A Glimpse of Glam

Hey everyone!

I’ve mentioned this many times before, but I love food. Food is literally life. What makes this relationship between me and food imperfect is my food intolerances. Dairy and gluten. This can be a hassle at times when eating on the go. While it is easy to find things that are gluten and dairy free, they may not be the best choice in terms of price or food option. Sure you can bring an apple or banana with you, but fruit can get bruised easily. Plus, you need protein to really keep full. Protein bars are a good option for most, but aren’t always made with good ingredients. Do you really want to eat something that is chock full of chemicals and artificial ingredients you don’t even know of?

I have been trying to fit in more workouts into my daily life, as the summer is quickly approaching us. I definitely slacked off a bit on my workouts during this past winter because of school, work, and an overall busy schedule. While I haven’t neglected my diet, I do want to get back into better shape.

One thing I like to do to maintain a healthy diet easily is to meal prep. It’s the easiest, most convenient thing that saves you so much time. People say it over and over again, and you probably have read or heard about this tip many times before. But, if you aren’t doing it already, clearly you haven’t heard it enough times yet.

One of my favorite breakfasts to make when I got a more relaxed schedule. Poached eggs with mashed avocado on toast. So filling and delicious! It's super easy to make too. I am still learning how to cook (as I really know more about baking), and this isn't too difficult to put together. Yet still tastes AMAZING

I personally like to wake up with enough time in the mornings to eat breakfast before heading off to wherever I have to go, whether that be school or work. One, it saves money to eat at home instead of heading out with a growling stomach. Two, you can guarantee you are eating something that will be good for you, rather than some random breakfast sandwich you bought at a fast-food place. Three, it feels so damn good to start your morning this way because then you feel more accomplished. It’s definitely a great way to make you feel like you started your morning on the right foot. (Or the left if you are left dominant. Dumb joke? My apologies)

I love these single serving size packets of Justin's nut butters because they make it way easier to add into oatmeal or as a dip with apples or something. The chocolate one is my favorite!

Every Sunday, I find the time to cook a huge batch of oatmeal that would last me throughout the entire week. I generally like to have oatmeal for breakfasts on weekdays because it is really comforting and filling. It’s so easy to jazz up with fruit, nuts, nut butters, seeds, whatever you so please. I like to top mine with sliced bananas, mixed berries, walnuts, and a splash of almond milk. When I’m feeling fancy I use chocolate almond milk because it adds a touch of sweetness and flavor without being overly so.

I generally cook my oatmeal with water, then add in a dash of almond milk when I heat it up again to make creamier. I find that overnight oats is not my thing because I like my oats when cooked. The texture is way better. Plus, it really absorbs the liquids way better, which means they can actually fill you up without you having to eat a huge portion. Adding in chia seeds is another way to really make oatmeal filling, and fiber and omega-3 fatty acid rich, which all helps you overall. As I’ve mentioned in the past, soaking chia seeds beforehand to allow it to absorb the liquids help to make them ten times more filling with a better texture than just eating them sprinkled on top.

As mentioned previously, I have been trying to workout more often in order to get back in shape. I used to workout every other day, with the days between spent doing stretches and core strengthening. Due to my busy schedule these last several months (as you all probably are aware of because of my decreased frequency of posts), I have only managed to squeeze in one workout a week or at most two. I like to workout in the afternoons because it helps wake me up a bit more to continue on at night doing homework or studying or working on projects or all of the above. Some people like to workout in the mornings, but for me I need that energy boost more in the afternoon. Or else I probably will collapse on the couch and nap instead.

Working out can definitely leave you incredibly energetic, glowing, and high… and also HUNGRY AF. After chugging water like I just crawled through the Sahara Desert, I like to think about what foods I want to eat. It’s not just important to have a good post-workout meal, but to also keep in mind to fuel your body with good foods as a pre-workout meal too. All of that taken into consideration along with wanting to fill your body up with nutritious, organic, whole foods can be a lot to remember.

Veggies is always a great option for snacks. Plus the complementary colors are so gorgeous.

Trail mix is something I always like to have on hand to snack on when I need to. But I try to have something with it as well because they are good for a quick pick-me-up but don't necessarily last long.

Prior to workouts, I like to eat a light snack to make sure I actually have energy. I like to have a cup of coffee and some kind of fruit to get me going. The coffee gives me a kick of caffeine, which I definitely need because I also workout in the afternoons as that’s the only time I got free. Fruit has the carbs needed to give me a boost of energy as well. I like to add in some protein too because just straight up carbs would not keep me full for long!

Lately been OBSESSED with poke bowls! They are like a deconstructed sushi Hawaiian style. Sooo good and soooo filling. I love raw fish, aside from the whole potential parasite fear.

After I workout, it’s usually around dinner time by then. My pre and post workout meals are not that exciting. They just help to get the job done. Dinner can vary from night to night, but they always are centered around a type of protein, veggies, and a side of rice or other carbs. I try to keep my carb intake lighter at night, and to up my intake of veggies and proteins. Carbs are generally best eaten earlier in the day, hence why I focus more on proteins and veggies. Protein helps to build muscle, which I’m sure you guys already know. Muscle equals protein.

When people say things like “Oh I’m so full”, and all they have eaten was like a handful of trail mix, I want to punch them. It’s such an obvious lie! I mean, sure trail mix can be filling, but not THAT filling! You gotta pair it with something! I’m more of someone who needs food that adds volume to bulks things up. Something like a huge pile of carrots and hummus is better than a small little packet of trail mix. Don’t get me wrong, I love me some trail mix. That’s one of my go-tos that I always got in my purse or backpack for emergencies. But, I need foods that actually take up space in my stomach to fill me up. Foods of real substance. Which is why, unlike most people’s post-workout meals, I don’t reach for a protein shake. I don’t like to drink my calories because they never really do much for me. I like to chew and eat real food. Like a baby who is teething, I gotta have something to gnaw on. Okay maybe not that extreme.

One thing that has caught my attention as of late are GoMacro protein bars. They are gluten free, organic, and vegan. It’s hard to find foods like that these days. Foods that are fair trade, organic, and good for you. For people who have dietary issues like me, gluten and dairy if you got short-term memory loss and forgot what it was in the span of reading this post, these bars would be a great choice for you. Not a lot of companies actually have gluten-free, vegan, and organic protein bars. They usually have some sort of dairy or gluten product in them that makes them not a great match for those who avoid ingredients as such. Protein bars, such as the GoMacro ones, are such a convenient option to throw in your bag before you head out the door. They work as an easy snack to have before your hangry self strikes. Plus, they won’t throw you off track in attaining your beach bod.

I generally like to eat three real meals a day, with a couple snacks when needed. As my mornings start pretty early and my days end quite late, eating every 3-4 hours helps me function and keeps me going. I’m one of those people who likes to eat at specific routine times every day. Having that kind of routine down helps me to remember to eat, and not go past the point of hunger where you just become hangry and want to eat everything in site without considering what you are actually eating.

I've recently been getting into drinking kombucha. I'm still trying out different brands, but I really like the light, fizzy flavor of these fermented teas.

Comment down below if you like drinking kombucha! It's so tasty, and a great way to get in some probiotics.

This summer one of my goals is to try to go on a sugar detox for a month. I read about that before, how the effects left people feeling way more energized and more aware of the ingredients in their foods. Obviously I won’t be cutting out natural sugars like apples and oranges, but added sugars even honey would be cut. I am really curious how that would help me. Not just to get in shape, but to feel better in general. I have a MAJOR sweet tooth, so let’s see how this will go. Have you ever tried going on a sugar detox? 

I cannot wait for summer! The weather has warmed up considerably, and I’ve already gotten to wear shorts and sandals several times these past couple weeks. I love when the sun is shining, and the skies above are blue. Granted, I will still be taking summer quarter classes, there is still a completely different feel in the air when it is summer.

Thanks for reading! I hope you all enjoyed my recount of how I eat. It almost ended up being more like a What I Eat in A Day post, except less specific. Lemme know in the comments below some of your tricks to getting in shape for the summer, and to eat healthier! What is your go-to healthy food hack?

I hope you all have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!


Til next time,
~A

Hey everyone!

Chia Seeds

Goji Berries

Apples

Tea

Walnuts

A handy little chart from Nuts.com about common superfoods

As always, thank you all for stopping by! I wish you all a wonderful weekend!!


Til next time,

Hey everyone!

How's that arugula and quinoa salad looking to you? I'm still working on my photography skills, so I hope I did it justice.

I don't know about you, but one thing for sure that applies to me is that I LOVE food. I love trying out new tasty treats, and putting recipes to test. Whenever I find the time to, I enjoy taking a recipe and making it my own. Food is life! Literally...

Which is why one of the classes I am taking this quarter is like a dream come true. Too bad it's only one class for one quarter. I forgot if I have mentioned in a previous post, but I am taking a culinary nutritional sciences class. All of that is just a fancy name for a class where we get to learn about the science behind foods. We get to cook food as our homework. Can it get better than that? I'm not even at a culinary school either, which is why when I found out this class was offered I had to snatch up on that opportunity as soon as I could.

Recently one of my assignments was to create a vinaigrette, all from scratch! Like you can't take the lazy route and go to the store, buy a bottle of Paul Newman's, and call it a day. We were learning about the properties of emulsion, and how that works. A vinaigrette is the perfect way to show this. I chose to create a honey balsamic vinaigrette because I love the taste of honey. It's the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.

So I'm basically sharing TWO recipes today. One is the vinaigrette, and the other is a recipe idea to go with it. You could just eat the vinaigrette straight up with a spoon, but I wouldn't recommend that. I mean, it is edible. And you won't die. But it's pretty strong. The choice is yours. I'm not your mother.

Also, just want to let you know that you will need a blender or food processor to make this. Maybe a hand mixer works too? It helps to have this to blend the ingredients together into one homogenous product.



Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (NOT the vinaigrette, but the pure balsamic vinegar. I used one that has a light blueberry flavor, but plain works)
3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 heaping tablespoon dijon mustard
2-3 tablespoons raw honey (depending on how sweet you like it)
pinch of sea salt
dash of nutmeg
dash of cinnamon

Put the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and mustard into a blender or food processor. Blend together.
Add in the honey and blend again until the mixture is completely smooth and mixed through.
Add the salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon and blend only to combine evenly.

Makes roughly 2 oz


Arugula and Quinoa Salad with Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette

1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa**
4 cups arugula
1/2 of a long english cucumber
6 mini sweet bell peppers
1 medium carrot
2 medium tomatoes
6 oz honey balsamic vinaigrette (or more if you like)
light sprinkle of hemp seeds

Dice the cucumber and bell peppers into small chunks
Thinly slice the carrot into small 1 inch pieces
Thinly slice the tomatoes. Set aside several pieces for garnish.
Combine all ingredients, except for the slices of tomato for garnish, into a bowl and toss to combine. (I found that adding half of the dressing at first, then slowly adding more and more helped evenly mix it through. Otherwise, the quinoa really soaks up the dressing.)
Top it off with the leftover slices of tomato and serve.

Makes 6 servings


**To cook quinoa it is a 1 to 2 ratio for the dry uncooked quinoa and liquid of choice. Add the quinoa and liquid into a large pot. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once it is boiling and bubbling, cover pot with a lid and reduce heat to a low simmer for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove from heat and let sit to cool for an additional 5-7 minutes with the lid still on. Fluff up and separate the individual grains with a fork and serve. (I chose to cook the quinoa for the salad here with 1 cup chicken broth and 1 cup water for a hint of a savory chicken flavor to pair with the salad )


Give this a try next time you're feeling like eating a salad, and lemme know what you think! I'm trying to get healthier for the summer. And I'm hoping you guys wanna join me in this. Gotta rid of those cold-weather habits sooner rather than later.

What is your favorite type of salad dressing? Have you cooked quinoa before?

Thank you for reading, and I hope you guys are all having a lovely week!


Til next time,
~A

Hey everyone!

Indulging, partying, and relaxing on our normal routines take a toll on our bodies. It takes time to get back into our everyday routine, and back to the happy "normal" we were at. It doesn't help that it's also flu season. To go with the "Let's Get Healthy" mood we are all still feeling this January, we shouldn't forget about detoxing our bodies. Detoxing is hugely important to rid our bodies of toxins and other garbage, which will help us with our healthy living routine.

One super easy and affordable way to detoxify your body WITHOUT having to get off your lazy derriere and exercise is to drink this delicious concoction of hot water and lemon. All you gotta do is pour hot water over a slice of lemon, or use freshly squeezed lemon juice. Though, having the peel still on will add more health benefits. Just remember to wash the peel first, in case of pesticides or other junk you don't want to consume. Yes, exercising is one of the ultimate way to purge your body of toxins because you sweat out all the nasties that have been camping inside. But, what you consume can play a major role in getting your body all happy and healthy as well.

Something I do each and every morning, almost religiously, is to drink a big huge mug of hot water with lemon. Well, it's more on the warm-hot side than actual hot. It's best to drink it in warm water rather than hot or cold because you can absorb all the nutrients from the lemon better. Lemon has such great health benefits for your body.

Lemon is a great source of Vitamin C which is an antioxidant that can help with aging, wrinkles, and skin issues because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin C also helps with your immune system, so it can help you ward off colds. Lemon also has this type of fiber in it called pectin that can help with your digestive system, and help you feel fuller longer. The combination of warm water and lemon can help clean out your system... if you know what I mean. Some people believe that starting your day off with cold water is best because it shocks your system and gets it moving. But, based on personal experience, I find that starting off with warm water is best because it helps gently wake up my body, and doesn't upset my stomach. I have a sensitive stomach, and I find this drink to be very soothing. There are many other benefits lemons have to offer, but I don't want this post to turn into some kind of science lecture.

Another added benefit is that drinking this every morning ensures that you are hydrating your body right away. Your body is dehydrated from the many hours (hopefully) of sleep you had, so you need this liquid to rehydrate your body. Plus, drinking water on an empty stomach like that can help you eat less. Sometimes your body confuses hunger with thirst.

I've also heard that lemon water can help with energy, and eventually become a substitute for coffee and caffeine. This is true for me! I've noticed a difference after a year and a half of continuous consumption of lemon water each morning. I've been able to stop my morning coffee habit. I do still drink it, but it's more for enjoyment than for necessity. I hate having to drink/eat things out of necessity. That just takes the joy out of things.

ONE LAST THING! Lemons are acidic and can erode your teeth! But I asked my dental hygienist and she told me that if you drink pure water afterwards then you are okay. Don't go sipping lemon water the entire day because your teeth will weaken, eroding the enamel way faster. You will be using dentures before you even retire! And don't go brushing your teeth too soon either. Toothpaste and stuff can hurt your teeth. Just remember to drink it and drink some water afterwards. If you have a morning coffee, drink water after that too because coffee can stain teeth too. Just wanted to pass along a helpful tip!

Give it a try and lemme know what you think! I would love to hear your thoughts! What do you like to drink in the mornings?

Thanks for stopping by! I wish you all a lovely day!


Til next time,
~A

Chai tea misto with a drizzle of caramel sauce

I have a dirty little secret that I would like to share with you all. I am obsessed with cinnamon. Cinnamon is amazing on anything sweet; just like vanilla extract, it helps bring out a wonderful taste in many sweet foods and beverages.

Hey everyone!

Today I am sharing with you a favorite go-to breakfast. Or snack. Or whatever your heart desires. Really, it's just some food on a plate that you consume to fill your belly. But, it's healthy and delicious. And super easy to prepare because it requires no cooking skills at all. I mean, if you can take food out of a container and slap it on a plate, I think you will rock this.

It is basically fruit and cheese, so it is super good for you and yummy.

Trader Joe's Low Fat Cottage Cheese

Nutrition Label

Nativas Natural Goji Berries

Manitoba Harvest Hemp Hearts

Delicious, chicken veggie scramble

Hey everyone!

My lunch de jour was very delicious. I made a chicken veggie scramble. It was super easy to cook up, and tasted amazing. For all you out there who claim to not be good chefs, trust me when I tell you that this was easy to whip up.

This honey mustard is SO good!

This salsa is wayyy too salty with carrots or cucumbers or chips. But on this scramble it was really good!

Hey everyone!
There are always those days where you get super busy and stressed out. During those times, you tend to crave comfort foods like junk food or sweets. I know that for me, when I am all stressed and cramming for a test, I tend to reach for that chocolate bar that's sitting there begging to be eaten. But, before you reach for those empty caloric foods, try making your own froyo!

My container of frozen Activia Light yogurt

It is super easy to make. It only requires two steps: purchase your favorite yogurt and put it in the fridge for a couple hours. Voila! It is done! Afterwards, thaw it for several minutes and you can eat this delicious frozen treat.

This helps satisfy your cravings for sweets, such as ice cream. But, it is yogurt so it is a better substitute. Although this will not create an exact replica to the frozen yogurt that you can get at your local grocery store (as in it is not as creamy, so the consistency is different), it is still a great treat you should try!

I find that when I eat normal yogurt, I can go through the container pretty quick. It is so easy to eat, you know? But by freezing it, it takes more time and effort to consume. It also gives you the feeling of satiety way faster. So you can feel full quicker, and you aren't even eating more calories. That's a pretty good deal!

Give it a try! Let me know how it turns out for you! And what types of yogurt do you like best?


Til next time,
~A

Lightly salted edamame I had for dinner