Eating "Extras"

What are Extra's? According to the Food Guide Pyramid extra's are used on luxeries like solid fats, added sugars, and alcohol, or on more food from any food group.
Here are some ways to avoid these "Extras":

• If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so sensibly and in moderation.
• Switch from whole milk to fat-free or low fat milk.
• Trim the fat off meat and take the skin off chicken before eating it.
• Use vegetable oils for cooking instead of solid fats like stick margarine, lard, or butter.
• Try using vinegar and oil or a squeeze of lemon instead on salads instead of salad dressings.
• Use sliced bananas, berries, raisins, or diced fruits to sweeten breakfast cereals or yogurt.
• Try chopped fruit or pureed berries on pancakes and waffles instead of butter and syrup.
• Drink 100% fruit juice instead of a fruit drink or punch.
• Choose fruit as a quick pick-me-up (snack) instead of candy or cookies.
• Drink water or other unsweetened beverages instead of sweetened soft drinks.

To learn more about the Food Guide Pyramid visit http://www.mypyramid.gov/index.html.

"Margarita Mama: Mocktails for Moms-to-Be"

I stumbled on this book and thought it would be GREAT to share. This book is awesome for those moms that enjoyed the end of the week cocktail prior to pregnancy. This is a wonderful option while you're pregnant and/or lactating. The recipes are healthy for mom and baby.
Mudslides, Mojitos, Cosmopolitans, and Mimosas, plus yummy new libations like the Materni-Tini, the Raging Hormone, and the Chocolate Crave.
"Margarita Mama: Mocktails for Moms-to-Be" Alyssa D. Gusenoff
Visit your local library and check it out or buy it at Amazon.com for $10.15 and it is eligible for free shipping on orders over $25.

Staying Motivated

You're more likely to stick with an exercise plan if it involves activities you enjoy and fits into your daily schedule. Consider these simple tips:

• Start small. You don't need to join a gym to get in shape. Just get moving. Try a daily walk through your neighborhood. Vary your route to keep it interesting.
• Find a partner. Exercise can be more interesting if you use the time to chat with a friend. Better yet, involve the whole family.
• Use a headset. Listen to music or a book while you exercise. Use lively songs to energize your workout.
• Try a class. Classes designed for pregnant women. Choose one that fits your interests and schedule.
• Get creative. Don't limit yourself. Consider hiking, rowing or dancing.
• Give yourself permission to rest. Your tolerance for strenuous exercise will decrease as your pregnancy progresses.

Up & Running

Wow!!! This has been a hectic few years, but we are finally up and running. What an experience this has been. I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve your goals before, during and after pregnancy.