word that describes it best is "healthy"!  Who can ask for more?!

Love you Liz!

Jen

If you have questions on what program or products my Auntie Jen is using or if you have any other questions about AdvoCare, please email me at lizblom@comcast.net.  You can also visit my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness for wellness information.

Writer's Block - Back to School

I cannot tell you how many times I have thought about this blog over the past few months.  I even went as far as sitting down once and typing before my infamous 20 year class reunion in July.  Obviously, that did not get posted.  I'm blaming it on "writer's block" aka, in my world, "SUMMER."  We all have our excuses, some of them better than others.  Often they are unknown to one another unless we reach out and share or ask for some help.

This recent bout of writer's block for me included  full-time summer motherhood (in no particular order: events planner, chauffeur, short-order cook, nanny, grocery-getter, friend, disciplinarian, boss, mentor, teacher, lifeguard, referee and housekeeper); a multitude of fitness endeavors; my individual AdvoCare business, and one suddenly very ill mother-in-law who helped put a number of things into perspective (she is getting better every day).

Basically what I'm trying to say is finding and maintaining personal wellness is a lifelong education in the school of life.  We can continue to go to school and learn everyday but until we are practicing life we can only carry the tools and hope we remember how to use them when we need them.  

Lucy - on her first day of school 2010.
"Watch your Step" 

As the new school year begins, regardless of whether you have kids, are going back yourself, or just find yourself tested by the increased traffic in school zones remember that seasons change, writer's block will pass and the school bus of life will be bumpy.  Make sure you enjoy the friendship and laughter along the road, remember others are on the bus with you and let the school-life bus carry you past excuses and onto a new day of school.

Enjoy the last days of  your "SUMMER."  I plan to do the same but am looking forward to getting back on the bus! ~Be Well

Inspired by a recent read -  The ENERGY Bus ~ Jon Gordon

For more nutrition and wellness information visit my face book page http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness.

"I Work Out"

My intent was a weekly blog.  As it turns out, that is not happening.  I enjoy it, I really do.  However I enjoy talking face to face or using my voice and hearing a response on the other end.  I find it much more rewarding.  So if you stick with my randomly timed blogs, I will continue, just not as often as I had planned.

Believe it or not, talking to people about nutrition never gets old.  What does get old is knowing people are going to do what they want until they are ready to make a change.  So, today I'm taking a break from nutrition talk to give a shout out to its counterpart: Exercise. Let me start by telling you I have no certifications in fitness what-so-ever.  I have however been running as early as I can remember.  I guess you can call me a recreational athlete. I started out running from the boys on the playground, racing neighbors in the driveway or my sisters around the house and even at times running away from my Mom when a spanking was coming my direction for good reason I'm sure.  It's just what I did and continue to do.   From a sprinter to a distance runner is the direction I ran, running both cross country and track in high school.  Fitting now that I grew to the long and lean length of 5'2".  After high school I ran through college, just for stress relief and socially to gain no more than the freshman fifteen.  I continued to run before and after the birth of my two children.

My first sprint triathlon 2010, with my favorite cheerleaders

My running took a turn after the birth of my second daughter Lucy. I ran my first 10 mile road race. I loved it! I then ran a 1/2 marathon and loved it. After that, I knew then I was ready to take on a goal I had pushed aside...the full marathon, 22.6 miles.  I did this with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Team in Training, October 1, 2006 inspired by two beautiful ladies and friends who had lost a battle to cancer just months prior, Anne Boehm and Tracy Hoffman.

To this day when I run I think of those who cannot.  It's a blessing to have a body and a choice of how we move it and feed it.  I am not saying that everyone should take up running, however if the mood strikes you, get off of your couch and move!  If you look at when my love for running began, it started as a childhood memory.  What did you like to do as a child? Did you swim, bike, run, hike, jump, climb, lift heavy objects for show?  Find that lost movement. Then choose to change and the rest will fall into place.  

Be Well!

                                           

For more timely nutrition and wellness information visit me on facebook http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness.

Blog About A Blog

So I started following a blog that came across my face book feeds.  It is a journey of a young woman who is giving the AdvoCare 24 Day Challenge a try. Here is the link if you want to see it for yourself  My Proper Binge. Yes, I work with AdvoCare as an independent distributor but only after much skepticism, research and personal use.  What I am about to say is my personal opinion, but I like to think I have enough experience and training to evaluate it.  I am now convinced AdvoCare might be one of the best long term approaches to weight loss and weight management available.  Notice I did not say on the market.   You will not find it on a shelf in the common market place, even though it is a 19 plus year old company.  This will not be the case for much longer.

AdvoCare is a direct sale company by design.  Please do not let me lose you on the direct sale part, it left a sour taste in my mouth for a very long time, even after I had fell in love with product.  Obviously that changed with time and more knowledge.  I am not going to go into what makes AdvoCare a better direct selling company or why direct sales is a smart business, there are plenty books written on that subject.   What I would like to share how it is different than anything I have every worked with.

Prior to AdvoCare I have worked as a Registered Dietitian, Licensed Dietitian, with individuals using the food guide pyramid,  the diabetes exchange system, calorie counting, medically managed weight loss (very low calorie starting in the 800 calorie range consisting of shakes and meal replacement bars), cholesterol (low fat) and, high-blood pressure (low sodium) diets.  I’ve had the pleasure of counseling individuals on nutrition pre-weight loss surgery.  I even obtained a certification in adult weight management.

Here is what I have come to learn over the years.  There is no one solution that fits all.  Obesity is multifaceted.  People who say they know what to eat but just don’t do it, are often lying to themselves.  We do not move as much as a society to support our caloric intake and the ease at which we get it.  Portion distortion is a huge problem.  People are confused how to eat for weight loss, weight management and general health. 

As a good friend has pointed out, it is better to look at all of this in fascination vs. frustration.   Fascination puts this epidemic of obesity and mass nutrition confusion into positive light.  I still believe there is hope.  I know this is true or I would be working at one of my favorite retail stores for personal discount.

So with no one solution, why do I stand by AdvoCare?  I’ve personally felt and seen progress for myself and those that stick with it long enough to find the pieces of the puzzle that are missing.  I know it is safe, and I know it works.  It is a supplement company and therefore is meant to be used in addition to a healthy eating plan, exercise and sleep.  It is not a magic pill.  What it does provide is what most of us need to perform at our optimal ability: ENERGY & ADDED NUTRITION TO FILL GAPS.  With this added energy and nutrition, not only are we able to perform our daily tasks, but we are also able to find the extra energy to move and to make healthier decisions.  NOT A DIET.  As for Carolyn and her blog I hope that she finds AdvoCare to be her answer.  I believe she has some of the best coaching and support available to her without the substantial costs of so many ‘solutions’ on the market. 

If you would like to learn more about AdvoCare or just basic balanced nutrition you can find more at http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness for more nutrition and wellness information.

Green Pancakes

I’m feeling a bit distraught.  I had this blog entry planned out in my head with a particular photo.  Last year I had the pleasure of helping out at school with “Green Pancake Day.”  I’ve looked at the pictures since but now that I am trying to find them, I cannot.   I’ve looked and looked in all of the places I think the photos should be and I cannot find them.  Has this ever happened to you?  It might not be a photo you are looking for, but something that is engrained in your memory, something that you are having a hard time getting past. 

So my thought process has taken a turn from green pancakes to a children’s book.  I know “random” as my daughter Amelia would say.  It has been a week of observation for me.  This has been a week of insecurities, not only my own but those of friends, family and clients.  We second guess ourselves and our choices.  We doubt our bodies, minds and some days, where our heart lies. 

I often think a degree in psychology would have been handy to go along with dietetics.   Our health and wellness goes far beyond cookie cutter food plans and exercise.   I’ve come a long way in my thinking.  Between text book knowledge to real life is a cavern.  Within that cavern are agates.  Have you ever read the book Agate?  It is a favorite of mine.  What good is a moose?  Do you ever feel like a self-conscious moose when you are surrounded by sparkling gems?  Not only is this book beautifully illustrated but it has a message that rings true.  Be glad they’re them and you are you…each a gem in life’s marvelous zoo!

Embrace who you are and take time to embrace your specific wants, needs, desires.  At the same time embrace others and be sure to let them know what you see.  I see friends’ strengths, beauty and individuality.  I’m getting better at telling them and in return I am getting better at receiving the complements they pour into me.  We all need to hear it from our friends from time to time, Agate, you big galoot, If we are gems, so are you.

http://www.lakesuperiormagazine.com/cat/agate.html#poster 

Be good to yourself.  Just do what you’re good at, like being a moose.  Eat green pancakes today if your heart desires and encourage a friend or loved one to do the same if they feel that path is leading them in that direction.  If your teeth turn green, laugh it off and try a different path next time.

~Be Well!  Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
For more nutrition and wellness information visit my face book page http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness.

The Food Network vs. Hunger Games

How many of you watch Food Network TV? Fitting isn't it? We have access to food in some way, shape or form from the comforts of our couch 24/7 in a society that continues to grow larger and exercise less. I'm just making an observation. I'll admit I've enjoyed a good episode of Diners, Drive-ins and Dives on occasion and was excited to have found one of the gems featured on the show, up north called Gordy's.  As you can see they are known for their "famous hamburgers."  Honestly, they are pretty tasty.  Lucy thought so too.

Lucy vs. the Burger

Eating is meant to be a pleasure.  It is also needed to sustain life.  Unfortunately, we have taken the pleasure factor and super-sized it to not only sustain life but to bury it in fat, sugar, preservatives and increased risk of disease, often without a thought.  Too much of a good thing is really not that good.  I guess what I want you to think about while reading this is how often are you thinking about food?  How often are you acting on your thoughts about food? And, how hungry are you really when you are eating it?  I sure hope you enjoyed it.  I personally think the discomfort of overeating can be as uncomfortable if not more so than hunger.  When was the last time you were truly hungry?


Have you lost track of your hunger? If so there is a handy tool called a Hunger/Satiety Scale.  It's been a while since I have come across one so I'm suspecting this is might be new to you. I found one to use from the McKinley Health Center.  Simply put, the scale is a way of rating your hunger, with #1 being famished/starving, #5 being neither hungry nor full, and #10 being painfully full.  Again, with food on the brain or in our face 24/7 it is simple to lose focus. Give it a try. Print it out and hang it on your pantry or refrigerator door. Other Tips from McKinley Health Center in relation to the hunger scale include:

• Aim to stay between 3-7. If trying to lose weight, try to stay between 3-6.
• Plan ahead.
• Train your body to be hungry and ready to eat when you have a break.
• Prepare healthy meals and snacks so you don’t have to rely on fast food or vending machines. You will save money too.
• Have a snack of 150-200 calories available if you get hungry and must go longer than 3-5 hours between meals.
• Try to eat without distractions (such as work or TV), which promote mindless eating. A better awareness of what you are eating will help you eat appropriate amounts.
• Eat with others, if possible. Sit at a table and use plates and utensils. Intentionally creating a pleasant and relaxed dining experience may help you appreciate your food and regulate your intake.

That's a wrap for today.  I'm getting hungry. I would say I'm at a 4.  Have a great day!

And if the mood strikes you, visit my face book page for more nutrition and wellness information http://www.facebook.com/lizblom.nutritionandwellness .  ~Be Well!