Motivational Monday

Happy Monday to ya! We are starting out this week great! Met with our coach this morning and he had nothing but great things to say. He was so surprised with how much we have changed in the past two weeks and said that we should continue to see changes up until the show. I'm lovin' that! It makes me even more excited to go and do my boring cardio tonight. It gives me more focus and drive because we are just that much closer to the show.

I hope that you all are working hard towards those goals that you've set up for yourself and your taking all the necessary steps to make sure to reach the top. This week I wanted to focus on food. I know for most us that is our major downfall. Changing the way you eat is a challenge all by itself. It takes hard work and determination to eat a Clean Lifestyle. However, if you can make small changes all the time, before you know it you'll be eating Clean and be a much more healthier you.

There are 5 foods I feel like you should be eating pretty much everyday and why.

1) Eggs

Why? Eggs are the purest form of protein ever. Many nutritionist use eggs as a standard when comparing eggs to other forms of protein.  They are packed with vitamins and minerals that do wonders for your eyes, nails and hair. They are also a very inexpensive source if protein. You can get eggs at any grocery store or local farm in your area. Not to mention you can cook eggs so many different ways! Just be creative. I love fried eggs all runny with a slice of wheat toast to slop it up and a side of grits! OH YEA!!! Bring on the EGGS, lol.

2) Leafy Greens

Why? Nutritional Powerhouses! They are also very high in vitamins, minerals, and a low carbohydrate food source. Did you know that the USDA recommends at least 3 cups per week? How many cups of leafy greens are you eating a week?

3) Whole Grains

(Not White Wheat bread from Wal-Mart, people)

Why? Fiber! It's sad but true that most people are not getting enough fiber in their diet. I was definitely guilty of this. Fiber helps keep you full and regular. Being "backed up" is one the worst feelings in the world. Whole grains are also excellent sources of vitamins, trace minerals, and have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. What a great excuse to make a warm loaf of bread :-)

4) Blueberries

Why? Did someone say Antioxidants? Oh yes, they did. Blueberries are one the highest sources of fruits and vegetables that have the capacity to destroy free radicals. What that means to you? Blueberries help reduce the damage that free radicals do to cell tissue that leads to varicose veins, cataracts, glaucoma, hemorrhoids, and cancer. Those are all things none of us want. So make those smoothies you all love and hey, even indulge in that oh so yummy blueberry pie your Grandma has perfected over the years. It's full of Antioxidants! Who knew? LOL

5) Greek Yogurt

Why? Not to many folks have heard of of Greek Yogurt, but Im here to tell you, "once you go Greek you'll never go back." Greek yogurt is packed with protein! 1 creamy cup contains 13-20 grams. That's incredible when compared to traditional sugar laden low fat or fat free yogurt with 5-10 (measly) grams. It is also low in sodium and carbs. You can use it as sour cream (0% plain version) or as a sweet treat with blueberries & granola! Ha!

So there you have it. 5 food you should be eating. I eat all of these items everyday with the exception of blueberries (due to my strict contest diet). However once this contest is over, your darn Skippy I'll be eating them up!!! I can assure you that by incorporating all of these powerhouse foods you'll be well on you way to meeting your goals and becoming the person you want to be.

Here's to finding your NorthStar.....