I wanted to greet you and share a bit of "my" day with you, my dear friends and readers...
...A bit of trivia perhaps, as I decided to make this a fairly lazy day of pampering myself with mundaine stuff such as watching a couple of good old films on TV: "G.I. JANE" with Demi Moore and "TWISTER" with Helen Hunt...
...And playing House Chef Gourmet. Prepared, from scratch, a delectable Chicken vegetables rice soup. Kept the chicken skin on for added, natural "real" chicken flavor (you must know by now that I do not adhere to the neuroticisms of the "nutrition experts" whose scare tactics make the public consider the delicious latter unhealthy, fattening, verboten arsenic)...
...Also treated myself by including a pound of gizzards, whose texture I love, when cooked properly to avoid their turning into chunks of shoeleather...
...Then went all the way. Using an old European/Jewish formula, made matza balls...
Two small bowls of this magic concuction, and glasses of rose wine completed this home cooking appreciation event.
A special thank those of you who knew of, and remembered my Birthday by sending me cards and E-cards!
Again: I am grateful for being alive, healthy, happily working on important projects that promise to help a myriad individuals around the globe, anf for my good friends. I take the liberty to include you in this select group.
Will be back soon with more pragmatic posts. Stay well!
Jacques
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Appetite for Seduction
By Sacha Cohen, February 2006
From chocolate to chilies, these eight (bolded) aphrodisiacs will keep you healthy in the bedroom and beyond, as will the following "delights": ...
Baked Garlic for Two
Basic Basil Pesto
Belgian Endive Salad with Apples, Toasted Walnuts, and Fig Vinaigrette
Black Mission Fig Tart with Walnut Cream
Chiles Rellenos Gratin
Easy Oyster Stew
Grilled Tuna Steaks with Pineapple-Chili Sauce
Honey Oatmeal with Spiced Pears and Pecans
Honey Walnuts
Mixed Winter Squash Soup with Honey and Sage
Perfectly Simple Dark Chocolate Tart
More Recipes in Our Recipe Guide
From: Eating Well Channel (AARP.org)
Food has often played a significant role on the sexual stage. Whether as the star (the famous kitchen scene from 9½ Weeks) or as a bit player (Godiva on Valentine’s Day), it’s not much of a leap from kitchen to bedroom.
Imagine the pure tactile sensuality of rich dark chocolate, the dangerous heat of a chili pepper, and the ripe lusciousness of a fig. What could be more enticing? "The most powerful aphrodisiac is the brain, and when you tell a sexy story, usually the insinuation speaks as loud as the ingredient. All aphrodisiacs boast a racy story to support their authenticity," says Diane Brown, author of The Seduction Cookbook.
Montezuma, for example, supposedly drank 50 cups of chocolate beverage a day, hoping to strengthen his prowess in the bedroom. Hippocrates recommended honey to help one's libido. And legend has it that Casanova, the ultimate playboy, ate dozens of oysters a day to keep the ladies satisfied.
"Whether it is the Greeks, Romans, Chinese, or Aztecs, the belief is the same: food is about a whole mind-body connection," says Marlo Mittler, M.S., R.D., a nutritional consultant at Fairway Market in New York City. "With a little meal planning, a touch of culinary skill, and an understanding of how foods act as aphrodisiacs, your love life may get just the lift you are looking for."
While the list of amorous foods is long (albeit scientifically unsubstantiated), a few in particular have notable health benefits. Oysters and pine nuts, for example, are high in zinc, a mineral used in the production of testosterone, while chili peppers trigger endorphins, giving you a natural high. And let's not forget about the substantial antioxidants in garlic and honey. So even if they can't replace that little blue pill (or the sex drive of an 18-year-old), they're worth adding to your healthy eating repertoire.
Chocolate
No list of aphrodisiacs would be complete without this Valentine's Day staple. With a heady combination of caffeine (to keep you up all night) and a stimulant called phenylethylamine, the "love chemical," it's no wonder that chocolate is romance's MVP. And here's good news for chocoholics everywhere: the American Dietetic Association says the antioxidants in chocolate may prevent cholesterol from building up on artery walls (a risk factor for heart attack and stroke), while its flavonoids fight disease. Keep in mind that darker chocolate has more of these compounds.
Chili Peppers
Ready to heat things up? Try adding chili peppers to your seduction menu. The effects of the chemical capsaicin in these sassy vegetables mimic sexual arousal—sweating, increased heart rate, and flushing—and may cause you to mistakenly attribute the reaction to feelings of passion for your partner. The good news? Capsaicin helps fight inflammation, clears congestion, and may even help you lose weight.
Figs
Since Adam and Eve first adorned themselves with fig leaves, figs have been inextricably tied to fertility and reproduction. "Figs may have become known as an aphrodisiac because of their suggestive shape, but have a heady sweetness and creamy consistency perfect for amorous dining," says Brown. Figs are an excellent source of potassium, the mineral that controls blood pressure, and are full of fiber and calcium.
Garlic
Ezra, the Jewish priest and scribe from the fifth century B.C., commanded the Jews to eat garlic on the Sabbath eve to activate sexual drive. Clearly, he was on to something. While you may want to keep the Altoids mints handy, if both you and your beloved partake of this pungent herb, you'll not only ward off vampires and keep the fires stoked, you'll also profit from its long list of health benefits. The powerful antioxidants in garlic purportedly help lower cholesterol, fight colds, improve blood circulation (boosting sexual performance), and may even help reduce the risk of certain cancers.
Honey
One of the oldest sweeteners known to man, honey has long been touted as a cure for sterility and impotence. While these claims are questionable, honey's fructose content aids stamina and provides a slow and steady release of energy, explains Dr. Barry Swanson, a food historian with the Institute of Food Technologists. Hindu tradition calls for grooms to have honey on their wedding day, and "sweet liquid gold" is tied to love in everything from the Bible to the Kama Sutra. Honey contains vitamin B6, riboflavin, and pantothenic acid, as well as minerals like calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. It also contains several compounds that function as antioxidants. Oh, and did we mention that it also has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties? Now that's a superfood.
Oysters
Since the days of Aphrodite, oysters have been associated with all things sensual. Lovers the world over have turned to the salty bivalve for its purported lust-inducing qualities. While oysters are high in zinc, which contributes to the production of testosterone, its main attribute is its ability to stimulate not the body but the imagination. Just be sure to double-check the freshness and quality of these slippery seducers from the sea before you and your lover indulge.
Pine Nuts
As far back as medieval times, pine nuts have been used to stimulate the libido because they are rich in zinc, a key mineral for maintaining male potency. "Pine nuts first got their aphrodisiac reputation from the effort required to get them. They're nestled in the cones of the pine tree, and the best were said to come from the Himalayas," says Martha Hopkins, author of InterCourses: An Aphrodisiac Cookbook. Like most nuts, they also offer protective cardiovascular benefits and are especially good sources of thiamin, iron, magnesium, and manganese, explains Mittler. Zinc also helps the immune system and promotes wound healing.
Walnuts
Ancient Romans threw walnuts instead of rice at weddings because they associated walnuts with fertility. Nowadays, you're better off snacking on them. "Walnuts are among one of the healthiest things you could eat," says Mittler. The omega-3 fatty acids in walnuts are helpful in protecting the body from cardiovascular disease by preventing erratic rhythms in the heart, making the blood less likely to clot inside the arteries, and improving the ratio of good to bad cholesterol, she adds. In fact, research suggests that 1.5 ounces of walnuts per day as part of a diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease.
-------
JACQUES' NOTE: The above alimentary pornographic recipes (LOL) come (no pun intended) from today's AARP Magazine, of all places---proving once more that Love, Romance, Sexual Drive and Activities come (there it goes raising its head again!) :o)...from the Brain and Mind - thus, are ageless, unless or until one Thinks or Decides to "give up on it"!
And what better time than at the start of the weekend to share these goodies with you? So, Make It A Memorably Great Weekend, my good Friends!
Jacques
From chocolate to chilies, these eight (bolded) aphrodisiacs will keep you healthy in the bedroom and beyond, as will the following "delights": ...
Baked Garlic for Two
Basic Basil Pesto
Belgian Endive Salad with Apples, Toasted Walnuts, and Fig Vinaigrette
Black Mission Fig Tart with Walnut Cream
Chiles Rellenos Gratin
Easy Oyster Stew
Grilled Tuna Steaks with Pineapple-Chili Sauce
Honey Oatmeal with Spiced Pears and Pecans
Honey Walnuts
Mixed Winter Squash Soup with Honey and Sage
Perfectly Simple Dark Chocolate Tart
More Recipes in Our Recipe Guide
From: Eating Well Channel (AARP.org)
Food has often played a significant role on the sexual stage. Whether as the star (the famous kitchen scene from 9½ Weeks) or as a bit player (Godiva on Valentine’s Day), it’s not much of a leap from kitchen to bedroom.
Imagine the pure tactile sensuality of rich dark chocolate, the dangerous heat of a chili pepper, and the ripe lusciousness of a fig. What could be more enticing? "The most powerful aphrodisiac is the brain, and when you tell a sexy story, usually the insinuation speaks as loud as the ingredient. All aphrodisiacs boast a racy story to support their authenticity," says Diane Brown, author of The Seduction Cookbook.
Montezuma, for example, supposedly drank 50 cups of chocolate beverage a day, hoping to strengthen his prowess in the bedroom. Hippocrates recommended honey to help one's libido. And legend has it that Casanova, the ultimate playboy, ate dozens of oysters a day to keep the ladies satisfied.
"Whether it is the Greeks, Romans, Chinese, or Aztecs, the belief is the same: food is about a whole mind-body connection," says Marlo Mittler, M.S., R.D., a nutritional consultant at Fairway Market in New York City. "With a little meal planning, a touch of culinary skill, and an understanding of how foods act as aphrodisiacs, your love life may get just the lift you are looking for."
While the list of amorous foods is long (albeit scientifically unsubstantiated), a few in particular have notable health benefits. Oysters and pine nuts, for example, are high in zinc, a mineral used in the production of testosterone, while chili peppers trigger endorphins, giving you a natural high. And let's not forget about the substantial antioxidants in garlic and honey. So even if they can't replace that little blue pill (or the sex drive of an 18-year-old), they're worth adding to your healthy eating repertoire.
Chocolate
No list of aphrodisiacs would be complete without this Valentine's Day staple. With a heady combination of caffeine (to keep you up all night) and a stimulant called phenylethylamine, the "love chemical," it's no wonder that chocolate is romance's MVP. And here's good news for chocoholics everywhere: the American Dietetic Association says the antioxidants in chocolate may prevent cholesterol from building up on artery walls (a risk factor for heart attack and stroke), while its flavonoids fight disease. Keep in mind that darker chocolate has more of these compounds.
Chili Peppers
Ready to heat things up? Try adding chili peppers to your seduction menu. The effects of the chemical capsaicin in these sassy vegetables mimic sexual arousal—sweating, increased heart rate, and flushing—and may cause you to mistakenly attribute the reaction to feelings of passion for your partner. The good news? Capsaicin helps fight inflammation, clears congestion, and may even help you lose weight.
Figs
Since Adam and Eve first adorned themselves with fig leaves, figs have been inextricably tied to fertility and reproduction. "Figs may have become known as an aphrodisiac because of their suggestive shape, but have a heady sweetness and creamy consistency perfect for amorous dining," says Brown. Figs are an excellent source of potassium, the mineral that controls blood pressure, and are full of fiber and calcium.
Garlic
Ezra, the Jewish priest and scribe from the fifth century B.C., commanded the Jews to eat garlic on the Sabbath eve to activate sexual drive. Clearly, he was on to something. While you may want to keep the Altoids mints handy, if both you and your beloved partake of this pungent herb, you'll not only ward off vampires and keep the fires stoked, you'll also profit from its long list of health benefits. The powerful antioxidants in garlic purportedly help lower cholesterol, fight colds, improve blood circulation (boosting sexual performance), and may even help reduce the risk of certain cancers.
Honey
One of the oldest sweeteners known to man, honey has long been touted as a cure for sterility and impotence. While these claims are questionable, honey's fructose content aids stamina and provides a slow and steady release of energy, explains Dr. Barry Swanson, a food historian with the Institute of Food Technologists. Hindu tradition calls for grooms to have honey on their wedding day, and "sweet liquid gold" is tied to love in everything from the Bible to the Kama Sutra. Honey contains vitamin B6, riboflavin, and pantothenic acid, as well as minerals like calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. It also contains several compounds that function as antioxidants. Oh, and did we mention that it also has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties? Now that's a superfood.
Oysters
Since the days of Aphrodite, oysters have been associated with all things sensual. Lovers the world over have turned to the salty bivalve for its purported lust-inducing qualities. While oysters are high in zinc, which contributes to the production of testosterone, its main attribute is its ability to stimulate not the body but the imagination. Just be sure to double-check the freshness and quality of these slippery seducers from the sea before you and your lover indulge.
Pine Nuts
As far back as medieval times, pine nuts have been used to stimulate the libido because they are rich in zinc, a key mineral for maintaining male potency. "Pine nuts first got their aphrodisiac reputation from the effort required to get them. They're nestled in the cones of the pine tree, and the best were said to come from the Himalayas," says Martha Hopkins, author of InterCourses: An Aphrodisiac Cookbook. Like most nuts, they also offer protective cardiovascular benefits and are especially good sources of thiamin, iron, magnesium, and manganese, explains Mittler. Zinc also helps the immune system and promotes wound healing.
Walnuts
Ancient Romans threw walnuts instead of rice at weddings because they associated walnuts with fertility. Nowadays, you're better off snacking on them. "Walnuts are among one of the healthiest things you could eat," says Mittler. The omega-3 fatty acids in walnuts are helpful in protecting the body from cardiovascular disease by preventing erratic rhythms in the heart, making the blood less likely to clot inside the arteries, and improving the ratio of good to bad cholesterol, she adds. In fact, research suggests that 1.5 ounces of walnuts per day as part of a diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease.
-------
JACQUES' NOTE: The above alimentary pornographic recipes (LOL) come (no pun intended) from today's AARP Magazine, of all places---proving once more that Love, Romance, Sexual Drive and Activities come (there it goes raising its head again!) :o)...from the Brain and Mind - thus, are ageless, unless or until one Thinks or Decides to "give up on it"!
And what better time than at the start of the weekend to share these goodies with you? So, Make It A Memorably Great Weekend, my good Friends!
Jacques
Friday, February 8, 2008
Tips for talking to your (Psycho/Hypno)Therapist
by Steven Frankel, M.D.
February 1, 2008
People who go into psychotherapy frequently report good experiences where the patient feels understood and well-supported by the therapist, who uses his or her therapeutic skills to facilitate a discovery and healing process.
But what if your therapy frustrates you? What if your therapist is off base and you don’t seem to be making progress? What happens if you can’t communicate with your therapist?
Here are several tips for getting more out of your therapy by learning how to really communicate with your therapist.
Take ownership of your therapy
It’s tempting to believe your therapist has all the answers, and it may seem easiest to let the therapist make all decisions about treatment. You might even feel afraid of asking questions or discussing concerns about your therapy.
Remember that therapists are human beings and have the same flaws as the rest of us. Therapy is a subjective process, and the therapist can only give his or her own subjectively colored opinion, which has been shaped by his training and life experiences. That viewpoint may not always be the right one for you.
As the “consumer” in the therapy partnership, it’s your responsibility to look after your best interests and to be an active participant in your therapy. If something isn’t working, it’s up to you to talk about it with your therapist. The message is clear: Take your therapist off the pedestal and take ownership of your therapy.
Plan out what to say in advance
As an active partner in your own therapy, you may need to express concerns, ask questions, or even give your therapist negative feedback about how you believe the therapy is going. Confronting your therapist with your concerns may be difficult, but it can be made easier if you plan out what you want to say.
Before talking to your therapist, take a few minutes to organize your thoughts.
Write down your concerns, the specific changes you want to request, and any questions you want to ask. Next, review what you’ve written with an eye for how you are planning to express yourself. If your tone or words are accusatory, it may be difficult to have a productive conversation with the therapist.
A useful way to phrase your statements is with “I” language, such as “I feel confused” or “I see things this way.” You will want to make it clear that you are not necessarily putting the therapist in the wrong; you are simply talking about how therapy is working or not working, from your perspective. “I” language feels much less confrontational than outright criticism, and keeps the door open for discussion and negotiation without the other person becoming defensive.
For example, you might say, “I feel like my therapy isn’t going very well and I’m not sure we’re on the same page; can we talk about that today?” This is more likely to set a positive tone than, “This just isn’t working because you don’t understand me!”
Keep your wits about you
After you’ve planned out what you want to say, it’s time to have the conversation with your therapist. You should try to remain as calm as possible. You will, of course, have strong emotions, but letting your emotions take over will prevent you from having a constructive discussion.
Keep in mind that you and your therapist are on the same team. More than anything else, you both want to work to help you achieve your personal goals. Unless something is very wrong, your therapist is not likely to be “against you.”
Enlist a third party to consult with you and your therapist
If the therapist stands firm in his recommendations for your therapy, and you still do not agree, what can you do? Your first reaction might be to find a new therapist. While this could be the right decision, there is another option you may want to try first: getting another opinion. You and your therapist could decide to invite another therapist to join you as a consultant.
The consultant in this situation works collaboratively with you and your therapist to provide a fresh perspective, allowing you to move beyond your communication impasse to a direction you can both endorse. Once his job is completed, the consultant removes himself and the therapy pair goes back to “business as usual”.
You and your therapist have already invested your time and energy into the process and you are both committed to the same goal: helping you achieve your objectives for emotional growth and healing. If and when a difference of opinion does occur, rather than giving up and walking away, it is usually well worth the effort to try a collaborative solution first.
Good therapists usually welcome a patient’s active involvement in his or her therapy. Seasoned therapists are aware of the extent to which their observations reflect opinion rather than fact. Therefore, they tend to be delighted by the possibility of finding creative solutions to therapy impasses, generated together with the patient.
If, as a patient, you don’t find yourself encountering this kind of openness, and your attempts to encourage your therapist to take you seriously fall on deaf ears, then it may be time to find a new therapist who can better support you in your goals.
Steven Frankel M.D., a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, is a graduate of Yale University Medical School. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both general and child psychiatry as well as by the American Psychoanalytic Association. He is an Associate Clinical Professor at the University of California Medical School. He is the founder and director of The Center for Collaborative Psychology and Psychiatry in Kentfield, CA. His ideas are developed in his many professional papers and three books, Intricate Engagements, Hidden Faults, and his latest work: Making Psychotherapy Work: Collaborating Effectively with Your Patient
-----
Courtesy: PsychCentral
JACQUES' NOTE: The above (excellent) guidelines are being contributed to you, not to imply that you "need" them. In case you do, or are actually engaged in some form of Therapy, however, these suggestions may make a healthy difference in your progress.
Inasmuch as, lately, popular individuals in the public eye (Not the least of whom are Britney Spears, Magan Mullaley, and others) have shown to need "help", the above sound advice struck me as being timely. If it does not apply to you, perhaps you know of someone to whom it does. If so, kindly share it with them. If not, skip it.
Make it a Great Weekend!
Your Friend,
Jacques
February 1, 2008
People who go into psychotherapy frequently report good experiences where the patient feels understood and well-supported by the therapist, who uses his or her therapeutic skills to facilitate a discovery and healing process.
But what if your therapy frustrates you? What if your therapist is off base and you don’t seem to be making progress? What happens if you can’t communicate with your therapist?
Here are several tips for getting more out of your therapy by learning how to really communicate with your therapist.
Take ownership of your therapy
It’s tempting to believe your therapist has all the answers, and it may seem easiest to let the therapist make all decisions about treatment. You might even feel afraid of asking questions or discussing concerns about your therapy.
Remember that therapists are human beings and have the same flaws as the rest of us. Therapy is a subjective process, and the therapist can only give his or her own subjectively colored opinion, which has been shaped by his training and life experiences. That viewpoint may not always be the right one for you.
As the “consumer” in the therapy partnership, it’s your responsibility to look after your best interests and to be an active participant in your therapy. If something isn’t working, it’s up to you to talk about it with your therapist. The message is clear: Take your therapist off the pedestal and take ownership of your therapy.
Plan out what to say in advance
As an active partner in your own therapy, you may need to express concerns, ask questions, or even give your therapist negative feedback about how you believe the therapy is going. Confronting your therapist with your concerns may be difficult, but it can be made easier if you plan out what you want to say.
Before talking to your therapist, take a few minutes to organize your thoughts.
Write down your concerns, the specific changes you want to request, and any questions you want to ask. Next, review what you’ve written with an eye for how you are planning to express yourself. If your tone or words are accusatory, it may be difficult to have a productive conversation with the therapist.
A useful way to phrase your statements is with “I” language, such as “I feel confused” or “I see things this way.” You will want to make it clear that you are not necessarily putting the therapist in the wrong; you are simply talking about how therapy is working or not working, from your perspective. “I” language feels much less confrontational than outright criticism, and keeps the door open for discussion and negotiation without the other person becoming defensive.
For example, you might say, “I feel like my therapy isn’t going very well and I’m not sure we’re on the same page; can we talk about that today?” This is more likely to set a positive tone than, “This just isn’t working because you don’t understand me!”
Keep your wits about you
After you’ve planned out what you want to say, it’s time to have the conversation with your therapist. You should try to remain as calm as possible. You will, of course, have strong emotions, but letting your emotions take over will prevent you from having a constructive discussion.
Keep in mind that you and your therapist are on the same team. More than anything else, you both want to work to help you achieve your personal goals. Unless something is very wrong, your therapist is not likely to be “against you.”
Enlist a third party to consult with you and your therapist
If the therapist stands firm in his recommendations for your therapy, and you still do not agree, what can you do? Your first reaction might be to find a new therapist. While this could be the right decision, there is another option you may want to try first: getting another opinion. You and your therapist could decide to invite another therapist to join you as a consultant.
The consultant in this situation works collaboratively with you and your therapist to provide a fresh perspective, allowing you to move beyond your communication impasse to a direction you can both endorse. Once his job is completed, the consultant removes himself and the therapy pair goes back to “business as usual”.
You and your therapist have already invested your time and energy into the process and you are both committed to the same goal: helping you achieve your objectives for emotional growth and healing. If and when a difference of opinion does occur, rather than giving up and walking away, it is usually well worth the effort to try a collaborative solution first.
Good therapists usually welcome a patient’s active involvement in his or her therapy. Seasoned therapists are aware of the extent to which their observations reflect opinion rather than fact. Therefore, they tend to be delighted by the possibility of finding creative solutions to therapy impasses, generated together with the patient.
If, as a patient, you don’t find yourself encountering this kind of openness, and your attempts to encourage your therapist to take you seriously fall on deaf ears, then it may be time to find a new therapist who can better support you in your goals.
Steven Frankel M.D., a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, is a graduate of Yale University Medical School. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both general and child psychiatry as well as by the American Psychoanalytic Association. He is an Associate Clinical Professor at the University of California Medical School. He is the founder and director of The Center for Collaborative Psychology and Psychiatry in Kentfield, CA. His ideas are developed in his many professional papers and three books, Intricate Engagements, Hidden Faults, and his latest work: Making Psychotherapy Work: Collaborating Effectively with Your Patient
-----
Courtesy: PsychCentral
JACQUES' NOTE: The above (excellent) guidelines are being contributed to you, not to imply that you "need" them. In case you do, or are actually engaged in some form of Therapy, however, these suggestions may make a healthy difference in your progress.
Inasmuch as, lately, popular individuals in the public eye (Not the least of whom are Britney Spears, Magan Mullaley, and others) have shown to need "help", the above sound advice struck me as being timely. If it does not apply to you, perhaps you know of someone to whom it does. If so, kindly share it with them. If not, skip it.
Make it a Great Weekend!
Your Friend,
Jacques
Monday, February 4, 2008
Snacks Under 100 Calories
By Garry Messick
eDiets Contributor
Updated: February 4, 2008
The lure of between-meal snacking is one of the main obstacles to losing weight or maintaining an already slim-and-trim body. But never fear… You don't have to give up the occasional nosh entirely, as long as you stick to low-calorie foods. In fact, eating regularly throughout the day keeps your metabolism up and keeps your blood sugar at a more consistent level. With that in mind, what follows is a list of healthy snacks that are all 100 calories or less and require little or no preparation.
Peanut Butter Celery Stalk -- One stalk of celery dabbed with a tablespoon of natural peanut butter (the kind without added hydrogenated oils) equals about 100 calories of protein-rich deliciousness.
Reduced-Fat Triscuits -- Six of these crunchy whole-grain crackers tote up to under 100 calories. The fiber content will help fill your stomach.
Dry-Roasted Pumpkin Seeds -- A quarter cup of this mineral-rich snack comes out to about 75 calories.
Chocolate Treat -- For a quick and easy chocolate fix, take about six tablespoons of any brand of light whipped cream or light whipped cream substitute, and fold in a teaspoon of a powdered cocoa mix. Blend it thoroughly. Only about 50 calories.
Strawberry Newtons -- Nabisco sells a two-cookie snack pack of these. Each cookie is 100 calories. Eat one and give the other to a friend.
Cheese Stick with Marinara Sauce -- Put a low-fat mozzarella cheese stick into a bowl along with a quarter cup of marinara sauce. Heat briefly in the microwave (be careful not to overheat or you'll end up with soup). About 100 calories.
Half-Cup of Sherbet or Sorbet -- A good ice cream substitute, and under 100 calories.
Root Beer Float -- Take eight ounces of diet root beer. Add a scoop of non-fat vanilla frozen yogurt. Around 90 calories.
Watermelon -- Two cups of watermelon cubes are fairly filling and equal only about 85 calories.
Corn on the Cob -- One medium-sized ear with a dash of seasoning will set you back only 80 calories.
Puffed Wheat Cereal -- Grab two-thirds of a cup of puffed wheat. Add a half cup of skim milk and a teaspoon of sugar or sugar substitute. About 100 calories.
Blueberries -- They're delicious fresh from a farmer's market. A cup equals only 90 calories.
Vegetarian Baked Beans -- Doesn't taste much different from the kind with pork in it. One third cup is only about 75 calories.
Teddy Grahams Crackers -- The chocolate ones are particularly yummy. Fifteen clock in at 82 calories.
Plums -- Three on the small side add up to around 90 calories.
Bagel Bites -- Found in the freezer section of your grocery store. Two of these little pizza treats equal 100 calories.
Turkey Sandwich -- Make a half-sandwich using a slice of whole-wheat bread and about two ounces of low-fat turkey breast. Add mustard and/or lettuce or a thin slice of tomato if you like. You're looking at about 100 calories.
Seven-Ounce Bottle of Dannon Lite 'n' Fit Carb Control Smoothie -- Good source of protein and calcium. Only 70 calories.
Campbell's Soup-at-Hand -- A convenient microwavable soup that you sip right from the container. The chicken noodle flavor is only 80 calories.
Red or White Wine or Champagne -- Five ounces of the bubbly stuff is under 100 calories.
Fruit and Whipped Cream -- Take a half cup of your favorite kind of berries -- raspberries, blueberries, boysenberries, etc. -- and place them in a bowl. Top with two tablespoons of a low-fat whipped cream or whipped cream substitute. About 100 calories.
Craisins -- Dried cranberries make a nice change of pace from raisins. Four tablespoons come to around 90 calories.
Grapes -- Ever try them frozen? A great summertime treat. Thirty are under 100 calories.
Bagel -- A half a bagel with a very light sprinkling of low-fat butter substitute will be around 100 calories.
Breadsticks -- The kind with sesame seeds -- two of 'em add up to about 85 calories.
-------------------
So, what has all this to do with the theme of this Blog, you ask?...Simply an aid to staying slimmer, fitter and healthier - one of my ways to share with you such viable information to help make your days more energetic and better.
(Courtesy: eDiets)
Your Friend,
Jacques
eDiets Contributor
Updated: February 4, 2008
The lure of between-meal snacking is one of the main obstacles to losing weight or maintaining an already slim-and-trim body. But never fear… You don't have to give up the occasional nosh entirely, as long as you stick to low-calorie foods. In fact, eating regularly throughout the day keeps your metabolism up and keeps your blood sugar at a more consistent level. With that in mind, what follows is a list of healthy snacks that are all 100 calories or less and require little or no preparation.
Peanut Butter Celery Stalk -- One stalk of celery dabbed with a tablespoon of natural peanut butter (the kind without added hydrogenated oils) equals about 100 calories of protein-rich deliciousness.
Reduced-Fat Triscuits -- Six of these crunchy whole-grain crackers tote up to under 100 calories. The fiber content will help fill your stomach.
Dry-Roasted Pumpkin Seeds -- A quarter cup of this mineral-rich snack comes out to about 75 calories.
Chocolate Treat -- For a quick and easy chocolate fix, take about six tablespoons of any brand of light whipped cream or light whipped cream substitute, and fold in a teaspoon of a powdered cocoa mix. Blend it thoroughly. Only about 50 calories.
Strawberry Newtons -- Nabisco sells a two-cookie snack pack of these. Each cookie is 100 calories. Eat one and give the other to a friend.
Cheese Stick with Marinara Sauce -- Put a low-fat mozzarella cheese stick into a bowl along with a quarter cup of marinara sauce. Heat briefly in the microwave (be careful not to overheat or you'll end up with soup). About 100 calories.
Half-Cup of Sherbet or Sorbet -- A good ice cream substitute, and under 100 calories.
Root Beer Float -- Take eight ounces of diet root beer. Add a scoop of non-fat vanilla frozen yogurt. Around 90 calories.
Watermelon -- Two cups of watermelon cubes are fairly filling and equal only about 85 calories.
Corn on the Cob -- One medium-sized ear with a dash of seasoning will set you back only 80 calories.
Puffed Wheat Cereal -- Grab two-thirds of a cup of puffed wheat. Add a half cup of skim milk and a teaspoon of sugar or sugar substitute. About 100 calories.
Blueberries -- They're delicious fresh from a farmer's market. A cup equals only 90 calories.
Vegetarian Baked Beans -- Doesn't taste much different from the kind with pork in it. One third cup is only about 75 calories.
Teddy Grahams Crackers -- The chocolate ones are particularly yummy. Fifteen clock in at 82 calories.
Plums -- Three on the small side add up to around 90 calories.
Bagel Bites -- Found in the freezer section of your grocery store. Two of these little pizza treats equal 100 calories.
Turkey Sandwich -- Make a half-sandwich using a slice of whole-wheat bread and about two ounces of low-fat turkey breast. Add mustard and/or lettuce or a thin slice of tomato if you like. You're looking at about 100 calories.
Seven-Ounce Bottle of Dannon Lite 'n' Fit Carb Control Smoothie -- Good source of protein and calcium. Only 70 calories.
Campbell's Soup-at-Hand -- A convenient microwavable soup that you sip right from the container. The chicken noodle flavor is only 80 calories.
Red or White Wine or Champagne -- Five ounces of the bubbly stuff is under 100 calories.
Fruit and Whipped Cream -- Take a half cup of your favorite kind of berries -- raspberries, blueberries, boysenberries, etc. -- and place them in a bowl. Top with two tablespoons of a low-fat whipped cream or whipped cream substitute. About 100 calories.
Craisins -- Dried cranberries make a nice change of pace from raisins. Four tablespoons come to around 90 calories.
Grapes -- Ever try them frozen? A great summertime treat. Thirty are under 100 calories.
Bagel -- A half a bagel with a very light sprinkling of low-fat butter substitute will be around 100 calories.
Breadsticks -- The kind with sesame seeds -- two of 'em add up to about 85 calories.
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So, what has all this to do with the theme of this Blog, you ask?...Simply an aid to staying slimmer, fitter and healthier - one of my ways to share with you such viable information to help make your days more energetic and better.
(Courtesy: eDiets)
Your Friend,
Jacques
Friday, February 1, 2008
Alcohol and Exercise
An active lifestyle that includes a little alcohol may be the ticket to preventing heart disease, according to a new study by Danish researchers.
The nearly 20-year study involved close to 12,000 men and women. Those who did not drink or do any exercise had the highest risk of heart disease, at 49 percent higher than those who drank, exercised or did both.
However, among people who did similar amounts of exercise, those who also drank moderately were 30 percent less likely to develop heart disease than non-drinkers.
Meanwhile, physically active people who drank at least one drink a week had up to 50 percent lower risk than physically inactive non-drinkers.
Past studies have suggested that alcohol may decrease your risk of heart disease by increasing levels of good cholesterol and thinning your blood.
In the study, “moderate” drinking was defined as one to 14 units of alcohol a week, with one unit of alcohol being equal to half a pint of normal strength beer, half of a medium-sized glass of wine, or a single shot of a spirit.
Sources:
BBC News January 9, 2008
European Heart Journal January 2008 29(2):204-212 (Free Full-Text Article)
Courtesy: Dr. Mercola.com
The nearly 20-year study involved close to 12,000 men and women. Those who did not drink or do any exercise had the highest risk of heart disease, at 49 percent higher than those who drank, exercised or did both.
However, among people who did similar amounts of exercise, those who also drank moderately were 30 percent less likely to develop heart disease than non-drinkers.
Meanwhile, physically active people who drank at least one drink a week had up to 50 percent lower risk than physically inactive non-drinkers.
Past studies have suggested that alcohol may decrease your risk of heart disease by increasing levels of good cholesterol and thinning your blood.
In the study, “moderate” drinking was defined as one to 14 units of alcohol a week, with one unit of alcohol being equal to half a pint of normal strength beer, half of a medium-sized glass of wine, or a single shot of a spirit.
Sources:
BBC News January 9, 2008
European Heart Journal January 2008 29(2):204-212 (Free Full-Text Article)
Courtesy: Dr. Mercola.com
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