Oh Fairy Godmother of Health/Wellness...Part 1

Our Fairy Godmother of Health and Wellness is here today, 

and she has spoken.

See below for questions to healthy eating and overall diet tips.

My questions are in black.

Her answers are in pink.

And any additional commentary from moi is in purple.

Krissy, most of my readers mentioned that they are interested in healthy eating and or weight loss....can you give us some tips or formulations that you suggest to your patients that are interested in losing weight?

I highly encourage people to keep a food diary - write down everything they eat, at what time and how much.  This takes diligence, but it is so helpful to be able to really look at what you are eating on a daily basis and think about where you can make some healthier changes.  It is also great at bringing awareness to your eating choices as you are eating, simply by knowing you are going to have to write it down and "report" it to yourself.

Ideally, people should work at getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity at a moderate intensity most days of the week.  The good news it that, those 30 minutes are also beneficial if you break it up into 10 minute increments throughout the day.  In addition, try to squeeze in more unplanned activity, such as walking a lap around Target before starting your shopping, parking in far away parking spots, take the stairs instead of elevators or escalators when available. {So, if you have kids under the age of 3 you are kind of screwed in the 'gettin' a regular workout' area, just bein' honest.  And then, how do we write down what you eat, when you can't even take the time to go to the bathroom to eliminate your own urine/bowels?  My kiddos never give me a chance to sit and write down much of anything besides this here blog.}

One reader in particular, a Mom of three wants some healthy snack ideas for both her and her kids, easy stuff for on the go...any suggestions?
Mix-your-own Trail Mix:  ideas - raisins or craisins or other dried fruit, raw unsalted nuts such as almonds or walnuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate chips, whole grain cereal.  You can get creative and put healthier ratios of the ingredients than the packaged trail mixes (i.e., more unsalted almonds and less chocolate).

Fruit salad.  Make it at the beginning of the week and have it ready all week.

Apples - make them a little more appealing with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a little peanut butter or almond butter or a slice of low-fat cheese.

Frozen yogurt topped with some fresh berries. {Or, eat whatever is left on your kid's high-chair tray and call it a meal!}

Another follower eats healthy but loves to have coffee everyday...any guidelines or thoughts on coffee?
There is a lot of conflicting research out about coffee, but more and more studies are coming out that show potential health benefits from drinking it.  My personal opinion is to try limit coffee consumption to about two cups per day.  As far as the caffeine goes, try to stay away from it after the afternoon so it doesn’t affect your sleep. {Comment or email me if you can survive without a morning coffee, just curious!}

I myself am a Diet Coke fan, should I eliminate it, keep it to a certain number a day, or not worry my pretty little head?
Typically there are a lot of calories in regular soda, but since we are talking about diet soda, I can't make that argument, can I!  Like regular sodas, however, diet soda does not have any nutritional value.  Our bodies are biologically made to want pure water, so maybe before drinking your next soda, consider drinking a glass of water first and see if that quenches your thirst.  Another thing about soda is that it tends to make us crave other sweet foods, which can lead to eating more unnecessary calories. {Did you hear that?  I don't have to quit Diet Coke!!}

Lastly, give us some info on superfoods, or what your diet looks like if you are trying to eat healthy...basic tips, please!

Fruits and vegetables!  Specifically some high on my list are spinach, broccoli, berries and apples.  Other good foods, oatmeal, fish, lean meats, whole grain breads and cereals.

Every body is different, so what works well or is safe for one person, may or may not work well or be safe for the next person.  Especially if you are pregnant, have diabetes, heart disease or some other medical condition, it is always best to ask your doctor what he/she recommends for you. {Medical Disclaimer; so don't try suing us!}

I hope you enjoyed Part 1 of chatting with our 

Fairy Godmother of Health & Wellness!

Lots more intelligent content than the ol' usual So Stinkin' Cute huh?