Archive for June, 2010

1. Maximize your muscle.

Muscles are fat-burning furnaces, so be sure to do enough resistance training to build and maintain them and follow your workouts with a snack or meal balanced in protein, carbohydrates and fat.

2. Don't forget the only cardio workout worth doing is HIGH INTENSITY!

Forget planting yourself on the treadmill. It doesn't work! Spike your cardio with interval bursts to maximize your metabolic boost! routines. On target cardio training improves definition and blasts the fat that covers your muscles. Combining regular aerobic exercise with strength training will give you the slimming effect you've been going for. After all, toning without cardio is like building a house on a weak foundation.

3. Be sure to stretch.

Stretching will help your muscles work better so you can more effectively isolate your problem areas and lessen your risk for injury. A tight muscle cannot fire most efficiently, compromising your strength.

4. Focus on your assets.

Playing up your favorite body parts can boost your confidence and draw attention away from spots you want to minimize. Sculpting your shoulders, arms, chest, and back, for example, can help balance heavier hips so you look more proportionate. Plus, you'll be firmer all over. But guys, just because you like your chest and biceps big, don't forget muscle parity and balance is your key to looking and functioning at your optimum.

5. Don't starve yourself.

Undereating causes your metabolic rate to drop and your body to hold onto fat. To figure out how many calories you should be consuming per day, log onto your VITABOT ONLINE NUTRITION account. Your body needs to be fed to burn calories. Learn how many calories you need and then get the right distribution of fat, carbohydrates and protein for your individual needs and weight loss goals.

6. Go graze-y.

Eat 6 small meals a day to avoid blood-sugar spikes and minimize urges to binge and store more of your daily calories as fat! Eating most of your calories at one sitting will teach your body to hang onto calories as fat - because your poor body doesn't trust when it might be fed again. Small, nutritious meals throughout the day will keep you balanced, focused and fueled.

7. Get real.

Fast food and processed meals add up to poor nutrition and polyester. Get the junk out and fuel your body with wholesome, nutritious foods, and limit your intake of refined carbs (anything sugary or white-flour based).

8. Drink more water.

Staying hydrated will help you feel full longer and keep you healthy. Keeping full on fluids helps keep your appetite at bay, your muscles functioning and your skin looking young. That and it has zero calories and is mostly FREE! Do we really have to keep selling you on this miracle????

9. Sleep tight.

Get 7-8 hours of Z's a night. Fatigue undermines your energy, sense of well being and ability to function. We don't want you tired when you come to workout. Your boss doesn't want you fuzzy on the job. And besides, being tired makes us reach for quick pick me ups like sugar! Get enough sleep and have a wider base to function!

10. Control what you can.

Keep stress levels in check by managing your time, focusing on the present and not over-committing. Also realize the only real thing you can control in life is your response to others and aggravating situations. Being less attached to control takes a lot of unnecessary stress off of your shoulders.

At Pilates 1901 we know how hectic and busy your lives get. We also know how hard it is to find time to take care of yourself. That means making the time to workout, to take time to destress, and to create a plan for your own well being. That's where we can help.

Our Leaner Stronger Sooner Fat Loss Program has proven results. We guarantee you will lose weight, lose inches and gain a greater sense of confidence and health or your money back! We've done it for countless other women and men and we can do the same for you! Call Tina at 913 499 7510 for more information today.

Baby it's hot outside!  It's Summertime in Kansas City and we know you don't want to waste time in the kitchen, much less turn that stove on!  So delight in the season's best offerings and serve up any of these delicious meals in less than 20 minutes!  You'll have more time for Pilates and all the other fitness activities you enjoy so much!  Thanks to Cooking Light for these healthy recipes....

Creole Tomato Salad

This simple no-cook salad is one of the best ways to highlight heirloom tomatoes, with its counterpoint of pungent raw onion and a light Dijon vinaigrette. You can also make this salad the spotlight of a great BLT (use the dressing in place of mayo), or add sliced mozzarella cheese for a Creole Caprese Salad.

Tomatoes are an important ingredient in the Creole cooking of New Orleans. This composed salad is easy to put together yet yields abundant, fresh flavor.

Ingredients

* 3 ripe tomatoes, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices (about 2 pounds)

* 1 Vidalia or other sweet onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings

* 1/4 teaspoon salt

* 1 tablespoon thinly sliced fresh mint

* 2 teaspoons chopped fresh chives

Vinaigrette:

* 4 teaspoons olive oil

* 4 teaspoons red wine vinegar

* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

* 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh garlic

Preparation

To prepare salad, alternate tomato and onion slices on a platter. Sprinkle with salt. Top with mint and chives. To prepare vinaigrette, combine oil, vinegar, mustard, and garlic in a jar. Cover tightly; shake vigorously. Drizzle vinaigrette over salad, and serve at room temperature.  Makes 4 servings.

Asparagus Ribbons with Lemon and Goat Cheese

The fun ribbons created by shaving asparagus with a vegetable peeler are easy to make, and don't have to be cooked, so they retain their crunch and flavor. This fast salad makes a great light, fresh side for just about any summer dish, from burgers to grilled fish to barbecue.

Creamy goat cheese crowns a refreshingly bracing salad. Because the asparagus is shaved, it does not have to be cooked. Thick asparagus spears work best when it comes to making ribbons like these.

Ingredients

* 1 pound large asparagus spears, trimmed

* 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

* 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives

* 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

* 2 teaspoons extravirgin olive oil

* 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

* 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

* 1/4 teaspoon sugar

* 1/4 teaspoon salt

* 1/2 cup (2 ounces) crumbled goat cheese

Preparation

Hold each asparagus spear by the tip end. Shave asparagus into ribbons with a vegetable peeler to measure 3 cups. Reserve asparagus tips for another use. Combine asparagus and tomatoes in a medium bowl. Combine chives and next 6 ingredients (through 1/4 teaspoon salt), stirring with a whisk. Drizzle over the asparagus mixture, tossing gently to coat. Top with goat cheese.  Makes 8  1/2 cup servings.

Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

The pairing of fresh strawberries and a thick-and-sweet poppy seed dressing is a classic everybody loves. We add a bit of white wine vinegar to the dressing for a little zing, and top the salad with almonds for crunch as well as healthy unsaturated fats. Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish, and add any other berries you like―blueberries are especially good.

Ingredients

* 3 tablespoons sugar

* 3 tablespoons light mayonnaise

* 2 tablespoons fat-free milk

* 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

* 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

* 1 (10-ounce) bag romaine lettuce

* 1 cup sliced strawberries

* 2 tablespoons slivered almonds, toasted

Preparation

Combine first 5 ingredients in a small bowl, stirring with a whisk.  Place lettuce in a large bowl; add strawberries and almonds, tossing to combine. Divide salad evenly among 6 plates. Drizzle 1 tablespoon dressing over each serving.   Makes 6 servings.

Haricots Verts and Grape Tomato Salad with Crème Fraîche Dressing

This dish turns your table into a fancy French bistro, but it requires exactly two minutes of cooking. Seek out real crème fraîche―it's thicker and a bit less tangy than sour cream―though sour cream will do in a pinch. This dressing is excellent on any kind of salad, and you can leave out the shallots to use it on fruit salads, too, especially those with melon.

Haricots verts are tender, young French green beans. If not labeled as such in your market, look for slim, petite green beans. Crème fraîche adds a nutty flavor and rich texture to the dressing; look for it near the gourmet cheeses in your supermarket. Substitute whole sour cream, if you prefer.

Ingredients

* 1 pound haricots verts, trimmed

* 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil

* 2 tablespoons minced shallots

* 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

* 2 tablespoons crème fraîche

* 1 tablespoon honey

* 1/2 teaspoon salt

* 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, halved

* 1 tablespoon pine nuts, toasted

Preparation

Cook haricots verts in boiling water 2 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain and rinse with cold water; drain.  Combine basil and next 5 ingredients (through salt) in a large bowl, stirring with a whisk. Add haricots verts and tomatoes; toss gently to coat. Divide mixture evenly among 6 plates; sprinkle with nuts.

Crab, Corn, and Tomato Salad with Lemon-Basil Dressing

This dish looks super-summery: It's just a heaping helping of fresh vegetables mixed with delectable crabmeat in a lovely light dressing. Show off your own garden by adding other fresh veggies like zucchini or green beans. If you don't like crab, try chopped chicken or canned tuna or salmon instead.

The tart dressing contrasts with the sweet corn, tomatoes, and crab. Serve with a lemon wedge, if desired. Pair it with cucumber soup or a grilled sandwich.

Ingredients

* 1 tablespoon grated lemon rind

* 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, divided

* 1 tablespoon extravirgin olive oil

* 1 teaspoon honey

* 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

* 1/4 teaspoon salt

* 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

* 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears)

* 1/4 cup thinly sliced basil leaves

* 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper

* 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion

* 1 pound lump crabmeat, shell pieces removed

* 8 (1/4-inch-thick) slices ripe beefsteak tomato

* 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

Preparation

Combine rind, 3 tablespoons juice, and next 5 ingredients (through black pepper) in a large bowl, stirring well with a whisk. Reserve 1 1/2 tablespoons juice mixture. Add remaining 2 tablespoons juice, corn, and next 4 ingredients (through crab) to remaining juice mixture; toss gently to coat.  Arrange 2 tomato slices and 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes on each of 4 plates. Drizzle about 1 teaspoon reserved juice mixture over each serving. Top each serving with 1 cup corn and crab mixture.

Fresh English Pea Salad with Mint and Pecorino

English peas and mint are a classic combination, given extra depth of flavor here with the addition of savory pecorino and bitter arugula. Fresh lemon juice (always better than bottled) in the dressing brightens all the flavors. Crumbled feta or goat cheese make excellent substitutes for pecorino, and if you can't find fresh English peas, try green beans or sugar snap peas, or use frozen.

This simple salad boasts plenty of early summer flavor. You can substitute crumbled feta cheese for the pecorino. If you can't find fresh peas, use frozen thawed petite green peas.

Ingredients

* 2 cups water

* 1 cup shelled green peas (about 1 pound unshelled)

* 6 cups trimmed arugula

* 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint

* 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

* 1 tablespoon extravirgin olive oil

* 1/2 teaspoon salt

* 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

* 1/2 cup (2 ounces) shaved fresh pecorino Romano cheese

Preparation

Bring 2 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add peas; cook 1 minute. Drain and plunge peas into ice water; drain. Combine peas, arugula, and mint in a large bowl. Add lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper; toss well. Sprinkle with cheese. Serve immediately.    Makes 8 servings.

With all of these yummy recipes there's absolutely NO EXCUSE not to eat healthfully and with gusto!  Please leave your comments and Summer no cook recipes to share below in the post box!  For more information about our programs, call 913 499 7510 today!

You all know someone who may be "of a certain age" and yet they radiate youth, energy and enthusiasm. That's because there's more to a beautiful woman (or handsome man) than a few smile lines around the eyes or a bottom that no longer bounces a quarter as far. Aging really is all about an attitude- specifically, a good attitude. Sitting in the center of our worlds and taking care of ourselves (without taking ourselves too seriously) can go along way to taking of 10 or 20 years today!

Here are some great reminders from Health Magazine. No magic tricks here. Just easy tips that really do work!

Act Like a Kid

"Getting back into an activity you loved as a child will give you that feeling of being a kid again," says Gabrielle Bernstein, author of Add More -Ing to Your Life: A Hip Guide to Happiness. "Even jumping on your bike for an afternoon ride with friends will make you feel more carefree."

Say C, Señorita

Vitamin C is essential for your body to make collagen, the protein that keeps skin firm and elastic. Lisa Zdinak, MD, chief surgeon at Precision Aesthetics in New York City, recommends eating C-rich foods, such as strawberries, to promote collagen production, in addition to applying a C serum such as Triple Oxygen + C Energizing Cream from Dermadoctor.

Out, Darn Spots

You can fade age spots (usually caused by sun damage) with topical lotions. Try Immaculate Correction or Physical Chemistry Facial microdermabrasion from Dermadoctor.

For a faster face-saver, splurge on laser treatments or peels at nearby Hudson Med Spa or Lotus Skin Care.

Get Steamy

Steam your veggies! According to the new book Your Skin, Younger, eating vegetables cooked at high heat without water (think roasting, grilling, or frying) can cause inflammation, increasing the rate of aging in the body.

Clip Those Bat Wings

Flabby upper arms can creep up on you as you age. If you take pilates reguarly with us at Pilates1901 you know we are always working on those not so lady like trouble spots. Whether you'r working out against the weight of your own body in mat classes, or working against the springs on the reformer or chair, resistance training reverses muscle aging, according to a study at the Buck Institute for Age Research in Novato, California. Even squeezing the Pilates Magic Circle can tone and firm your arms!

Release Control

“Anxiety and worry will make you feel older and lower your energy,” author Gabrielle Bernstein says. Try telling yourself: I accept that there are things in life I can’t control, and I release my worries.

One of the best things about getting older is lowering the DRAMA QUOTIENT in our lives. Things that used to get us riled up just don't have the same power. That means more time for enjoying our worlds and opening our hearts to something totally ageless: Happiness.

At Pilates1901 we know that true health and well being are not just about how you look in your swimsuit. It's about how you WEAR your swimsuit. Think about it. And call us if you've not been to the studio. It truly is a beautiful space to workout and be well! 913 499 7510.

We all know exercise is good for us. For years we have heard the benefits of exercise preached by the health gurus of the day. Every magazine aimed at women has at least one how to article on the subject of exercise.

Yes, exercise makes you look good and feel better, but did you know that exercise could ease the transition from the perimenopause into menopause?  Simply said-  "No we do NOT have to endure the JELLY BELLY that often accompanies the onset of perimenopause and menopause.

Another common complaint women have during perimenopause is anxiety attacks. Regular exercise can help by reducing stress. Even better, by participating in just a few minutes of vigorous exercise you can stop a panic attack before it comes on.

A regular exercise program reduces the chance of developing metabolic syndrome during the perimenopause years. Metabolic syndrome increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, weight gain, high cholesterol levels and a host of other physical problems that women who have entered into menopause are plagued with.

Osteoporosis is a disease that is characterized by the weakening of the bones. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation approximately 55 percent of the American population that is 55 years or older is affected by the disease. Exercising regularly makes for strong bones; perimenopause is the time of life when women lose bone density. Protect yourself with a regular exercise routine.

Exercise makes the body produce endorphins, these are neurotransmitters that are known to relieve pain and cause a sense of well-being or euphoria. Endorphins are what make you feel good when you exercise. The changes the endorphins make in the brain can last for hours. They will help relieve the depression and feelings of uncertainty that many women experience during perimenopause. They will also help your body relax so you will not have to suffer so much from the insomnia that often comes with perimenopause.

Studies have shown there is three types of exercise that that most benefit women in perimenopause.

1. Aerobic exercise; this will release the endorphins and help to sooth the anxiety and depression. It will also help you to combat insomnia, maintain weight control, and may even help to keep the hot flashes at bay.   In addition to traditional avenues to cardiovascular training such as walking or biking,  Pilates jumpboard and circuit training (ie our Pilates Bootcamp classes) challenge both the cardiovascular and strength training components necessary for optimal weight loss.

2. Strength training works well for women in perimenopause by increasing lean muscle mass and increasing bone strength. This will give y our metabolism a boost, and aid in the prevention of osteoporosis.   Pilates builds strength and lean muscle mass by using body weight and spring resistance to overload and tone the muscles.  Pilates training is especially effective since it challenges many muscles at the same time while maximizing balance and core strength.

3. Deep breathing exercises are very helpful to women in perimenopause. Focused breathing exercises such as belly yoga have been shown to reduce hot flashes as much as 5o percent according to studies done at Wayne State University.  Pilates training, with it's emphasis on the breath and connection to the core and connection to movement is an excellent way to calm the mind, increase mind body connection and tighten and tone the midsection.

If you're getting a little thick around the middle, experiencing free floating anxiety, sleeplessness and increased fatigue, you can benefit from exercising regularly.  If you haven't been successful at other weight loss programs you don't have to give up.

Pilates1901's LEANER STRONGER SOONER Fat Losss Program is Kansas City's only results guaranteed weight loss program- we guarantee you will lose weight- dramatically increase your fitness level and look and feel years younger.  How can we do that?  We have a program that has proven results.  Just ask our clients!

We know that a regular exercise program will not only give you the benefits of easing the transition from perimenopause into menopause, but is also will help you to establish a healthy foundation for many years to come.  And we want to be part of your success.  Call 913 499 7510 to get started today!

You work hard every day during the week, inching faithfully closer to your fat loss goals, and then.... comes the WEEKEND!

So many of us unwittingly sabotage our weight loss goals simply because we fail to plan for the less structured, more social excuses to overdo it weekends.    Here are some thoughtful strategies for sailing guilt free through the weekend from SHAPE magazine.  After all, Monday is so much easier to face when you have't had 4 martinis and breakfast at Chubby's then felt like do-do and simply HAD to have that  hangover milkshake on Sunday..... know what I'm talking about????

Crammed with family functions, cocktail hours and barbecues, weekends can be healthy-eating minefields.  That's why we need a plan in place before the weekend!

The problem: Grazing all weekend long.

Why it happens: Without a structured schedule, you grab whatever food is within easy reach.

Rescue remedy: Take 15 minutes midday Friday to review your weekend plans; identify any potential trouble spots (e.g., you're attending a beach barbecue on Sunday) so you can schedule your meal and snack times around them. By imposing some guidelines, you cut the chances that you'll nibble mindlessly.   Take a moment to write down what you WILL and WILL NOT eat and drink! Making a mindful decision in advance is empowering and gives you less excuses to spontaneously over do it!

The problem: After a tough week you are so ready to melt into the couch -- with a big bowl of triple-fudge ice cream.

Why it happens: You're craving comfort, not food.

Rescue remedy: Brainstorm non-food ways to soothe yourself, like meeting a friend for a walk in the park or getting a pedicure while you catch up on summer reading. If you still need the sugar, you can usually get your fix without putting too big a dent in your diet; click here for Tina's delicious protein shake recipes!

The problem: All of your social events revolve around food.

Why it happens: With so many tempting items within reach, it seems impossible to avoid blowing your diet.

Rescue remedy: You don't have to choose between parties (or turn down every single bite). Before you leave the house, have a small, protein-rich snack (to prevent that "I'm starving" feeling).   If you've eaten an ounce or two of chicken or a nice bite of cheese, it may slow your response time at the buffet.  At the party, look at everything that's being offered first, then zero in on a few items that look too good to pass up and just have those.

Please share your successful strategies for the weekend by posting a comment below.  It takes a village and you can inspire and support others with your input!  Post your ideas!

Recently I had the pleasure of sitting down with local author and Pilates1901client Barb Stuber, to discuss the release of her new novel, Crossing the Tracks.  This coming of age story, set in Kansas City in the 1920's has been released to rave reviews.  Here is my interview with Barb.  It's fun.

Join me and the staff of Pilates1901 as we celebrate the release of Crossing the Tracks, Thursday, June 17 6-8pm. Lobby - Faultless Starch Co. 1025 W. 8th Street, Kansas City, MO.

Click here for reservations and to reserve your book!

You all know someone who may be "of a certain age" and yet they radiate youth, energy and enthusiasm. That's because there's more to a beautiful woman (or handsome man) than a few smile lines around the eyes or a bottom that no longer bounces a quarter as far. Aging really is all about an attitude- specifically, a good attitude. Sitting in the center of our worlds and taking care of ourselves (without taking ourselves too seriously) can go along way to taking of 10 or 20 years today!

Here are some great reminders from Health Magazine and Pilates1901.... No magic tricks here. Just easy tips that really do work!

Act Like a Kid

"Getting back into an activity you loved as a child will give you that feeling of being a kid again," says Gabrielle Bernstein, author of Add More -Ing to Your Life: A Hip Guide to Happiness. "Even jumping on your bike for an afternoon ride with friends will make you feel more carefree."

Say C, Señorita

Vitamin C is essential for your body to make collagen, the protein that keeps skin firm and elastic. Lisa Zdinak, MD, chief surgeon at Precision Aesthetics in New York City, recommends eating C-rich foods, such as strawberries, to promote collagen production, in addition to applying a C serum such as Triple Oxygen + C Energizing Cream from Dermadoctor.

Out, Darn Spots

You can fade age spots (usually caused by sun damage) with topical lotions. Try Immaculate Correction or Physical Chemistry Facial microdermabrasion from Dermadoctor.

For a faster face-saver, splurge on laser treatments or peels at nearby Hudson Med Spa or Lotus Skin Care.

Get Steamy

Steam your veggies! According to the new book Your Skin, Younger, eating vegetables cooked at high heat without water (think roasting, grilling, or frying) can cause inflammation, increasing the rate of aging in the body.

Clip Those Bat Wings

Flabby upper arms can creep up on you as you age. If you take pilates reguarly with us at Pilates1901 you know we are always working on those not so lady like trouble spots. Whether you'r working out against the weight of your own body in mat classes, or working against the springs on the reformer or chair, resistance training reverses muscle aging, according to a study at the Buck Institute for Age Research in Novato, California. Even squeezing the Pilates Magic Circle can tone and firm your arms!

Release Control

“Anxiety and worry will make you feel older and lower your energy,” author Gabrielle Bernstein says. Try telling yourself: I accept that there are things in life I can’t control, and I release my worries.

One of the best things about getting older is lowering the DRAMA QUOTIENT in our lives. Things that used to get us riled up just don't have the same power. That means more time for enjoying our worlds and opening our hearts to something totally ageless: Happiness.

At Pilates1901 we know that true health and well being are not just about how you look in your swimsuit. It's about how you WEAR your swimsuit. Think about it. And call us if you've not been to the studio. It truly is a beautiful space to workout and be well! 913 499 7510.

The temperature's rising and with it our desire for cool drinks and desserts.  Often, a smoothie sounds like just the ticket- but beware the glut of so called "healthy" choices out there.  You may be taken by the "Smoothie Criminal." Here's a list of the BEST and WORST Smoothies from EAT THIS, NOT THAT- to help you keep your body in Summer Short Shape!  Knowledge really is power!

Smoothies are as close to a perfect meal as you can get-delicious, nutritious, fast, and portable. No wonder ready-to-eat smoothie sales are up 139 percent since 2002, and made-to-order smoothie sales-sold at fast-food and juice chains-will jump to more than $2.5 billion this year compared with $989 million in 2002, according to a new study from Mintel, a research specialist.

Toss the right combination of nutrient-dense foods in the blender, and a smoothie has the ability to help your heart, pump up your workout, juice your brain, or boost your mood. But these  blender blunders won't do you any favors. Write them off as milkshakes masquerading as health food.  Here's a list of the top 5  SMOOTHIE CRIMINALS and alternately HEALTHY options!  Enjoy!

Worst Muscle-Building Smoothie

Smoothie King - The Hulk, Strawberry (32 oz)

1,566 calories

52.5 g fat (24 g saturated fat)

235.5 g carbohydrates

180 g sugars

39 g protein

The Hulk will definitely give you more bulk. But since the primary ingredient is sugary, butter pecan ice cream, your body probably won't look like so...incredible. A good muscle-building smoothie should have less than 60 grams of sugar.

Eat This Instead!

The Gladiator (32 oz)

270 calories

1.5 g carbohydrates

45 g protein

Worst Coffee Smoothie

Smoothie King - Mo'cuccino Caramel Smoothie

894 calories

21 g fat (12 g saturated fat)

151.5 carbohydrates

132 g sugars

Coffee blended with ice cream makes this smoothie closer to a milkshake.

Eat This Instead!

Coffee Smoothie Mocha (20 oz)

260 calories

2 g fat

43 g carbohydrates

36 g sugars

Worst "Real-Fruit" Smoothie

Baskin Robbins -  Strawberry Banana Fruit Blast Smoothie (24 oz)

730 calories

178 g carbohydrates

160 g sugars

Baskin Robbins says this smoothie is "made with real fruit and full of live and active cultures." Sounds healthy, right? Wrong. The only real fruit involved (banana) appears dead last on the list of ingredients-behind a number of nasty items that made our list of the 11 most controversial food additives in America such as red #40, yellow #5, and yellow #6.

Eat This Instead!

Peach Passion Fruit Blast (small)

270 calories

68 g carbohydrates

65 g sugars

Worst Protein Smoothie

Jamba Juice - Peanut Butter Moo'd (24 oz)

800 calories

21 g fat

131 g carbohydrates

115 g sugars

21 g protein

This is what Hollywood stars drink when they need to gain weight-and not the kind of weight that leads to chiseled muscles. It packs the most fat of any Jamba Juice smoothie.

Drink This Instead!

Protein Berry Workout with Whey (16 oz)

300 calories

0 g fat

56 g carbohydrates

46 g sugars

17 g protein

Worst Grocery Store Smoothie -   Naked Protein Zone Banana Chocolate (15.2 oz)

480 calories

3 g fat (1 g saturated fat)

70 g sugars

32 g protein

Even after adjusting for the extra protein, Naked's protein shakes are consistently more caloric than Odwalla's. This whole bottle has nearly a quarter of your day's calories and as much sugar as a McDonald's Triple Thick Chocolate Shake.

Eat This Instead!

Odwalla Super Protein Chocolate Protein (15.2 oz)

340 calories

7 g fat (1 g saturated fat)

40 g sugars

20 g protein

If you're not careful your  "healthy" smoothie could be packing on the pounds and making you look real bad in your swimsuit.  Avoid that trap by being MINDFUL in your choices.  Good food really does taste better than bad food- because it supports your body and doesn't make you fat and tired!

For more information on looking and feeling your leanest this Summer season call us at 913 499 7510!  Today is the best day to change your eating habits and your life!