An Apple or 3-A Day

Okay...let's get rolling. I've included a poll in coordination with today's topic which in honor of Fall is APPLES. I read a book earlier this year by Tammi Flynn, a registered dietitian, titled The 3-Apple A Day Plan. Tammi is a dietitian and trainer who advocates a return to the basics of healthy eating and exercise. No magical, overnight solutions here but for me practical advice pretty easy to implement. It is a great first step in making great changes to your eating habits to feel and look better. To me these two are always synonymous. I feel a lot better when I feel like I look my best. Not like America's Next Top Model or anyone else. The best I can look as I choose to take good care of my body.

You might be wondering how this plan works...
This plan focuses on keeping your blood sugar and insulin levels stable necessary for putting and keeping your body in "fat burning" mode. Meals recommendations consist of lean (low fat) proteins, low glycemic index, high-fiber carbohydrates and essential fats. This balanced eating approach also helps control your appetite, so you are less tempted by un-healthy foods. This plan does NOT focus on weight loss alone but primarily fat loss and muscle retention. The book also includes good perspective and recommendations on exercise to promote healthy living that includes healthy weight loss and maintenance.

How has it worked for me?
I have always loved apples so this book called out to me when I was browsing around the book store one afternoon. I have really learned a lot and enjoy eating my 3+ apples per day. I also permanently have on hand NO SUGAR ADDED applesauce. For me apples take away the gnawing hunger feeling that leads me to desperate choices for my weakness foods like CHIPS. Some women have a chocolate or ice cream thing. My weakness is salty, crispy carbohydrates usually in the form of some type of chips. I have drastically reduce my chip intake but do have a "free" day each weekend where I indulge. I've also drastically reduced my sugar and white flour based carbohydrate consumption. I have lost almost 25 pounds and dropped a shirt and pant size over the last year and am at a good healthy body weight. My new focus is on muscle development to help keep my metabolism working strong and cardio to refresh my brain and strengthen my heart. I like to throw myself into projects and work until success has been achieved. To the major relief of a lot of my friends I am channeling a big portion of this energy into my "Healthy Me" goals. This is the first annual celebration of my success to date. I started in 2007 right before the holidays which I highly recommend. It is a HUGE boost to your self esteem to be able to set and stick to your goals when there is soooo much yummy food around. You don't have to go into total deprivation mode. Just jot down your basic plan and start paying attention to when and what you eat and begin to substitute healthier choices. If you do have a major sweet tooth, my mom provided a great recommendation. Sugar free pudding and jello in individual servings can help you feel like you've had a treat so your mind doesn't keep nagging you about it!

If you can get motivated to make some changes during Thanksgiving and Christmas you are well on your way long before it's time for New Year's resolutions!

Links to More Information about the 3-Apple A Day Plan

Washington Apples 3-A Day


3-Apples a Day Book Review


Tammi Flynn's Website

Image: FreeDigitalPhotos.net