You got the resolutions, I just got reservations...

Let's face it, New Years resolutions can sometimes be futile. We recommit to a whole list of lifestyle changes and by February, we've hit a wall, and now have to eat our words. So this year, I'm taking Drake's lead, and saying NO to resolutions. Instead, I want to reaffirm an old one:

1. EAT CLEAN! Avoid the processed food! Basically, eating whole, natural foods instead of those that have been tampered with. So tomatoes are great, ketchup, not so much. If you are really trying to embrace this lifestyle, shop on the perimeter of the grocery store, and avoid the center aisles as much as possible. 

What is all the fuss over clean eating anyway? In light of all the weight loss solutions and fad diets, scientists have proven one thing for certain, eating more plant based foods will not only help to maintain a healthy weight, but also aid in the prevention of heart disease, cancer, high cholesterol and diabetes. So by plant based, we mean fresh fruits (not the canned stuff loaded with corn syrup), fresh vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and meats that have not been processed. Not only do plant based foods aid in good health, avoiding the chemicals used to preserve processed food is a smart choice. Studies have also confirmed that these man made chemicals are causing obesity, cancer, and a whole slew of other health problems. For a great article of the history of chemical processing in America go here: The Problem with Processed Food

Just remember that this change is gradual, and beating yourself up for having a bit of mustard on your processed hot dog isn't necessary. Just do what you can over time.

For me, this means giving up the beloved Crystal Light Wild Strawberry Energy Drink Powder that I use in my Morning Smoothie. It's loaded with aspartame, so even though I love the caffeine, I have to say goodbye.  I've replaced it with a new concoction often referred to as the GREEN MONSTER. I know, not exactly calling your name, is it? Well, I will admit that this smoothie takes some getting used to, but its clean, loaded with nutrients, minerals, and vitamins, and really quite yummy. Well, not as good as crystal light, but hey, my health is more important.

Ingredients:

1 cup Almond Milk

1/2 cup water
1 scoop Wheat Grass powder  

1 scoop of Raw Meal Protein

1 tbsp ground flax seeds

2 Truvia sweetener packets (stevia)

1 large handful of spinach

1 cup frozen fruit of your choice

a few drops of coconut extract  

Add the ingredients to the blender and puree. You can add ice if you like, but I like mine to have a thinner consistency.