Thursday, September 29, 2011

Talking Fat in the USA



One thing I find interesting is that people in the United States are so cautious when they talk about weight, but only when someone is overweight. They seem to have no issue letting someone know that they are too skinny. Interesting, right? I mean really think about it. Would you be more likely to approach someone you cared about that had gotten too thin or too fat? Why? Do we just accept the idea that people that are fat or getting fat can’t help it and will get their feelings hurt? Just how someone too thin can eat more/better, someone too heavy can eat less/better and move more. Of course it’s easier said than done, but no one is 50 pounds overweight that eats right and exercises consistently. Sorry, it doesn’t work that way. There is no secret diet. It takes education, dedication and responsibility. But, the good news is that it is possible to make changes to your life and health. Yes, it’s harder for some, but that is why there are people like me that teach individuals how to eat and make time for exercise. It’s not easy. Nothing worth it ever is.

Monday, September 26, 2011

Goji Berries!

Did you know that Goji berries have protein? Did you know that they have more iron than spinach? Goji berries contain 500% more vitamin C than an orange (per ounce) and more than double the anti-oxidants of blueberries! These berries could also very well be the best anti-aging food (they naturally stimulate HGH or human growth hormone). As if that weren't enough, these little berries contain 18 different Amino Acids, including the 8 that are essential and over 20 trace minerals and vitamins! No wonder Goji berries are a popular food in Chinese Medicine.

1/4 Cup Serving (Approx. 1 oz, 28 g), Calories 90, Fat 0g, Fiber 4g, Protein 4g, Carbs 24g, Sugars 12g, Vitamin A 180% of DRI, Vitamin C 30%, Calcium 9% and Iron 15%.

Try Goji berries sprinkled on a fruit salad or with some nuts as a snack. They are delicious & super nutritious!

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Welcome!

Welcome to my blog! I am excited to start sharing recipes and nutritional tidbits. Feel free to email me questions or suggestions. Have a favorite recipe you want to share? Send me a note.

My name is Maria and I am a Health and Nutrition Coach based in NYC. I am passionate about keeping active, eating well and feeling great. I love helping others learn more about food choices and lifestyle changes that make all of the difference. I am a competitive athlete, a visual artist and nutrition nerd.

I practice a holistic approach to health and wellness, which means that I look at how all areas of a person's life are connected. Does stress or lack of quality sleep cause you to overeat? Does low energy prevent you from exercising/training? It's necessary to look at how all parts of your life affect your health as a whole.

My approach is not to obsess about counting calories or to create lists of restrictions. Instead, I work with my clients to create a happy, healthy way of eating. Together we will work to reach your goals in areas such as achieving optimal weight, reducing food cravings, recovering more quickly from workouts and maximizing energy. You will develop a deeper understanding of the food and lifestyle choices that work best for you and implement lasting changes.