Healthy Life Lessons

Wired for Wellness

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Fri, 17 May 2013 11:28:00 +0000

I got pretty darn lucky this week: I got asked to attend TELUS's First Wellness Learning Centre Session featuring Lyzabeth Lopez and the Samsung GALAXY S4!

Me and a group of other wellness bloggers got to visit the TELUS House in downtown Toronto for this fantastic event.

TELUS employees who work in this building are lucky to have fabulous, immaculate facilities, including a first rate gym and fitness studio. I love any company that promotes employee fitness and wellness!!

The event kicked off with a butt-kicking workout led by Lyzabeth, and then we were fed a healthy lunch and, you won't believe this...we each got to take home a Samsung GALAZY S4 phone! We got a presentation about all of this amazing products' features and honestly, I almost fell off my chair. I called Adam immediately after the session to beg him to let me switch my plan to this phone, and I am thrilled to say, he agreed!‏

Here's some info about the phone:

About the Samsung GALAXY S4 from TELUS

· It captures life’s meaningful moments: sporting the world’s first-ever Full HD Super AMOLED display, the GALAXY S4’s five-inch screen showcases images in stunning resolution. And with its Dual Camera mode (including a 13-megapixel rear camera), you can capture life’s moments in as many ways as you can think of – and enjoy them seamlessly through TELUS’ 4G LTE wireless network experience while you’re at it!

· Breaks language barriers with S-Translator: say or text what you need translated and the GALAXY S4 will read or text the translation back to you. This is a must-have feature for avid travelers!

· Provides Effortless Innovation: features like Smart Pause, Air View, Air Gesture and Optical Reader detect your motions, face and voice to enable screen control with no need for finger touch activation (and you can use the screen with gloves too!)

· Group Play: like to share what you love? Connect with those around you to play and co-create content, without the need for a Wi-Fi connection or cell signal.

· Toss it in your bag, worry-free: constructed with Corning’s Gorilla Glass 3, this phone is as beautiful as it is tough, and can withstand the daily bump and grind.

The Samsung GALAXY S4 is available from TELUS for $199 on a three-year term or $650 month-to-month. For available general plans and pricing, please click here.

I also love that TELUS has partnered with a great cause (all the attendees were lucky enough to also take home one of these limited edition cases, and TELUS made a $50 donation in each of our names to Rethink Breast Cancer:

TELUS and Rethink Breast Cancer

TELUS has a long-standing history supporting the fight to end breast cancer. Since 2008, TELUS has given $5.4 million towards research, early detection and treatment of breast cancer in Canada.This year, TELUS will be encouraging Canadians to “raise their paws to support the cause” and will donate $300,000 to Rethink Breast Cancer (and QBCF in Quebec).

How can I get a case?

Starting in May and while quantities last, TELUS will include this free, uniquely designed case with each purchase of a white Samsung GALAXY S4. To show its continued support to breast cancer prevention efforts, TELUS will also donate $25 to Rethink Breast Cancer (or QBCF in Quebec) for each purchase of a white Samsung GALAXY S4.

Join the conversation on Twitter by tweeting using the hashtag #raiseyourpaws.

About Rethink Breast Cancer

Launched in 2001, Rethink is the first-ever Canadian breast cancer charity to bring bold, relevant awareness to the under-40 crowd; it strives to foster a new generation of young and influential breast cancer supporters, infuse sass and style into the cause and, most importantly, responds to the unique needs of young women fighting breast cancer. No pink ribbons required.

Source: www.rethinkbreastcancer.com

One of the purposes of this event was to demonstrate how the technology can be used for wellness. We receiving an exciting presentation about a new app coming out called UP by Jawbone. Given all the evidence that tracking one's activity and food intake can help people stick to their diet and exercise programs, and help them to reach their goals, I think this is very exciting:

UP by Jawbone: Available at TELUS

UP by Jawbone: a wristband and app that aids in tracking how you sleep, move and eat, ultimately helping you use this information to make healthy life changes.

The wristband, available in eight different colours, tracks things like your movement and hours of rest. This tracking system is advanced enough to track hours of deep sleep vs. light sleep, the amount of time it took you to fall asleep and even how many times you woke up!

The UP app displays data tracked from the band on your Android device’s dashboard and prompts you to track things like meals and mood. UP is flexible enough to track nutritional information from package barcodes and even photos you’ve taken of a meal!

The app helps you set alerts, reminders and daily goals, tracking your progress over time. It then provides insights to keep you motivated.

How can YOU get one?

Up by Jawbone will be available online and in select TELUS stores across Canada starting this summer.

For more information, head to Jawbone.com or contact Emma Miller at TELUS.

As if all that wasn't enough, TELUS provided each of us with a new yoga mat, awesome glass waterbottle and a few samples of Biosteel sugar-free recovery drink to equip us for future workouts.

THANK YOU SO MUCH TO TELUS FOR INCLUDING ME, I WAS HONOURED TO BE PART OF THIS EVENT!

Barbecued Bean Burritos

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Thu, 16 May 2013 11:31:00 +0000

After a week in New York filled with more animal protein, sugar and alcohol than usual, it's back to basics: a mostly plant-based diet! But even Adam gave this meal high marks. It's delicious and hearty enough to satisfy the biggest carnivore.

Serve in your favorite tortillas along with the stewed peppers and onions, or your other favorite toppings such as cheese/vegan cheese, avocado, chopped lettuce, onions, and tomatoes, etc.

Barbecued Beans

1 cup sprouted bean mix (or any kind of sprouted legumes)
1 can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (or 1.5 cups cooked beans)
1/4 cup bbq sauce (your favorite home-made or store bought variety)
1/2 cup tomato salsa (your favorite home-made or store bought variety)
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbls tomato paste
1 tbls mild chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp salt
Pinch cayenne pepper, to taste (optional)

Combine sprouted beans with 2 cups water in a covered pot. Bring to a boil and then remove lid, turn heat down to medium and simmer for about 15 minutes until at least half of liquid has been absorbed. Add in remaining ingredients and continue to cook until it thickens.

Stewed Peppers and Onions

2 red bell peppers, sliced in strips
2 green bell peppers, sliced in strips
1 red onion, sliced
1 Spanish onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped (optional)
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1 can tomato paste

Place all the ingredients in a skillet or deep fry pan, except for tomato paste. Set heat to medium and cover with lid, stirring occasionally until onions and peppers start to soften. Remove lid and stir in tomato paste. Continue to cook for at least 20 minutes until veggies have stewed down and are soft and sweet.

To assemble burritos, place desired amount of bean mixture into the centre of each tortilla and add some of the peppers and onions and/or other desired add-ins. Roll up tortillas and spoon more of the onions and peppers over top. Makes 4-6 HUGE burritos. Both peppers and onions and beans can be frozen.

Unfortunately I have no photos of the finished product as Adam and I devoured all of them (yes, all of them), before I remembered. Oops! What can I say, they were delicious!

This recipe has been shared with Vegetarian Mamma's Gluten-Free Friday and Diet, Dessert & Dogs' Wellness Weekend.

Treat Yourself!

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Wed, 15 May 2013 11:36:00 +0000

I have a $25 gift card for SpaFinder that can be yours, redeemable at over 20,000 Spas, Yoga, Pilates, & Fitness Studios Worldwide!

For a chance to win, just follow me on Twitter and/or 'Like' my professional Facebook page and then leave me a comment that you've done so. You get 2 entries if you do both!

Just look at this list of over 100 participating yoga studios in the Greater Toronto Area alone. The gift card is like a free class!

This contest is open to EVERYONE. Contest closes May 31st, 2013.

Balsamic Sundried Tomato Green Bean Salad

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Tue, 14 May 2013 11:12:00 +0000

This made a lovely spring side dish at our family's Mother's Day BBQ. It's very easy to make too! I didn't add any salt because I thought it was flavourful enough (Dijon has a lot of sodium already), but season to taste.

2 lb fresh French green beans, washed and trimmed
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup good quality balsamic vinegar
1-2 cloves garlic
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 cup julienned sundried tomatoes
2 heaping tbls Dijon mustard
Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Dump beans in boiling water for 1 minute, then drain and put immediately into ice water. Drain, pat dry and place in a large bowl along with tomatoes.

Meanwhile, place vinegar, garlic, seasoning and sundried tomatoes in a small sauce pan. Bring to a boil over medium heat and then simmer until liquid reduces by half. Remove from heat and whisk in remaining ingredients. Pour over beans and tomatoes. Serve warm or at room temperature. Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days.

The Birthday Party

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Mon, 13 May 2013 11:30:00 +0000

It's over.

We survived.

It was a success.

I wish we never had to do it again.

We probably will. Every year. For at least another decade.

Oy!

But the good news is, we definitely picked the best venue. Honestly, if you live in West End Toronto, Bob Abate is an amazing place to have a party! The gym is large, they supply tons of toys, climbing equipment and even a bouncy castle! There is a kitchen right off the gym, and the staff are incredibly helpful. It was awesome.

Awesome in a kind of, crazy, insane, ridiculous way. In total, I think there were about 30 kids. The volume was about 100 decibels, between the karaoke, the screaming, the bouncy castle, and the parents trying to chat over the din. Given the energy level maintained by the kids over the 2 hour period, I'm actually very surprised no one got seriously hurt. These kids were on fire!

I was, unfortunately, very disappointed with the baked goods. Nothing I made turned out how I'd hoped. The cake pops became 'cake balls'.

The rainbow cupcake pull-apart cake simply became 'swirly cupcakes'.

And the chocolate mini-cupcakes were made simply to make sure there was enough. Hey, I am a neurotic, Jewish mother after all!

I've finally admitted to myself that not only do I completely suck at decorating cakes and cupcakes, but I also despise it too. Nothing ever turns out as I intend and I find it incredibly stressful. So next year I'm hiring out my sister-in-law to do it for me. She loves doing it and is very talented. And frankly, I'm done. I think if I have to spend as many hours as I did this year decorating baked goods, I'll stab myself it the eye with an ice pick.

So there you have it: The 4th and 7th joint birthday extravaganza for 2013.

I hope all you moms out there had a lovely Mother's Day. Mine was fabulous, thanks. I was greeted with beautiful cards and two smiling girls yesterday morning. Then I went and taught my spinning class at the JCC. Then lunch at home and Adam sent me out for my annual shopping spree. I managed to find a great pair of shoes and a few items of clothes that will be perfect for work this summer. Then we headed to my in-laws for a BBQ. But I think the best gift of all yesterday was that the girls were happy and cooperative, and most amazingly, they played together in the afternoon for about 2 and a half hours without any fighting. I think that's a record in this house!

New York 2013 Part IV

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Fri, 10 May 2013 11:40:00 +0000

Adam was originally booked on a later flight home than I was so he could get more work done, if needed on Friday, but he managed to get all his work done at the archives on Thursday. So he decided to accompany me to the airport to see if he could get on my earlier flight. He also suggested we start the day with a run in Central Park. This turned out to be a fabulous idea!

We left the hotel at 7am and made our way to the park. Eventually, we found ourselves on the Bridal Path, which gave us breath taking vistas of the reservoir, framed by trees full of pink blossoms. I think the best part was that neither of us seemed to be allergic to those trees, which were dropping pink petals all over the place!

After our run, we went back to the hotel, showered, ate breakfast, and packed up. We took a cab to La Guardia, and discovered not only could Adam get a seat on my plane, but we could BOTH get one on the flight leaving an hour before mine! Yes please!! Of course, this flight was delayed, but we still ended up leaving about 5 minutes earlier than my original flight.

Believe it or not, my 'fitness' caused a ruckus both on the flight to and from New York. At Pearson, I was told to go through the full body scanner. Great, love all that radiation! It beeped and I was ordered to stop for a pat down. The image on the screen was all lit up around my mid section. I thought this meant I had some sort of metal IN me and was stressed. Did I swallow a coin and not notice? Did someone implant a microchip in my stomach or another internal organ? Like WTF?

On the way home, the same thing happened at La Guardia, only this time when I made the scanner beep, the guard made me do it a second time (great, even more radiation!) and then he asked me if I workout. Um, yeah, so? Apparently my ab muscles are so strong and defined that they were making it look like I had something hidden and strapped to my middle (like I might be trying to smuggle something). How freakin' weird is that? Frankly, after all the eating we did, I'm surprised it didn't look I had a spare tire sitting around my waist, or an inflated inner tube. Anyways...

On the plane, I managed to catch 2/3 of a movie called Parental Guidance.

I had never heard of it, which is usually a bad sign, but with a cast that includes Billy Crystal, Bette Midler and Marisa Tomei, I thought it couldn't be that bad. It was pretty silly, but there were a few scenes (particularly a bathroom scene with Billy Crystal) that had me laughing so loud Adam was elbowing me to be more quiet. It's too bad I didn't see the end, but I can't complain about a short flight, I still hate flying!

The girls had a great time with my in-laws and I doubt they missed us much. Oh well, after all the single parenting I've done recently, I really needed a little getaway, and this trip was really amazing.

If you have never been to New York, GO GO GO!!! It really is the most amazing city in the world (okay, I'll admit there are many hundreds of cities I've never seen before...).

Happy 7th birthday to Big A today! I can't believe I have a 7-year-old. The big party for her and Little A is tomorrow. Oy! If I am still standing, I'll fill you in on the details next week.

New York 2013 Part III

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Thu, 09 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Thursday after breakfast, I went and rented a bicycle again. I rode down to the Port Authority Bus Terminal to check out their farmer's market. There were really only a few types of apples, veggies and baked goods, but I scored some local, fresh apples for Adam and I who were doing well with vegetables on the trip, but were feeling deficient of fruit.

Next, I pedaled down to the Chelsea Market. Oh my goodness, I can't say enough about this place! It is fabulous!! If you want to find unique gifts and/or are a foodie, you gotta check out this place.

I particularly loved Chelsea Market Baskets - where I picked up chocolate and other goodies for my in-laws who were so kindly looking after the girls, The Nut Box - where I got unsweetened banana chips for Big A (who adores them), and Posman Books - where I found each of the girls an amazing kids book about New York. I also thought the raw, vegan goodies at One Lucky Duck looked fabulous, but it was way to pricey.

After dragging myself out of the market without spending more, I cycling back up towards my grandma's home. By the time I got to 72nd and York, I was hot and, you guessed it, thirsty. Good thing I spied $4 beer at Palacio Azteca! The two friendly women running the restaurant must have thought I was an alcoholic, because I popped in, guzzled two Corona Extras in about ten minutes, and left without eating anything (I'd already picked up a hummus and avocado veggie wrap). Hey I was celebrating Cinqo de Mayo a wee bit early, and the only thing I know how to say in Spanish is "Dos cervazas por favor." So dos cervazas I did have. Ironically, despite my very diminutive stature and the fact that I drink very little alcohol, I have developed quite the tolerance. Two beers in 10 minutes gets me about as buzzed as Perrier. I adore drinking beer in warm weather, I just wish alcohol was so bad for your health!

Next I went to visit my grandmother and delivered the second bag of jelly beans. One of her male attendants came into the room and wanted to talk to me about working out. He saw me locking up my bike outside, noticed my 'pipes' (I was wearing a sleeveless top) and deduced that I'm an 'athletic type'. When he found out I am a fitness instructor and personal trainer, he was very excited and wanted to share about exercise. Hey, why not, I love talking about healthy living! Obviously.

After my visit, I cycled down to meet Adam at the UN building for our tour. This was probably the biggest surprise of the whole trip! I was going along just to spend time with my hubby, who was checking it out as field work for his next book. But I think I enjoyed it much more than he did. He didn't really learn anything new, but I thought the whole thing was fascinating. I definitely recommend doing a tour here if you have the chance.

Later on, I returned the bicycle and after relaxing at the hotel for a bit, we grabbed another quick bite at Fuel Grill and more soft serve from World of Nuts and Ice Cream. Hey, we're creatures of habit...on a budget!

Stay tuned for our fourth and final New York day tomorrow.

Creamed Corn (Vegan + Sugar-Free)

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Wed, 08 May 2013 12:54:00 +0000

As a kid, I loved creamed corn. Unfortunately, I didn't know (and probably wouldn't have cared) that the stuff from the can is just corn, water, sugar and cornstarch. With emphasis on the sugar!

I've healthified it here so it can be a much more virtuous side-dish, or as I will show you soon, an ingredient in another recipe. I know, I know, I'm so mysterious...

Creamed Corn (Vegan + Sugar-Free)

4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernals
2.5-3 cups plain, unsweetened, non-dairy milk
2 tbls erythritol (or xylitol, stevia, coconut sugar, etc)
2 tbls corn or arrowroot starch
1/2 tsp kosher salt
Pinch fresh grated nutmeg

Bring 2 cups milk, sweetener, salt and nutmeg to a boil over medium heat. Add corn and turn heat down to medium low, keeping a low boil going. Mix 1/2 cup reserved cold milk with starch and slowly pour into hot mixture. Continue cooking until mixture begins to thicken. Turn off heat and serve. Corn with continue to thicken, so whisk in additional milk, as needed.

This recipe was shared with Vegetarian Mamma's Gluten-Free Friday and Diet, Dessert & Dogs' Wellness Weekend.

New York 2013 Part II

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Tue, 07 May 2013 11:14:00 +0000

On Wednesday, I woke up and went for a run and checked out the High Line park. Very cool! I didn't rent a bike, because I had no set plans and wanted to save money. I regretted it.

Right after breakfast, I walked up to see my grandma and my Uncle Ed, who was visiting. After our stay, I grabbed a quick bite for lunch and then started walking south down 3rd Avenue. After about 20 or so blocks, I was really hot and sweaty and was getting a headache from the sun. Fortunately, I found myself right in front of the Barnes & Noble on 54th street. I always pay this store a visit when I'm in the city (they have washrooms you can use without having to buy something first). I popped in for a pee and sat down to rest with some reading material. After 45 minutes I purchased a magazine and a novel and decided I was going to either do a yoga class or see a movie, whichever I found first. I checked out 4 or 5 gyms and yoga studios but since it was 3pm, there weren't any classes happening for another hour or two, and/or the drop-in class fee was ridiculous ($35 at the Manhattan Athletic Club!!). I didn't find a theatre until I got back to Times Square, but then I got lucky. I walked in just in time to catch Pain and Gain that was starting in 5 minutes.

I thought this was an excellent film: great acting and quite funny. But it was also very violent and disturbing, so much so that I had to hide my eyes on several occasions.

While watching the movie, I sampled some awesome cookies we had picked up at Schmackary's Cookies. They were all good, but surprisingly, the Chocolate Diablo (chocolate, chocolate chunk with cayenne) was my favorite. I enjoyed the gluten-free Green Tea and Sweet Corn flavours, but they tasted mostly like white chocolate to me and I couldn't detect either the green tea or corn flavour in either. What I love about this place is it uses white whole wheat flour in its regular cookies and corn, sorghum flours instead of white rice flours for it's gluten-free products.

That was a good enough reason for me to turn a blind eye to all the sugar and butter in them...

Adam and I decided to go out for a more expensive 'treat' meal that evening, but it was a major let down. I adore Afghan food and we loved a take-out meal we got from Afghan Kebob House a few years ago. This time, we found the portions skimpy and the quality meh, especially given the price. I was really disappointed because I ordered lamb, something I only do once or twice a year, so when I have it, I want it to be fantastic. Unfortunately, later on I saw that there were 2 or 3 other Afghan restaurants we could have tried. Oh well, next time.

Stay tuned for New York 2013 Part III on Thursday...

Tomorrow I'll have a new recipe to share.

New York 2013 - Part I

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Mon, 06 May 2013 11:41:00 +0000

I'm back! Did you miss me? Don't answer that. Even Little A said no, and Adam and I were gone for 5 whole days!!

This was probably one of the best trips to New York City I've ever had. Unfortunately, we had drama here before I left. Adam left a day before me because he was going for work reasons. So Sunday I was on my own with the girls. We had a playdate with Big A's friend C in the afternoon. C's mom, a friend of mine, suggested we bring tennis rackets and balls to hit against the wall at the school. My kids have never used rackets before and I was eager to see how they'd like it, because I love tennis. Little A gave up after a few minutes, but Big A, C and I continued to play and Little A was happy to be our 'Ball Girl'. I turned my head for a few seconds and suddenly heard shrieking. C had accidently wacked Big A in the nose with her racket and blood was pouring out of Big A. C turned white and Big A and Little A started bawling their eyes out. I had one tissue in my purse which quickly got soaked and Big A continued pouring blood EVERYWHERE. Somehow I stayed calm, gathered up the 3 girls and the equipment and dragged them back to C's house. Thank goodness C's mom is a doctor, I knew she would be able to examine Big A. Even she was pretty shocked by all the blood. We had to take off all of Big A's clothes, including her shoes because everything was filthy. Once the bleeding stopped, C's mom examined her and, determined that it was most likely only a soft tissue injury. Good grief, it was awful, especially since I was leaving for New York the next morning! My mother-in-law ended up having to take her to see her pediatrician on Monday because Sunday night her nose started bleeding again quite heavily. Luckily the doctor said she wasn't too concerned and she just needed to ice her nose for a few days. The poor kid!

Anyways...

I got to New York Monday afternoon while Adam was working. We stayed in the Best Western Plus President Hotel at Time Square because Adam got a good deal on Hotwire, and it was located near the UN Archives where he was working. It was alright. Time Square is a noisy, busy area and probably my LEAST favorite part of the city, but hey, you can't look a gift horse in the mouth!

After I dropped off my bags at the hotel, I walked down to the Chelsea Whole Foods to grab dinner for us. This actually ended up being my favorite meal of the trip (we weren't going to any hoity toity restaurants). There was this sesame seaweed salad that was awesome!

Tuesday, I rented a bike for the day and rode up to see my grandma Ruth first thing. I have to say, I am now addicted to renting a bike when travelling in other cities, it is simply the very best way to go. You get to do so much more than you otherwise would on foot or even by public transport.

I don't advise riding a bike in Manhattan, however, if you are not already experienced riding in a big city. But it was insane, even compared to Toronto, which is not a terribly bike-friendly city. Here, you just have to worry about the cars: most drivers are oblivious and/or hostile to cyclists. In New York, the pedestrians are just as much of a potential risk! Although most streets have bike lanes, nobody seems to follow ANY rules. Cars and trucks block the lane, pedestrians jump out into them without looking, and other cyclists, joggers, and skate boarders ride frequently ride in the bike lanes going in the wrong direction. While I rarely use my bell here, I had my finger on it at all times there, although, nobody really paid any attention when I did ring it. Nevertheless, I loved riding through the city it was awesome.

Sadly, my grandmother is in the same state as she was last year, that being very sleepy most of the time. I guess the good news is that she hasn't deteriorated at all. I brought her some Jelly Belly jelly beans, which she loves, and at 94, she no longer seems concerned about nutrition (remember, she is the originally health nut, before there even was such a thing!). I suppose if I'm still around at 94, I'll eat whatever I want, whenever I want too. When I came back the next day, they were gone, but she swore she didn't eat them. We looked for them everywhere but they were no where to be found. I brought her another bag the day after that and she was very pleased. Surprisingly, she remembered 'losing' the first bag. The whole thing was very cute!

After our visit, I rode over to the upper west side, since I haven't been to that area for a while, and grabbed a wrap from Energy Kitchen, my go-to place in New York for a quick, healthy bite. Then I rode all the way down to the lower east side for my Lower East Side Tenement Museum tour. I had over an hour to kill, but I was incredibly hot and thirsty so I was thrilled to find Top-Hops right across from the museum! A cold beer or two? Yes please!

I tried the ginger beer they had on tap, which was dry and had just a pleasant hint of spice. Very refreshing. I met one of the charming owners who admitted they are frequented by many a thirsty museum visitor.

Then I went for a walk around the neighbourhood and was lucky enough to stumble upon The Sweet Life treat shop.

I bought Adam a house-made, dark chocolate almond and fruit cluster, and discovered Coco Polo stevia-sweetened chocolate from New Jersey!

I got the milk with almonds and dark with dried cherries. It was so good, I wished I'd bought more, but I was unable to find it for sale anywhere else in the city.

Also stumbled upon PopKarma, a gourmet popcorn shop, almost right beside the museum. I'm not much of a popcorn lover, but Adam is, so I picked him up a bag of their interesting sounding Kyoto Mix. He said it was yummy.

As always when I go to the U.S., I popped into as many health food stores as I could, to see what yummy treasures I can find that are unavailable here. There were tons and tons! Unfortunately, I was in no position to bring back perishable items, so I stuck with two things: New flavours of stevia:

One place had so many, I was overwhelmed! I have several types of vanilla, lemon, dark chocolate, and toffee, but this place had a lot of the SweetLeaf brand flavours that I'd never seen before. I decided to go with coconut, and it's great in my ice coffee.

I also hoarded some Quest protein bars, which I've been dying to try! The only place I've seen them in Canada is online through Low Carb Canada, and each time I've tried to purchase them, they've been sold out.

Most protein bars are either filled with crap or taste like crap. These are all sweetened with either sucralose or stevia, use 100% whey protein, and clock in at around 200 calories or less. And Adam and I both thought they tasted pretty yummy. My favorite was the cinnamon roll. With all the walking and cycling I did during the trip, I found myself constantly starving. I must have eaten at least 2 of these a day just to get me from one meal to the next without gnawing off my arm.

Anyways, back to the museum. The tour, like the other one Adam and I did years ago, was fascinating. Nonetheless, I bet you could take any old building in New York and you'd find it has an incredible history. This is why I freakin' love this city so much!

After the tour, I returned the bicycle and met Adam back at the hotel. We grabbed a quick bite at Fuel Grill and then sugar-free, fat-free soft serve from World of Nuts and Ice Cream. Then we collapsed into bed.

Stay tuned for New York 2013 Part II tomorrow...

Why I Won't Be Giving Away Tickets to See Jillian Michaels

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 14:48:00 +0000

I get a lot of offers from PR companies to promote products and events on this blog. I turn down most. They have to fit in with my values and beliefs, and offer something to either myself and/or my readers. Recently I was offered 2 tickets to Jillian Michaels' talk in Toronto, which is part of her Maximize Your Life tour, if I would promote the event. I declined.

Although I realize some readers might be really interested in winning these tickets, I felt it would be hypocritical since I do not agree with a lot of the messages Michaels sends to her audience and fans.

Now, I reviewed one of her fitness videos a few years back, and was very impressed. While she may have some good fitness DVDs out on the market, however, I do not watch the Biggest Loser. I tried, and felt sick after a few minutes. I have no time for this type of garbage reality tv that involves publicly humiliating people. Furthermore, there is some evidence that watching this show can have a detrimental impact on viewers, particularly children.

After reading an article about Michaels recently, I am even less of a fan. Big A's school had a fundraiser where you buy a magazine subscription and some of the money goes to the school. I hate fashion magazines, avoid the fitness magazines like Shape and Self, and already get the 2 Canadian lifestyle magazines I enjoy: Chatelaine and Canadian Living. This left me few options, so I chose Health magazine. I assumed it would be less focused on appearances than the fitness magazines, but I am so far not very impressed.

In the March 2013 issue, Michaels is on the cover. Before I get to her feature article, however, I'll mention the other one that really ticked me off, titled, "Wine or Your Waistline?" It discusses how alcohol can lead to weight gain or prevent you from losing weight. While this is an important issues, nowhere in this entire article is it mentioned that alcohol consumption also comes along with other serious potential health risks like cancer! I know the focus is on weight, but really I think this is a big omission.

The article on Michaels starts by quoted her mantra, which they describe as an "encouraging phrase": "Unless you faint, puke or die, keep walking!"

Um, and how exactly is that motivating? No wonder watching Biggest Loser has deleterious effects on viewers! To me, this simply promotes the idea that being healthy involves extreme suffering and deprivation. Yeah, way to get people to jump on the healthy living bandwagon!

That being said, she does say in the article that no one should use extreme measures to lose weight, you should eat healthy 80% of the time, and practice positive affirmation, however, this all seems to clash with her approach on Biggest Loser. So I guess my problem with Michaels is her affiliation with the show. It seems that even she knows that the measures taken on the show are not particularly healthy, which makes her a bit of a hypocrite. So sorry readers, as much as I know many of you would love to see Michaels speak, I felt that promoting her tour would have made me a hypocrite too.

I'm on a blogging break until May 6th, so until then stay healthy!

Red Onion Avocado Salsa

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:33:00 +0000

I am calling this a salsa because unlike a standard guacamole type thing, I've cooked down the onions, garlic and spices. The reason for this was purely practical: as a counsellor and therapist I've realized it isn't very considerate to eat raw onions and garlic for lunch before sessions (for the sake of my clients!).

In an effort to be kind to my clients, however, I discovered some unexpected deliciousness...so much so, that I think this is going to be a staple condiment from now on! The flavours are intense and absolutely scrumptious. I didn't even think it needed any salt, but adjust the seasonings to your own taste buds. Enjoy on tacos, wraps (like I did on mine pictured above) or any mexican dish, spread on sandwiches, or just serve with corn chips or cut up veggies. Yum, yum, yum!

Red Onion Avocado Relish

1 red onion, finely diced
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp ground cumin
Jalapeno pepper, minced, to taste (optional)
1/4 cup of your favorite salsa
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1 ripe avocado, pit and skin removed, mashed

Saute everything except avocado in a skillet or fry pan over medium heat until onion softens and everything is fragrant. Add to avocado and mix well. Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Taking a Bite Out of the Big Apple

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 11:32:00 +0000

It's almost time for my annual visit to New York City! Only this year Adam is going too because he has research to do for his next book. So it's more like I'm tagging along with him as I get to stay in his hotel.

The past few years, basically since my Grandma Ruth was moved to a home, I haven't been seeing the sights at all, just mostly walking to and from her home. This time, I've decided to try and sneak in some activities. I have already purchased tickets for a tour at the Lower East Side Tenement Museum. Adam and I did a tour a long time ago, but they have several, so I'm going to do another. I loved it, it was so incredibly interesting. It is also perfect timing because I just finished Edward Rutherfurd's novel, New York, which weaves fictional characters into the real history of the city from back in the 1600s to 2008. I love, love, loved this book, and if you enjoy historical fiction, you will too! I learned a lot of the city's history that I didn't know before, like the story behind some of the famous landmarks including the Chrysler and Empire State buildings.

I am also considering renting a bicycle because of how awesome it was to explore Washington, D.C. that way. That being said, I'm a bit nervous as I've never ridden in NYC before and I suspect it's not as bicycle-friendly as D.C. Toronto isn't particularly bicycle-friendly, however, I've been riding here for many years.

I was also hoping to get in a visit to the Ellis Island Immigrant museum, however, it's currently closed due to the damage caused by Hurricane Sandy. If I have time, I am going to check out the High Line Park, something I've been wanting to do for a while. It sounds so cool!

Adam will be working all day but at least we will have the evenings together and can maybe sneak out for a nice dinner or two.

To me there is really no other place that compares to New York, at least that I've visited to date. But it's not just the energy of the city, the history absolutely fascinates me, which I suppose is because it is part of my ancestral heritage. My great grandparents arrived from Eastern Europe to give their families a better life. They started with very little and worked their way up. Of course the beautiful brownstones, amazing Central Park, and fabulous restaurants are pretty awesome too!

Although I used to fantasize about one day living in Manhattan, I've accepted it will probably never happen. That's okay, I suspect reality would not actually live up to the fantasy. For now, I'm thrilled I get to go on a regular basis to visit.

Do you have a favorite city?

Paella (Vegan Option)

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 11:27:00 +0000

I am so happy to have Adam home (like you have NO IDEA how happy!), I wanted to celebrate with some lovely dinners this weekend. In order to be a treat for my husband, a meal better involve meat, if it isn't pizza. So I did home made pizza one night, and this dish the other.

Traditional paellas are usually seafood and/or meat with both chicken and sausage. I thought just using some spicy turkey sausage was enough meat, but you can also veganize this by subbing tempeh or beans for the meat, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken.

I added in some non-tradition veggies, like cauliflower, to bump up the veg action of the dish, but that's entirely optional.

This was definitely a winner.

Funny thing, by the way, Adam and I actually have an authentic paella pan, however, this is the first time I've actually used it for paella! If you don't have one, I am sure this will work in a large, deep skillet of cast iron pan, maybe?

Paella

1-946 ml carton chicken or vegetable broth
Pinch saffron
3-4 bay leaves
A few sprigs of fresh thyme

1 onion, diced
4 plum tomatoes, diced
1lb turkey sausage and/or skinless, boneless chicken thighs (or beans or tempeh)
1.5 cups short grain brown rice
1/4 cup red wine or sherry vinegar
2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp salt + black pepper, to taste
Crushed red chilies, to taste (optional)
Handful of fresh thyme leaves, removed from stems
I head of cauliflower, cut into florets (optional), or other veg such as zucchini, peppers or broccoli
1 cup frozen peas

Add saffron and bay leaves to broth in a pot and heat over medium heat until saffron blooms and broth is fragrant. Turn off heat.

Meanwhile, saute onion, tomato and meat until veg and meat begin to cook. Add in rice and seasonings and continue to cook a few minutes to 'toast' the rice. Pour in broth, straining out herbs, and simmer over medium heat for about 1 hour. Add in veggies, if using and continue to cook until liquid is absorbed, about another 20-30 minutes. Add in peas and serve as soon as they are heated through.

This recipe has been shared with Vegetarian Mamma's Gluten-Free Friday.

Party Time Again

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:39:00 +0000

Source

Little A's 4th birthday is today!

And Big A's 7th birthday is in exactly a month. Already I'm exhausted by everything involved in the planning and horrified at the cost. Considering how bratty the girls have been acting lately, I'm feeling particularly resentful about all the trouble I'm going to, to make them a special celebration. Not that I'm doing anything above and beyond what any upper middle class parent does these days, but maybe that's the problem...kids parties have become such a big to-do!

In order to avoid what was way too much stress last year having separate parties for the girls within a few weeks of each other, I've gone back to planning a joint party to be held at a community centre NOT at our house.

For Little A and her friends there will be a bouncy castle and lots of riding toys, slides, etc. For Big A and her friends, there is going to be a karaoke dance party. In lieu of gifts, once again, we are giving people the option of bringing 2 toonies, one for the birthday girl for a gift of her choosing, and one to go towards a charity. This year the girls have chosen the Hospital for Sick Children. Loot bags are going to be a CD - mixed pop for Big A's friends, and Robert Munsch books on tape for Little A's friends. Both girls are beyond excited. At least there will be no clean up of our house required, which I am very pleased about.

Unfortunately, Big A wants vanilla cake pops with pink frosting, while Little A wants vanilla cupcakes with multicolour icing. Good thing I got those natural food colourings in Florida over the holidays! But this is going to mean a whole heck of a lot of baking and icing. This past weekend I already baked 48 mini chocolate cupcakes, just to have as extras, since it looks like we are going to have a rather large crowd.

I allowed the girls to invite whoever they want. This meant 9 kids for Little A, but for Big A, our popular social butterfly, she invited 22 kids! Oh, and this doesn't include cousins and some neighbours who will be coming. Me thinks there could be a wee big of chaos!! Adam asked me, "Do you realize how many cupcakes/cakepops you are going to have to make?" Oh yes, yes I do...I see a high probability of cupcake burnout in my future...

But I know it won't be long before the girls would rather go off with their friends and have nothing to do with their parents. While they are still at the age of enjoying these parties, I do want to give them some great memories to take with them. I just may have to make sure there is beer or wine chilling at home to aid in our post-party recovery!

Spa Contest and Weird Happenings

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 11:34:00 +0000

Who doesn't love a trip to the spa? If I ever become a multi-millionaire, I think I'll build my own personal spa...or at least hire my own personal massage therapist and yoga instructor...who will also clean my house.

If you too love spas, then you'll love this: SpaFinder Wellness is giving away a Mother’s Day Spa package for two valued at $300 to treat a lucky reader and mom to a spa and wellness day. The contest closes on May 8, 2013.

You can enter here.

Spafinder has also offered me a $25 gift card to give away to one of my lucky readers. Gift cards are redeemable at over 2,000 spas, yoga, Pilates and fitness studios in Canada (over 20,000 worldwide!).

To enter, please "Like" my professional Facebook page, and/or follow me on Twitter, then leave me a comment that you've done so.

This contest is available to readers Internationally.

Boy, would I love a little spa getaway right now. Adam just returned from 10 days in Washington, D.C., and even though this trip was half the length of his London trip, it actually felt longer. Both girls have been really challenging lately. Big A is obnoxious and giving me attitude like she's already a teenager, and Little A is still screaming whenever she doesn't get what she wants. She too has started to develop an attitude. She keeps telling me, "You are not the boss of my body." And last week, when I wouldn't let her open ALL of my nail polishes, and, instead, said she could chose one colour, which I would apply to her nails, in order to minimize mess, she started having a hysterical meltdown and yelled at me, "This is not just your house, it's everybody's house, but we always have to do things your way, it's not fair!" Add to all this the girls constant fighting and I've been tempted to sell them both to the circus.

So I've begun some zero tolerance policies:

- If Little A begins screaming, she has to go to her room until she stops (not a new rule, but now I'm enforcing it consistently).
- If I have to ask either of them to do something more than once, they lose a privilege.
- When they start fighting, they have to work it out themselves, with no intervention from either Adam or myself, or go play in their rooms separately until they can get along. This worked very well this morning to resolve a massive, screaming fight they were having with each other!

These rules seem to be helping to at least curb the behaviour after it starts, but it certainly hasn't helped stop it from starting yet. But I suppose it takes time. Parenting expert Alyson Schafer says when you start making changes like this, things often get much worse before they get better.

Overall it's been a tough spring and this seems to be something felt by a lot of people. Most of my parent friends report similar difficulties with their kids, and everyone has been feeling totally down in the dumps because of the weather and what seems like mounting tragedies striking down innocent people around the world. It almost seems surreal. Last week we had a hail/snow storm in the middle of April, it was so bizarre. And lately we can go from winter to summer like weather all in one day around here! And then around the world horrific things keep happening. People killed at the Boston Marathon? Another child took her own life in the maritimes after being raped and then bullied? Explosion in Texas? The insane gun lobby in the U.S. won't back down, even after all the needless deaths and losses in Newton, Connecticut? Of course, there are always tragedies happening all over the world, but these all seem so close to home.

I've decided my small random acts of kindness have not done enough to teach the girls about gratitude. I am disgusted by all the "I wants..." I get from them, whether it's for me to make them food, and then for me to hurry up and make it faster, or they want dessert, or a material item. A few weeks ago Big A said, "I want an Ipod Touch for my birthday." I said, "You already have an Ipod." It's mine, actually, but I've let her appropriate it. She said, "No, that's an Ipod Shuffle." Little A then pipes up with, "Yeah mommy, she wants the one with the touch screen!" Literally, my jaw dropped. I am also sick of all their complaining: how far it is for them to walk to and from school (10 minutes), how unfair it is they have to make their bed, get themselves a glass of water instead of being waited on, etc., etc. Give me a break!

So, I emailed one of the moms I know on the school's parent committee and asked what kind of initiative the school could take on that would drive home to the kids how fortunate they are, and what life is really like for others around the world (or even disadvantaged children here in Canada). She loved the idea and said she's working on it. I think my kids need a major wake up call.

After some warmer temperatures this week, we are back to cold, wet weather this weekend. I am at least grateful to have Adam back home - I feel like a major weight has been lifted off my shoulders - and a fun weekend lined up. Have a good one!

Double Chocolate Mint Chip Muffins (Vegan + Sugar-Free)

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:31:00 +0000

This was my first recipe using the home-made sugar-free chocolate chips. Although the name suggests cupcakes, I feel justified in calling them muffins, since they are sugar-free, oil-free, whole grain, and contain spinach to boot. If your kids aren't used to such virtuous baked goods, or may be more likely to recoil from errant green bits in their muffins than mine, than you can sub apple sauce or another pureed fruit for the spinach. But even picky Little A gobbled these down, so I will definitely be making them again. I can't wait to see what else I can make with these chips!!

Double Chocolate Mint Chip Muffins (Vegan + Sugar-Free)

1/2 cup pureed, steamed spinach (or apple sauce, etc.)
2 flax eggs
1/2 cup stevia baking blend
1 can full-fat coconut milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups whole wheat, spelt or other whole grain flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp sea salt

1 cup sugar-free chocolate mint (or regular) chips

Whisk together wet ingredients in a large bowl. In a smaller bowl, whisk together dry ingredients to remove any lumps. Add dry ingredients to wet and stir, just until mixed. Fold in chips. Spoon batter into greased muffin cups and bake at 375F for 14 minutes. Let cool before removing from pan. Makes 12 large muffins. Keep in air tight container for 3-4 days or freeze.

This recipe has been shared with Diet, Dessert & Dogs' Wellness Weekend.

Sugar-free, Vegan Chocolate Chips

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 11:46:00 +0000

With what seems like endless horrific events happening in the world lately, I think we could all use some chocolate, no?

One of the easiest ways to get my family to eat anything is to add chocolate chips to it. I know, who can blame them, right?

There are certainly worse things, however, it's the sugar that bugs me. I feel like no matter what I do, the girls eat way too much sugar. If it's not eating Adam's sweet breakfast cereals, or spreading honey over their toast every morning, than it's what they are being fed at daycare, birthday parties, playdates and virtually any place we go. A trip to Costco, for example, inevitably involves the kids sampling at least 4-5 products that I would NEVER buy, many of them being cookies, refined flour products and/or chocolate or candy. Sigh!

This is why I rarely cook or bake at home using any sugar, and if I do use sugar, it is most often coconut sugar, or something less refined and lower on the glycemic index.

I've been wanting to find sugar-free chocolate chips, and, although I have not seen them at any of the stores where I shop, I've found they are pretty readily available online. The only problem? The cost! A 1/2 lb bag for $8??? Forget about it!

Solution? Make my own, of course. I can't believe how easy this is to do, and you can flavour them any way you want. I made mint chips, but you could just do regular, if you prefer.

1/2 lb unsweetened chocolate, melted
1 tsp pure peppermint extract, or vanilla
A few droppers of clear stevia liquid, to taste

Stir extract and stevia into melted chocolate. Pour onto parchment-lined baking sheet and smooth out until spread evenly into a large rectangle.

Place in refrigerator until firm (about 30-45 minutes). Remove from fridge and, using a very large, sharp knife, cut into thin strips width-wise. Divide strips into 3 groups, and then strips into small squares of chocolate. Keep in an airtight container. Makes 2 cups of chocolate chips.

This recipe has been shared with Vegetarian Mamma's Gluten-Free Friday and Diet, Dessert & Dogs' Wellness Weekend.

Boston Marathon

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 11:14:00 +0000

I couldn't bring myself to post anything today, besides a tribute to those who were injured or lost their lives in the events at the Boston Marathon yesterday.

I don't know about you, but the whole thing, from afar, just seems so unreal.

It's hard sometimes lately to not feel like this world is going to hell-in-a-handbag.

I think the important things at times like this are gratitude and kindness: Acknowledging what we have, and remembering the importance of kindness and tolerance.

He that is kind is free, though he is a slave; he that is evil is a slave, though he be a king.

- St, Augustine

GoBio: Healthier Jello Mix

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 11:55:00 +0000

Happy Monday morning! The sun is out. It's mild. Could spring actually be here? It's hard to believe, I'm trying not to get my hopes up.

Anyways, I found a little treat that is great for little ones.

My girls always ask me to make jello. Usually I refuse. All that sugar and artificial colour? No thanks!

Then I found GoBio jelly powder mix at the health food store. No sugar. No artificial colours! You actually add your own sweetener of choice. I added 2 droppers full of clear stevia liquid and that was enough for the girls to gobble up 2 bowls each in about 30 seconds. They absolutely loved it. I'll definitely be buying this again!

Kiwi Berries

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 11:51:00 +0000

I love discovering new, yummy, healthy foods. Unfortunately, it happens far too seldom. At the grocery store, anyways.

Each time I go food shopping I scan the aisles for new products that are healthy and my family will love. Honestly, this almost never happens. Most of the food in the freezer section (aside from frozen fruits and vegetables), and the shelves filled with packaged goods are complete crap. In fact, I am often disheartened by the plethora of disgusting, sugar-filled, processed crap that is still coming out. Given what we know about the dangers of this sort of food, it still surprises me that food companies are cranking out increasingly unhealthy products. Remember good ol' Cheerios, for example? First there was honey nut and apple cinnamon flavours, which were bad enough. But now they come in chocolate, banana and peanut butter. All this means is a lot of extra sugar and artificial crap in your breakfast bowl.

At the health food stores I often find awesome new products made by small companies using various superfoods. The only problem? They are freakin' expensive, and way beyond our budget! Especially given the appetites in our house. Tiny little serving sizes don't cut it, so that $8 bag of raw quinoa, chia, flax and maca crackers would get devoured in 2 seconds.

So I was delighted last week to discover our favorite produce market was selling kiwi berries! I've seen them at very upscale markets before selling for a billion dollars a pint, but our humble market had them for a very good price. Score! Into the cart they went. I thought the girls would love these cute little fruits. They are even sweeter than kiwis, and have a smooth, thin, edible skin.

Boy was I right about the girls liking them...they gobbled down an entire pint - fighting over every single one - in about 5 minutes. I love when I can get them that excited about fruit!!

Nature really does produce the best food...the big food companies, not so much.

So this weekend, why don't you look for a new fruit or veggie you've never tried. You never know what kind of yumminess you might find!

Black Bean, Pineapple and Jalapeno Burritos

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 12:10:00 +0000

Give me a tortilla and I'll give you a meal. Yes, I don't think a week goes by without at least one dinner involving burritos or some sort of filling wrapped up in a whole grain tortilla. Love em! These ones are sweet and spicy and satisfying. Full of fibre and nutrients too! These are pretty simple to prep and make, but give the peppers and onions time to cook down and get really sweet.

Black Bean, Pineapple and Jalapeno Burritos

1 onion, thinly sliced
2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced
2 green bell peppers, thinly sliced
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
Jalapeno pepper, to taste, finely diced
2 tsp mild chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp salt
1 14oz can crushed pineapple, with juice
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained (or 1.5 cups cooked black beans)
1/4 cup cider vinegar
1 can tomato paste
A few handfuls roughly chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

4-6 large, whole grain/gluten-free tortillas

Place onion, peppers, garlic and spices in a large skillet or pan with pineapple and juice. Cook over medium heat until veggies cook down and most of the liquid is absorbed. Add black beans and cider vinegar and continue to simmer until, again, liquid has reduced. Stir in tomato paste and turn heat down to low. Cook another 15 minutes. Spread desired amount of mixture into the center of tortollas. Sprinkle with regular or vegan cheese, if desired. Roll up. Spoon additional filling over top if you wish. Makes 4-6 burritos. Leftover filling can be frozen.

This recipe has been added to Vegetarian Mamma's Gluten-Free Friday and Diet, Dessert and Dogs' Wellness Weekend.

Fred Flintstone is Fat: Is the Paleo Diet for You?

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 12:54:00 +0000

Are you trying to lose weight? Thinking about trying the Paleo diet?

If so, you may want to pick up the book: Paleofantasy: What Evolution Really Tells Us about Sex, diet and How We Live. In it, author, Marlene Zuk, a professor of ecology, evolution and behaviour at the University of Minnesota, debunks some of the myths about our ancestors that underlie the popular Paleo diet craze.

Although I have not read the book, in an interview published in the Nutrition Action Healthletter she explains that what prehistoric folks were eating depends on exactly what time period and on what region of the world these peoples lived. She also points out that often these people at only what was available and their bodies adapted to this, however, this does not mean that they were necessarily eating the healthiest diets. Furthermore, while the Paleo diet forbids grains based on the assumption they were not eaten by our ancestors, Zuk points out that scientists have growing evidence that they DID, in fact, eat grains. Another thing to consider is that very few of the plants and animals early humans were eating still exist.

All this aside, there is also little evidence that a Paleo diet can help you shed pounds. Nevertheless, here are my two cents. First, my main concern with this diet is that it heavily relies on animal protein and eshews grains and legumes. That being said, if you stick to lean sources of protein, minimize red meat as much as possible, avoid any processed meats, and consume lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, you are probably getting better nutrition than most North Americans. My other concern is whether a person can stick with such a restrictive diet long-term. As I have said many times, I couldn't live without grains (or legumes). If you can, and this diet makes you feel good and helps you maintain a healthy weight. Go for it.

Cooking for the Specific Carbohydrate Diet: Cookbook Review

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 11:26:00 +0000

Recently I was asked to review this book. I had never heard of the Specific Carbohydrate Diet, so I was intrigued, and, to be honest, a little suspicious. Maybe it's because I'd never heard of it, or perhaps because I freakin' love carbs so I'm never enthusiastic about low-carb diets or any diet that eliminates a whole food group.

The book provides very little detail about the scientific basis for this diet except that it was originally developed by a physician in New York named, Sidney Haas for his celiac patients. In 1955 Elaine Gottschall wrote a book about the diet after it reportedly cured her daughter's ulcerative colitis. The author, Erica Kerwien, recommends picking up Gottaschall's book to get some explanation of the science behind it.

This is not meant to be a weight-loss diet, but is apparently intended to help individuals suffering from a number of chronic illnesses including Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, diverticuliis, IBS and various food intolerances.

The diet is called Specific Carbohydrate Diet because it permits certain carbs while eliminating others.

Permittable foods include:
- Fish, poultry and meat
- Non-starchy vegetables and fruit
- Eggs, yogurt and certain cheeses
- Navy, green, kidney, and black beans, split peas, lentils and peanuts
- Nuts
- Oils
- Honey

Forbidden foods include:
- Smoked and/or processed fish and meats
- Starchy vegetables
- Grains
- All other legumes not listed above including chickpeas
- Sugar, maple syrup, xylitol, stevia and all other sweeteners

I checked out Elaine Gottchall's work but frankly wasn't so impressed by the research it's based on. All the published work citing this diet's effectiveness for curing illness is based on case studies. There are no large-scale controlled, scientific studies.

I suppose if you are suffering from one of the chronic illnesses that this diet is supposed to help heal and nothing else has worked, there is no harm in trying this (with your doctor's approval!). There is no reason to think eating this way will help you live longer or lose weight. Personally, I can't fathom living without grains. Just thinking about giving up oatmeal and rice makes me depressed. And chickpeas? I freakin' love chickpeas! I'd have to be in some serious pain to try this diet, but I guess that's the point.

In terms of the recipes, some are quite interesting and all are based on natural, whole foods. They also probably fit into the 'Paleo' diet which is so popular right now. For example, almond flour and coconut flour replaces wheat flour in a lot of recipes.

Aside from shirataki and kelp noodles, I have yet to find a carb imposter that satisfies me, however, her recipes using grated cauliflower in place of rice look so good I may just have to try them.

The book covers everything from making your own yogurt, nut milks and creams, nut flours and butters and broths, to snacks, salads and soups, sauces, jams and dips, baked goods, veggies, poultry, meat and food, and desserts. There are a fair number of colour photos, and simple, easy to follow instructions. Kerwien provides staple ingredients to stock in your kitchen as well as a list of ingredient substitutions at the back of the book.

While this diet is not for me, this book does have some lovely, healthy recipes that may appeal to you if you are looking for a potential solution to a chronic health problem, or are following a low-carb, or Paleo-type diet.

Night Lights: Bright Light Pillows

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Berman) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 11:41:00 +0000

Good Monday morning? How are you feeling?

I still have this darn cold, but thankfully I got a super sleep last night so I definitely feel better than I did.

Speaking of sleeps, I have another find that has made bed times around here a little more bearable.

Little A is very particular about EVERYTHING and the whole bedtime routine is no exception.

One of the things she has been insisting on for months is that her (special, very expensive black out) blinds be raised to let in "a little light".

Given how detrimental it is to sleep with light (messes up melatonin and can increase risk of breast cancer and other health problems!), this has distressed me, but if we ever tried to fight her on it, she would flip out and scream and cry until we raised the blind a bit.

While it hasn't been a huge deal in winter when it gets dark early and the only light outside her window is from outside street lights, etc. (which is bad enough!), in summer it's a different story. Even though we've still been having unseasonably cold temps around here, already it's staying daylight bright past 7pm the past few weeks. So when she fell in love with this fuzzy, pink, heart-shaped night light pillow at the mall a few weeks ago, I gave in a bought it for her on the condition that she allow us to fully close her blinds from now on.

The Bright Light Pillow comes in a few shapes and variety of colours, and lights up when you tap it. They are extremely soft and cosy and the light goes off after 15 minutes. It's been the perfect solution for us! She has her light while she is falling asleep, and then it shuts off on its own. I'm loving this thing!

The pillows cost between $20-$30 and you can buy them online.