Saturday, April 26, 2014

Oat-Less Oatmeal

Oat-less ‘Oatmeal’

serves 1
1/4 cup almond milk 
(she calls for reg. milk but I changed to almond milk)
3 egg whites
2 Tbsp ground flaxseed
1 tsp cinnamon
1 banana, mashed
1/2 tsp vanilla extract


Whisk together egg whites and almond milk. Then add in flaxseed, cinnamon, mashed banana, and vanilla. Whisk until completely combined. Pour mixture into a medium saucepan and cook over medium-low heat. Constantly stir the mixture and scrape the bottom of the saucepan until you reach a cooked oatmeal consistency.
The cooking should take no more than 5 minutes.
Scoop into a bowl. Top with toppings if desired and serve.




 Toppings in picture included: pecans, raisins, and blueberries


This recipe is from Kylie at Yeah...immaEATthat Website.  She has some awesome ideas to make the kitchen fun & creative!  Go check out her website and some of the other AMAZING food ideas she has.  





I found a NEW item!!!

I LOVE finding NEW things I can try!!

I am NOT a fan of bottled juices because of all the issues with added sugars and fake dyes, etc.  So I normally stay clear of that section all together.  However, today I was on a mission at UCLA to get my brother Trevor some coffee and orange juice.  He mentioned brand called 'odwalla'.  I am not familiar with the brand, but have seen the products on shelves.  


I grabbed the orange juice bottle for Trev, and stood in line reading the label (like I do on everything) and to my surprise... "I CAN DRINK THIS".   I ran back over to the fridge section and grabbed another bottle for myself.   

After enjoying the bottle of juice, I did some research on the company to see what else I could find.  This is the process of how I operate when I find a product or a restaurant that fits into my nutrition lifestyle. 

Odwalla is an all-natural juice company.  The first thing you see when you open their webpage is the slogan "Goodness Grows Here".  I found that I can drink 8 of the 24 juices. All 8 of the juices that I can drink are: Gluten free, Vegan, Sugar Free, and Not from concentrate.   The flavor variations for me are AWESOME!   Remember I am the extreme so you may have a larger number of possibilities.  

My research process:  Find the website and navigate through to familiarize yourself with what they have to offer first.  Start with one item at a time.  Example:  Juices.  I read that the juice can come gluten free, vegan, sugar free and not from concentrate.  The next step is reviewing all the juices that fit that description and read the ENTIRE label.  Then make a list for future purchases.  

Keeping a food log helps in many areas.  Shopping lists, menu planning, snacking items, creativity, and possible doctor notes, etc.  I suggest either getting a notebook and writing items down or using your 'notes' app in your smart phone.  

Have a GREAT day!!! 







Thursday, April 24, 2014

GO Gluten Free or Gluten Free & Dairy Free

Gluten free or Gluten Free & Dairy Free

When making the decision to change your diet in a big way you have a few choices.  
Do I just eliminate the Gluten?  Or do I eliminate Gluten & Dairy? 

The more time consuming of the two is Gluten Free (GF).  I say this because gluten can be hidden in so many items that we are not aware of.  It takes more education & label reading when eliminating gluten from our diet.  Reasons for GF diets range from medical, allergy, weight loss, personal choice, environmental, etc.  Reasons aside, we all have to approach the GF diet the same way. A gluten-free diet is a diet that excludes the protein gluten. Gluten is found in grains such as wheat, barley, rye and triticale (a cross between wheat and rye).  Initially, following a gluten-free diet may be frustrating.  But with time, patience and creativity, you'll find there are many foods that you already eat that are gluten-free and you will find substitutes for gluten-containing foods that you can enjoy.

Not everyone who is eating a GF diet will see a significant  weight loss.  The average person will see a small %.  GF diets are not designed for large weight loss and in my opinion shouldn't be used as a weight loss plan.  GF is a smart way of life and a wonderful way to eat for longevity.  

If you are one of those people who are looking for the weight loss, then I urge you to consider the Gluten Free & Dairy Free Lifestyle.  WHY?  The combination of the these two is where I can honestly say I see the magic in my life.  Remember I also eliminate Soy which I believe to be a contributing factor, however, not something the average person needs to do.  Again, this blog is FULL of my opinion and personal experiences.  I can see your face, and hear the questions... 
But what do I put in my cereal?  How about yogurt?  How am I going to bake?  Etc.,
Remember there are options.  And I am here to help!!  Almond milk is a wonderful option (dark chocolate almond milk is AMAZING), Coconut milk is another option, Coconut milk yogurt is actually really good!!  Earth balance makes a butter substitute for those who absolutely need this.  These are just a few examples.   Oh, and eggs are NOT a dairy item, this seems to be a confusion for some people.  They are found in the dairy section of the store, but they are protein!!  Dairy Free can be a hard thing for people to let go, but I promise you it's not as hard as the pounds coming off when you are over weight.  

If you are someone who has the weight to shed... I am talking to you!!  I hear this statement almost EVERYDAY... "But you have a medical problem and it's easy for you to say NO to the food!  How am I supposed to say NO when I don't have a medical problem?"
I have thought about this for some time and I have a response.  Some might think this is harsh and un-loving.  But here is goes...

 "If you are miserable and unhappy, if you look in the mirror and hate what you see, if your body image and weight is getting in the way of your marriage then you have a problem.   Saying NO should be worth it.  If you don't do something about it NOW... you may have a medical problem one day.  Wouldn't you rather say YOU fixed it?"

  I am HERE to help.  I've been in your shoes... I posted my fat pictures on the web for the world to see... I promise I am here for you!!!  But YOU have to be the one to make that choice."

I LOVE YOU ALL!!  


Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Hanging at UCLA with my Brother....

Getting a little personal today...

As I write today I am sitting at UCLA medical center in my brother's hospital room.  I am reminded of the beginning of my journey last October.  It was in the middle of his first battle with leukemia.   And here we are almost 6 months later & he's on battle #2 with this same ugly cancer. 


Trevor is the one who is fighting the fight... but as a family we fight along side.  We have a passion and desire to help in any way possible.  We are blessed to have a large family who can & wants to help.  But family is not always defined as blood. My brother's cancer has proven this... church family & friends can very well fit into that category as family.   These are the people who make up your  'Inner Circle'.   We have seen who the people are that don't make excuses about helping.  Some make it a point to honestly offer serves, time, finances, and hospitality.  This is a true blessing.  Honestly, it's been God's amazing hand in all the small things over this journey.  


I'm writing this today because whatever the situation in your life you need an 'Inner Circle'.   The people who you can trust to help in a time of need.  People to help when road blocks come your way.  

Today's blog will be short & sweet!  
I just want to encourage everyone to evaluate where they are...
Ask yourself a few simple questions...
Are you happy?  
Are you satisfied?
If you continued your daily routine for the next 6 months.
What would you see in the mirror? Would you be happy? Content? Upset? 

What changes need to take place for you to he the person you want, need, and God calls you to be?


Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.






Monday, April 21, 2014

Amazing Green Beans


Ingredients
1 pound Green Beans
**Bacon crumbles (save Bacon grease for for later)
2 Tablespoons Bacon Grease 
2 cloves Garlic
1 cup Chopped Onion
1 cup Chicken Broth
1/2 cup Chopped Red Bell Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to 1 Teaspoon) Kosher Salt (can Substitute Regular Table Salt
Use 1/4 To 1/2 Teaspoon)
Ground Black Pepper To Taste



Preparation Instructions

Cook Bacon Early & Save bacon grease for later.

Snap the stem ends of the green beans, or cut them off in a big bunch with a knife if you’d like. Just don’t tell Granny.

Melt bacon grease in a skillet over medium low heat. Add garlic and onions and cook for a minute. Then add green beans and cook for a minute until beans turn bright green.

Add the chicken broth, chopped red pepper, salt and black pepper. Turn heat to low and cover with a lid, leaving lid cracked to allow steam to escape. Cook for 20 to 30 minutes or until liquid evaporates and beans are fairly soft, yet still a bit crisp.


You can add more chicken broth during the cooking process, but don’t be afraid to let it all cook away so the onions and peppers can caramelize.



Eating at Holiday Gatherings

How to eat at Holiday Gatherings?

What does Megan do for Family gatherings or Holiday Parties?  

This is a question I get regularly.  It's important that you understand that I/we don't force everyone to eat my way (our way) at a gathering.  I normally ask what the main dish being served is and what the ingredients are.  Not with the intentions of a lesson for them to make any changes.  If I can eat the dish WONDERFUL.  If not, I will bring along something for myself.  I always sign-up or volunteer for a side dish that I am able to eat.  This dish should also go with the theme of the gathering, and be something that everyone else would also like.  

It's important to have the attitude when attending a gathering that 'my plate' will NOT have the amount of food as everyone else & that's OK!!  It's a good idea to bring some fresh fruit & veggies and keep in the fridge as a back up or plate filler.   I always have snacks in my purse in case I get stuck with very little options.  I never eat out without food stashed in my purse to fill my belly.  I have learned the hard way.  

When it comes to DESSERT time... 
Options? Gluten Free, Dairy Free, & Soy Free?

Once again I bring along my own treat... 
I am not normal.  I can sit with a large group of people and be perfectly fine not eating dessert.  I have NO cravings... it is very odd, I have to admit.  I was the person who could eat an entire pan of brownies!  But this new lifestyle for me has completely transformed me.   

Easter was yesterday & I made some Brownies for myself & my dad.  We have a few people in my family who eat like me.  I only made a small 8x8 pan thinking that most would hear... gluten, dairy, soy free and make the normal face & add TASTE free at the end!!!  

After I served myself & my dad.... the first person in line asked what they were and I explained.  They said "Oh my... what do they taste like then"?  So... my response was, "try for yourself and tell me"!  They added the smallest square from the pan on their plate!!  I silently laughed!!   A little later my uncle walked outside and said he got the last one!!  They were a hit!!  All the kids LOVED them. 



This brownie mix is from Trader Joe's.  It's Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Soy Free (and nut free).  It is made from brown rice and then mixed with a coco.  The flavors are rich and flavorful.  


The added ingredients on the back call for 1 egg, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 1/4 cup water.  I can't have vegetable oil... so I take Coconut oil and on a low heat bring it to a liquid form & replace the vegetable oil with 1/2 cup of Coconut oil.  It adds SO much more to the brownies (I think). And also makes them healthier by taking the processed oil OUT.  
  

I add these chocolate chips to the top once I've spread the mix in the pan.  It just adds a little more chocolate!!!  And gives them the googie just under baked brownie texture!!  



This was the pan after Easter... and EVERYONE loved them.  They couldn't believe they were Gluten, Dairy, & Soy Free!!!  Defiantly NOT TASTE FREE!!!








Friday, April 18, 2014

Dinning Out Guide

Dining Out When Gluten Free, or Dairy Free, or Soy Free

The responsibility for a safe dining-out experience starts with the customer 100%.  Why do I say this?  The moment you walk through the door of any establishment you have to communicate.  This gives them the opportunity to serve you to the best of their abilities.  

Don’t ever assume they know how to serve, prepare, or cook a dish the way you need it done for your specific medical condition or allergy restrictions.    Below are a few bullet notes on things to be prepared when dinning out.  

  • Always ask for a Gluten-Free Menu when arriving
  • Call ahead and make a reservation
  • Inform the staff of your allergies when you call & ask if this is going to be a problem  
  • Be mindful you'll get more focused attention if you don't call during peak hours
  •  Bring a typed card that lists your allergies. (It is helpful for the chef and it communicates that the allergy is very serious)
  •  Ask until you feel comfortable (if the server seems confused always ask for a manage)
  • Be prepared with your ordered & know how you want it cooked (confidence helps in a situation like this)
  • Don’t assume
  • Confirm that the waiter understands your restrictions 
  • Double check when your meal arrives to be sure you’ve received the correct dish.


Remember, doing all of this with a smile on your face goes a long way.  You are asking for them to take a few more steps in preparing your food, but it’s worth it in the long run.  Servers, managers, & chefs don’t mind assisting you with your special needs as long as you treat them with respect.  They are helping you with your journey to a healthy lifestyle!!





This dish was made for me at Roy's restaurant in Az.  After Ryan did his IronMan race.  We were out celebrating.  I listed off my restrictions to the chef & he said "I will create some magnificent you can enjoy tonight!"  This dish was truly amazing.  The flavors were bursting in my mouth.  And yes... I could eat everything.  He explain it all.  I was truly amazed.  The staff took GREAT care of me.  Dining out doesn't have to be scary!!  The higher end restaurants will take better care, but you can find local small places who will love on you.  Just talk to the Managers!!




Thursday, April 17, 2014

Satisfying our needs to be fed...

Good Morning... 

Today as I sit here and write I am reminded that this journey the Lord has blessed me.   He has not only made me stronger, but it has opened my eyes to what it means to be "fed".  

Psalm 90: 14 says "Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days."  

When I read this I am reminded that its just as important, if not more important, to feed my soul as it is to feed my body.   Making the room for God, or giving God the right place in our life, in our heart 'our soul'.  Without this it will leave us hungry and starving.  My pastor Ralph uses this phrase, "Knees before feet."  This is a pattern he has built for his life. Starting his day off feeding his soul with communication with his heavenly father.   This is a daily pattern that we need. 

How do you satisfy you needs when feeding your body?  When you are hungry and your belly is growling at you... what do you grab?  What are you habits?  How do you value yourself?  Do you think your physical well-being is worth longevity and sacrifice?  Do you find joy in eating?  

I am asking these questions only to get you thinking...

Fueling your body is VERY important.  Prepping what you put in takes time and energy.   Feeding the soul must comes first, but then feeding the body that the Lord has blessed you with is very important & requires some work.  I am not saying get prideful and act in way that is sinful.  I am saying putting in the energy to feed yourself clean & wholesome to give yourself the amount of energy to stay healthy to take care of the needs the He has given you.  


Seven months ago when I was diagnosed with my autoimmune disease and was forced to make my eating habit changes.  I had to do a ton of research, trial & error, online reading, met with nutritionist, sampled food, made recipes, and much more!!  I am very excited to share what I have learned with everyone.  

PLUS, for those who are athletes, especially triathletes I will have a special section for how I have been able to fuel my body before, during, & after training.  As well as race day break downs.  I have products that I can buy and recipes that I make.  







Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Gluten and Dairy Free Carrot Cake Pancakes

I want to try these on my family.... 
WHO's IN???




LINK to the website:

By: Snap Fitness


http://www.snapfitness.com/blog/post/gluten-and-dairy-free-carrot-cake-pancakes/2661#.U08H1eZdXnd

Gluten Free & Dairy Free Carrot Cake Pancakes

Ingredients

2 cups finely grated carrot (about 4 medium carrots)
2 cups gluten free bean based flour blend, such as Bob’s Red Mill All Purpose Gluten Free Flour or Almond Flour
4 teaspoons gluten free baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon xanthan or guar gum, optional
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup unsweetened gluten & dairy free milk substitute, such as almond
2 large eggs
1/4 cup oil (substitute coconut oil for those who can't have oil)
3 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey for those who can't have syrup)
2 teaspoons gluten free vanilla extract

Toppings

8 ounce crushed pineapple, drained
1/3 cup toasted unsweetened coconut mixed with 2 tablespoon toasted pecans
1/2 cup large shredded carrot, sautéed until tender mixed with 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey

Note: If you do not have a fine box grater to shred the carrots, use a food processor or high-powered blender to quickly grind carrots until finely shredded or minced. If you use a juicer, you can also use leftover carrot pulp from juicing for the shredded carrots in this recipe.

Directions

1. Whisk the dry ingredients together in a bowl. Mix the wet ingredients together until blended then add to the dry ingredients. Stir until well blended.

2. Add shredded carrot and stir. Alternatively, if you have used a food processor to grind your carrots, add dry and wet ingredients to food processor and blend until batter is smooth.
3 Cook 2-3 tablespoons of batter per pancake in a preheated lightly oiled pan as you would regular pancakes, flipping pancake over when bubbles are just showing on the surface and the bottom is golden brown.
4. Top pancakes with maple syrup or dress them up with crushed pineapple, toasted coconut and pecan mixture and carrot maple syrup. 

5. Enjoy! 

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Welcome...

I am excited about this NEW blog.  I have had a crazy year!   Some may ask why FIT Mommas as a title for my new blog.  Well... F- stands for faithfully, I- stands for inspired,  and T- stands for transformed.  These 3 words all have a very important meaning to my last year.  And the best part is they make the word FIT.   You will learn over time why these words are special to me.    


My plan for this blog has many parts!! I want to share about my journey.  They good, bad, & the ugly!! I want to share my food knowledge & tricks!  I am NOT a medical doctor nor do I pretend to be a medical doctor.  This blog is  information & a collection of my thoughts.  I have put together information from trial and errors from my experiences since  my diagnosis of an autoimmune disease in 2013.  This is only to help those who would like read what has helped me along my journey.  Your journey is personal to you, however I wish I had someone to bounce ideas off of during the beginning steps.   


Do I believe that everyone or the average person needs a gluten and/or dairy free diet?  Not necessarily, but clean eating is VERY important in today society.   

My children... Wyatt & Emma  are my pride & joy!! 

Ryan is such a wonderful hubby... he is blessing to my.  I cant wait for you to learn about how he has been my rock along this journey! 



Psalm 139:14
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."

Focus on the family explains this verse like this... You are created in the image of God, and God doesn't make junk! Like a snowflake, every person is unique. No two are the same. God sees you as a masterpiece; and when you look in the mirror, He wants you to "know that full well." Try this beauty tip: Every morning when you look in the mirror, say Psalm 139:14 and smile. You might even tape the verse on your mirror as a reminder!

Welcome to FIT Mommas Blog.  And of course you don't have to be a mom or a woman to read and enjoy this blog.  You just need to have a desire to learn & make changes where needed!!