Sunday, April 30, 2017

Every BODY's Fit "FIT Clip" 473 Video: Turn Curls for Biceps/Upper Body

BLOG 110 PUGS



BLOG 110 PUGS

So where did Steve Nash come from?? I know you are dying to know the history of pugs, but as a designated “pug person”, I feel obligated to inform you on this matter. Pugs have such a great sense of humor, are wonderful companions, and are a whole lot of character in such a small body.
Pug 101:                                                              Steve Nash:
Height: 10 – 12”                                               
Weight: 14 – 18 pounds                                22.3 pounds
Lifespan: 12 – 15 years                                  Currently 5
Breed Type: Companion                                The BEST

Pugs came from China from the Han Dynasty. Pugs do act like they are pretty special. No wonder: “Some historians believe they are related to the Tibetan Mastiff. They were prized by the Emperors of China and lived in luxurious accommodations, sometimes even being guarded by soldiers” (http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/pug#C3XZhCJgrhmgkA1J.99). Trading with the Europeans expanded the popularity of the pug. Queen Victoria liked pugs. They made their way to the U.S. after the Civil War. 

These little joys of fun have smooshed in faces and a curled tail like a cinnamon roll. Pugs are known for their wrinkles. Check this out: “Legend has it that the Chinese, who mastered the breeding of this dog, prized these wrinkles because they resembled good luck symbols in their language. Especially prized were dogs with wrinkles that seemed to form the letters for the word ‘prince’ in Chinese” (http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/pug#/slide/1). 

Health concerns involve breathing issues, over-heating and possible eye problems. Lots of people do ask about pugs and their medical conditions. Proper feeding, exercise, and care are the nurturing elements of love. 

The companionship, loyalty and love of a pug are definitely demonstrated here at the studio with Steve Nash. Pug love runs deep. I have had pugs my entire life and the breed has never let me down. So now you know a little bit more about my son haha.

Sunday, April 23, 2017

Every BODY's Fit "FIT Clip" 466 Video: Leg and Tricep Kickbacks for Lowe...

BLOG 109 CARROTS



BLOG 109 CARROTS

We were always told to eat your vegetables growing up. In fact, I can remember one of my go-to snacks after school being carrots and ranch dressing. Those crunchy orange bites are filled with nutrients. So let’s look at the goods and bads of eating carrots on your fitness journeys. 

On the positive side, there are a number of benefits as to why carrots are good for us. Here are 10 (http://www.care2.com/greenliving/10-benefits-of-carrots.html) :
1.Improve vision: Carrots are good for your eyes: “Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the liver. Vitamin A is transformed in the retina, to rhodopsin, a purple pigment necessary for night vision”.
2.Prevent Cancer: Up to 1/3 reduction of lung, breast, and colon cancer.
3. Slows Down Aging: Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant
4. Healthier Skin: Carrots contain Vitamin A: “Vitamin A prevents premature wrinkling, acne, dry skin, pigmentation, blemishes and uneven skin tone.”
5. Prevent Infection: can be used on wounds and cuts
6. Healthier Outside Skin: can be used as a face mask to help with acne and blemishes
7. Prevents Heart Disease: “Studies show that diets high in carotenoids are associated with a lower risk of heart disease. Carrots have not only beta-carotene but also alpha-carotene and lutein. The regular consumption of carrots also reduces cholesterol levels because the soluble fibers in carrots bind with bile acids”.
8. Cleanses the Body: helps to flush out toxins in the liver
9. Protect Teeth & Gums: “Carrots stimulate gums and trigger a lot of saliva, which, being alkaline, balances out the acid-forming, cavity-forming bacteria. The minerals in carrots prevent tooth damage.”
10. Prevents Stroke: studies show carrot consumption less likely to have a stroke

However, everything in moderation right?? Carrots do have a lot of sugar (the good kind) but too much of any one item isn’t good for us. If you are eating too many carrots this could cause Carotenimia which is the yellowing of the skin. As such, “Eating large quantities of carrots doesn’t put you at risk of vitamin A overload because your body only converts beta carotene as needed. However, having large amounts of carotene in your blood can cause carotenemia, or yellowish discoloration of the skin. The harmless condition is typically most apparent on palms, soles and ears and disappears gradually on a lower-carotene diet” (http://www.livestrong.com/article/286531-side-effects-of-eating-too-many-carrots/). And then of course having too much fiber can lead to bowel problems. Be careful if you are a “dipper” and have to have each bite coated in ranch, hummus, or peanut butter (yes peanut butter is a popular carrot dip haha). Carrots don’t have the kick to keep you full long enough so this snack could use some protein with it.

Bug Bunny vs. your fitness journey. And yes with it being around Easter time when writing this Blog, the idea came to me. Plus, I see carrots in food journals a lot. The winner seems to be the pros/positives, but we know that regardless, portion control is our best fitness journey friend (other than me haha). So crunch away, but just a few!!!! Serving size would of course vary by size 😊

Sunday, April 16, 2017

Every BODY's Fit "FIT Clip" 459 Video: Jump Rope Pushup Combo for Total ...

BLOG 108 NUTRITION BARS



BLOG 108 NUTRITION BARS

Bars are a snack we can utilize on our fitness journeys to keep us fueled until the next meal. They are convenient, ready to go, and an easy “to take with” item we can use as a better choice. There are a number of nutrition bars on the market and knowing which one to grab can be confusing. The three main types I see in client’s fitness journals are Luna Bars, Quest Bars, and Cliff Bars. So let’s compare and contrast and get ourselves educated about these popular selections. 

Luna Bars
Image result for luna bar nutrition facts

Pros:                                                                       Cons:
Calorie count                                                        High in Carbohydrates
Low in fat                                                             High in Sugar
Cons:                                                                    Low in Protein
High in Carbohydrates                                         Low in Fiber
Lower in Sodium                                                 
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Quest Bars
Image result for quest bars nutrition
Pros:                                                                                       Cons:
High in Protein                                                                     Higher in Sodium
Low in Carbohydrates
High in Fiber (what makes low carbohydrate)
Low in Sugar
Lower in Fat
Clif Bars



Related image
Pros:                                       Cons:
Low in Sodium                      High in Calories
Lower in Fat                               Low in Protein
                                               High in Carbs
                                              Low in Fiber
Most clients know I’m a cheerleader for Quest Bars, and now maybe some folks might see why. Taste and flavor does come into play, but know that nutrients are what count in the end. Use bars for those 3 hour in between snacks to reach the next meal. Don’t go for the crackers, chips and candy. Give your BODY what it needs. Do the comparison when in doubt and I’m here to help as well.