Saturday, January 2, 2016

Healthy New Year!

New year resolutions are on everyone's mind, and changes to our health are usually the goal. Weight-loss, eating healthier, and increasing exercise are all typical resolutions. 
Though all of those are great goals, wonderful even, many have a very hard time keeping and maintaining these goals. Perhaps time and life in general gets in the way, but more than likely the goal is too big to achieve to in a short amount of time. Change takes time, motivation, and dedication!
Here are some tips to stay on track for eating healthier and keeping goals for 2016!
• Keep goals SMART
Specific - ex: Cut out sugary drinks
Measurable - ex: one sugary drink/week
Achievable - Not cutting out every indulgence!
Reasonable- you're not an Olympic athlete, more than likely
Time-wise - ex: For the next month...
• Avoid "buzz words" when choosing healthier foods. Examples: Fat-free, sugar-free, diet, all-natural. Most processed foods will compensate for fat or sugar being removed by adding more of the other. It's better to eat fresh and control what goes into the dish!
• HAVE FUN. Experiment with new recipes, try a new fitness class, have a buddy!

Here are 3 recipes to help you stay on track that are healthy AND delicious (as seen on WBIR Channel 10).

Eggplant Parmesan Breaded with QRUNCH
1 package Spicy Italian QRUNCH burgers, toasted to perfection
1-2 eggs
1 eggplant
1 cup gluten-free flour
Parmesan Reggiano (optional for topping)

Toast or prepare 1 package of Spicy Italian QRUNCH burgers in the toaster. When cooled, place the burgers in a food processor until it has a coarse consistency. Slice the eggplant and prepare an egg wash in a separate bowl. Dip the sliced eggplant in the gluten-free flour, then dredge in the egg wash. Note: For a true vegetarian/vegan option, you can use your favorite almond milk or coconut milk. Cover with QRUNCH crumbles and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with marinara sauce.

Banana and Almond Butter Toast

1 tablespoon almond butter
1 banana, sliced
1 slice wheat bread, toasted

Spread almond butter on toast and add bananas.

White Bean and Herb Hummus

¼ cup canned white beans, rinsed and drained
1 tablespoon chopped chives
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons olive oil

Combine ingredients in a bowl and mash with a fork until smooth. Serve with raw vegetables or rice crackers.

Enjoy!
-Ashley

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