Weight Watchers Baked Sweet Potato Chips Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 large sweet potatoes, peeled
- Non-fat Olive Oil Cooking Spray
- 1/8 tsp Kosher salt, or to taste
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400ºF. Spray 2 baking sheets with cooking spray.
Thinly slice potatoes in a food processor or by hand; they should be no more than 1/8-inch thick. The thinner the better (it gives you more chips for the same amount of Weight Watchers Points!!!)
Arrange slices on baking sheets so they don’t overlap. Spray with a bit more oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake chips until they begin to lightly brown, about 15 minutes. Cool on a rack and serve. Recipe makes 4 servings.
*TIP: If leftover chips become soggy, put them back in a hot oven for a few minutes to crisp them up.
Serving size is 1/4th of recipe
Each serving = 1 Weight Watchers Point
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Teriyaki Grilled Chicken
Teriyaki Grilled Chicken
Serves 6 ( 4 points)
6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts ( 4 oz. each)
3/4 c. pineapple juice ( I used the juice from a 20 oz. can of pineapples)
3/4 c. fat-free chicken broth
1/2 c. low sodium soy sauce
Place all ingredients in a large ziplock bag. Seal and turn to coat. Refrigerate several hours or overnight.
Spray a grill or grill pan with cooking spray. Cook until chicken is no longer pink.
Serves 6 ( 4 points)
6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts ( 4 oz. each)
3/4 c. pineapple juice ( I used the juice from a 20 oz. can of pineapples)
3/4 c. fat-free chicken broth
1/2 c. low sodium soy sauce
Place all ingredients in a large ziplock bag. Seal and turn to coat. Refrigerate several hours or overnight.
Spray a grill or grill pan with cooking spray. Cook until chicken is no longer pink.
Don't miss a Thing!
Don't Miss a Thing!
Article By: Michelle Olson www.weightwatchers.com
It's good to think about your weight-loss destination — but don't forget to enjoy the ride too!
Imagine you're on a train trip through Europe, taking in all the beautiful, unfamiliar scenery. You're probably not too concerned with getting to your final destination, since the journey is what this trip is all about. Do you take the same attitude when it comes to the journey through weight loss?
Enjoy each moment
You've probably heard your Leader or other meetings members discussing how slow and steady weight loss is the best way to drop pounds for the long term. In other words, weight loss is more like a slow train ride than a quick airplane flight. It can be pretty tempting to constantly look ahead to your destination (weight loss), but with this approach you're missing out on all the beautiful scenery along the way.
You might ask: "What scenery could I possibly find enjoyable on my weight-loss journey?" Well, it's not rolling hills and shining streams per se, but there are some stops that you won't want to miss. Maybe each five-pound loss can be a mini-stop that you can enjoy and take in. Your 10% goal is a pretty exciting junction. The day that your friends, co-workers or family members notice your weight loss is certainly something to revel in. Or maybe what you want to really savor is the day that you passed up seconds of your favorite meal because you were satisfied with your first helping.
Part of the weight-loss journey is living in the moment. If you woke up tomorrow suddenly minus 20 pounds, you might be happy at first, but how much would you really appreciate the weight loss when you achieved it with no effort on your part? You might be glad that those 20 pounds were gone, but you could easily be tempted to overindulge and gain them all back since it was no sweat to lose them. On the flip side, if you lost those 20 pounds over four months, really pushing yourself to succeed, then those 20 pounds dropped seem more enjoyable. Since you were along to see the whole journey develop right before your eyes — the ups and downs — you're much more likely to keep the weight off for good.
So take a seat and enjoy each second of your weight-loss journey. Enjoy the success and the compliments. Know that someday you will reach your destination, but for the time being, just enjoy the ride!
Article By: Michelle Olson www.weightwatchers.com
It's good to think about your weight-loss destination — but don't forget to enjoy the ride too!
Imagine you're on a train trip through Europe, taking in all the beautiful, unfamiliar scenery. You're probably not too concerned with getting to your final destination, since the journey is what this trip is all about. Do you take the same attitude when it comes to the journey through weight loss?
Enjoy each moment
You've probably heard your Leader or other meetings members discussing how slow and steady weight loss is the best way to drop pounds for the long term. In other words, weight loss is more like a slow train ride than a quick airplane flight. It can be pretty tempting to constantly look ahead to your destination (weight loss), but with this approach you're missing out on all the beautiful scenery along the way.
You might ask: "What scenery could I possibly find enjoyable on my weight-loss journey?" Well, it's not rolling hills and shining streams per se, but there are some stops that you won't want to miss. Maybe each five-pound loss can be a mini-stop that you can enjoy and take in. Your 10% goal is a pretty exciting junction. The day that your friends, co-workers or family members notice your weight loss is certainly something to revel in. Or maybe what you want to really savor is the day that you passed up seconds of your favorite meal because you were satisfied with your first helping.
Part of the weight-loss journey is living in the moment. If you woke up tomorrow suddenly minus 20 pounds, you might be happy at first, but how much would you really appreciate the weight loss when you achieved it with no effort on your part? You might be glad that those 20 pounds were gone, but you could easily be tempted to overindulge and gain them all back since it was no sweat to lose them. On the flip side, if you lost those 20 pounds over four months, really pushing yourself to succeed, then those 20 pounds dropped seem more enjoyable. Since you were along to see the whole journey develop right before your eyes — the ups and downs — you're much more likely to keep the weight off for good.
So take a seat and enjoy each second of your weight-loss journey. Enjoy the success and the compliments. Know that someday you will reach your destination, but for the time being, just enjoy the ride!
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
How to add Healthy Oils
HOW TO ADD HEALTHY OILS
As you all know there are 9 Good Healthy Guidelines that are a MUST for a successful journey and healthy lifestyle, I have found that many do well with most but struggle with getting in the OILS-If this is you here is some ways to make sure you are getting in 2 TEASPOON of oil a day.
Healthy oils are: olive oil, canola, sunflower, safflower, flaxseed.
FYI: Fish oils, Oil capsules, avocados, peanut butter, nuts, salad dressings, etc., do NOT count towards WW healthy oils requirements. Only the pourable kind.
1) Cook with it, a lot of recipes start off with oil in the skillet
2) Mix up a marinade for meats and/or veggies
3) Mix it with meat sauces, or most sauces
4) Sauté with it.
5) Drizzle over pasta
6) Drizzle over popcorn
7) Drizzle over veggies
8) Drizzle over pizza
9) Drizzle over corn on the cob
10) Drizzle some over fat free cheese(it helps melt better)
11) Mix up some salad dressing (like olive oil and balsamic vinegar)
12) Rub it on poultry or fish before baking it
13) Rub it on meats for the spices and/or rubs have something to stick to
14) Rub some on a baked potato
15) Grill sandwiches
16) Stir Fry veggies
17) Coat some homemade baked fries
18) Makes garlic toast, (oil and garlic on bread toast)
19) Add some to soups
20) Add some to smoothies
21) Mix 2 tsps olive oil to fat-free salad dressing
22) Add to anything that is fat-free. instead of the fat, you're replacing it with healthy oils
23) Roast veggies with oil
24) Mix canola oil to oatmeal, yogurt, smoothies, soups
25) put some in salsa
26) If you eat frozen dinners, drizzle some over it.
27) make some Herb or Spice Infused Oil, (for dipping or cooking)
28) Mix in some Butter Buds or Molly McButter, You'll have butter flavored oils.
29) mix some in the new PB2 (powdered peanut butter..available at bellplantation.com)
As you all know there are 9 Good Healthy Guidelines that are a MUST for a successful journey and healthy lifestyle, I have found that many do well with most but struggle with getting in the OILS-If this is you here is some ways to make sure you are getting in 2 TEASPOON of oil a day.
Healthy oils are: olive oil, canola, sunflower, safflower, flaxseed.
FYI: Fish oils, Oil capsules, avocados, peanut butter, nuts, salad dressings, etc., do NOT count towards WW healthy oils requirements. Only the pourable kind.
1) Cook with it, a lot of recipes start off with oil in the skillet
2) Mix up a marinade for meats and/or veggies
3) Mix it with meat sauces, or most sauces
4) Sauté with it.
5) Drizzle over pasta
6) Drizzle over popcorn
7) Drizzle over veggies
8) Drizzle over pizza
9) Drizzle over corn on the cob
10) Drizzle some over fat free cheese(it helps melt better)
11) Mix up some salad dressing (like olive oil and balsamic vinegar)
12) Rub it on poultry or fish before baking it
13) Rub it on meats for the spices and/or rubs have something to stick to
14) Rub some on a baked potato
15) Grill sandwiches
16) Stir Fry veggies
17) Coat some homemade baked fries
18) Makes garlic toast, (oil and garlic on bread toast)
19) Add some to soups
20) Add some to smoothies
21) Mix 2 tsps olive oil to fat-free salad dressing
22) Add to anything that is fat-free. instead of the fat, you're replacing it with healthy oils
23) Roast veggies with oil
24) Mix canola oil to oatmeal, yogurt, smoothies, soups
25) put some in salsa
26) If you eat frozen dinners, drizzle some over it.
27) make some Herb or Spice Infused Oil, (for dipping or cooking)
28) Mix in some Butter Buds or Molly McButter, You'll have butter flavored oils.
29) mix some in the new PB2 (powdered peanut butter..available at bellplantation.com)
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Crock Pot Sour Cream Salsa Chicken
CROCKPOT SOUR CREAM SALSA CHICKEN
POINTS® values per serving | 4
Servings | 4
4 skinless boneless chicken breast
1 package dry taco seasoning mix
1 jar salsa (I used Chi-Chi’s mild)
1/4 cup FF sour cream
Spray the crockpot with cooking spray. Add the chicken breasts. Sprinkle with Taco Seasoning. Top with salsa. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. When ready to serve, remove the chicken from the pot. Stir in sour cream. Serve sauce over chicken.
POINTS® values per serving | 4
Servings | 4
4 skinless boneless chicken breast
1 package dry taco seasoning mix
1 jar salsa (I used Chi-Chi’s mild)
1/4 cup FF sour cream
Spray the crockpot with cooking spray. Add the chicken breasts. Sprinkle with Taco Seasoning. Top with salsa. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. When ready to serve, remove the chicken from the pot. Stir in sour cream. Serve sauce over chicken.
Laughing Cow Alfredo Sauce
Laughing Cow Alfredo
POINTS® value | 2
Servings | 2
3 wedge The Laughing Cow Light Creamy Garlic & Herb
1/2 cup 1% low-fat milk
1 Tbsp reduced fat parmesan cheese
1/2 Tbsp Molly McButter Natural Butter
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine all the ingredients over a low heat,
until everything is melted and the sauce is velvety smooth, about 20
minutes. Serve immediately over hot cooked pasta of your choice.(add points for pasta used)
Add it to wheat pasta...sautee some broccoli, sweet peppers, onion, fresh garlic and chicken...mixed it all together...VERY good
POINTS® value | 2
Servings | 2
3 wedge The Laughing Cow Light Creamy Garlic & Herb
1/2 cup 1% low-fat milk
1 Tbsp reduced fat parmesan cheese
1/2 Tbsp Molly McButter Natural Butter
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine all the ingredients over a low heat,
until everything is melted and the sauce is velvety smooth, about 20
minutes. Serve immediately over hot cooked pasta of your choice.(add points for pasta used)
Add it to wheat pasta...sautee some broccoli, sweet peppers, onion, fresh garlic and chicken...mixed it all together...VERY good
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Eating Satisfaction and Apetite Control
And hopefully this week we all learned a lot about how to stay more satisfied and below I copied a great article from the WW science center.
Food does a lot more than provide nutrients. The good feeling that comes from a satisfying meal, called satiety, is one of life's simple pleasures. But the body systems that regulate appetite, hunger and satiety are quite complex.
Factors Affecting Satiety
There are a number of hormones and metabolic systems involved in appetite regulation. The body's systems are primarily designed to guard against starvation, leaving weaker systems in place to resist overeating and weight gain.1
In addition to the internal systems that regulate hunger and satiety cues, environment and eating habits also play a role. For example, being surrounded by appealing food stimulates the appetite and the body becomes conditioned to eating meals and snacks at familiar times. The physical cues that produce satiety can be overridden by the taste and texture of desirable foods. In addition, how the body responds to a meal is influenced by things like palatability and energy density.2
The influence of palatability on appetite control has been investigated in several studies. Not surprisingly, there is a consistent finding that the more palatable the meal, the more food is eaten. Several studies have also looked at how the sensory aspects of food, such as taste, smell and texture, affect eating satisfaction. The results for these studies have been mixed, with some finding an influence on eating satisfaction and others not. Still other research has found that increasing the variety of foods eaten in a meal increases overall food (and calorie) intake and, at least in the short- to medium-term, leads to weight gain.3
It has been suggested that the satiating power of the macronutrients follows a hierarchy where protein > carbohydrate > fat. However, the scientific evidence for this is limited. There are studies that indicate that the macronutrient composition does not impact satiety4 and others that show the opposite. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that when protein replaced fat in meals containing the same number of calories, satiety was significantly increased.5 Carbohydrates, as a macronutrient, encompass thousands of foods—from sugar to wheat germ. The effect of carbohydrates on eating satisfaction may vary. For example, it appears that whole grains provide greater eating satisfaction than refined grains.6
Satiety and Weight Loss
Strong feelings of satiety can extend the time between eating meals and the amount of food needed to ease hunger. This, in turn, can reduce the intake of calories—resulting in weight loss. In the June 2005 study that looked at increasing the percentage of calories from protein, the participants chose to eat less food and this resulted in a weight loss.
Food does a lot more than provide nutrients. The good feeling that comes from a satisfying meal, called satiety, is one of life's simple pleasures. But the body systems that regulate appetite, hunger and satiety are quite complex.
Factors Affecting Satiety
There are a number of hormones and metabolic systems involved in appetite regulation. The body's systems are primarily designed to guard against starvation, leaving weaker systems in place to resist overeating and weight gain.1
In addition to the internal systems that regulate hunger and satiety cues, environment and eating habits also play a role. For example, being surrounded by appealing food stimulates the appetite and the body becomes conditioned to eating meals and snacks at familiar times. The physical cues that produce satiety can be overridden by the taste and texture of desirable foods. In addition, how the body responds to a meal is influenced by things like palatability and energy density.2
The influence of palatability on appetite control has been investigated in several studies. Not surprisingly, there is a consistent finding that the more palatable the meal, the more food is eaten. Several studies have also looked at how the sensory aspects of food, such as taste, smell and texture, affect eating satisfaction. The results for these studies have been mixed, with some finding an influence on eating satisfaction and others not. Still other research has found that increasing the variety of foods eaten in a meal increases overall food (and calorie) intake and, at least in the short- to medium-term, leads to weight gain.3
It has been suggested that the satiating power of the macronutrients follows a hierarchy where protein > carbohydrate > fat. However, the scientific evidence for this is limited. There are studies that indicate that the macronutrient composition does not impact satiety4 and others that show the opposite. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that when protein replaced fat in meals containing the same number of calories, satiety was significantly increased.5 Carbohydrates, as a macronutrient, encompass thousands of foods—from sugar to wheat germ. The effect of carbohydrates on eating satisfaction may vary. For example, it appears that whole grains provide greater eating satisfaction than refined grains.6
Satiety and Weight Loss
Strong feelings of satiety can extend the time between eating meals and the amount of food needed to ease hunger. This, in turn, can reduce the intake of calories—resulting in weight loss. In the June 2005 study that looked at increasing the percentage of calories from protein, the participants chose to eat less food and this resulted in a weight loss.
Not your Mama's Three Bean Salad
Not Your Mama’s Three-Bean Salad
by Greatest Hits, from Weight Watchers Publishing Group
main meals
POINTS® Value: 3
Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 9 min
Cooking Time: 0 min
Level of Difficulty: Easy
This dish takes on a new profile with fresh slivers of basil, tangy lemon juice, and green soybeans(edamame) for their sweet flavor and bright color.
Ingredients
1 tsp lemon zest, grated
1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 Tbsp olive oil, extra-virgin
1/2 tsp table salt
1/8 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
15 oz canned black beans, rinsed and drained
15 oz canned white beans, rinsed and drained
2/3 cup(s) edamame (shelled), cooked
1/3 medium Vidalia onion(s), finely diced
1/3 medium sweet red pepper(s), finely diced
5 leaves basil, thinly sliced
Instructions
Combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, oil, salt, and ground pepper in a medium bowl. Add the black beans, white beans, soybeans, onion, bell pepper, and basil; toss to coat evenly. Serve at once, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Yields 3/4 cup per serving.
Notes
And unlike the original three-bean salad, the beans won’t turn drab olive green during storage; the salad will keep up to two days in the refrigerator.
by Greatest Hits, from Weight Watchers Publishing Group
main meals
POINTS® Value: 3
Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 9 min
Cooking Time: 0 min
Level of Difficulty: Easy
This dish takes on a new profile with fresh slivers of basil, tangy lemon juice, and green soybeans(edamame) for their sweet flavor and bright color.
Ingredients
1 tsp lemon zest, grated
1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 Tbsp olive oil, extra-virgin
1/2 tsp table salt
1/8 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
15 oz canned black beans, rinsed and drained
15 oz canned white beans, rinsed and drained
2/3 cup(s) edamame (shelled), cooked
1/3 medium Vidalia onion(s), finely diced
1/3 medium sweet red pepper(s), finely diced
5 leaves basil, thinly sliced
Instructions
Combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, oil, salt, and ground pepper in a medium bowl. Add the black beans, white beans, soybeans, onion, bell pepper, and basil; toss to coat evenly. Serve at once, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Yields 3/4 cup per serving.
Notes
And unlike the original three-bean salad, the beans won’t turn drab olive green during storage; the salad will keep up to two days in the refrigerator.
Black Bean, Mango and Tomato Salad
Black Bean, Mango and Tomato Salad
POINTS® Value: 2
Servings: 8
Preparation Time: 18 min
Cooking Time: 0 min
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Mashed mango helps replace some of the oil in this refreshing summer salad. It's a fabulous topping for grilled chicken or pork.
Ingredients
1 large mango(es), diced, divided* (about 1 3/4 cups)
3 Tbsp fresh lime juice
3 Tbsp water
2 Tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp table salt
15 oz canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup(s) tomato(es), diced
1/2 cup(s) onion(s), sweet, diced
1/4 cup(s) mint leaves, or cilantro, fresh, cut into thin slivers
1 Tbsp canned jalapeno peppers, or fresh, minced (if using fresh, do not touch seeds with bare hands)
Instructions
In a large bowl, mash 1/4 cup of diced mango with a fork; whisk in lime juice, water, oil, cumin and salt.
Add remaining diced mango, beans, tomato, onion, mint and jalapeno to bowl; toss to mix and coat. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate up to 1 day. Yields about 1/2 cup per serving.
Notes
POINTS® Value: 2
Servings: 8
Preparation Time: 18 min
Cooking Time: 0 min
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Mashed mango helps replace some of the oil in this refreshing summer salad. It's a fabulous topping for grilled chicken or pork.
Ingredients
1 large mango(es), diced, divided* (about 1 3/4 cups)
3 Tbsp fresh lime juice
3 Tbsp water
2 Tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp table salt
15 oz canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup(s) tomato(es), diced
1/2 cup(s) onion(s), sweet, diced
1/4 cup(s) mint leaves, or cilantro, fresh, cut into thin slivers
1 Tbsp canned jalapeno peppers, or fresh, minced (if using fresh, do not touch seeds with bare hands)
Instructions
In a large bowl, mash 1/4 cup of diced mango with a fork; whisk in lime juice, water, oil, cumin and salt.
Add remaining diced mango, beans, tomato, onion, mint and jalapeno to bowl; toss to mix and coat. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate up to 1 day. Yields about 1/2 cup per serving.
Notes
Monday, August 16, 2010
Chocolate Amaretto Cheesecake Pie
Chocolate Amaretto Cheesecake Pie
cakes
POINTS® Value: 3Servings: 6Preparation Time: 20 minCooking Time: 0 minLevel of Difficulty: Easy
Weight Watcher muffins form the chocolaty crust for this easy no-bake pie. Strawberries are delicious but other berries will work, too.
Ingredients
3 muffin(s) Weight Watchers Double Chocolate Muffin
3 Tbsp water, cold
1/8 oz unflavored gelatin, about 1 1/2 teaspoons
6 oz Weight Watchers Amaretto Cheesecake Yogurt
1 1/2 cup(s) lite whipped topping
1 cup(s) strawberries, hulled and sliced
Instructions
To make the "pie crust," slice each chocolate muffin into thirds. Line a 9-inch pie plate with muffin slices by pressing down gently and evenly until entire bottom of pie plate is completely covered with muffin slices.
Put water in a small microwavable bowl. Sprinkle gelatin on top and let it sit until a sponge is formed, about 2 minutes. Heat in microwave on medium-high power until gelatin melts, about 20 seconds. Stir to ensure gelatin is completely dissolved. If not, continue to microwave 5 seconds at a time until dissolved.
Add yogurt to a medium bowl. Stir in gelatin, then gently fold in whipped topping. Spoon mixture onto chocolate-muffin crust and spread evenly across crust to form pie topping. Arrange strawberries in a single layer across pie topping. Refrigerate uncovered for 1 hour before slicing and serving. Yields 1 slice per serving.
Notes
For a more decadent treat, combine 2 Weight Watchers Pecan Crowns and 1 tablespoon of fat-free milk in a double-boiler over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until melted. Drizzle dessert sauce over strawberries before refrigerating (could affect POINTS values).
cakes
POINTS® Value: 3Servings: 6Preparation Time: 20 minCooking Time: 0 minLevel of Difficulty: Easy
Weight Watcher muffins form the chocolaty crust for this easy no-bake pie. Strawberries are delicious but other berries will work, too.
Ingredients
3 muffin(s) Weight Watchers Double Chocolate Muffin
3 Tbsp water, cold
1/8 oz unflavored gelatin, about 1 1/2 teaspoons
6 oz Weight Watchers Amaretto Cheesecake Yogurt
1 1/2 cup(s) lite whipped topping
1 cup(s) strawberries, hulled and sliced
Instructions
To make the "pie crust," slice each chocolate muffin into thirds. Line a 9-inch pie plate with muffin slices by pressing down gently and evenly until entire bottom of pie plate is completely covered with muffin slices.
Put water in a small microwavable bowl. Sprinkle gelatin on top and let it sit until a sponge is formed, about 2 minutes. Heat in microwave on medium-high power until gelatin melts, about 20 seconds. Stir to ensure gelatin is completely dissolved. If not, continue to microwave 5 seconds at a time until dissolved.
Add yogurt to a medium bowl. Stir in gelatin, then gently fold in whipped topping. Spoon mixture onto chocolate-muffin crust and spread evenly across crust to form pie topping. Arrange strawberries in a single layer across pie topping. Refrigerate uncovered for 1 hour before slicing and serving. Yields 1 slice per serving.
Notes
For a more decadent treat, combine 2 Weight Watchers Pecan Crowns and 1 tablespoon of fat-free milk in a double-boiler over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until melted. Drizzle dessert sauce over strawberries before refrigerating (could affect POINTS values).
Friday, August 13, 2010
THE ABC's OF GOAL SETTING
THE ABC's
OF GOAL SETTING
It's all about the
P's and F's
- PATIENCE
- PROGRESS, not PERFECTION
- FLEXIBILITY
- FEEDBACK no FAILURE.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Find a non-food bandage
GREAT ARTICLE FROM WW.COM
Find a Non-Food Bandage
Article By: Michelle Fowler
Stop trying to heal a bad situation with food and instead learn some coping tactics.
Would you ever use a cookie to bandage a cut or scrape? Of course not – the idea of trying to heal a physical wound with food is silly! Now ask yourself: Have you ever used food to try to heal an emotional cut or scrape?
The answer is probably yes. Many people try to "heal" an uncomfortable situation or emotion (e.g., stress, sadness, anxiety, boredom) with food. But just like slapping a cookie on a scrape isn't going to heal the wound, eating that cookie isn't going to "heal" boredom, sadness or stress. True, a cookie may initially fill a void, but in the long run, eating a cookie to make yourself happy is just as silly an idea as using chocolate chips as bandages!
Get positive
You may be familiar with Reframing, a powerful resource from Weight Watchers Tools for Living, which can help you to find non-food means of healing emotional wounds. Behind every behavior – even negative ones – there is a positive intention. When you use food as a bandage for an emotional wound, you're seeking out a positive feeling. That feeling might be comfort, relaxation, happiness or entertainment. But whatever it is, you're eating in the hopes of achieving a positive state of mind.
This is where Reframing comes in. Think about the negative feelings that have caused you to use food as a bandage in the past. What positive feelings were you hoping to achieve by eating? Now try to imagine reframing these positive emotions with positive activities, rather than framing them with food.
For example, what could make you feel less stressed, happier, more relaxed? Maybe you could frame these emotions with a call to a friend, a long walk, a good book or a hot bath. How many non-calorie activities can you come up with to help you heal an uncomfortable emotion? Be creative! After all, a cookie lasts as long as it takes to chew it, but a healthy lifestyle lasts a lifetime!
Find a Non-Food Bandage
Article By: Michelle Fowler
Stop trying to heal a bad situation with food and instead learn some coping tactics.
Would you ever use a cookie to bandage a cut or scrape? Of course not – the idea of trying to heal a physical wound with food is silly! Now ask yourself: Have you ever used food to try to heal an emotional cut or scrape?
The answer is probably yes. Many people try to "heal" an uncomfortable situation or emotion (e.g., stress, sadness, anxiety, boredom) with food. But just like slapping a cookie on a scrape isn't going to heal the wound, eating that cookie isn't going to "heal" boredom, sadness or stress. True, a cookie may initially fill a void, but in the long run, eating a cookie to make yourself happy is just as silly an idea as using chocolate chips as bandages!
Get positive
You may be familiar with Reframing, a powerful resource from Weight Watchers Tools for Living, which can help you to find non-food means of healing emotional wounds. Behind every behavior – even negative ones – there is a positive intention. When you use food as a bandage for an emotional wound, you're seeking out a positive feeling. That feeling might be comfort, relaxation, happiness or entertainment. But whatever it is, you're eating in the hopes of achieving a positive state of mind.
This is where Reframing comes in. Think about the negative feelings that have caused you to use food as a bandage in the past. What positive feelings were you hoping to achieve by eating? Now try to imagine reframing these positive emotions with positive activities, rather than framing them with food.
For example, what could make you feel less stressed, happier, more relaxed? Maybe you could frame these emotions with a call to a friend, a long walk, a good book or a hot bath. How many non-calorie activities can you come up with to help you heal an uncomfortable emotion? Be creative! After all, a cookie lasts as long as it takes to chew it, but a healthy lifestyle lasts a lifetime!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
"WHAT YOU EAT IN PRIVATE YOU WEAR IT IN PUBLID"
SO
"PLAN AND PREVENT RATHER THAN REPAIR AND REPENT"
SO
"PLAN AND PREVENT RATHER THAN REPAIR AND REPENT"
Monday, August 2, 2010
6 SECRETS TO HEALTHY SUMMER ENTERTAINING
Back to work I wanted to share this article from ww.com
I do hope you enjoy it.
Hugs. Diana
6 Secrets to Healthy Summer Entertaining
Article By: Laura Kalehoff
Get great, easy tips from a Hollywood party planner.
With swimsuit season in full swing, you won't win any hostess-with-the-mostess awards by stuffing your pals silly with heavy beef patties and franks. We asked David Tutera, star of WeTV's My Fair Wedding and celebrity party planner for Jennifer Lopez, Prince Charles and Elton John, to share his tips for throwing a healthy summer shindig.
With Tutera's advice, your friends will never know you've lightened the menu (unless they happen to get on the scale), and you won't sabotage your own plans to drop a few pounds.
Starters
Why offer the ubiquitous onion dip with limp potato chips (and watch your shady neighbor double-dip), when healthier, more flavorful options abound? Skewer shrimp and pineapple chunks on the grill for low-fat nibbles, or mix grape tomatoes and watermelon balls for a vibrantly colored first-course salad. Alternatively, Tutera suggests rolling newspaper, wax paper or white construction paper into cones to fill with grilled asparagus and green beans, so your friends can mingle as they nosh.
Sip lightly
Party drinks needn't be a choice between decadent piña coladas (mega calories, morning-after bloat) and deprivational diet soda (it's a party, after all). Strike a delicious compromise with white wine sangria brimming with fresh fruit. Or, try Tutera's signature swill: Blend Belvedere vodka, seltzer and a splash of diet lemonade. Garnish with mint.
Main courses
"You don't need to be at the beach to have a clambake," says Tutera, who steams lobster, mussels, clams, shrimp and low-fat turkey sausage along with corn, leeks and onions for a New England summer classic. You could also serve grilled mahi mahi or tuna brushed with honey on a bed of greens with a side of grilled fruit, fruit salsa or mango chutney. It's an entrée with a lot of plate appeal and without the hamburger hangover.
Sweeten the deal
Fruits and fresh berries topped with low-fat crème fraiche or low-fat whipped cream will satisfy your guests' sweet tooth without sending them into sugar shock, says Tutera. For a cool finale, scoop a trio of sorbets into a glass or an oblong dish and top them off with a sprig of mint or basil.
Set the scene
"A lot of people think summer parties are just about being outside," says Tutera, adding that in entertaining, as in life, it's the little things that count. So pick a fabulous tablecloth to set the mood, substitute your paper plates for colorful plastic, load up on candles (but keep smelly citronellas away from the food) and finish with pots of sunflowers or a tray of natural grass.
Get moving
"Music is the heartbeat of any party," says Tutera. Not only is it a salve for the dreaded awkward silence, but the right soundtrack is bound to get your friends burning off their meals faster than your can say merengue. Pop in a crowd-pleasing compilation like Buddha Bar, Aria 1 or 2, Hotel Coast or Pottery Barn's party mixes, and you're good to groove.
I do hope you enjoy it.
Hugs. Diana
6 Secrets to Healthy Summer Entertaining
Article By: Laura Kalehoff
Get great, easy tips from a Hollywood party planner.
With swimsuit season in full swing, you won't win any hostess-with-the-mostess awards by stuffing your pals silly with heavy beef patties and franks. We asked David Tutera, star of WeTV's My Fair Wedding and celebrity party planner for Jennifer Lopez, Prince Charles and Elton John, to share his tips for throwing a healthy summer shindig.
With Tutera's advice, your friends will never know you've lightened the menu (unless they happen to get on the scale), and you won't sabotage your own plans to drop a few pounds.
Starters
Why offer the ubiquitous onion dip with limp potato chips (and watch your shady neighbor double-dip), when healthier, more flavorful options abound? Skewer shrimp and pineapple chunks on the grill for low-fat nibbles, or mix grape tomatoes and watermelon balls for a vibrantly colored first-course salad. Alternatively, Tutera suggests rolling newspaper, wax paper or white construction paper into cones to fill with grilled asparagus and green beans, so your friends can mingle as they nosh.
Sip lightly
Party drinks needn't be a choice between decadent piña coladas (mega calories, morning-after bloat) and deprivational diet soda (it's a party, after all). Strike a delicious compromise with white wine sangria brimming with fresh fruit. Or, try Tutera's signature swill: Blend Belvedere vodka, seltzer and a splash of diet lemonade. Garnish with mint.
Main courses
"You don't need to be at the beach to have a clambake," says Tutera, who steams lobster, mussels, clams, shrimp and low-fat turkey sausage along with corn, leeks and onions for a New England summer classic. You could also serve grilled mahi mahi or tuna brushed with honey on a bed of greens with a side of grilled fruit, fruit salsa or mango chutney. It's an entrée with a lot of plate appeal and without the hamburger hangover.
Sweeten the deal
Fruits and fresh berries topped with low-fat crème fraiche or low-fat whipped cream will satisfy your guests' sweet tooth without sending them into sugar shock, says Tutera. For a cool finale, scoop a trio of sorbets into a glass or an oblong dish and top them off with a sprig of mint or basil.
Set the scene
"A lot of people think summer parties are just about being outside," says Tutera, adding that in entertaining, as in life, it's the little things that count. So pick a fabulous tablecloth to set the mood, substitute your paper plates for colorful plastic, load up on candles (but keep smelly citronellas away from the food) and finish with pots of sunflowers or a tray of natural grass.
Get moving
"Music is the heartbeat of any party," says Tutera. Not only is it a salve for the dreaded awkward silence, but the right soundtrack is bound to get your friends burning off their meals faster than your can say merengue. Pop in a crowd-pleasing compilation like Buddha Bar, Aria 1 or 2, Hotel Coast or Pottery Barn's party mixes, and you're good to groove.
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