Thursday, April 30, 2009

The Healthy Approach to Help Fight Type 2 Diabetes

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes, you may help manage or prevent it with the revolutionary new lifestyle program, Kathy Smith's Project:YOU! Type 2™.

Developed in conjunction with doctors, certified diabetes educators, and the American Diabetes Association, Project: YOU! Type 2 is the first ALL-IN-ONE solution to help manage diabetes, reduce your risk for diabetes complications, and get you back in control of your life! You get all this . . .


Now for the first time, the American Diabetes Association has joined with Beachbody® and Kathy Smith to help fight this devastating disease.

Good2Move! 12-Week Fitness Program for All Levels

12-Week Workout Guide - An incredible guide to help you get started and get moving. Kathy shows you exactly how to get the most out of your workouts!

Workout Wallet with DVDs and CD

8 workouts and 2 audio walking programs help you progress through Kathy's most effective fat-burning, strength-training, and core/flexibility workouts ever.

Workout Calendar

12-week calendar shows you exactly which workouts to do each day, when to rest, plus a daily checklist to keep you on track.

Good2Eat! Meal Guides Reviewed by the American Diabetes Association

Cookbook

Mouthwatering recipes created around our unique COMBO system that counts carbs for you, plus guidelines on eating out and recipes for entertaining!


Mix-and-Match Meal Cards

Color-coded cards with delicious meals and simple snacks. Mix and match to create exciting meals.

Good2Go! Support Tools

Program Guide and 12-Week Food & Fitness Journal

All the fitness, healthy eating, and journaling components you need in one convenient guide. Plus a 90-day journal to track your food, exercise, blood glucose readings, and weight.

Beachbody Coach and Online Support

Access your own personal Coach, special tips from Kathy, and an online community of people helping one another succeed.

Fitness Magazine picked Kathy Smith's Project:YOU! as one of the 10 best fitness programs for beginners. Now Beachbody, with the support of the American Diabetes Association, has combined those same workouts with a complete diet and lifestyle plan to help deal with or prevent type 2 diabetes.


Order your copy today at http://www.missourifitclub.com/ !!

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Tony Hortons thoughts on Food


This was posted on Tony Horton's blogspot. I love how Tony doesn't mince words. He tells it like it is! I had the good fortune to meet Tony on two occasions now. He is a very nice person and so approachable. He is just a crazy in person and he is on the workout videos!!

Food. It's that thing that's killing you, slowly.

Fitness won't solve your problems. Getting free of your food addictions will. When it came to healthy living, exercise for regular people is relatively new. The average Joe and Joanne didn't really start exercising until the 50s and 60s. Guys like Joe Weider and Jack LaLaine started the revolution after WWII and it's been growing (too slowly) ever since. As the obesity trends began to rise in the 70s, jogging and nautilus became more popular. During this time various companies were selling goofy ways to lose weight. For some reason we quickly forgot that eating whole foods was the key to maintaining our weight. As food became more processed over the the past few decades we used other processed foods to help us lose weight. It was (and still is) a vicious cycle of addiction. The gain, lose, gain epidemic continues. I read a funny blurb the other day which clearly and plainly stated that if you avoided food with mascots you'll lose weight. Goodbye Count Chocula! Our grandparents didn't have gym memberships, spinning classes and fitness DVDs. They ate healthy whole foods and spent four times more time outside than we do. If your grandparents were obese it was a novelty for sure. Our behavior and habits put food-porn companies in business and we also have the power to destroy them by not eating their poison.

You control what goes in your mouth, no one else. Find ways to make healthy whole food taste good and eat it. Period!

With Love and compassion,

Tony Horton

I think I'll take his advice and not eat any food that has a mascot!! Loved that line!!

If you are interested in any of Tony Horton's workouts such as Power 90, P90X, Ten Minute Trainer or One on One with Tony Horton then go to my website for more info. www.missourifitclub.com. You can purchase them there and I will coach you to the best shape of your life! Think it can't happen? It can and it will! These programs will get you there! Remember, there is no fee for my services. Sign up today!!

One thing that I do miss after changing my diet is spinach dip. I got this recipe today from Veg News. It sounds yummy. May not be exactly like what I used to eat, but I'm okay with that.

Serves 6 to 8

What You Need:
8 ounces fresh spinach, washed
1 10-ounce package frozen artichoke hearts, cooked and well drained
1 4-ounce can diced mild green chiles, drained
2 tablespoons scallions, minced
1 cup firm tofu, well drained and crumbled
3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
1⁄8 teaspoon black pepper



What You Do:
1. Over a medium pot of boiling water, steam spinach until wilted, about 2 minutes. Set aside to cool. Once cool, squeeze out any excess moisture and set aside.

2. In afood processor, roughly chop artichoke hearts. Add chiles, scallions, tofu, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and reserved spinach. Process until well blended.

3. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Eat clean and push play today!

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Shaun T's Insanity

I can't wait for this workout to come out! I got to try it out at the coach's summit and the whole time I was lovin' it. Shaun T was going through the crowd and having people raise their knees higher and work harder. I was praying that he wouldn't come up to me, I don't think I could get my knees any higher!!! Check out this video!!!

Eating Fruit



I got this email today and wanted to share it here. When I changed my diet because of my health problems, I read Marilu Henner's Total Health Makeover. She talked about food combining in the book and it really does work. This email about eating fruit is part of food combining. It will help with digestive problems, no more bloating or stomach pains after eating! It's not as hard as you think. If you are interested in learning more pick up a copy of Total Health Makeover or let me know and I'll post about food combining in more detail.

EATING FRUITS .......
It's long but very informative

We all think eating fruits means just buying fruits, cutting it and just popping it into our mouths. It's not as easy as you think. It's important to know how and when to eat.

What is the correct way of eating fruits?

IT MEANS NOT EATING FRUITS AFTER YOUR MEALS! FRUITS SHOULD BE EATEN ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.

If you eat fruit like that, it will play a major role to detoxify your system, supplying you with a great deal of energy for weight loss and other life activities..

FRUIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FOOD. Let's say you eat two slices of bread and then a slice of fruit. The slice of fruit is ready to go straight through the stomach into the intestines, but it is prevented from doing so.

In the meantime the whole meal rots and ferments and turns to acid. The minute the fruit comes into contact with the food in the stomach and digestive juices, the entire mass of food begins to spoil.

So please eat your fruits on an empty stomach or before your meals! You have heard people complaining - every time I eat watermelon I burp, when I eat durian my stomach bloats up, when I eat a banana I feel like running to the toilet etc - actually all this will not arise if you eat the fruit on an empty stomach. The fruit mixes with the putrefying other food and produces gas and hence you will bloat!

Graying hair, balding, nervous outburst, and dark circles under the eyes all these will not happen if you take fruits on an empty stomach.

There is no such thing as some fruits, like orange and lemon are acidic, because all fruits become alkaline in our body, according to Dr. Herbert Shelton who did research on this matter. If you have mastered the correct way of eating fruits, you have the Secret of beauty, longevity, health, energy, happiness and normal weight.

When you need to drink fruit juice - drink only fresh fruit juice, NOT from the cans. Don't even drink juice that has been heated up. Don't eat cooked fruits because you don't get the nutrients at all. You only get to taste. Cooking destroys all the vitamins.

But eating a whole fruit is better than drinking the juice. If you should drink the juice, drink it mouthful by mouthful slowly, because you must let it mix with your saliva before swallowing it. You can go on a 3-day fruit fast to cleanse your body. Just eat fruits and drink fruit juice throughout the 3 days and you will be surprised when your friends tell you how radiant you look!

KIWI: Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin E & fiber. Its vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.







APPLE: An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low vitamin C content, it has antioxidants & flavonoids which enhances the activity of vitamin C thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.





STRAWBERRY: Protective Fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits & protect the body from cancer-causing, blood vessel-clogging free radicals.






ORANGE : Sweetest medicine. Taking 2-4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessens the risk of colon cancer.







WATERMELON: Coolest thirst quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione, which helps boost our immune system. They are also a key source of lycopene - the cancer fighting oxidant. Other nutrients found in watermelon are vitamin C & Potassium.




GUAVA & PAPAYA: Top awards for vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high vitamin C content. Guava is also rich in fiber, which helps prevent constipation. Papaya is rich in carotene; this is good for your eyes.










A serious note about heart attacks HEART ATTACK PROCEDURE': (THIS IS NOT A JOKE!) Women should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting. Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line.. You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack . Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms.. Sixty percent of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know the better chance we could survive...

Monday, April 27, 2009

What are you doing to improve your health today?

I came across a great quote today. I want to share it with you and see if you have the same reaction that I had.

"Everybody's someday is a handful of people's everyday. Are you going to get fit someday, or today?"

I think this is a great quote. I saw this quote on twitter and wanted to thank Ronald Skelton (donedieting) for posting it.

I know that I have put off several things for "someday". Someday, I'll start eating healthy, Someday, I'll start exercising. Someday, I'll save money. Whatever it was - I was going to do it someday.

Well, my someday has come. It is time to put away the excuses and get with the program. No more somedays. Today is the day! Make the decision and stick with it. Decide. Commit. Succeed.

Last week I got The Gorgeously Green Diet book. I really like it. I wanted to share a recipe from the book that I think sounds pretty interesting. I wish that cantaloupes are in season. As soon as they are in season, I will be trying this recipe for sure. I think you could also use mangoes in this and it would be good too!!

Mayan Avocado The Gorgeously Green Diet by Sophie Uliano

When I was in Mexico, I ate a version of this recipe for lunch every single day. It's so light and delicious, perfect for a summer lunch.

Serves 1

1 cup finely chopped cantaloupe
1 tbsp chopped red onion
1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
juice of 1/2 lime
1 large ripe avocado, cut in half and pit removed
1 whole-wheat or spelt tortilla, warmed or toasted

Combine the cantaloupe, onion and cilantro in a small bowl and add the lime juice. spoon into the hollowed-out avocado halves and serve with the tortilla.

Be sure to check out this video of my friend and coach Tina Klinesmith. Tina is in the latest Slim in 6 infomercial. She is an amazing person and an awesome coach. She lost 91 lbs using the Beachbody products. If you are ready to get your results and quit waiting for your someday to come, please sign up at http://www.missourifitclub.com/ to be a free player and let's get started on your health journey today!!!

Sunday, April 26, 2009

Weekend Fun and Beauty Recipes!!



We have had a wonderful weekend with our friends from Kansas City. Brian's best friend from high school and his lovely family came down for the weekend. The guys had a true guys weekend: hunting, fishing and BBQ'ing. The girls had a true girls weekend: shopping, beauty and fun!




Yesterday, Lisa, Camille, Caroline, Hermina and I packed in the car and went shopping in Rogers AR. We had a great time, good meal at Mimi's Cafe and got some great bargins (can you beat cute tops for a penny? I think not!!). We came back and had a big BBQ with our families. We just had a blast! Everyone told their best stories and we laughed all night long. My face and belly hurt from laughing and smiling so much. It was a good time and a great crowd.




Today we slept in, we were all tired and then went to my favorite vegan restaurant, Isadora's Wonderful Things for a great brunch. We had Potato spinach lasgana and salad with sweet mustard dressing, fried oat groats with black eyed peas and gravy, and coconut pancakes with strawberry-banana topping YUM!! We were so full.




The girls and I came back to the house to make some beauty products. We had so much fun! We made just about something for all body parts!!!




Here's the recipes we made:




Bananarama Nourishing Face Mask from The Gorgeously Green Diet by Sophie Uliani

This is a rich and nourishing face mask for dry skin


1 egg yolk
1 ripe banana
2 tsp. sesame oil


Mash all the ingredients into a paste. Before you apply to your face, set a timer for ten minutes, then pack it on! Quickly lie down with a towel under your head. Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Once the timer goes off, wash off with warm water and moisturize with a few drops of sesame oil.




Crazy for coconut balm from Organic Body Care Recipes by Stephanie Tourles

7 tbsp coconut base oil (extra-virgin, unrefined)

1 tbsp cocoa butter

40 drops vanilla or sweet orange essential oil (optional)

This product smells luscious, tastes delicious (it's safe to taste), and is simple to make. Many people swear by coconut oil's ability to melt right into the skin and use it from head to toe year round as a superb body beautifier. In a small pan over low heat or in double boiler, warm coconut oil and cocoa butter until the butter is just melted. Remove from heat and let cool for 15 minutes. Add the essential oil and stir to blend. Pour into storage container and cap. Allow the mixture to set for 2 hours.


Oatmeal Smoother - Organic Body Care Recipes by Stephanie Tourles

This scrub, gentle enough for a baby's delicate skin, leaves skin very smooth and soft. It doubles as a mask: Simply apply and leave on to dry for 20-30 mintues, then rinse.

1/2 cup ground oatmeal

1/2 cup powdered milk

purified water

In a small bowl, thoroughly mix dry ingredients using a spoon or small whisk or shake them in a sealed bag.
Pour the mixture into a storage container.

No refrigeration is required for the dry ingredients, but for maximum freshness and potency, please use withing 6 months.
To mix scrub, combine 2 tsp of scrub mix with 1-2 tsps water until a spreadable paste forms. Adjust water quantity as necessary. Allow the mixture to thicken for 1 min.

Application tips: using your fingers, masssage onto face and throat. Rinse.


Coconut and Vanilla Brown Sugar Body Buff - Organic Body Care Recipes by Stephanie Tourles

The aroma of this scrub is so richly tropical! It's a delightful skin polishing formula to use year-round, but especially when you wish you were in the balmy, breezy warm tropics.


1 1/4 cups brown or raw sugar

6-8 Tbsp coconut base oil (extra virgin, unrefined)
15-20 drops vanilla essential oil (or subsitute vanills fragrance or flavoring oil)

In a medium-sized bowl, combine sugar and coconut base oil. If the temperature of your house is below 76 degrees F and the coconut oil is solid, warm it over very low heat until it's just melted, then blend with the sugar using a small whisk, making sure to break up any lumps of sugar. Add the essential oil drop by drop blending after each addition.

Spoon into a storage container with a tight-fitting lid.

No refrigeration is required, but for maximum freshness and gragrance, please use within 6 months.

Application tips: Massage approximatly 1/4 to 1/2 cup of scrub onto premoistened skin using circular motions. Rinse.

Salt of the Earth Body Scrub - Organic Body Care Recipes by Stephanie Tourles

This is an ultra-invigorating blend, perfect to use in the morning as a wake-me-up skin sparkling scrub. it enlivens all the senses!!

2 cups sea salt (preferably finely ground, but regular granular will do)

3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil or base oil of choice

40 -60 drops peppermint, spearmint, grapefruit, geranium, rosemary or lavender essential oil

In a medium sized bowl, combine the sea salt and the base oil. Using a whisk, stir to blend. Add the essential oil drop by drop, blemding after each adition.
Spoon into a storage container with a tight-fitting lid.

No refrigeration is required, but for maxiumu freshness and fragrance, please use within 6 months.

Application Tips: Massage approximately 1/4 - 1/2cup of scrub onto premoistened skin using circular motions. Rinse.


Enjoy these recipes and have fun being beautiful!! I highly recommend both books as well as the original Gorgeously Green by Sophie Uliano.

Let me know if you make these beauty products and what you think about them. My hands are so soft today from all the scrubs and balms!!


















Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Earth Day!

Today is Earth Day!! designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's environment.

I encourage you to do something good for the planet! Go vegetarian for the day, plant something outside, pick up trash, get outside and soak up some sun and get that all important vitamin D. Make a difference today!

I plan to eat vegetarian (not a stretch for me since I eat this way 95% of the time), plant something outside and get some sun.

I'll get a picture of what I plant to post tomorrow. I got some lovely plants at Easter and I plan to transfer them to a pretty pot to put outside on the deck. We recently purchased new deck furniture and I'm ready to be able to use it. We got a great high-top table that seats 8 (this will hold our whole family and a few friends) and then an outdoor fire pit with chairs. Some new plants will look great out there and I'm ready for the weather to be nice enough to get some good use out of it all!

Vitamin D has been in the news lately. It seems that we don't get enough of it and should be taking supplements to offset the deficit. I recently bought a book about it and will post my findings when I get done reading it. We need the sun to make our own vitamin D, so get outside for a little bit each day.

How To Get Enough Vitamin D

There are some ways for adults to insure adequate levels of vitamin D:

regularly receive midday sun exposure in the late spring, summer, and early fall, exposing as much of the skin as possible.

It is recommended totake 1,000 - 2,000 IU per day, and obtain a vitamin D blood test. Then get with your dr to make sure that you have the correct dosage amounts.

Vitamin D has many health benefits:

Maintains your calcium balance
Boosts your immune system
helps with insulin secretion
helps to regulate your blood pressure

Get outside today!!

Monday, April 20, 2009

Products I Love!


We had a great time this weekend. My family came for a quick visit. It wasn't long enough, but it never is. I don't get to see them often enough at all! My weekend consisted of a great family dinner on Friday night. We took Mom and Dad to see Chase and Meredith's new house and Nick's new house and Jake's duplex. Hard to believe that none of my kids are living at home anymore!! Saturday we had a busy day. Mom and Dad had an auction, so we stopped by there, had a nice lunch at Isadora's Wonderful Things and did a little shopping before helping Jake for the evening!


Jake had his senior prom this weekend. He looked so handsome and his date was beautiful! They had a good time. We made it over to the Grand March to see all the boys and girls. All the dresses were so pretty. They sure don't look like what I wore to the prom years ago.


I wanted to share with you some of my favorite products.


Right now I am loving the Yes to Carrots Shampoo and Conditioner. It smells so good! http://www.yestocarrots.com/

Daily Pampering Shampoo

C Loves Your Hair Pampering Carrot Juice Shampoo

Your hair and scalp love nourishment as much as the rest of your body.
There has never been a more delicious treat for your locks than our C Loves your Hair Pampering Carrot Juice Shampoo.


Cleanses, nourishes and moisturizes the hair & scalp with 26 minerals and trace elements.


Key Ingredients
Organic Carrot, Sweet Potato and Pumpkin are potent anti-oxidants that cleanse and moisturize the hair.


Daily Pampering Conditioner
C is for ConditionerPampering Hair Mud Conditioner

Feel glamorous everyday with C is for Conditioner, ideal for smoothing and taming even the most wayward hair.


Our C is for Conditioner combines Dead Sea Mud, organic carrot, organic pumpkin, organic sweet potato, organic melon and organic orange – simply delicious.

Key Ingredients
Dead Sea Minerals purify and Camomile soothes and moisturizes your hair.


For facial care I LOVE Mychelle Dermacuticals - http://www.mychelle.com/


Natural Skin Care That Is Truly Effective

ALWAYS FREE OF phthalates, parabens, propylene glycol, ureas, EDTA, fragrances, encapsulated nano particles, and artificial colors


Check these products out for amazing results!!


Of course, I am LOVING Shakeology! The chocolate is my favorite! Brian and I are having great results with it! Check it out today at http://www.shakeology.com/ and then email me to find out how you can get yours! Order directly at www.missourifitclub.com!!!









Friday, April 17, 2009

New Yoga Booty Ballet Workouts Available



Beachbody has just released two new specialty titles under the YBB brand: Yoga Booty Ballet "Pure & Simple Yoga" (with Gillian) and Yoga Booty Ballet "Baby On the Way" (with Teigh).

They are available at www.missourifitclub.com. Get your copy ordered today!

Gillian takes you through an exhilarating routine with classic yoga without any difficult choreography in "Pure and SImple Yoga".

Teigh shares her pregnancy workout for expectant mothers to get you or that mom-to-be on your gift list ready for the special delivery with "Baby on the Way".

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at dana@missourifitclub.co,

Thursday, April 16, 2009

The Winning Combination!

If you are looking to get in shape and be healthier, there is no better time than now to become a Beachbody Coach! As a coach, you will help other people reach their fitness goals, eat healthier and stay on track! You don't have to be in the best shape of your life, nor do you need a degree in nutrition. You just have to have the desire to help other people! It is also a good way to stay on track yourself.

Did you know that one of the biggest reasons Kristy McLean—recent $250,000 winner in the 2008 MDB Game™—had such an amazing transformation is that her Coach, Monica Gray, introduced her to the Beachbody® Coaching opportunity?

As Kristy explains, "Being a Beachbody Coach has significantly impacted my transformation and the permanence of my results by adding the accountability factor. Being a Coach also led to the incorporation of a variety of fitness programs and Beachbody nutritional products that have helped me fine-tune my diet, further reduce my body fat, and get continued results. I would not have had such a smooth and successful start as a Coach if it weren't for Monica's support. She has given me something to aspire to and made me realize that I could have a career in fitness. My career change and how my physical transformation has affected every aspect of my life is, in my opinion, one of the most exciting aspects of my transformation story."


Just think, you could be the big winner for 2009 and in the process you can increase your wealth as a Beachbody Coach!

Check out the video at www.simpletvbusiness.com and get back with me today so you can get started on your own personal health and wealth journey!! You will be so glad that you did!!!

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Naturally Thin review


I have been reading Naturally Thin by Bethenny Frankel. I am really enjoying this book. I love that it isn't a "diet" book. She gives sensible advice and great tips and the recipes have been good too! I recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a lifestyle change to your eating. Pick up your copy today and let me know what you think about it.

I do want to share a recipe from the book:


Faux Pancakes

Serves 1

1/4 c liquid egg whites or two egg whites
1 whole egg
1/4 tsp. strawberry extract or vanilla extract
1 tsp raw sugar or sweetener
Fresh fruit or small bit of maple syrup or both.

1. Heat a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Spray with non-ctick cooking spray.
2. In a bowl, mix egg whites, egg, extract and sugar. Pour the egg mixture into the pan and stir lightly.
3. When the egg is firm on one side, carefully flip it over. When it is fully cooked and fluffy, carefully move it to a plate.
4. Top with fresh fruit or a bit of real maple syrup or both.

Bethenny says - I am strongly against fake food, but I call this "faux" because it is actually an egg dish. This is a great protein-rich breakfast when you are craving something sweet. The small amount of sugar gives it just the right degree of crispiness. This is delicious and so easy. You can also make delicious French toast by dipping whole-grain bread into this mixture instead of making it into faux pancakes. ENJOY!!

Monday, April 13, 2009

30 day Challenge and Setback!

I had started a 30 day Challenge this month, but life threw me a curve ball. I got sick. I don't get sick very often, but this time around it really kicked my booty. I am not back to 100%, but I am starting to feel better. So, we are re-starting the challenge. I'm not sure that I'll be able to workout yet, but I'm well enough to commit to everyone else in the challenge.

30 DAY CHALLENGE:

Workout at least 5 days per week and log workouts in WOWY
Eat Clean and keep a food journal
Take Before Pictures, measurements and weight
Be accountable, supportive to others and help motivate others

That's all there is to it.

If you want to join in - email me at dana@missourifitclub.com

To join Team Beachbody as a free player - go to my webpage at www.missourifitclub.com and click on the join button. Who knows, you may win up to $1000 or other cool prizes just for logging your workouts. I have 2 customers that have won. Brian H. won $1000 and $300 and Julia R. won $300. They really do pay off!

Here is the first Clean Eating recipe:

From Vegan a Go-Go! by Sarah Kramer
Kathleen's Mom's Tortilla Chip Soup
1 small onion, chopped

1 tbsp oil

1 garlic clove, minced

1 small orange bell pepper, chopped

1 3.8 oz can green chilies, chopped (including liquid)

2 1/2 c vegetable stock

3/4 cup corn, fresh or frozen

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 19 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed

1/2 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp dried basil

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp blackpepper

1 5.5 oz can tomato paste

tortilla chips

in a medium saucepan on medium heat, saute the onions in oil until translucent. Add the garlic, bell peppers and chilies and saute for 2-3 minutes. Add the stock, corn, cilnro, eans, chili powder, basil, salt , pepper and tomato paste. Stir together well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. cover with lid and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Place several tortills chips inthe bottom of each soup bowl before serving. Makes 2 large or 4 small servings. Enjoy!!

Friday, April 10, 2009

The Truth about Belly Fat

No one wants belly fat. But, how do we get rid of it? Diet plays a HUGE role in belly fat. If you eat clean and workout - you will lose the belly fat!




Email me with any questions about the workouts, diet tips or this video at dana@missourifitclub.com. You can order these programs at www.missourifitclub.com!!

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Go Green!

In your smoothies that is!!! There are some great green smoothie recipes out there and these are so good for your health! I am fortunate enough to have a vita-mix blender. This is one of the household items that I use EVERY day! I just love it!!

This is a great recipe from the Vita-Mix website. All kinds of good info over there - check it out! www.vitamix.com.

Benefits of Green Smoothies:

Get more fruit in your diet
Get more greens in your diet

Did you know that greens are about 35% protein?

Improved health benefits
And they taste great!!





Ingredients:
1 cup green grapes
1/2 cup pineapple
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 ripe banana
1/2 cup water
1 cup ice

Instructions:
Place ingredients into the Vita-Mix container and secure lid. Select Variable 1. Turn machine on and quickly increase to Variable 10, then to High. Blend for 60 seconds.

I am still fighting off this nasty cold or whatever it is. Started out in my chest and throat and today it has moved to my head. I'm having trouble breathing today. No energy at all. I'm ready for this to be over!!!

Give the green smoothie a try today - don't be afraid - they are really tasty!!

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Dry Skin Brushing


Marilu Henner taught me about dry skin brushing and it is one of the best things you can do for your body. If you haven't ever tried it, you must pick up a body brush today and give it a try. You will LOVE it!

You can pick up an inexpensive body brush at most drugstores or even Wal-Mart. Just make sure that it is a natural bristle brush.

This should be done before you get in the shower or start your workout. Start at your feet and use upward strokes, don't forget the bottom of your feet as well. Use long, smooth strokes. Women should avoid the breast area. Always go toward your heart. If you are going to brush your face, you need to get a softer, gentler brush.

Pay special attention to the back of your knees, the inside of your forearms, your armpits - all the areas where the lymph nodes are located. This will stimulate the lymph system and will also help to detoxify the body. The skin is the largest and most important eliminative organ in the body and is responsible for one-quarter of your body's daily detoxification.

Dry Skin Brushing is good for:

1. Removing cellulite

2. Cleansing the lymphatic system

3. Removing dead skin layers

4. Strengthening the immune system

5. Stimulating the hormone and oil-producing glands

6. Tightening the skin preventing premature aging

7. Toning the muscles

8. Stimulating circulation

9. Improving the function of the nervous system

10. Helping digestion

11. Not to mention that it just feels good and invigorating!

Check out Marilu Henner's Book - Total Health Makeover for more details on skin brushing as well as other tips for leading a healthy lifestyle! This is the book that completely changed my life! My health was suffering horribly and when I read this book, something just clicked for me. I am so thankful that I picked it up and read it!!!
This is one of my favorite Marilu Henner recipes!!!

Power Rice & Rye
Serves 6

2 cups brown rice
1 cup rye berries
3 cups water
3 cups vegetable broth
2 small carrots, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 cup kale, finely chopped
½ onion, chopped
1 cup green beans
½ cup water
Bragg Liquid Aminos to taste

In a large saucepan, mix brown rice, rye, water, vegetable broth, carrots, celery, kale and onion. Bring to a boil. Lower heat, cover, and simmer 20 to 25 minutes until rice and rye are tender and have absorbed liquid. In a small saucepan, bring green beans and water to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes and drain. Combine rice and rye with green beans and season with Bragg Liquid Aminos.

Monday, April 6, 2009

I'm a Pusher too!


I found this post by Chalene Johnson, creator of Turbo Jam, Turbo Kick and Chalean Extreme. I wanted to share it with you all today. I know exactly how she feels. Brian and I went through our first bag of chocolate Shakeology in just one week because I was giving out so many samples. I LOVE this stuff! It really works!! When I find something that I love and think works, I can't stop talking about it! I want everyone to try it. I can't imagine why you wouldn't want to try it. So, I know exactly what Chalene is talking about when she says that she is a pusher!!!

Here's Chalene's post:


I'm a pretty humble person. I don't ask for favors, or special treatment. I don't name drop or expect that people should treat me like a VIP. I won't cut in line even when a friend waves me up. I play by the rules and know that everyone is important. I think it's rude when people act like they are entitled or that people should help them out because of their name, or who they are, or what they've done, their money, their status, whatever. One of my biggest pet peeves is my fellow fitness instructors who think they're "all that" and the "club" owes them something because their classes are full. Get over yourself! In my book, the grocery store CEO is just as important as the kid who bags your bread and milk.

Which is why today I an apologizing. Publically.

The truth is in a moment of weak desperation, I pulled a "J.Lo" on Wednesday. Well I didn't request white M&M;'s and all white flowers in my dressing room. Nope. Just a little help in the Shakeology department. And I know an apology with an explanation is not really an apology, but I believe my Shakeology Apology warrants a teeny tiny explanation. You see...ever since Shakeology arrived at our door step, things in my household have changed.

Now before I go further.. know this. I'm not paid to endorse Shakeology. I have no stock in the company. No one at Beachbody has ever even asked me to "try it" let alone to talk about it. I have no relationhip with Shakeology, other than we since we met, i have fallen madly in love. First I fell head over heels which peaked Bret's curiosity. Skeptical, Bret was a "believer" after two shakes. Next, my 11 year old (who refuses to eat anything green or that comes from nature), then my 9 year old, my father-in-law, my Mom, and all my exercise partners all fell under the spell of Shakeology. I admit when my bag of shakeology was full and heavy, it felt like it was last forever. I shared my bag of shakeology readily back in those early days of this month. I passed around my Shakeology like MC Hammer shared his money in those early days when record deal money was plentiful.

I'm a "pusher". When I find something that's amazing, whether it's a new push-up bra, the worlds greatest George Foreman Grill, self-tanner, whatever it is that works like a charm, I tell the world. I push it. I like things that work! I share my findings.

So, naturally I grabbed my bag of Shakeology to pack for our upcoming family vacation (8 days in Maui, Hawaii.) If felt light. Panic overcame my being. A wave of hot blood rushed into my face. I thought, "Oh my gawd! We leave in 3days. This will NEVER last and I don't have time to order more!!!" I freaked. There was only one thing to do.

I puffed my chest up and decided to see if I could pull any strings at Beachbody. I've sold 'em a couple of million videos. That should be worth a favor or two.. right?? "May I ask whose calling?" the receptionist asked. "Yes, Chalene Johnson of Turbo Jam and ChaLEAN Extreme" I announced proudly. She was unimpressed. Probably President of the Shawn T fan club. Next, I found my go-to-girl, the gal with the beautiful smile who always says, "of course! What else can I do to help", The lovely Leili in the production department. I pleaded my case. I told her how I had been to generous with my monthly supply and now I was nearly out! I begged her to ship me two bags...FedEx..priority am delivery. I didn't expect it for free or anything. I mean, come on. I'm not a mooch. "Lieli, I don't expect it for free. Just charge it to my friend Tony Horton's account (I mean come on... P90X is on tv all day everyday! He can spot me on this one... right???)

She did. It worked. Leili came through! It was mid afternoon the next day when the UPS man drove up. I sprinted to his truck, my eyes bulging, body bloated and weak. Digestion irregular and blood sugars all a skew. I was panting, shaking and foam was frothing from he corners of my mouth (I was 4 hours past my daily scheduled Shakeology). He started to dismount his truck, box in hand. "Give it to me!" I shouted as I grabbed the package from the man dressed in brown.

I apologize for my behavior. With blender whirling and smell of chocolate with a hint of wheat grass, I felt the anxious excitment that a drug addict must feel when they score another hit of heroine.

Beachbody has several protein and meal replacement shakes. I've tried and used them all. You've never seen me blog about them. I've been in the fitness profession for 20 years. I've tried every shake, vitamin and protein suppliment. You can imagine because of the huge network of intstructors and customers of my company http://www.turbokick.com, on a monthlly basis I'm sent samples of every miracle nutrient, drink, vitamin, water, protein source, and shake you can imagine. I've tried them all. You've NEVER heard me encourage people to try them. I've talked about things I find yummy or tasty with decent nutrients. But Shakeology is in a class of it's own. Period.


Unfortunately you can only get it from a coach. Some say it's expensive. I say... DO YOUR RESEARCH! It's cheap! You show me a meal with this many veggies, protein, enzymes, fruit blends, probiotics and vitamins that is this low in calorie and I'll show you something much more expensive or that doesn't have as much ! it can't be done. It's less than a cup of Starbucks. Get a clue! It's cheap. Sure it's more than what you've been paying for your normal meal replacement, but this is a total health drink. It's super cheap if you become a coach. Don't quote me here, but you get it about $30 cheaper if your'e coach with http://www.TeamBeachbody.com Now I am ineligible to be coach (because I'm a trainer with BeachBody) so I've been ordering it from my coach as customer. (Well, except for in this recent tantrum!)


BeachBody has just come out with Shakeology and it is truly amazing. Not only does it have all the great stuff I just mentioned but it tastes really really good (I have some GREAT recipes to really make it taste like a dream! Don't just mix it with water and shake it. Boring! Visit my blog later this week for my fav recipes!

It really does take great! You don't have to just take my word for it, take the word of a "very picky eater!!!", my son 12 year old son Brock. Now let me tell you about my sweet son Brock, he HATES vegetables. I understand. I hated veggies til I was an adult. For years my Mom tried and for years, I found creative ways to dispose of the green stuff on my plate without her knowing. The other day Brock and I had a very touching moment. I made him is afternoon protein shake. He gulped it down, commenting, "That was good, but it tasted different today. Did you put something different in it?" I sat down next to him and broke the news to him. "Son, you just had your daily serving of veggies!" For the first time in his 12 year life, a complete days serving of fruits and vegetables and he liked it! Now granted... I needed his shake to taste a lot like what he's used to, so I added the same stuff I always put in his protein shakes, a lil peanut butter and some fat free frozen yogurt. But it was the most nutritious meal he had probably had in his life. I felt a tear roll down my face. ( oh come on! Not really, but it makes the story). Seriously as a mom it gives such peace of mind knowing I can whip up a yummy shake hand it to my child and know he is getting so many great things his growing body needs.

Learn more... http://www.milliondollarbody.com/shakeology/

More details

WHATS IN IT

More than 70 different ingredients were chosen from around the world for their potency and bioavailability (the ability to deliver the nutrients your body needs). Here are the key nutrient groups that these ingredients deliver:*

Protein and Essential Amino Acids to help build long, lean muscles and reduce food cravings

Prebiotics and Digestive Enzymes, which aid in improving digestion, regularity, and nutrient absorption

Antioxidants and Phytonutrients to help counteract free radical damage that can lead to degenerative diseases

Vitamins and Minerals your body needs to function for optimal health.


If you live in my area and would like a sample to try, please let me know. Contact me at dana@missourifitclub.com.

Order your Shakeology today at www.missourifitclub.com

You will be glad you did!!!!

Saturday, April 4, 2009

Braves Q&A with Matt Diaz


2009 ATLANTA BRAVES SPRING TRAINING

Thursday, April 02, 2009
Do you want to know what Brave fell for an infomercial?

Read on about Matt Diaz and his offseason weight loss.

Q. How did you lose 30 pounds this offseason?

A. I hate to admit it, but I did an infomercial. … My wife ordered P90X. I saw her doing her leg workout, and it was similar to stuff I did in rehab. I thought that’d be a good way to ease my way back into weightlifting. After a week you realize there’s no easing into that workout.

Q. You watch videos as you work out?

A. They send you 12 videos with 12 different workouts and a dietplan. If you want it, it gives you recipes for every meal, six meals a day …. We moved our kids upstairs out of the nursery and changed the nursery into a P90X room. We got a pull-up bar and dumbbells. … I’d do a P90X workout with my wife in the morning, a baseball workout in the afternoon and go jogging with my wife in the evening while dinner was crock-potting.

Other celebrities using P90X include:
Ray Lewis, Baltimore Ravens,
David Akers,Philadelphia Eagles,
Sheryl Crow
Jennie Garth
Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher

You can have your own journey with P90X. I will coach you to be in the best shape of your life. Get yours today at www.missourifitclub.com

Friday, April 3, 2009

Thinking of becoming a Vegetarian???

Vegetarianism is becoming more and more mainstream. If you have thought about becoming a vegetarian, watch the following video. If you are still a meat-eater, that's okay. Try going one meal without any meat or dairy. Some great ideas are: oatmeal make it with soymilk, almond milk or water. Add in some almonds, raisins or dates and some brown sugar or even better, agave nectar. YUM!! How about lunch or dinner - veggie soup, stir fry with brown rice. It's so easy to go veggie!!



I have been eating a mostly vegetarian diet for 5 years now. Hard to believe it has been that long, but because of health reasons, it just makes me feel good!!!

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at dana@missourifitclub.com

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Water, Water!!


I did a presentation last night at the First Presbyterian Church - Be Healthy, Be Happy! It went pretty good, however, I was shocked to find out that most people have a problem with drinking WATER!

We all know that we NEED to drink water, but why?

Water makes up almost 70% of your body.

Water lubricates your joints and other organs in your body.

Water helps to eliminate toxins from the body.

Water is a cooling system when you are overheated.

Water helps to control your appetite and cravings.

Water will help you stay regular.

You should be drinking 1/2 of your body weight in ounces of water per day. Minimum of 64 ounces and maximum of 100 oz. WHAT??? I'm not kidding. Your body needs that amount of water to function properly.

Most people are living in a state of dehydration. Most people drink several caffeinated beverages in a day. This causes more dehydration. Alcoholic beverages are also dehydrating. For every caffeine or alcohol drink you have, you should follow it up with 8 oz of water to replinish the fluid your body has lost.

The most important thing to remember is that if you are thirsty - drink some water!!

If you are one of the people that doesn't like water - try adding in some of the following:

lemon, lime, oranges, cucumber slices, strawberry.

Let me know how you like to drink your water. I prefer mine to be room temperature. Sometimes with fruit, but most of the time, just plain ol' water!!

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Why join the Team Beachbody Club?

Decide. Commit. Succeed.®

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Plus, you can win amazing rewards just for working out! Enter your workouts in WOWY® and you are automatically entered to win up to $1,000 or other cool rewards like iPods, DVD players, and cameras every day!

Plus, you save 10% off the retail price of Beachbody fitness and nutrition products!

Why is the Team Beachbody Club so effective? Because we promote accountability, which means you'll be ready to work out every day. But the Club also helps make exercise fun, so you'll enjoy every minute!

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Enjoy all these benefits RISK FREE for 30 days for only $2.99 a week, billed $38.87 quarterly in advance to the credit card you provide. You can cancel anytime during your first 30 days and receive a FULL refund, or you can cancel anytime thereafter to avoid future charges. Keep the Thin Kitchen recipe book just for trying!