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June 23, 2010

Calorie Counting

Posted by Marathon Sweetheart under celebrities, Food, PB2, Run Boston, Swimming, Texas A&M, the glamorous, vegetarian, weightloss
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Today, I swam in a lane for 45 minutes in the outdoor pool at the gym.  This swimming is really a cardiovascular workout for both legs and arms… I don’t see how Dori and Nemo do it! 

For my microbiology lab exam this week, I had to streak a plate with bacteria. 

 

The whole point was to perform a good technique and isolate a culture.  I was breaking a cold sweat a little nervous as my instructor was standing over me, and I kind of butchered and stabbed the growth medium.  She told me today that she would get fired from her job for streaking a plate the way I did! I’m still laughing at myself as I write.

When I was healthy and running, I did not think twice about how much I was eating.  I would eat until I was full and satisfied, but not stuffed.  I lost weight that way.  It just worked for me, since I would burn anywhere from 400-1900 calories per run.  Now, I’m not burning as much calories through swimming, so I decided to take a page out of Kate Hudson’s book and write down what I ate and count my calories.  I wasn’t trying to limit myself today, but instead wanted a clear picture of the amount of energy I’m getting from food.  Here goes!

Breakfast:

  • steel cut oats cooked (150)
  • walnuts (100)
  • frozen blueberries (50)
  • half small banana (25)
  • sprinkle brown sugar (15)
    TOTAL: 340

Lunch:

  • Fruit/bean/seed/veggie salad (200)
  • Dark Chocolate Cocoa Powder mixed with PB2 (60)
  • Greek Yogurt (60)
  • Walnuts (100)
  • Glass of almond milk (60)
  • Banana (90)
    TOTAL: 570

4 PM Slump Snack:

  • Sliced almonds (100)
    TOTAL: 100

Dinner:

  • Tofu with couscous & veggies (300)
  • Greek Yogurt (100)
  • PB2 (45)
  • Shredded coconut (25)
  • Frozen Pineapple (50)
  • Frozen Blueberries (90)
  • Dark Chocolate Cocoa Powder (15)
    TOTAL: 625
    GRAND TOTAL: 1635 calories

Calorie counting can be a great tool, if you use it wisely and do not abuse it.  I really found it relieving to write down what I was eating.  It helped me be more mindful of the energy I was putting into my body, not too much and not too little. 

As a vegetarian, I choose not to get my protein from animal sources.  Salma Hayek doesn’t either, with the exception of BUGS! (I wonder how many calories are in a grasshopper?)


(Credit Here.)

She was on the David Letterman Show recently and talked about the Mexican tradition of eating bugs.  Bug eater or not a bug eater, those nude heels are gorg with that purple dress.  I would love to shop her closet!!  Here’s what she said:

These little ants fried are amazing – with a little guacamole. And the worms… there are many different recipes for those… The little grasshoppers have a smoky flavor to them. It’s the way they cook them, and it’s really good.

Look, I’m salivating! They’re delicious.

In more important news… Bachelor star Jake Pavelka and Vienna Guiardi announced their breakup today.  He was on Dancing With The Stars recently and she always seemed like such a big supporter in the audience.  As a big fan of the Bachelor and Bachelorette, it’s very expected tragic.


(Credit Here.)

Are you a calorie counter?  …. I’m going to study some anatomy and ice my knee.  It’s getting better every day.  Here I come BOSTON MARATHON!!! 

 

June 15, 2010

Take 5: Quick Q&A #3

Posted by Marathon Sweetheart under advice, celebrities, Food, injuries, PB2, Q&A, reviews, running, vegetarian, weightloss, workout gear
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I drove to the gym and biked 7 miles in 30 minutes with increasing resistance… And strength trained my arms and core, then finished with deep stretching and an hour of icing my knee when I got home.  I tried to strength train my legs with lunges and squats, but my knee just wasn’t having it and I wasn’t trying to tick it off even more so.

You’ve been asking lots of great questions, so I will do my best to answer them.  Where can I buy tofu and what is your recipe for tofu?

Tofu can be found at many grocery stores.  I’ve never searched for it in any other city other than College Station, but the HEB grocery store here has it in their produce section with the vegetables.  There will be soft, semi-firm, and hard/firm options to choose from.  Choose the FIRM!!! I like to get organic tofu and it’s only about 30 cents more expensive than the regular kind.

Ingredients:

  • Poblano, green and red bell peppers
  • Carrots
  • Celery
  • Zuchinni
  • Yellow Squash
  • Asparagus
  • Peas
  • Edamame
  • Carrots
  • Couscous or quinoa grains
  • Pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, cumin, tumeric
  •  Balsamic Vinegar
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • Non-stick spray
  • Cauliflower
  • Broccoli
  • Mushrooms
  • Firm/Hard Tofu
  • Mint (optional)
  • Red Pepper Hummus (optional although it’s SO dang good)

Start off by chopping up a serving of the tofu, then thoroughly washing it with cold water.  Dry really well with a paper towel.  (If you don’t dry it, the tofu is meshy and not as firm in the stir-fry.)  Heat up pan on medium-high, spray with non-stick cooking spray and add 2 Tbsp of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.  Add in mint, cumin seasoning, cayenne pepper seasoning, tumeric seasoning, chopped up poblano peppers, red peppers, and green peppers.  Cook for 5 mins, allowing tofu to soak up the flavor of the peppers and seasonings. 

(It looks like the Mexican flag and ya know I was practically born in Mexico!)

Add in vegetables of your choice.  Here, I like carrots, edamame, corn, celery, mushrooms, asparagus, squash, and zuchinni.  Add in 1 Tbsp of Balsamic Vinegar and sprinkle salt, pepper, and additional seasonings to taste.  This gives it an AMAZING flavor.  Stir-fry for 5-10 minutes or until veggies are tender. 

Serve with quinoa or couscous, steamed broccoli, baked cauliflower, and hummus for dipping. 

What do you eat with the PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter?

You can eat it any way you like regular peanut butter served.  Apples, grapefruit, strawberries, bananas, bread, crackers, pears, carrots, celery, cereal, yogurt, or simply by itself.  One new thing I love to do is mix 1 Tbsp of PB2 with 1 Tbsp of unsweetened cocoa powder.  It makes a fancy, lite, whipped chocolate mousse and I eat that with Greek Yogurt on the side.  Can you say delish?

What type of sports bras do you wear?

If you are blessed in the boobie area, do not, I repeat… DO NOT buy Nike sports bras.  They do not provide great support, although they are so cute!  I wear 

 

Champion Double Dry® Compression Vented Sports Bra

that I buy at Lady Foot Locker, which run a little less than $30 a piece.  Although, the other day I went into TJ Maxx and found the exact same sports bras for less than $10.  Try them on in the dressing rooms, run in place, and see how they feel.  Your boobs will love you if you keep them in good holding with a nice fitting sports bra.

How do you get to the point where you run mile after mile?

Can I say that although some days are better on the road than others, no run is easy.  It takes effort to put on your shoes and get out there and stay out there.  I started taking running seriously about a year and a half ago.  I ran about 7 minutes on a treadmill for the first time.  Then I gradually added a few minutes over a period of weeks.  Eventually I was running 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 55 minutes, 60 minutes, and 2 and a half hours without stopping.  You just have to be patient, stretch a lot, and be diligent with 3 runs a week.  In this post, I included a Couch-to-5K training plan if that’s where you are at the moment.  Explore your limits and get to know yourself. You’ll never feel more real than after the hardest workout, the longest run, the toughest week, or the best race of your life. Constantly make your own standards tougher.

What are some of your top weight loss tips?

  • Diet first and foremost.  Spend an hour or two every Sunday preparing portioned out meals (breakfast/lunch/dinner) for the week. 

 (Below, I cut up a small watermelon, canteloupe, 2 peaches, 2 pears, 2 apples.)

  • Cardio exercise 30 minutes 5 times a week, even if it is light exercise such as walking to and from class or work. 
  • Strength train 3 times a week for 15 minutes each day.
  • Do abdominal exercises 3 times a week for 5 minutes each day.  People often focus heavily on their core, but you can’t see the core unless you get rid of the subcutaneous and visceral fat.   So put more energy towards cardio and a healthy diet.

 

I sincerely thank you for all of the great questions and for taking an interest in what I have to say.  Now, I will go to bed and dream of having Fergie-licious abs one day.

XOXO

 

June 11, 2010

Fridays are fabulous.

Posted by Marathon Sweetheart under body image, celebrities, Food, health, PB2, the glamorous, vegetarian
1 Comment 

Today, my eccentric microbiology professor cancelled class.  I slept in until 9:45 AM!  I wish I could sing to the world how fabulously happy that made me.  An active girl needs her sleep, ya know?

With all of this free time of no labs or classes, I ordered a new box of PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter this morning.  I know, I’m pretty much in lust with this good stuff.  I’ve finished almost 2 jars of it, but really because I’ve been sharing it with everyone I know.  Most people are scared to try it, but when they do the usual reaction is “It really does taste like peanut butter.”  Mmm mmm delish! 

Anywho, the company that I order it from Bell Plantation took more than a month to send me the last order.  So they sent me this nice little gift when my box got delivered last time:

(A 25% off coupon code for my next order of PB2 products!!!)

… And this time my order was only $20 with shipping and handling!  I love sweet bargains. 

Jennifer Love Hewitt is another one of my favorite Hollywood actresses.  She’s so funny and cute!  I thought J. Lo’s dress from yesterday was lovely chic, but here’s Jennifer Love at the premiere of Sex And The City 2.  I love that neckline, so flattering!

(Credit Here.) 

She said on the Rachael Ray Show that her friends call her Love.  And about her workouts:

I do the elliptical every day for at least 45 minutes. I don’t enjoy it, but I do it. I love doing the spin bike. It’s a great way to burn 500 calories or something every time you do it, which is amazing. 

I watch America’s Next Top Model and go, ‘Okay, I know if I stay on this an extra 15 minutes, I will look like that girl!’” she tells Us. “I don’t however, when I get off, but it inspires me.

I have had times where I’m inspired by people on tv too!  But I never felt that way watching America’s Next Top Model.  I know that is absolutely not my body type to be very thin.  I embrace my curves and want the healthiest weight and feel for them.  I’m more inspired by gals like Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, Jessica Simpson, Katy Perry, and Jennifer Love herself.

I have great weekend plans which consist of intense studying until my brains go to war with me for working them too hard!  Also, I’m working on a killer workout playlist this weekend.  Check back tomorrow evening if you please. 

Happy Fabulous Friday xoxo

 

May 26, 2010

Product Review: PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter

Posted by Marathon Sweetheart under Food, PB2, Photos, reviews, vegetarian, weightloss
1 Comment 

I received my PB2 in the mail today! 

Here’s the thing, I was borderline obsessed with nut butters for the past few months.  Cashew butter from Whole Foods Market is the best and I recommend it as a delicious nutritious snack.

(I would literally load up on the cashew butter in Houston, because we don’t have a Whole Foods Market here in College Station.   I’m pathetic when it comes to this stuff.)

Unfortunately, I’m down to my last few pounds and cashew butter just doesn’t fit in my calorie count anymore, not that I count calories at all.  I had to find an alternative and I’m so glad I found one!!!

How did it taste?  Yum yum!  Here’s how it works:  Mix 2 Tbsp of the PB2 powder with 1 Tbsp of water.  Serve with apple slices for a less than 100 calories 3PM slump snack!

Here’s the skinny on PB2: 45 calories, 1.5 grams of fat, 2 grams of fiber, 1 gram of sugar, 5 grams of protein.  You can order it here at Bell Plantation.  A single case comes with four jars of the good stuff, and cost $24 (including shipping and handling).  I do have to say that I ordered this over a month ago, so expect to wait.  But it is definitely worth the wait! Mmm mmm good!

 

May 21, 2010

Getting my feet wet in the cross training pool.

Posted by Marathon Sweetheart under Before & After, body image, celebrities, PB2, running, Training, weightloss
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I think Bell Plantation has been reading my blog lately.  Yesterday (the day after I complained about their bad business), I received an email after MORE THAN ONE MONTH of ordering their PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter.  They have finally shipped the order to me and it will be here next week!   

With Active Saturday looming around the corner, I’m thinking about cross training today instead of running.  I was reading USA elite runner Meb Keflezighi‘s twitter.  He’s my running crush!  These are some of his day by day workouts:

50min on the bike.

36min run w/ Will Tarintino. Thanks to my new Nike Storm-Fit’ jacket for keeping me dry during the snow/ rain.

100min on the stationary bike while babysitting. Now adding up my mileage since high school. Wow, I have covered a lot of ground.

70min on the stationary bike.

I’ve heard cross training really helps strengthen the muscles I wouldn’t normally use as a runner.  It’s also a great way to stay fit on my “off” days, the days when I’d rather sit on the couch and do nothing I’m not running.  I’m a little nervous to try it though!

Someone who has no problem with succeeding at workouts is Jennifer Hudson!  Have you seen her lately?  She’s on the latest cover of PEOPLE magazine.


(Photo credit here.)
How did she do it?  Well, she’s the new spokesmodel for Weight Watchers.   She credits the program to her weightloss.  She also says this:

I don’t believe in short-cuts or drugs. If I can’t lose weight naturally, then no need for me to try at all.  I’ve done a lot of diets in the past.  I was restricting myself.  No off-limits indulgences as long as they are portion-controlled. 

Confidence is everything. I just don’t let people impose their insecurities on me.  This is the way I want to be and the way I want to stay!

She also does a 25 minute-a-day circuit workout with her trainer 5 days a week.  I think Jennifer looks incredible!  Size 6? Way to go girl.  She’s definitely a good role model for regular women.  The journey of a healthy woman is all about being at a place where you feel best with your body and your overall health.

Here’s Jennifer’s Weight Watchers ad:

   

 

Are you a fan of cross-training or Weight Watchers?

 

May 19, 2010

Take 5: Quick Q & A #2

Posted by Marathon Sweetheart under advice, celebrities, family, Food, friends, PB2, Q&A, weightloss
[2] Comments 

Today, I’m doing my second Q&A post featuring questions from readers and friends.  Unless you say it’s okay to put your name, I assume you wish to remain anonymous.

What’s the update on my nut butter obsession?

Over a month ago, I told you in this post about my love of nut butters.  I’ve now been clean for 26 days and have lost weight because of it!  At the time, I was searching for an alternative to the almond and cashew butters which have about 200 calories per 2 Tbsp.  On the Rachael Ray Show, Rachel had a segment of alternatives to high calorie snacks.  There was a young woman who was in college and ate spoonfuls of peanut butter during final exams (it wasn’t me, I swear!).  Rach told her about PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter.  I immediately got online and ordered a case.  Now a month later, I still haven’t received my order and they haven’t shipped it either.  The website claims that they are backed up on orders.  I really don’t even want the stinkin PB2 anymore! 

Alright now that I have unintentionally bashed a company today, I’ll digress to the next question. To eat organic or not to eat organic?

Many people think eating healthy has to be expensive.  To be honest, you may spend a few extra dollars more each week at the grocery store, but in the long run, you will save thousands of dollars.  Think long term health vs. short term dollar menu savings.  The Environmental Working Group just released a study which details the amount of pesticides in organic vs. non organic foods. 

 The Dirty Dozen are the worst 12 fruits and veggies containing chemicals and pesticides.  You should buy these organic: celery, peaches, strawberries, apples, blueberries, nectarines, bell peppers, spinach, kale, cherries, potatoes, grapes.  I currently buy everything organic on this list but frozen strawberries and blueberries.  The organic brand has a butt load of added sugar, and I’m already eating organic everything else!

The Clean 15 are the foods which are extremely low in pesticides and you can save a little money by not buying organic: onions, avocado, sweet corn, pineapple, mango, peas, asparagus, kiwi, cabbage, eggplant, cantaloupe, watermelon, grapefruit, sweet potatoe, honeydew melon. 

What do I eat for snacks and what is a good substitute for bread?

I will have greek yogurt, a piece of fruit (banana or tangerine usually), or a handful of nuts.  If you are ever tempted to snack on the wrong things, don’t keep them in your house.  At your job, place some fresh fruit or a bag of nuts on your desk to remind you a healthy choice is within reach.  I thought I was the only one who loved bread! Haha.  The great thing about bread is that not all kinds are bad.  100% Whole grain bread is great, just look on the ingredients list on the back and make sure it is not made with high fructose corn syrup and/or enriched wheat flour.   Light, air popped popcorn is a great substitute for bread though.  They come in 100 calorie packs, so you’re not tempted to have a big bag.   Right now I’m experimenting with broiling and baking lower calorie grains.  I will have some recipes and pictures soon!

I get this question probably more than any: Who takes all those pictures of you on your blog?

Mostly, I have paparazzi following me around all the time like Britney Spears.

But I swear, I don’t hit their cars with an umbrella after shaving my head!

Other times, friends/family are with me and enjoy showing off their photography skills.  Also, I have a timer on my camera.  I set it and it takes the picture automatically. 

How can I tone up my legs?

I will forever attribute running as a great way to tone up legs, butt, and your core.  However, to amp up the toning quality of the run, run up and down a hill or find a set of stairs/bleachers and run those every other day.  This will not only tone the muscle, but it will burn fat as well.  Also, my friend and trainer Sarah has great YouTube exercise videos.  Here’s one of her exercise videos that I now use in my strength training routine.  It really works your inner thighs and butt:

(Thanks Sarah!)

 

Thanks for all the questions.  If you have one I haven’t yet covered, feel free to contact me and I will try my best to answer it.  XOXO

 

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