healthy gut

Adapted from IDEA Health & Fitness Association

If your gut is in a rut, chances are your health is suffering, too.

The gut, also known as the gastrointestinal (or GI) tract, hosts trillions of bacteria that can have profound effects on digestive health and overall wellness. It’s a good idea to consume prebiotics and probiotics—dietary dynamos that work in concert to populate the gut with “microflora” that keep you healthy.

Eating a variety of prebiotic-rich vegetables and probiotic fermented foods every day may improve mood, reduce cholesterol and promote weight loss. It even helps build immunity and protect you from unwanted gut visitors, as your Gut health is one of the most important aspects of your body to consider. Here’s how you can help.

Prebiotics: Fuel for Your Flora

Prebiotics are naturally occurring nondigestible carbohydrates, or soluble fibers, that nourish the growth of specific beneficial bacteria. All prebiotics are fiber, but not all fibers are prebiotics. When prebiotics ferment in the intestines, they release fuel that enables friendly bacteria like Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria to thrive.

The health benefits of prebiotics are still being investigated, but studies suggest they can:

• reduce the prevalence and duration of infectious, traveler’s and antibiotic-associated diarrhea (Slavin 2013);
• reduce inflammation and symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (Slavin 2013); and
• protect against colon cancer (Slavin 2013).

Probiotics: Alive and Well

Probiotics are live, active bacteria and/or yeasts. The most common strains of probiotic bacteria are the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria families, which use lactose to prevent harmful bacteria growth, compete with bad bugs for nutrients, and alter intestinal pH to tackle bacterial villains (like diarrhea-producing Clostridium difficile) that thrive in a neutral pH environment. Friendly bacteria also stimulate the immune system (Sommer & Bäckhed 2013).

Weight loss and prevention of obesity are linked to consumption of probiotics (Million et al. 2013), that’s why it might be worthwhile considering adding probiotics, you can take a look at these recommended daily probiotics to help you make a decision. Beneficial bacteria may also improve athletic performance (West et al. 2009) and reduce anxiety (Tillisch et al. 2013).

What to Eat, Prebiotics:

  • Raw chicory root – Used as a coffee replacement, this root provides the most prebiotic of any food.
  • Jerusalem artichoke – Also called “sunchokes,” these tuber-like veggies have a potato-like texture and look like ginger roots.
  • Raw dandelion greens – Available from organic markets, these greens have a bitter taste and can be tossed into a salad.
  • Raw leeks – Similar to onions, leeks are a great addition to salads.
  • Raw onions – Prebiotic content may vary with the variety of onion.

What to Eat, Probiotics:

  • Yogurt – Only yogurts stamped with the “Live & Active Cultures” seal are guaranteed to contain beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria.
  • Sauerkraut – Fermented cabbage is a great source of probiotics. Look for the unpasteurized type, as pasteurization kills some friendly bacteria.
  • Miso – This fermented soybean paste, popular in Japanese soups, is thought to contain over 160 bacterial strains that boost probiotic diversity in the gut.
  • Kombucha tea – This highly acidic fermented tea has a vinegar taste and smell with a slight fizz. It’s all over instagram, too!

References
Million, M., et al. 2013. Gut bacterial microbiota and obesity. Clinical Microbiology and Infection, 19 (4), 305–13.
Slavin, J. 2013. Fiber and prebiotics: Mechanisms and health benefits. Nutrients, 5 (4), 1417–35.
Sommer, F., & Bäckhed, F. 2013. The gut microbiota— masters of host development and physiology. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 11 (4), 227–38.
Tillisch, K., et al. 2013. Consumption of fermented milk product with probiotic modulates brain activity. Gastroenterology, 144 (7), 1394–1401.
Van Loo, J., et al. 1995. On the presence of inulin and oligofructose as natural ingredients in the Western diet. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 35 (6), 525–52.
West, N.P., et al. 2009. Probiotics, immunity and exercise: A review. Exercise Immunology Review, 15, 107–26.


VIM is now offering nutrition services with Trainer & Nutrition Coach, Christine Galvin!

Click below to find out how you can benefit from 1 on 1 Nutrition Coaching!

[button link=”https://vimfitness.com/nutrition/” text=”LEARN MORE” color=”green” size=”large” fullwidth=”true”]

 

make in august

It’s August, which means Summer produce is at its peak!

If you stop by your local farmer’s market you may notice a few of these fruits and veggies around. If you’re not sure what to do with them, scroll through some of these recipes for a seasonal and local meal!


[col size=’1/3′ pos=’first’]

1. Beets: Sweet & Spicy Quinoa Beet Burgers with Mango & Sprouts


[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’second’]

2. Bell Peppers: Mango Chicken Stir-Fry


[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’last’]

3. Blackberries: Almond Flour Blackberry Crisp for Two (Gluten Free)


[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’first’]

4. Cherries: Feel Good Vegan Cherry Cheesecake Bars


[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’second’]

5. Eggplant: Low Carb Eggplant Lasagna with the Best Turkey Meat Sauce + Burrata


[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’last’]

6. Figs: Caramelized Onion, Fig & Goat Cheese Pizza with Arugula


[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’first’]

7. Green Onions: Vegan Potato Salad with Herbed Tahini Sauce


[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’second’]

8. Mushrooms: Chipotle Black Bean Roasted Veggie Enchilada Casserole


[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’last’]

9. Peaches: Gluten Free Peach Crisp with Salted Coconut Milk Caramel


[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’first’]

10. Tomatoes: Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup


[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’second’]

11. Watermelon: Skinny Jalapeño Watermelon Margaritas


[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’last’]

12. Zucchini: The Best Zucchini Brownies You’ll Ever Eat


[/col]


VIM is now offering nutrition services with Trainer & Nutrition Coach, Christine Galvin!

Click below to find out how you can benefit from 1 on 1 Nutrition Coaching!

[button link=”https://vimfitness.com/nutrition/” text=”LEARN MORE” color=”green” size=”large” fullwidth=”true”]

 

summer smoothies

It’s official, Summer is in full swing!

But unfortunately so is the heat and humidity.

If you’re too hot to cook, try one of these seasonally inspired smoothies for a cool treat that’s also good for your health! Below are a few recipes, but feel free to alter anything to your liking.


[col size=’1/3′ pos=’first’]

Grape Berry Protein Smoothie


Sweet frozen grapes are an ideal complement to berries. Mix them together, and you’re in for an antioxidant-rich treat. Plus, when you blend grapes, you break down their skin which further releases the fruit’s stores of vitamin C, manganese and potassium. Photo and Recipe: Perry Santanachote / Life by DailyBurn
[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’second’]

Peachy Green Protein Smoothie


Though the recipe calls for frozen peaches, you may want to swap them out for fresh — they’re in season right now! And thanks to kale and ground flaxseed, you’ll get a solid hit of fiber and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Photo and Recipe: Perry Santanachote / Life by DailyBurn
[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’last’]

Blueberry Mint Green Smoothie


There’s nothing better than mint to cool you down. Plus, this drink is packed with ultra-hydrating coconut water, antioxidant-rich blueberries and folate from kale leaves. Tip: Freeze the greens before blending so they mix more easily. Photo and Recipe: Caitlin / The Merrythought
[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’first’]

Orange Creamsicle Protein Smoothie


Be sure to use calcium-fortified orange juice to get a solid hit of the mineral in this ice-cream inspired drink. And don’t forget two scoops of vanilla protein powder which adds 25 grams of protein and makes this smoothie extra creamy. Photo and Recipe: Perry Santanachote / Life by DailyBurn
[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’second’]

Mango Blueberry Protein Smoothie


Mangoes and blueberries are like peas and carrots: great on their own, but even better together. Mangoes are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, dietary fiber and antioxidants, while vitamin-packed blueberries have a powerhouse of phytonutrients, which help your body ward off diseases. Photo and Recipe: Perry Santanachote / Life by DailyBurn
[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’last’]

Paleo Peach Coconut Smoothie


Don’t let the short ingredient list fool you: This paleo-friendly smoothie is packed with nutritious goods. The peaches alone have folate, iron, zinc and copper. Just coconut milk and peaches should make the smoothie sweet enough on its own, but feel free tp add a dollop of raw, unfiltered honey if you prefer. Photo and Recipe: Lisa Wells / CookEatPaleo
[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’first’]

Berrylicious Smoothie


This simple smoothie is great for kids thanks to its basic ingredient list and sweet flavor. Frozen mixed berries serve as its base, while one banana adds depth of texture plus a wealth of potassium. Up the health benefits even more by choosing a fiber-enriched almond milk like this blogger did. Photo and Recipe: Stacey / GluedToMyCraftsBlog
[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’second’]

Key Lime Pie Protein Shake


Imagine yourself on Key West, soaking up a sunset with a slice of fresh key lime pie. This smoothie is the next best thing — and for a whole lot less calories. (But alas, no sunset.) A dusting of graham cracker crumbs adds an extra hint of sweetness, and yes, that pie-like taste. Photo and Recipe: Perry Santanachote / Life By DailyBurn
[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’last’]

Kale Pineapple Avocado Protein Smoothie


Summery, tropical drinks are delicious, but also highly caloric. Get your piña colada fix with this smoothie, which is extra creamy thanks to avocado. A double dose of vanilla, in the protein powder and in the almond milk, make this one extra sweet. Photo and Recipe: Dre / Delicious By Dre
[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’first’]

Raspberry Lemonade Smoothie


While more decadent than most other smoothie recipes, this chilling concoction is amazing on hot, lazy summer days. If you want to lighten it up, swap out the sugar for an equal amount of stevia. All you need is a porch swing. Photo and Recipe: Sarah / High Heels and Grills
[/col]


VIM is now offering nutrition services with Trainer & Nutrition Coach, Christine Galvin!

Click below to find out how you can benefit from 1 on 1 Nutrition Coaching!

[button link=”https://vimfitness.com/nutrition/” text=”LEARN MORE” color=”green” size=”large” fullwidth=”true”]

 

health hacks probiotic

Living your healthiest life can be a lot of work.

There is a good amount of planning and effort that goes into the classic healthy living advice: hours of exercise, meal planning, yoga, cooking, meditation. It’s a full lifestyle, but it is most certainly not effortless.

Here are three health hacks to add to your routine that you can sit (or nap!) through to reap the benefits with almost no effort.

  1. Lie down for a power nap.
    Not getting enough sleep can have a negative effect on the rest of your day. Taking a quick power nap can work magic on your energy levels. Ten minutes of shut eye or even just focusing on yoga breathing for a few minutes will leave you rejuvenated. (Of course, getting enough sleep at night is the best way to achieve optimal rest.)

  2. Take a probiotic.
    You simply take a pill and those billions of good bacteria do all the heavy lifting for you in your gut to support a healthy digestive tract and immune system.

  3. Laugh.
    Laughter is the best medicine! Laughing helps you destress, triggers the release of endorphins, and can even help you live longer.

Let’s focus in on probiotics.

Probiotics are the “good” bacteria that live in your GI tract and create the ideal conditions for digestion, helping to absorb nutrients. There are literally trillions of good bacteria that are living inside of you right now! Your GI tract also acts as a defense barrier between the outside world (aka germs) and your bloodstream. The more good bacteria it has, the harder it is for germs to get inside. If your microbiome is off, you might have symptoms ranging from minor gas and bloating to more chronic stress and mood swings. Your microbiome can even affect your skin, dental health ands personality!

Good bacteria are naturally found in fermented foods like yogurt with active cultures, kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi. Ideally, you’d eat these every day and have a flourishing GI gut. Yogurt is the most popular of the probiotic foods, but many of us don’t eat the rest of them enough. Therefore, taking a probiotic supplement is a simple and convenient way to help your GI tract thrive, just like a multivitamin can fill the gaps in your diet.

When you add an optimized gut to the other pillars of good health (sleep, nutrition, exercise, stress relief), then you’re using every defense you can against getting sick.

This is even more important if you’re going through a stressful time like a move or a job change or if you’re traveling somewhere that might have different bacteria in the food than you’re used to. When one pillar of health is compromised, the rest must pick up the slack, so keep them all as strong as you can when you’re well!

Blog post written by Trainer, Sarah Oliver


VIM is now offering nutrition services with Trainer & Nutrition Coach, Christine Galvin!

Click below to find out how you can benefit from 1 on 1 Nutrition Coaching!

[button link=”https://vimfitness.com/nutrition/” text=”LEARN MORE” color=”green” size=”large” fullwidth=”true”]

 

elimination diet food intolerance

Adapted from Amy Shah, M.D. Greatist.com

Since everyone and their cat (literally) is on a special diet, you might wonder if you, too, have a food allergy or intolerance.

After all, you do sometimes feel a little bloated when you eat dairy, and gluten, and vegetables… It feels like everything is off limits!

Luckily there is a relatively easy way to figure out if you have a food intolerance. You can try out this plan before resorting to expensive blood tests or extreme cleanses.

But Should You Try This?

• Before beginning any restrictive diet, it’s important to have an idea if you have a food allergy or a food intolerance. If, immediately after eating certain foods (in even microscopic amounts), your throat tightens, you get hives, or you experience anaphylaxis (a type of total-body shock), consult a board certified allergist, as that may be a food allergy—and that’s not something to self-diagnose.

On the other hand, symptoms like constipation, headaches, heartburn, fatigue, bloating, or difficulty swallowing may be a food intolerance. Sometimes this will get worse one to three hours after consuming a food, but often the timing makes it unclear if it’s diet or something else causing your problems.

Food challenges—where you take out a food out and then add back in to see if it causes symptoms—are considered the “gold standard” for diagnosing intolerances. Blood and skin testing can often give false or confusing results, so after those, sometimes doctors recommend a food challenge to confirm the sensitivity.

elimination diet food intoleranceThe Easy Elimination Diet

The plan below is a little different from a full elimination diet, where you remove 8+ food groups at the same time. For most people it’s almost impossible and of course cumbersome to avoid so many foods at once. This modified version is a lot easier because you eliminate three or four food groups at a time for 21 days since it takes about two to three weeks to notice any difference in your symptoms.
After those first 21 days of avoiding certain foods, you should feel better. That’s when you reintroduce the foods one by one, allowing at least three days before you reintroduce the next one so you’re able to notice any changes in how your body reacts to the food. If you add back all the eliminated food groups and have no symptoms, move on to the next step of the plan, when you’ll take out new foods. Continue doing this until a certain food group causes symptoms—that’s likely your trigger. You can stop the diet then, or continue if you think more than one food is at fault.
You’ll start by cutting out the statistically most common offenders, then move to less common ones, which should mean you can figure out your culprit faster. During each phase, make sure to read food labels to see if packaged goods contain any ingredients you are avoiding. These foods are hidden in a lot more things than you think! When you eat out, ask the restaurant staff what’s in dishes. (For example, are the vegetables cooked in butter or is peanut oil used for that stir-fry?)
You won’t have to worry about being hungry since you’re only avoiding some foods, and you can always chow down on lot of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Vitamin deficiencies aren’t a concern either, since each phase is only 21 days.

Your Post-Plan Plan

Let’s say you found out gluten is a problem for you. Then you should avoiding eating it and anything using it as an ingredient so you don’t have to suffer from symptoms. Yes, this means asking about meals at restaurants and reading labels, but you don’t have to cut out foods “processed in a facility with gluten” since a trace won’t throw you into allergic shock. And you may even be able to enjoy some wheat on rare occasions without many issues—for those without celiac disease, once you give your immune system and gut a break from the food and it heals, small amounts will be tolerable for most. Hello, birthday cake!


Blog post written by Trainer, Sarah Oliver


VIM is now offering nutrition services with Trainer & Nutrition Coach, Christine Galvin!

Click below to find out how you can benefit from 1 on 1 Nutrition Coaching!

[button link=”https://vimfitness.com/nutrition/” text=”LEARN MORE” color=”green” size=”large” fullwidth=”true”]

 

starbucks protein box

The Starbucks Protein Boxes are convenient and easy meal options that you can buy and take on-the-go.

They often have over 20 grams of protein to help keep you satisfied on your busy day, but their high protein comes at a high cost. I am a huge fan of Starbucks, but I must admit, I cannot afford to eat or drink there daily!

Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to mimic a Starbucks protein box at home!

This copycat box is convenient, tasty, and best of all, EASY! Snack boxes are great because they offer many different flavors and textures in a fun delivery, and they also offer a full range of nutrient groups (protein, fiber, fruits, vitamins, etc.). They are perfect for young eaters who love the novelty of a snack box, as well as adults who enjoy the convenience and satisfaction of a high protein lunch!

For this particular snack box, the ingredients are:

  • • Sliced cheese, cheese stick or a Babybel
  • • Apple or other fruit
  • • Pita bread or other whole grain crackers
  • • 2 hard-boiled eggs
  • • 2 Tbsp. peanut butter

That’s it! Pretty simple, and you likely already have most of the ingredients.

You could also swap out the apple for sliced peppers and carrots, the eggs for nuts, the pita for a whole grain cereal and the cheese for chopped chicken or tofu. The simple dividers of the box means you can combine essentially anything! If you don’t have a divided lunch container like this, you can also just use a series of small Tupperware. There will be more dishes to wash, but you still get to enjoy a healthy assortment of snacks. What would you put in your box? Let us know in the comments!


Blog post written by Trainer, Sarah Oliver


VIM is now offering nutrition services with Trainer & Nutrition Coach, Christine Galvin!

Click below to find out how you can benefit from 1 on 1 Nutrition Coaching!

[button link=”https://vimfitness.com/nutrition/” text=”LEARN MORE” color=”green” size=”large” fullwidth=”true”]

 

anti-inflammatory food

Inflammation has a bad rap, but it’s not inherently evil.

It is a natural response to illness, a critical defense mechanism that helps to heal damaged cells and fight viruses and bacteria. But there are two types of inflammation.

Acute Inflammation might be a cut that turns red and becomes inflamed. This is your body’s natural response to help heal the cut. Chronic inflammation, on the other hand, is a continuous inflammation with a slow onset, typically resulting from poor diet, physical inactivity, overactive immune responses, or invaders the body cannot get rid of. This is where someone may look to get treatment as we as start a better lifestyle. They may look into using products like hemp to help them. Click this link if you’re questioning “what is hemp?”

Whether you are already living with chronic inflammation or doing everything in your power to reduce your risk of disease, you can include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet to help ease inflammation!

1. Dark-Green, Leafy Vegetables

According to many experts, dark-green, leafy vegetables are considered the healthiest foods on the planet, as they offer the most nutrients per calorie. Greens are associated with the strongest protection against chronic diseases, including 20% reduction in risk for heart attacks and strokes for every daily serving. Plus, they are rich in antioxidants that restore cellular health, as well as anti-inflammatory flavonoids.

2. Turmeric

There has been a lot of information about turmeric and its health benefits. In recent years, more than 5,000 studies have been published on turmeric. Turmeric’s primary compound, curcumin, is its active anti-inflammatory component and is considered one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory components in the world. There is so much research regarding turmeric and its benefits, it can’t fully be explained here! To give you a little taste of how amazing turmeric is, research shows turmeric can beneficial in preventing or treating:

  • Lung Disease
  • Brain Disease

  • Variety of Cancers, including: multiple myeloma, colon cancer, and pancreatic cancer

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Lupus

  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease
  • …and more!

3. Flaxseed

The word “superfood” comes to mind every time we consume flaxseeds. Why? Because they are an excellent source of omega-3s (anti-inflammatory!) and phytonutrients (cancer fighters!). Specifically, flax contains the phytonutrient lignan, which is a chemical compound protecting blood vessels from inflammatory damage. Another thing we love about flaxseeds is they have been found to lower LDL (“bad) cholesterol and therefore reduce your risk of heart disease.

4. Oats

Oats contain a unique class of antioxidants called avenanthramides which is found to lower blood pressure and have anti-inflammatory properties. Avenanthramides have also been shown to relieve skin itching and irritation effects.

5. Berries

Dark-green, leafy vegetables may be the healthiest vegetable on the planet, but berries are are most certainly the healthiest fruits. This is because berries rank as some of the highest foods in terms of their antioxidant power, which is measured in units. For reference, apples contain about 60 units, whereas bananas contain 40 units of antioxidants. But the Aronia Berry contains much more! Also, per cup, strawberries contain 310 units, cranberries 330 units, raspberries 350 units, blueberries 380 units, and blackberries 650 units! The tremendous amount of antioxidants and phytochemicals in berries is what makes these fruits powerful against inflammation.


Blog post written by Trainer, Sarah Oliver


VIM is now offering nutrition services with Trainer & Nutrition Coach, Christine Galvin!

Click below to find out how you can benefit from 1 on 1 Nutrition Coaching!

[button link=”https://vimfitness.com/nutrition/” text=”LEARN MORE” color=”green” size=”large” fullwidth=”true”]

july 4th bbq

It’s finally summer! So kick it off well with an Independence Day BBQ.

With all these recipes, you can easily host one in your backyard, patio or even tiny apartment kitchen.

Or if you’re a guest, bring one of these along! If you’re going to eat all the food, you might as well contribute a liiiiitle bit. So get in the kitchen, then get outside! And remember your sunscreen. Happy 4th!

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’first’]

Grapefruit Avocado Salsa


A healthy appetizer or burger topping! Besides, why go a day without avocado?
[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’second’]

Vegan Veggie Burgers


For friends and family with special diets.
[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’last’]

Pizza Pasta Salad


No more fights over choosing between pizza and pasta!
[/col]


[col size=’1/3′ pos=’first’]

Healthier Strawberry Ice Cream


Greek yogurt makes this frozen yogurt a healthy and easy alternative to make at home!
[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’second’]

Easy Flag Fruit Dessert


For friends with kids… or kids at heart!
[/col]

[col size=’1/3′ pos=’last’]

Cucumber Basil Kombucha Mule


Because why not be tipsy and trendy
[/col]


Blog post written by Trainer, Sarah Oliver


VIM is now offering nutrition services with Trainer & Nutrition Coach, Christine Galvin!

Click below to find out how you can benefit from 1 on 1 Nutrition Coaching!

[button link=”https://vimfitness.com/nutrition/” text=”LEARN MORE” color=”green” size=”large” fullwidth=”true”]

 

eating healthy at restaurants

Summer is full of opportunities for natural movement and fresh local foods.

However, there are also plenty of social gatherings at restaurants of all types that don’t follow the healthy ways of summer.

Everyone enjoys eating out, and you shouldn’t have to give that up! Instead of choosing between staying home or ruining your diet, use these five simple tips below to achieve nutrition success every time you eat out!

  • Be picky: Most restaurants are more than willing to make adjustments to their recipes; provided, they have the ingredients to do so. Asking for grilled chicken instead of fried chicken, broiled fish instead of beer-battered, or condiments lite or on the side are all great ways to reduce the high fat content found in many menu options.
  • Ask Questions: French fries and tater tots are not the only side option available! Although often not listed, many places will offer fresh fruit or a small salad as an alternative side at no additional cost. In addition, asking questions about how the meal is cooked or if any meal is prepared solely “in-house” can give further insight into the nutritional content of the meal. Foods that are prepared “in-house” use limited processed ingredients which can reduce the sodium and added sugar content of your meal.
  • Understand Menu Terms: Menus can be confusing by using food preparation terms you may have never heard of before. In fact, certain terms may indicate being cooked in high-fat butter or deep fried in oil. Below is a list of common menu terms and their health implication:
    • Au gratin, scalloped, buttered, creamed and stuffed can all indicate foods prepared in cream and butter. These foods are often higher in fat and calories and frequent consumption can lead to an increased risk for cardiovascular diseases.
    • Steamed, roasted, broiled, grilled and poached all utilize a dry heat cooking method and typically are lower in fat. These are the menu terms to look for when trying to select an entrée preparation method.
    • Au jus, pickled, smoked, cured can all imply high sodium. Too much sodium in your diet can lead to high blood pressure and increase your risk for a heart attack or stroke.
  • Drink Water: Studies have shown that drinking water throughout your meal helps fill you up and curb your appetite. People who drink water with their meals are less likely to overindulge in the main course. Next time you are at a restaurant, swap a high-sugar soft beverage for a glass of ice water. Ask your waiter for a slice of fresh lemon or lime to jazz up your water even more!
  • Look at the Menu Ahead: Some menus can be overwhelmingly large. When going to a new restaurant, look at the menu online ahead of time and decide what you are going to order. By planning ahead you will be more likely to choose a healthier meal, and less likely to impulse order that bacon cheeseburger because you ran out of time looking at the menu.

Eating out should be a fun experience but it doesn’t have to compromise your health!

The next time you are ordering out from a restaurant keep the tips above in the back of your mind. It is important to remember that an occasional cheeseburger or side of cheesy scalloped potatoes will not totally compromise your diet. The problem comes about when these foods become a part of your regular diet, and overtime can lead to serious health consequences.


Blog post written by Trainer, Sarah Oliver


VIM is now offering nutrition services with Trainer & Nutrition Coach, Christine Galvin!

Click below to find out how you can benefit from 1 on 1 Nutrition Coaching!

[button link=”https://vimfitness.com/nutrition/” text=”LEARN MORE” color=”green” size=”large” fullwidth=”true”]

 

Father's Day Recipes

As we all know, Father’s Day is a special opportunity to show our Dad’s just how much they mean to us.

Good food enjoyed surrounded by family and loved ones is pretty hard to beat and will certainly show your Dad how much he means to you.

When planning a Father’s Day meal, a lot of us will immediately think of stereotypical “man” foods – thick and juicy steaks, meat smothered in barbecue sauce, fried or chilli-laden accompaniments and all washed down with a couple of cold ones. While the thought alone may have you drooling, it’s certainly not going to have such a positive impact on your old man’s health and wellbeing.

The key to the perfect Father’s Day meal is finding that balance between delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re planning a brunch, lunch or dinner for Dad, we have healthy and tasty recipes for every meal!

Breakfast: Veggie & Egg Tower of Power

Lunch: Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos

Dinner: Grilled Filet Mignon with Herb Butter and Texas Toast

Dessert: Rhubarb and Strawberry Quinoa Crumble

Drinks: Fresh Cherry Lemonade


Blog post written by Trainer, Sarah Oliver


VIM is now offering nutrition services with Trainer & Nutrition Coach, Christine Galvin!

Click below to find out how you can benefit from 1 on 1 Nutrition Coaching!

[button link=”https://vimfitness.com/nutrition/” text=”LEARN MORE” color=”green” size=”large” fullwidth=”true”]