Monday, June 3, 2013

Breakfast!

Hey guys!
 
Now we're talking, more food!
I thought that if I'm going to start a series, why not start with the first meal of the day...breakfast!
 
Breakfast is often the forgotten meal, which is unfortunate since it's SO great for you. Many people feel that if they skip breakfast, it will help them lose weight. (less in my body, less weight) Well, that's not really the case, nor is it healthy to skip such a crucial meal. Especially not when it's so easy to make something that's quick and delicious. Even if you're rushed in the morning, and figure you have no time to eat, try to ALWAYS make time for breakfast. Here are a few quick, delicious, and healthy ideas for breakfast:
 
#1. Eggs
Eggs are full of protein, which is great for those of you watching your weight. Since protein keeps you satisfied longer, you won't be reaching for a snack, or some junk as quickly. Plus, you can make eggs SO quickly, with little to no effort.
#2. Raspberries (or other antioxidant rich fruits)
Raspberries are high in fiber, which is great because it helps to prevent weight gain. Strawberries, and many other berries are rich in antioxidants, which are great for digestion. Also, you can add raspberries to the next breakfast idea, which is,
#3. Yogurt!
Yogurt was actually ranked in the top 5 foods that promote weight loss. A lot of flavours will add unnecessary sugars to your yogurt, so as mentioned, adding some fresh raspberries to a plain yogurt is a great way to eat healthy and cut sugar.
#4. Oatmeal
Again, oatmeal is high in fiber, which helps to keep you fuller...LONGER! Plus, you can add those raspberries again to make this already tasty meal, even better. Try making the oatmeal yourself, instead of using the instant packages. This will allow you to add any spices that you wish, and in the appropriate quantities.
Lastly, #5. Peanut Butter
You're probably thinking, "Well...does she want me to just dig my spoon into the jar?" Not necessarily, although you certainly could. Peanut butter was also ranked in the top 5 foods to promote weight loss, and is good on it's own, or on some whole grain toast. Peanut butter is also great for a mid morning snack with some banana or apple slices.
 
 
Alright guys, well I hope that you can get some use out of these 5 breakfast ideas. Keep in mind, especially with the fruits, you can pre-clean and separate these into appropriate serving sizes the night before, that way you will save on prep time in the morning.
 
Enjoy your day, and happy eating!
Bye!

Saturday, June 1, 2013

Farmer's Market + Locally Grown

Hey there, 
Jumping into my new series, I'd like to spend some time talking about farmer's markets, locally grown food, and the benefits of these. 
I'm not sure if any of you will be living in the Hamilton area (Ontario that is), but on York Street in downtown there is a Farmer's Market. The market is open:
Tuesdays: 7am-6pm
Thursdays 7am-6pm
Fridays 8am-6pm
Saturdays 6am-6pm

This morning I made a visit to the market to kick off my new series, and to gather more information for you guys about the benefits of buying local. Now, I'm sure a lot of you will say that buying local can be expensive, and to be fair, it can be. However, there are TONS of booths there, and they are all fairly competitively priced. For example, today I got two oval apples, a large bag of seedless green grapes, two pounds of strawberries, a pound of raspberries, and four bananas for $7! That is NOT at all expensive, they were all great quality, and I'm supporting local farmers and booths. 

Now, obviously there are a few benefits to going to a local market. 
#1. Price can sometimes be significantly cheaper than at the grocery store, and they often have end of the day blowout sales, that grocery stores DEFINITELY don't offer. 
#2. The quality is usually exceptional. These booths take great pride in the products they are selling, and their reputation, so they make sure they are providing you with high quality produce. 
#3. Markets often have free range, grain fed products. Today I noticed all the chicken booths had free range, grain fed chicken breasts. If you are a vegetarian, obviously that wouldn't appeal to you, however it is definitely a more conscientious, nature minded choice. You can also buy eggs, and various other chicken products that hold the same label.
#4. Although there were a FEW booths that offered some very tasty treats, most of these booths at the market are offering vegetables, fruit, grains and meat. Shopping at the market not only opens your mind to the wide variety of available fruits and vegetables, but will help you to buy better food for yourself, as there is not a whole lot of selection on junk food!! :D

I hope you guys check out your local markets this week, and let me know if you find any great ones to share!!

Check it soon.
Bye!