This and That

Hi Everyone,

I've been on hiatus from the blog for awhile, just because life is so full.  That's a good thing, but I have missed writing.  So, finally, here are a few tidbits to share:

*When choosing chicken for your protein, white meat wins out over dark meat because it has less fat, less calories, and more protein per ounce.  That's not to say that dark meat is bad, it certainly has less saturated fat than beef.  White meat is just the better choice.

*You can cut a lot of sugar or fat just by rinsing food with water.  For example, cut sugar by rinsing fruit canned in heavy syrup.  Cut fat by rinsing the ground beef or ground turkey after you brown it.  Then, just return it to the pan, and continue with the recipe.

*Lifting weights is so good for you.  If you're not lifting, but you're losing weight, there is a risk of losing muscle tissue, instead of fat.  Not good.  Plus, it takes two times more calories to maintain muscle tissue.  For every pound of muscle added to your frame, your metabolism will burn up to 50 more calories per day, just at rest!  Yippee!

*The average-sized adult needs to take in at least 1200 calories a day, because of all the nutrients your body requires.  If you don't take in enough calories (from nutritious foods), then your metabolism will slow down and go into emergency mode, making it harder to lose weight.  You might even gain weight.

That's all for now.  I hope the transition from warm weather to colder weather has been smooth, (and maybe even enjoyable?) for you.  One thing that has put an extra bounce in my step lately is that I've been planning a cruise to Hawaii during the upcoming winter.  Now that's something to look forward to, and prepare for!

Wishing you wellness,

Mary R.