Hi everyone,

We all know that eating a balanced diet full of fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, good fats, and little (or better yet) no processed foods, is a huge component to a healthy life.

We have also been told over and over that portion size is a big key for aquiring and maintaining a healthy weight.

But did you know that the TIMING of your meals and the TIMING of certain food components such as Carbs and Protein can take you to the next level?

Just by making a few simple adjustments to your diet can take your body to the next level.  So what are a couple of these tricks?

1.  Eat your whole grains only in the morning and after a workout...you will burn them off faster at these times.  It is never a good idea to cut Carbs completely out of your diet...they are essential for heart health, energy levels, great workouts, etc.

2.  Eat protein BEFORE and AFTER a workout (I call this a workout sandwich).  By doing this you will help your body develop lean muscle faster.  Protein is the building block to develping lean muscle mass (lean muscle is crucial for weight loss, overall strengh, injury prevention, etc.)

If you are starting out on a new weight loss plan it is best to start with small adjustments to your lifestyle first.  You won't feel overwhelmed and will be much more likely to stick to a plan long term if you do so.  The food timing tricks are great for individuals that have already been eating a healthy diet, exercising, and simply want to take things to that next level. 
If you fit into the later category - wanting to take things to the next level, try these few tricks out for about 1 month and see the amazing results you will get.  I'd love to hear about it!!

Ang

Hi everyone!

We all know that water is the number one choice when it comes to beverages (water is essential for life).   For some, coffee is considered to be just as important for survival, in their minds.

Now I am not going to say that coffee should be completely eliminated from your diet or daily routine, however, what you put in your coffee could be the culprit that is holding you back from your best physique.

Just by adding a little cream and sugar to your coffee could be adding up to nearly 100 calories per day!  Over one year if you have one coffee a day, that would equate to about 10 extra pounds!

Here are a few ideas to flavour your coffee without the extra calories:

Add vanilla or maple extract (all natural flavoring)
Add cinnamon
Add one piece of dark chocolate (>75% cacao) and stir into your cup of joe

It might take some time to switch from your milk and sugar coffee to these options, but give it a shot as the benefits are well worth it!  Try switching out one day/week then two, then three, etc.  Eventually you will be there and will feel so much better for it!

And remember, one cup of coffee/day is the recommendation.  You do not have to cut out everything in your diet...just keep it within reason.