The Extended Break

Yeah - so the break I took from trying new foods ... it's gone on too long.  I know it.  What happened?  Well, our life is changing a LOT .. and we are MOVING next week.

So I have been consumed with packing and a million other things - - to say the least.  However; fear not, the experiment with trying new foods is still on my mind, and I will indeed continue blogging about it once we get into the new house (and a NEW KITCHEN).

I have been proud of myself for incorporating the new things I like into my diet.  I have not been writing about it, but I have indeed been living it.

So it's Goodbye Houston - and Hello San Antonio !  I am very excited about the move ... and somewhat stressed, but in a good way.

Exercise Aids in Cancer Treatments

Guest Blog by: Liz Davies

Exercise Aids in Cancer Treatments

Cancer patients often have difficulty becoming motivated to exercise since the treatment process creates side effects that include intense pain, discomfort and fatigue. In the past, doctors recommended that cancer patients rest and make sure not to strain themselves. Recently, studies have emerged that show the correlation between exercise and the health of cancer patients.

These studies advise the same amount of activity for people undergoing cancer treatments as people who are not undergoing these treatments. For the average person, doctors advise about thirty minutes of moderate exercise daily. People undergoing cancer treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy, who took on this amount of activity, experienced reduced side effects from their treatments, lower rates of the cancer recurring and higher survival rates.

Especially in women, radiation and chemotherapy may cause severe bone loss. Weight-lifting activities can aid in by enhancing bone density which strengthens bones. Strength-building exercises can be in the form of weight-lifting, resistance training and isometric training. These can be performed with weight machines, resistance bands, dumbbells and even items like soup cans. Being proactive is extremely important when going though cancer treatment. Bone mass cannot be built; it can only be retained so it is important for people going through treatments to consistently perform strength-building activities.

Depending on the cancer, treatments may cause patients to either lose weight or gain weight. In order to lower the risk of the cancer reoccurring it is advised that people maintain a healthy weight. Exercises such as running, swimming, walking or other aerobic activity can help control a person’s weight. These exercises will also improve mood and energy levels which is especially helpful for cancer patients.

It is well known that cancer patients can experience damaging side effects from the necessary medication they must take and an exercise schedule may feel daunting to maintain. The mere act of keeping a routine can have a incredible effect on a person’s mental health and can help keep them have a positive outlook. One way to keep a routine is to redesign the definition of exercise. A thirty-minute exercise session may not be feasible for everyone. A shorter or less intense session of activity is better than none at all so trying simple exercises like putting groceries away or walking around the house is a good way to make a difference in health. Stretching exercises, like pilates for example, are good for both mind and body. 

With all types of activity it is important to consult a doctor before beginning any exercise regimen. These ideas are great for people going through any type of treatment from anything ranging from mesothelioma treatment to breast cancer treatment.

Other ways of staying positive and motivated for cancer patients include becoming a part of support groups and gaining the support of family and friends.

Liz Davies is a recent college graduate and aspiring writer especially interested in health and wellness. She wants to make a difference in people’s lives because she sees how cancer has devastated so many people in this world. Liz also likes running, playing lacrosse, reading and playing with her dog, April.

Item 226 - Shrimp Poppers

I tried shrimp poppers.  I think they are okay.  They are not remotely clean and probably not all that healthy, but hey - it was a new texture and flavor, and I didn't hurl.  So this is progress.  Everyone else loved them - - except hubby dear.

I think next I want to try an actual boiled or grilled shrimp, no breading and definitely not fried.  That is surely in my better interest, and I know shrimp are suppose to have some healthy benefits.

Meanwhile, I seem to have had an on-going bad headache for a few days.  I'm not really stressed out, so not sure why ... but it is annoying.  Other than that, kids are off school, house is messy, days are loud - and life is good.

Changes

So, I've been keeping something to myself for a while now.  This blog is kind of stressing me out a little.  I wasn't exactly sure why, so I had to do a little thinking on the matter.  At first I was tempted to just quit it outright.  But the problem is, I'm not a quitter ... I really like to finish what I start.   Then I get discouraged because I feel like nobody is really paying attention anyway and oh 'what's the point' type mentality.  My own family barely even reads it, if at all.

Then I figured out that the true part of this that is stressing me out is the fact that I put a rule in the beginning that I had to try one new food EVERY. DANG. DAY!  I have actually accomplished 275 days of this, and I am much better at ignoring the fear of new smells or textures, etc. - - but it is getting old. Not the tasting part, but I think I have taken the excitement and point of it all away because it will be late at night and I'll be stressed thinking 'oh crap, I didn't try something new' and just scurrying around the find something.  AND I had made a rule that if I Missed a day, I had to do TWO things the next day, and I really don't like doing that.

SO instead of quitting, I am just going to change it.   I am not going to pressure myself in this manner that I absolutely have to try something EVERY. DANG. DAY!  I am not going to quit until I hit 300 new foods.  Maybe that will be by Leap Day 2012, or maybe it will be Cindo de Mayo 2012, or maybe not, but that is not really the point anyhow.  The point is to look for opportunities to experience new recipes, flavors, textures, etc.  The point is to broaden my horizons and not be so stressed out about what day I'm on and having to blog EVERY. DANG. DAY!  You get the idea.

Hope you're not disappointed in me or anything, if anyone is out there, but I am not really enjoying this anymore and I don't want to just lose the progress I have made so far.  I also don't want to be so limited in what I am blogging about.  Sometimes I Feel like I have things I'd like to share or say - but it doesn't necessarily have anything to do with a new food.

SO here's to hopefully a new and improved outlook and positive changes moving forward.

Hope you had a good weekend.

Day 225 - NOG Coconut Milk

Well, I have never had egg nog in my life, and was not entirely sure I wanted to try it at all ... but then I was offered some of this stuff shown above ... so I decided what the heck?  I hated it.  Seriously - hated it.  I wonder if it is anything like regular egg nog.  I have no idea.  I almost threw up and definitely gagged on it.

Meanwhile - I am in a really good mood lately.  I am having a lot of fun and enjoying the Christmas season.  I am dancing like a fool in public and giving strangers compliments.  Hope you are enjoying the season as well.

Day 224 - Shakeology Mix-Up

So, you know - - I am in love with Shakeology.  It is not a secret.  Seriously - it is a salad that tastes like a dessert.  I am always on the lookout for new ways to try it, just to mix things up.

Today I simply mixed the Chocolate Shakeology with a hint of mint extract and 1/2 cup of cottage cheese for some added protein.  AND I MEAN, just a hint of the mint extract, it does not take much. I mixed it with water and ice, no milk.  It was amazing.  Tastes like a peppermint patty.  Keep in mind, I absolutely hate cottage cheese, just looking at it completely grosses me out.  SO this was very brave of me to put it into my Shakeology drink.   I couldn't even tell, at all.  People, ya gotta get ya some.  

http://myshakeology.com/HealthyHabitGal

Day 223 - Sobe Water (Apple Pear)

So today, I tried a new zero calorie water  - - no artificial sweetener.  It is called Sobe Water and it is apple pear flavored.  I think - quite honestly - I just like regular water better.  I see no real need to drink this stuff.  But hey - it was worth a shot.

Meanwhile - here is some interesting info. I thought I'd share with you about why people fall off the wagon.  Is there a wagon you're trying to stay on ?  Do you need to be hog tired to the thing? :)  Here goes.

Here are the 8 reasons why you fall off the wagon

1. No focus: you didn't set goals, you didn't put your goals in writing, and or you didn't keep your goals in mind daily (by reading them, affirming them, looking at a vision board, etc.)

2. No priorities:  you may have set a goal, but you didn't put it on or near the top of your priorities list. For example, your goal is six pack abs, but drinking beer and eating fast food on the weekend is higher on your priorities list than having a flat stomach.

3. No support system: you tried to go at it alone; no buddy system, training partners, family, spouse, friends, mentors or coaches to turn to for information and emotional support when the going got tough.

4. No Accountability: you didn't keep score for your own accountability - with a progress chart, weight record, measurements, food journal, training journal, and you didn't set up external accountability (ie, report to someone else or show your results to someone else)

5. No patience: you were only thinking short term and had unrealistic expectations.  You expected 10 pounds a week or 5 pounds a week or 3 pounds a week, so the first week you lost "only" 1 or 2 pounds or hit a plateau, you gave up.

6. No planning: you winged it.  You walked into the gym without having a workout in hand, on paper, you didn't plan your workouts into your weekly schedule; you didn't have a menu on paper, you didn't make time (so instead you made excuses, like "I'm too busy")

7. No balance: your diet or training program was too extreme. You went the all or nothing, "I want it now" route instead of the moderate, slow-and-steady wins the race route.

8. No personalization: your nutrition or training program was the wrong one for you. It might have worked for someone else, but it didn't suit your schedule, personality, lifestyle, disposition or body type.

So there you have it - 8 mistakes that cause most people to fall off the wagon. Are you guilty of any of these transgressions? If so, the solutions are clear and simple:

Focus, prioritize, get support, be accountable, be patient, plan, balance and personalize.

Day 222 - Acai Super Antioxidant Smoothie

Today I visited Jamba Juice.  I was there anyway to meet somebody, and I just had to pop in.  I tried something that is marketed as heaving super antioxidants and good for you.  It was a 16 ounce Acai smoothie of sorts, although it wasn't really smooth like a smoothie, more icee like, if that makes sense.  I loved it.  Truly, loved it.  I almost drank the whole thing.  But it was not cheap - so I am not sure it will be a regular habit.

40 Healthy Holiday Gift Ideas

40 Healthy Holiday Gifts

Holiday shopping can be stressful. Between driving all over town, long lines in crowded stores, and the never-ending holiday music, it's enough to make you want to throw up your hands and exclaim, "Bah humbug!"

Let us help. We've put together a list of 40 Beachbody^® gift ideas that will help make those in your life feel not only happy, but also healthy! We divided the gifts by price-point so you can simply decide how much you wish to spend on someone and choose from several suggestions that are within that range. All items are available online, so take off that winter jacket, grab a glass of Shakeology^®, and knock out your holiday shopping quickly and with the confidence that the gifts you're giving will enrich the lives of those who receive them!

Plus, Club members automatically save 10% off all items on TeamBeachbody.com.

How to find out if you’re a Beachbody VIP Club member?
1. Make sure you are logged in to TeamBeachbody. If you’re not logged in, click on the "Sign In" link in the upper right hand corner of this page. 
2. Click on the "Shop" tab in the upper navigation menu. 
3. Scroll down to look at the price for Shakeology. You'll see "Regular Price: $119.95". But, if you're a Team Beachbody VIP Club Member you'll also see "Your price: $107.95." That's a savings of $12.00 or 10%!

If you’re not a Team Beachbody VIP Club member, consider joining now. If you plan on purchasing 3 or 4 Holiday gifts on TeamBeachbody.com, the savings you get could more than cover the 3-month membership fee. Learn more, and sign up for Club.

9 gifts $25 or less

• Tony and the Folks ($9.95) – Tony Horton’s name is synonymous with P90X, but this low-impact DVD is perfect for parents, grandparents, or anyone who is looking for a low-impact workout.
• Tony and the Kids ($9.95) – Trying to get your kids into fitness? Let them have some fun with Tony Horton in this entertaining DVD.
• P90X T-Shirt ($19.95) – Do you know someone who just finished P90X? Congratulate them with this shirt! It’s also the perfect companion gift to P90X for someone who is just starting the program.
• TurboJam Camouflage Tank ($19.95) – If you know a gal who loves to Jam, help her to show her spirit with this flirty tank top that’s got just enough “Grrr!”
• Shaun T's Fit Kids Club ($19.95) – Shaun T brings the fun in this DVD that is a great gift to get all the kids in your life interested in fitness for life!
• Get Real with Shaun T ($19.95) – This DVD is great for tweens who aren’t old enough or ready for the intensity of INSANITY but who want to lose a few pounds.
• Weighted Gloves ($19.95) – If someone you know is looking to tone up their arms, these weighted gloves add the resistance needed to help those on their way.
• P90X Protein Bars ($23.95) – Instead of reaching for an unhealthy snack, these 12-packs of protein bars will help fuel your special someone in their workouts.
• $25 Team Beachbody eGift Card – This holiday season, give someone the gift of fitness! With the $25 gift card we're starting to offer this holiday season, they’ll be able to purchase any of the gifts above or use it as a discount on one of the items below.

8 gifts $50 or less

• Chin-Up Max ($29.85) – This adjustable chin-up tool is perfect for someone working his or her way up to full pull-ups. As they get stronger, they just reduce the resistance!
• Total Body Solution^® ($29.95) – Exercise isn’t just about losing pounds and inches. It’s also about feeling great and helping to prevent injuries. In this DVD, Debbie Siebers shows how the right exercises that can help heal injuries.
• Slimming Formula ($29.95) – Help a friend or family-member get a powerful head start on their weight loss journey. Our unique blend of pyruvate and green tea extract is proven to help people significantly increase weight loss and improve exercise endurance.
• Chalene Johnson's Get on the Ball ($39.90) – This gift includes a cool Turbo Ball – a secret weapon toward gaining a six-pack. For ripped, rock-hard abs and blazing fast results, Chalene Johnson’s program is top-notch.
• B-Lines Bands ($39.95) – Got a frequent traveler on your fitness gift list? Just as effective as free weights in building muscle, these resistance bands are much more portable and convenient, so the recipient can work out anytime, anywhere.**
• Tony Horton's Signature PowerStands ($39.90) – For the perfect push-up, these can’t be beat. They strengthen and sculpt while reducing the strain on wrists and forearms. Plus, they’re comfortable to grip and won’t budge in the middle of a move.
• P90X Results and Recovery Formula^® ($49.95) – This protein drink is perfect just after a P90X or INSANITY workout, and it’s great after any intense exercise session to help refuel your body and reduce muscle soreness so you can push just as hard the next day.
• $50 Team Beachbody eGift Card – This holiday season, give someone the gift of fitness! With the gift card we're starting to offer this holiday season, they’ll be able to purchase any of the gifts above or use it as a discount on one of the items below.

6 gifts $75 or less

• Brazil Butt Lift^® ($59.85) – It’s not easy to get the perfect butt…unless you’ve got help from Leandro Carvalho, trainer to world-famous supermodels! Help that special someone prepare for a beachside getaway or just to look great every day in their favorite pair of jeans!
• Hip Hop Abs^® ($59.85) – Great for party people, hip-hop, and dance fans, this workout program will help sculpt their abs with fun moves rather than crunches.
• Slim in 6^® ($59.85) – In just six weeks, someone you know could reshape their body. Start them on the right path with this workout program that’s great for people of all fitness levels.
• P90X Chin-Up Bar ($59.95) – Pull-ups and chin-ups are key to getting sculpted back, shoulder, and arm muscles. This portable bar lets you do all those great exercises.
• TurboJam^® ($59.85)– Raise someone’s heart rate with this kickboxing-inspired workout program from Chalene Johnson.
• Bowflex Strapless Heart Rate Monitor ($74.85) – To see results, it’s important to make sure you’re working at the right intensity. This comfortable monitor will let the recipient do just that without needing to wear a chest strap.

6 gifts $100 or less

• Body Gospel^® ($79.70) – For someone who might want a little motivation from above, this faith-based workout program set to chart-topping gospel music will help them find their way.
• Ten Minute Trainer^® ($79.80) – Need a gift for the person who has no time but wants to get fit? These ten-minute-long workouts will fit into anyone’s schedule!
• RevAbs ($89.85) – For someone who wants to get that sexy six-pack, this capoeira-influenced workout program from trainer Brett Hoebel is just the ticket.
• ChaLEAN Extreme^® ($89.95) – This workout program from TurboJam and TurboFire trainer Chalene Johnson is ideal for women who want to get toned.
• INSANITY: THE ASYLUM^® ($89.95) – For the INSANITY grad, this intense athletic conditioning will help them get into top shape in just 30 days.
• $100 Team Beachbody eGift Card – This holiday season, give someone the gift of fitness! With the gift card we're starting to offer this holiday season, they’ll be able to purchase any of the gifts above or use it as a discount on one of the items below.

5 gifts $120 or less

• Shakeology^® ($119.95) – Help that special someone make a change to their eating habits by gifting them with a 30-day supply of Chocolate or Greenberry Shakeology, the Healthiest Meal of the Day^®! They can enjoy it as a meal replacement or as a healthy, yummy snack. Each shake will help them increase energy, become more regular, lose weight, and feel great.
• TurboFire^® ($119.70) – Chalene Johnson’s intense kickboxing-inspired cardio conditioning program is great for anyone who is ready to bring the heat to their workout.
• P90X^® ($119.85) – Do you know someone who wants to transform their physique with Tony Horton’s revolutionary program? Get them P90X, and they’ll thank you 90 days later!
• P90X2™ Base Kit ($119.85) – If you know a P90X grad who is looking for the next great muscle-building workout, pick them up P90X2 for the holidays!
• INSANITY^® ($119.95) – For the ultimate in cardio conditioning, Shaun T’s workout is perfect for people who are ready to transform their bodies in just 60 days.

6 Ultimate Gifts

• P90X One-on-One^® ($239.40) – If someone you know wishes they had Tony Horton as their personal trainer, pick them up any volume of this DVD set and they can learn from Tony as he works out in his own gym!
• INSANITY Deluxe with Mat and Bonus Workout ($239.70) – If someone on your list is hoping for INSANITY this year, why not get them this deluxe version that comes with a mat, a body fat tester, and an extra workout?
• TurboFire: The Complete System ($239.40) – This version of TurboFire is the perfect gift pack. It comes with everything, including weighted gloves, B-Line resistance bands**, a jump mat, and five advanced workouts.
• $250 Team Beachbody eGift Card – This holiday season, give someone the gift of fitness! With the gift card we're staring to offer this holiday season, they’ll be able to purchase almost any of the gifts on our list.
• P90X2 Ultimate ($299.95) – This version of P90X2 includes two additional workouts, the Tony Horton PowerStands, a RumbleRoller, and two Medicine Balls**!
• $500 Team Beachbody eGift Card – This holiday season, give someone the gift of fitness! With the gift card we're starting to offer this holiday season they’ll be able to purchase any of the gifts on our list and more.

Go Shop Now

** Contains natural rubber latex which can cause allergic reactions