Veggie Colors...

Bright orange and deep-green veggies have a halo for their high levels of health-boosting antioxidants, but it turns out white produce has been unfairly ignored. A  study found that potatoes, cauliflowers, turnips, and onions are significant sources of potassium and magnesium, two essential nutrients that are essential for a healthy heart.  I am so into roasted cauliflower, I could eat it everyday!

Fresh or Frozen...

Fresh fruits and veggies taste better -- especially when locally grown -- but frozen produce is by no means nutrient deficient. Plus, it won't rot in the fridge when your schedule gets crazy and dinner plans change.  Your favorite vegetable isn't always in season, but it's always ready in your freezer. Some veggies even have higher concentrations of nutrients when frozen: Researchers at found that frozen spinach retains its nutrients more effectively than fresh spinach does!

Until Monday - Keep thinking veggies and protein!  

Salads...

Salads can be an excellent option, but it's ridiculously easy to morph this healthy meal into a dietary disaster.  Fixings like cheese, olives, avocado, nuts, and dried fruit really can pile on the calories. Try sticking to just one of the above and adding just a sprinkle of another. I love my avocados!  Dressings can also quickly sabotage a salad - and not just by the shocking amount of calories they can contain.  Salad dressings can also have a lot of additives and added sugar, so use a plain olive oil and vinegar dressing at home, or if out, ask for it on the side. At home I make my own oil free vinaigrette and when I am out I order a plate of lemons!  Make sure to add a protein and you will be full and satisfied!

Running...

OK - I have to admit this, I haven’t been running much lately!  Kind of disappointing, I do have an excuse, not a great one but legitimate!  Summer is behind us and now it is dark in the morning and I am having a hard time getting motivated to get on the  treadmill.  It is perfect running weather outside and I just don’t want to be indoors - YET!  At least I still have the weekends for the outdoor running high.  Doesn't our cat Shmooh look comfortable?  Get moving Deborah!

Surprising Benefit of Broccoli...

Fight Arthritis with Broccoli - We love that broccoli is delicious and packed with both vitamins and fiber, and now there's even more to love. Results of a new study suggest that compounds in broccoli could combat inflammation, and trials show this could help prevent osteoarthritis.