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Archive for the ‘Dieting Tips’ Category

March 25, 2013

Wheat & Other Grains- The Skinny on the Fat Rumors

I’ve been hearing a lot lately about how wheat is not really good for you, and how we are “killing” our cells when we consume it. I started doing my homework, experimenting for myself, and this article covers what I’ve come up with. Breadlovers may especially want to pay attention.

Wheat is a grain.  And there is a lot to be said about this grain, that used to be a golden child which lead the body into a feel for health.  Nowadays, there are GMO management systems devised by scientists to assure wheat’s resistance to weather and other environmental conditions.  Sadly, wheat is no longer really “wheat.”  Thus, we suffer.  According to Dr. William Davis, MD in The Wheat Belly, “Whole wheat bread increases blood sugar to a higher level than sucrose. Aside from some extra fiber, eating two slices of whole wheat bread is really little different, and often worse, than drinking a can of sugar-sweetened soda or eating a sugary candy bar.”  His information is not unfounded, as his research was not only tested but also documented by the International table of glycemic index and glycemic load values: 2002.  His book brilliantly explains the effects of wheat’s devolving values via GMO, and how it impacts fatgain, diabetes development, and even heart disease, which all effect blood pressure to some degree.

So the question remains, are grains for you, and will they keep you thinner? Basically, the skinny on grains is that you want to stick with sprouted grains. Sprouted grains are known to reduce the anti-nutrients (while “whole wheat” flour itself is loaded with anti-nutrient properties). As well, sprouting processes are more beneficial as they help the grains in retaining more nutrients.  Furthermore, countless experiments and studies have shown the sprouting of grains as causing an increase in the value of digestive properties contained in the grain (even when baking).

Since sprouted bread is sprouted from many grains (i.e. Ezekiel Bread, or Dave’s Killer Bread), rather than JUST wheat (and, it is sprouted from the GMO wheat berry), it’s safe to say that given the research sited herein, and given the fact that I only write about what I see in terms of results on my own body, I’d say that sprouted grain breads are a decent call for most people. If you have gluten intolerance, then stay away from wheat, even if it’s sprouted.  If you are trying to avoid GMO 100%, well, stay away from wheat.  If you have heart problems, blood pressure issues, diabetes, or you are prone to any of this, stay AWAY from wheat.  If you are looking to keep your glycemic index (for diabetics and fatloss candidates) carbs healthy, then it would make sense to stick to breads that have no wheat, sprouted or not, or eat only those which have the more suitable glycemic index range for your health and fitness goals (i.e., those things with little or no wheat will tend to have a lower glycemic index).  The GMO, regardless of sprouting or fiber content has made wheat such an invaluable grain that unless it’s blended with a heavier amount of other grains, wheat will spike your blood sugar, make your body prone to fat storage, and for many people, it can aggravate current health impediments.  While it’s best to stay away from wheat, remember that most people who are lucky enough not to be ailed with challenges in their health in areas mentioned above will find that sprouted breads, even with some wheat in them, will normally not be of issue in moderation.  Enjoy your grains, eat sprouted, minimize or cut out wheat, and you can enjoy health and  happy taste buds- the best of both worlds!

“Be Well. Be You. BE PHENOMENAL! You are Worth the Work!”

-Nita Lee Marquez

Nita Lee Marquez, Author, Fitness Empowerment Motivational Speaker, TV Fitness Personality, Actress, Fitness Model, Fitness Athlete

Nita Marquez America's Hottest Fit Mom™

 

 


February 25, 2013

Essential Fatty Acids are Important, but Why?

Essential Fatty Acids – We hear the term all the time, but what does it mean?

Essential Fatty Acids are unable to be synthesized by humans, but are necessary components for healthy metabolism.  Metabolism is the body’s rate of ability to burn fat.  Simply stated, EFA’s assist with the breakdown of fat. Omega-3′s can be found in fish, eggs (the yolk), hazelnuts, pecans, in plant-based foods deriving from micro algae and brown algae, grass-fed beef, krill, hemp seeds and flax seeds, to sum up the majority of human-ingestible foods that contain EFA’s.

It is often noted that Americans consume far too many Omega-6′s and not enough Omega-3′s, which can be problematic.  It is suggested on multiple medical sites and blogs to limit the Omega-6 supplemental intake, and measure the dietary and supplemental intake of Omega-3′s.  This is very important.

EFA’s help with a number of health ailments, including prevention or management of Alzheimer’s, stroke, cancer, cardiovascular health,  mental health, ADHD, along with some Autism disorders, and depression.  However, dietary intake should be monitored. More than 3 grams daily of Omega-3 Fatty Acids can cause negative effects.  Therefore, when taking in fish or krill oil gel caps, be sure to manage your intake according to the label’s stated ratios of Omega-3 to Omega-6 EFA’s.

Because of the effects of EFA’s on brain development, children are candidates for the usage of fish oil or plant-derived EFA supplements, as well as the foods that can contain Omega-3′s, such as the foods you will see mentioned below.  Parents, it’s highly imperative that you manage supplementation for healthy brain development, but that you also balance your child’s limited supplementation with a diet that is rich in EFA’s for your child(ren)’s ongoing development and cognitive acuity.

EFA’s have been a part of my daily intake for years, primarily through Salmon, and occasionally through gel cap fish or krill oils.  Recently, I learned that raw eggs (the yolk) will stay rich in Omega-3′s when uncooked, so I have been adding 1-2 whole raw eggs to my protein shakes in the morning when I wake up.  The FDA has only ever reported .0003% salmonella poisoning deriving from eggs.

If fish isn’t your thing, eggs or grass-fed beef, then keep your krill or fish oil capsules around, or perhaps you can get a plant-based EFA supplement from the store (supplements are usually made from the algae mentioned above for vegan diets).  Or keep a lot of hazelnuts, flaxseeds, and pecans around. This all helps tremendously, as Omega-3′s contained in these foods/supplements will especially support your skin, hair, nails, brain and overall metabolism.

So, develop well and healthy, maintain clear mental function, and stay fit, utilizing the fine benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids.  EFA’s are your friend, so keep them around at all times! Be Well, Be You, BE PHENOMENAL!

-Nita Lee Marquez

America’s Hottest Fit Mom – Author, Fitness Expert, Motivational Speaker

Nita Lee Marquez, Author, Fitness Empowerment Motivational Speaker, TV Fitness Personality, Actress, Fitness Model, Fitness Athlete

Nita Marquez

 

 


February 19, 2013

Get that Dough- The Truth about Bread!

Looking to get fit? Looking to live leaner and look better? Looking to get more energy? How many of you believe that you have to cut out bread in order to look better? Guess what.  Your health can still benefit from bread, even in today’s society of junk food, processed food, and fast food. Well, which really works for you when it comes to bread? There are three choices you are left to when trying to live a fitness lifestyle, which DOES require that you watch the types of foods you consume. Which of the following sounds best? These are your bread consumption alternatives:

  1.  Eat a full-fledged no-bread diet for the rest of your life
  2.  Eat “bad” bread and get unhealthy from it
  3.  Or finally, make better choices in bread so you can KEEP BREAD as a part of your food regimen, and still chow down on a sandwich now and then.

I elect choice number 3! I’m not really a big bread eater, to be honest, but the realities are that anyone likes a piece of toast or a sandwich from time to time, if not every day.  Most parents who send their kids to school use sandwiches as the staple part of their children’s lunches.  I make colorful salads with free-range/organic-fed chicken along with fruits and veggies for my children, but sometimes, they like to have a wild-caught tuna sandwich or a good old fashioned PB&J (with organic natural PB & J, of course).

Whether it’s a lean meat, tuna, or vegan sandwich, the type of bread will constitute the “healthy” in that “nutritious sandwich,” so there are a list of important factors to consider when selecting breads for your healthy living choices. There are basically four types of breads. Those four breads will impact all the considerable factors you want to know about if you want to keep bread in your daily diet.  The health factors to consider when you are eating anything really, especially bread, are:

  1.  glycemic index (how the carbohydrates in the food impact your blood sugar levels- especially important for diabetics)
  2.  fat content (especially consider the amount of saturated fats, as this can affect weight, heart condition, cholesterol)
  3.  toxic or artificial ingredients (look out for toxic additives, corn syrup, hydrogenated oils, and preservatives)
  4.  vitamin and nutrient content
  5. fiber content
  6. caloric content (important consideration for those trying to lose weight- but this is the LEAST of your concerns)

 

Here are the four breads you have to choose from at all times, and these notes will help you consider what is genuinely going to be best for you, considering the factors above:

Enriched Flour (Wheat or otherwise) Wheat Bread- A processed flour which is so processed that it has been horribly stripped of it’s most nourishing nutrients and vitamins, thus requiring an “enriching” process whereby nutrients and vitamins have been added back in.  This bread is generally very unhealthy, because you never know what chemicals were used in the processing of those grains.  Such processes include the use of bleach in an effort to strip, clean, and break down the grains into flour, not different than making white bread. High glycemic, toxic, chemically enhanced, and usually contains corn syrup to enhance taste and may contain hydrogenated oils.

Sprouted Grain Bread- Grains that are soaked in water until they have sprouted and can then maintain their vitamins, nutrient, and nutritional property (protein) value.  The sprouted grains are crushed and used to make bread.  Higher and more natural source of nutrition, fiber, and protein.  Sprouted grain breads are much lower on the glycemic index than all other breads, thus making this a very healthy bread for diabetics, weight-loss candidates, and those looking for a healthy alternative for their delightful sandwiches without the fat storage that results from eating most breads on a daily basis.

Whole Grain Bread- Also a decent alternative to enriched or white breads, whole grain breads are delicious, tend to be more natural, and can be appreciated for their lack of processing.  Although they are higher on the glycemic index, they tend to be more whole and natural, excluding junk ingredients like corn syrup and hydrogenated oils- the worst contents outside of the bleach used to break down processed grains. You can get these breads with high fiber and high protein content, if you are really on the lookout, and it is cheaper than sprouted grain bread, but not as cheap at the lame alternatives like enriched or white.

White Bread- Do I really need to go into why this is the WORST POSSIBLE BREAD TO CONSUME- EVER! It’s white because it’s bleached! Gross! The grains that comprise these breads are so processed and stripped and, again, bleached, that they are not even grains by the time they go into your body. They are loaded with corn syrups, sugars, hydrogenation, and  more garbage.  Just read the ingredients, and look up the processes for yourself.  They are simply a taste-bud stimulating chemical, void of any nutritional value whatsoever.

My favorite of all breads is the famous Ezekiel Bread.  I love this stuff! Low GI (Glycemic Index), high in protein, high in nutrition, dense and grainy texture, with easy to digest and assimilate proteins, vitamins, nutrients, and naturally occurring amino acids. Another new one I’ve found is Dave’s Killer Bread. USDA Organic Dave’s Bread is delicious, my kids absolutely love it, and we can count on integrity and protein and low glycemic index.  These three things are especially important for my household because my son has no pancreas, and is consequently diabetic.  Protein and GI are important for diabetics. I myself, like to stay looking and feeling fit, and staying lean and energetic, so these breads in limited amounts (maybe once or twice a week) work best for me also.  Finally, I also am itching to try this new Paleo Bread.  This stuff is all natural, low glycemic, high protein, and they even have a low-carb version!

So, keep your bread. Eat toast! Eat sandwiches! Enjoy your grains in a healthy way.  Let me know your results here at nitasworld.

Be well, Be You, BE PHENOMENAL!

-Nita Lee Marquez

Nita Lee Marquez, Author, Fitness Empowerment Motivational Speaker, TV Fitness Personality, Actress, Fitness Model, Fitness Athlete
Nita Marquez-               America’s Hottest Fit Mom              Fitness Expert & Author

 

 

 


February 7, 2013

The Foods We Eat- Fit Mom Knows Best!

I have been in the fitness industry since 1998, and in that time, I have taken baby steps at some points, and leaped strides in others.  Knowing that I grew up with weight struggles and many addictive behaviors, many people have asked me what has been most difficult for me to change in living more fit over the years. To that, I always say that the food has been the biggest challenge to overcome, but overcome it, I have! If I can change from a processed and fast food lifestyle to living fit with my three beautiful children, I know anyone is capable of it.

There are steps, not always big steps, that can create big change.  Here are some great tips for a quick change in both your physical appearance as well as your energy levels:

1) Drink at least a gallon of water daily

You don’t have to drink it all at once! Just carry around a liter bottle and drink & refill it 4 times, and that will be an easier way to manage your intake.

Start with 1-2 liters daily, and gradually increase from there. Trust me, you will crave more, the more you drink, if you drink water in these amounts consistently.

The more water you drink, the more you will pee, most definitely, but you will flush out toxic build-up, thereby increasing your energy levels!

Nita Marquez educates on hydration

Water- It does a body good!

 

2) Pull the high-sodium foods

Traditionally known amongst fitness experts and nutritionists, we say that one “cheat” day per week makes sense.  You won’t cause much damage that one day, and eventually, you may not even want as much “junk” on your cheat day as you have starting out.

High sodium foods include:

    • canned foods (unless noted as “no salt added” – even the “low-sodium” soups and canned foods still have a lot of sodium if you’re someone who is trying to manage their weight or blood pressure).
    • processed foods, like frozen tv dinners, burritos, pizzas, even Weight Watchers and Jenny Craig and Nutri-System have TONS of sodium in their meal packets and frozen meals.
    • packaged foods, like anything out of a bag or a box, tends to have a higher than desired sodium content.
    • jarred foods, like pickles, salsas or anything else that is out of the jar, ready-to-eat
    • condiments & sauces, like ketchup, bbq sauces, dressings, even mayonnaise has a lot of sodium most of the time!
    • dairy, like milk, yogurt, some ice creams, butter, fake butter

I’m certainly not saying that you should completely cut these foods out of your diet, but if you are trying to manage weight or blood pressure, most often some of the excess weight can be dropped by pulling sodium and drinking more water.  This is due to the fact that the first 8-20 pounds of weightloss on everyone tends to be water weight, and if you can just cut back on these foods that cause the water-retention, while drinking more water, you can usually lose that water weight quickly.  The less junk you eat with sodium, the less water you’ll hold, and the less water you hold, the less lethargic you will feel.

These foods are simply something that you can, in baby steps, begin to cut back on and eventually eliminate, and the water is simply a rule of thumb that you can work up to, from the suggested 1-2 liters daily.  The health tips can remedy blood pressure issues, weight management challenges, energy levels, skincare issues, and bloated stomachs.  Try it, and feel free to post to this blog or email me at nitasworld.com.

That’s my tip for today! Remember to Be Well, Be You, BE PHENOMENAL! You are Worth the Work!

-Nita Lee Marquez

Nita Lee Marquez Fit Mom Knows Best


February 6, 2013

Fit Moms Know Best! Keeping Your Family Fit with Fish!

I love fish!! I am a Pescatarian, so I eat fish for my primary protein source. This is an important post about fish: According the the EPA, these are the fish with the lowest Mercury content… Women who breastfeed, pregnant women and children under age 6 should not eat these fish more than twice weekly, and should avoid all other fish that are considered moderate-high in mercury content…
Clam
Crab
Crawfish
Flounder
Haddock
Herring
Mackerel
Mullet
Oyster
Perch
Pollock
Salmon
Sardine
Scallop
Shrimp
Sole
Squid
Tilapia
Trout
Whitefish
At the same time, while some of these fish have low mercury content, and thus are not cause for mercury concern for the average woman or man or child over age 6, there are other things people need to consider when eating fish.  If the fish is not wild-caught (and it’s packaging will note “WILD CAUGHT”), it is “farm-raised” in a very toxic environment, enclosed in very tight-quartered pens (in lakes or ponds)- an environment which is so unhealthy, contained, and tainted that the fish tend to have more disease, fat, and dye than wild fish.  What’s even more interesting (actually, it’s disgusting) is that these fish are fed a corn-substance because it’s the cheapest way to get them fat for the purposes of making more money on them.  The corn is often loaded with chemicals and antibiotics, which can disrupt or even damage our internal functions.  Gross!
When thinking about what to eat, make sure that you consider fish, because it is a tremendously beneficial food.  Fish contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which can help break down lipids (fats) in our bodies, and it’s protein content is superior to poultry or redmeat (in that it assimilates more readily).  Fish is also known for having amazing anti-aging property in its oils.
Honestly, I, Nita Marquez (www.nitasworld.com), am a huge fish-lover, and at almost 40 years of age, with 3 children, I feel LOTS more energetic than I did at 22!  I believe that my pescatarian eating style has had everything to do with keeping my skin soft, smooth, tight, wrinkle-free, and most of all- GLOWING.  With a lean raw-food, fish-based daily food regimen that includes beans, all the right spices, and lots of salsa, I believe that fish has truly kept me young!  Try it for yourself and feel free to let me know by either posting to the blog, or email me at the website! BE PHENOMENAL! You are Worth the Work!
Nita Lee Marquez, America’s Hottest Fit Mom
Author/Fitness Expert/Motivational Speaker
Nita Marquez

August 24, 2012

Skinny Wraps- Fit Mom Finds Answer for Fatloss & Income!

Before - 147 lbs

My name is Mellissa Shepherd. I am the 42-year-old mother of two amazing children – Travis, 7 and Addyson, 6. My husband Darren and I have been married for 12 wonderful years, and until November 2010, I was a marketing and public relations professional. Now, I spend my days at home with the kids and, most recently, doing my best to help people achieve their health and fitness goals by selling “skinny wraps” and nutritional supplements by It Works! Global.

My Beautiful Children- Travis and Addyson

My journey to becoming a fit mom began last fall, when I could no longer handle having no energy, being tired all the time, and simply not feeling well. I spoke to my doctor about what was going on and he just chalked it up to being a mom with two young kids. He did run a thyroid test to humor me, though. Not surprisingly, it came back normal.

Ladies, Fit Moms, and Fit Moms in training – if you take nothing else from reading my story, remember this, listen to your bodies and trust your instincts. We know ourselves inside and out. God created us to recognize the nuances of how we feel and how our bodies behave. Women’s intuition is not a myth. The problem is we are so busy, we don’t take the time to stop and listen to what our bodies are telling us.  Even when we work out, women’s health tends to be overlooked because we have not recognized what our bodies are saying to us.  It is vital to learn your body’s language.

Well, I listened to my body, prayed and meditated, and found a wellness doctor that took the time to listen to what my body had to say. Long story short, I did have thyroid issues; my thyroid wasn’t producing enough T3. I’m not a women’s health professional, but the way I understand it, T3 is necessary for proper adrenal gland function; the adrenals helps regulate the pituitary gland, which, in turn, regulates the thyroid. So, if one isn’t working properly … well, you get the picture. Note: T3 levels aren’t typically measured in routine thyroid screenings, therefore, if you suspect thyroid issues, ask your doctor to measure T3, T4 and free T3 levels so you’re getting a complete picture of thyroid function.

Based on the results of the thyroid panel, as well as the fact that I had severe vitamin D deficiency and a host of other issues, the doctor recommended I try the HCG diet. I know there are a lot of mixed feelings on the HCG diet and whether or not it’s a safe method of weight loss, but it transformed me – physically and mentally. I lost 22 pounds during the three weeks I was on the diet and another five during the maintenance phase, and I feel better than I have in years, maybe ever. But more than that, it changed the way I looked at food, what I ate and even why I was eating. And as I made these changes for myself, my family began to change their eating habits as well. My children now understand the importance of eating meals high in protein and limiting processed foods and carbs in general. I’ll never forget the first time Travis asked me, “are these good carbs mom?” It was such an ah ha moment for me. I remember thinking, “Wow, they really are listening!”

While I’ve come a long way, I still don’t work out like I should, although America’s Hottest Fit Moms is going a long way in inspiring me to get better about it! Darren and I have started the Insanity workouts. He’s more religious about it than I am, but I do do it several times a week. And my son is now on board because he wants a six-pack! Being fit and healthy has really become a family affair. So for all the Fit Moms out there who are wondering, yes, you can transform your family with the fit life!  It seems like they just jump on board when we fit moms not only set the example, but we really talk with them about it, and do a lot of fun fitness-oriented activities. (“Fun” is key for our families- don’t forget to smile!)

AFTER the Skinny Wrap!

So it was really a no-brainer when my friend introduced me to It Works! and the Ultimate Body Applicator and asked me if I wanted to join her team. This business is the perfect complement to our lifestyle, and I want to show others how the wraps and nutritional supplements can help them achieve their goals as well. For me, it’s not about selling wraps, it’s about teaching them how to incorporate the products into a healthy lifestyle. And the wraps are only one piece of the puzzle. The Defining Gel helps tighten, tone and firm in between wraps. Greens, one of my favorite products, detoxify and are an excellent source of nutrition. The Fat Fighters inhibit the body’s absorption of fat and carbs. New You helps build lean muscle and enhances endurance. More information about all of our products can be found on my website https://mellissashepherd.myitworks.com.

I hope that as you read this, you are inspired to reach your fitness goals and that you realize in one way or another, we are all America’s Hottest Fit Moms!  Here’s to celebrating our families… IN HEALTH! Thank you for letting me share my story, and feel free to contact me on facebook at the America’s Hottest Fit Moms group or get the It Works Skinny Wrap at my site!

 


April 19, 2012

Lentil Bean Tacos

Lentils are great because they have no sodium, high protein, no fat, and moderate carbs (low-glycemic) with high fiber content.  I like them because being a pescatarian [someone who eats only fish for protein- although I enjoy my egg whites and whey shakes, too] :) They are definitely a great protein source for vegans, and really, lentils are great for anyone who is trying to be healthier and stronger. I recommend them as part of a high protein diet, as well as part of a diet that requires more fiber.

“Simple, fast and healthy meals are my only alternative.”

The best part about them is that they require little to no work for preparation. “3-minutes or less in prep time” is my rule, because as a single mother to three children who are all busy with their own careers and school and training, I simply don’t have time for anything more than this, whether I’m cooking for them or for myself.  Simple, fast and healthy meals are my only alternative.

As far as the taste of lentils, they can vary based on the spices used, of course.  My personal preference is the Indian combined with Mexican spices.  I am posting that style of lentils in this recipe today.  They taste so good, even my children like them! And the texture is so smooth, that you can even mash them into a paste and spread them like hummus. They are absolutely delicious! See me son here to get his feedback on them! In the meantime, feel free to post comments and join my facebook page or join our group at AmericasHottestFitMoms.com  to interact with the rest of the Fit Moms in the group and maybe talk about lentils and other fitness recipes and the fitness lifestyle. In the mean time, enjoy the lentils and BE PHENOMENAL!

Makes 2 servings:

1 cup lentils

1.5 cups water

2 tbsp olive oil

in desired amounts:

onion powder

garlic powder

curry powder

cumin powder

red pepper (cayenne, or dried red chili peppers- whichever you prefer)

himalayan salt (mild amounts for those who are sodium-sensitive)

and finally,

4 corn tortillas (i prefer yellow due to the rich flavor and also higher nutrient content)

Directions:

1. pour all ingredients, minus the corn tortillas, into a soup pan.

2. boil at medium heat (i usually boil it all for about 30 minutes).

3. turn off heat, stir, and cool until water is nearly dissolved.

4. as you wish, you may also add a little fresh squeezed lemon juice

5. spread onto your corn tortillas and munch away!


February 1, 2012

Single Moms, Working Moms, Fit Moms! Eating Healthy is Easy!

Ever since I started having children, I was increasingly more intrigued by the idea of being a Fit Mom.  I would run in the mornings around the man-made lake near our tiny apartment in Arizona. When my husband and I first had our oldest of three, I was not the most fit person you would see.  You couldn’t actually tell that I worked out ever.  I was on the other side of chubby, but not quite in shape yet.  Being fit, especially after having children, has certainly come at a price.  Many things were sacrificed along my way toward becoming the Nita Marquez that people see today.  I am often asked if I was always athletic, or if I was always thin. No to both.  I was athletic at eating when I was growing up, and I was made fun of for my weight, even by my own parents.   Weight, food and diet were always either very foreign to me, or extremely unfriendly.  I didn’t synergize well with this fitness lifestyle at first, so I learned to take baby steps, and for the amount of sacrifices, there are A LOT of baby steps involved.  Likening this journey to that of a baby growing up, I will say this, you do have to learn to walk before you can start doing sprints, and that almost always starts out with a crawl.

As a mother who was married at one time, I had the luxury of a second adult in the household to ease the stress at moments of overwhelm.  I had someone there at night telling me they love me, just like I do my children.  The affections and praises of another adult make all the difference in the world when it comes to replenishing our energy stores. There is something to be said about being a mother in a two-parent household, even if it’s not picture-perfect, which mine wasn’t, it’s still an ease on the daily tasks of motherhood when someone else can take the kids to the amusement park or do something outside the house with the children so a mother can have peace, quiet and solitude, and of course, have another grown up say, “You’re doing great,” to make you feel appreciated and valued. It also gave me time to start focusing more on myself and my fitness goals for myself and my family.

After I became a single mom, I went through the jolting reality of how much that other adult’s presence in my life meant.  Being a fit mom by then, yes, I certainly had an advantage in being already settled into some of my fitness habits, and it certainly helped my self-esteem to be getting into better shape even though I was a single mother of three.  Most people expect that a woman falls apart physically in such scenarios.  Still, I was by myself with these three, one of whom, is diabetic, my little infant son (now 9).  It was harder than before to keep moving along so energetically on a daily basis, even though I had already built a lot of those fitness habits.

There was a point though, where I was finally able to make the correct adjustments that have come to be my hallmark as a fit mom today, the adjustments of efficiently living fit as a mother.  There are many efficiency points in living the life of a fit mom, but all moms, especially fit moms, understand the value of making choices that help us capitalize on our most precious asset (aside from our kids, of course): TIME.

Integrating my family time with my fitness time was a great option for me, and evaluation of my life choices, helped me see how I could make more time available for both.  Taking inventory of our personal choices is key. If you want to have the life of a fit mom, it’s about choices.  Not that we won’t make mistakes, but taking inventory on ourselves helps us realize the places where perhaps our choices aren’t paying off.  Being a fit mom isn’t as hard as it seems.  Choices can make life efficient, and there are plenty of choices that help in streamlining our efforts for living the fit life and being a mom.  I made the following adjustments in my life, and adapted to not only being a single mom, but also a mom who was more fit than ever!

1) Avoid nights out at the bars and happy hours. Why? Because for one, alcohol makes you fat, whether people want to admit it to themselves or not, and two, that time spent would cost me more time in the gym and it was already taking time away, so it’s a double-whammy.

2) Take the kids to the track or the park instead of to the movies and McFastFood.  Being active at these places helps make life the fit mom more fit, the kids get more fit, and when they see you doing sprints or even racing with them, they are not only with witnessing that their mom totally rocks, but they are gaining a totally different type of bond with us if they grow up with that image instead of the images of sitting around a TV eating junk food. How do we fit moms really want our kids to remember their childhood? Let them go to the gym with you, if you have that ability, or go for walks or bike rides.  Fit mom time made family time creates a completely different bond with us to our children.

3) Cook foods and meals that are fast and easy AND fit!  It’s possible.  I started coming up with these quirky little quickie recipes because I never liked cooking in the first place.  I was more of a salad and sandwich mom when I was married.  However, I did have a Foreman Grill.  With that thing, I can cook meats from the frozen state , and have a meal in less than ten minutes, with only a couple of minutes of prep time.  I have begun posting some of those recipes that my children like and I benefit from the healthiness of because everything I make in my 3-minute-or-less prep time recipes is low-sodium, low-fat, low-carb, and high-protein.  This is great because all of these recipes are already tasty and the taste can be even more enhanced with your favorite spices, sauces, yet still stimulate your metabolism (your body’s ability to burn fat).

You can find some of my 3-minute-or-less prep time recipes on my YouTube channel, fitnita.

One sacrifice you do NOT have to make in living the fitness lifestyle is family.  There are a lot of Fit Moms out there who have learned to maintain their fitness lifestyles while still managing to keep the family first.  Learn more about family-first fitness here at www.NitasWorld.com and we now have a group of moms who have come together to support each other. Find out about joining the group at the America’s Hottest Fit Moms site page.

Here are some links to my yummie (but slightly cheesy) Fit Mom 3-Minutes-or-Less prep time recipes:

Tilapia Tacos Part 1 (you could use chicken in this process as well!)

Tilapia Tacos Part 2

Grilled Tilapia

Anti-oxidant Protein Shake 

Egg White Breakfast

Lentils (My son Quinn is in this video too! Funny!)

 

There you have it America’s Hottest Fit Moms and friends, fitness lifestyle made easy.  Don’t forget to comment on this blog so I know how helpful it is for you! I will always adhere to the readers interests, so keep me updated on what YOU want!

Be well. Be You. Be PHENOMENAL! You are Worth the Work!

-Nita Lee Marquez

 

 


January 26, 2012

Eating Raw, Getting Healthy Mind, Body & Soul- Meet America’s Hottest Fit Moms Friend Aaron Raglin

Aaron is a friend on our group America’s Hottest Fit Moms on Facebook.  He has graciously supported our group with healthy, tasty raw food recipes that have made his life stronger, easier and better. He has an amazing attitude and you can find out more about him and his Raw Experiences by going to his YouTube channel and watching his shows titled “Ghetto Rawness.” Aaron has used Raw Eating to live a more powerful life, to go from fat to fit, and to live with energy beyond aesthetic fitness which he also gained through the raw lifestyle.  Thank you for sharing your story Aaron, and to the readers, thank you for your Energy. Be Fit, Be You, Be PHENOMENAL. You are worth the work!

-Nita Marquez

 

This is how my journey started.  I always exercised, but when I started truck driving I was 24-years-old and weighing 180 pounds. I quickly fell into the customs of other drivers. And ultimately gained weight at a rapid pace. By age 26 I put on 50 pounds I felt terrible.

I had a physical, and the doctor said I was gaining weight too fast and I had to lose some weight. So I made my mind up, I was going to get more fit and that was that.

I was a big YouTube head (still am). I wanted to see ways to lose weight without exercise because of my schedule at the time. I stumbled across a video documentary called “simply raw”. In the show, about 5 type 2 and 1 type 1 diabetics that were sent to Arizona to eat an all raw diet to reverse their disease.

At that time I didn’t know anything about eating raw. As I watched the show, I saw how it was working for people.  And they were losing weight!  That struck my curiosity that people can let their bodies heal and go back to its natural state just through eating.

After that I learned more about raw food through books, web, Tv, and word of mouth. I stopped making excuses, got my butt out my truck when I stopped, and worked out in the parking lot at truck stops and rest areas.

Now at 28 I’m down to the weight I started with, but I have more energy and wisdom than I ever had before. I’m now a advocate for not only raw food but just good eating and strong fitness.

Here are some foods I enjoy regularly to stay fit:

raw foods America's Hottest Fit Moms friends eating healthy fit foods!      raw foods America's Hottest Fit Moms friends eating healthy fit foods!    raw foods America's Hottest Fit Moms friends eating healthy fit foods!

 

Life is a series of goals when I reach one I set another one. So never look at me as a finished product but a work in progress. – Aaron “Rawfood” Raglin

Raw Pasta on Ghetto Rawness

 


January 21, 2012

Easy Recipes, Empowering Thoughts and Great Support for Fit Moms!

A lot of fitness links and articles are highlighting fitness recipes.  Well, I’m all for the healthy food, but what Fit Moms have time to cook meals that require long prep time? Not me, and nor do a lot of America’s Hottest Fit Moms.  As Fit Moms (and Fit Dads) or fitness enthusiasts in general, we all have TONS of responsibilities beyond our fitness endeavors.  We want to be fit, but we want to take thorough care of our responsibilities, especially those responsibilities we love and cherish, like our children.  That being the case, those of us with families who care about living the fitness lifestyle, well, we have a need to live our fitness in a family-first fitness fashion.   And the career people who haven’t had families yet, we are still building our dreams, so who has time for lengthy meals that require lots of prep and a long sit-down at the table?

The family-first and career-driven fitness enthusiasts give me many reasons to share easy and fast healthy recipes with you.  Since I built America’s Hottest Fit Mom™ as the fitness brand that represents Fitness Empowerment for Everyone, I feel this compelling need to be sure to address everyone, as well as the Fit Moms in all the articles, and also, I want to be sure to tailor everything in a way that it is going to help anyone who views the videos and reads to articles.  Just like our lifestyle is fast paced as Fit Moms (and Fit Dads), we have a need for quick, easy, hi-protein/lo-fat/lo-glycemic-carb/lo-sodium recipes.  Just as we don’t have time to prepare food, it is necessary to present those recipes and steps in a fast fashion so you can learn how to make the foods within 3 minutes, too! It wouldn’t make much sense to do a 30-minute video on 3-minute meals. :)

Now, I am going to share my own America’s Hottest Fit Mom™ Fit Tips and 3-minute Recipes via video. I’m no camera woman, so don’t go expecting Martha Stewart-esque production quality.  These 3-Minute recipes are going to be done with my web cam :) Just like I need my life- Simplified!  Here’s the first one.  We would love it if you joined our group on Facebook and became a member so we can answer your questions, helping you become a Fit Mom (or Dad), or just getting you more fit in general.

Remember, America’s Hottest Fit Mom™ means Fitness Empowerment for Everyone!

In our group, you’ll learn how to live more fit in a very time-efficient and pragmatic fashion.  Parents know that this is absolutely necessary for being fit and raising a family.  America’s Hottest Fit Moms™ Facebook Group is for anyone, as well as Fit Moms or Dads out there! Anyone wanting to learn more about living the fitness lifestyle in a way that makes sense, join the Nitasworld.com Mailing list and join our Facebook Group Now! All of America’s Hottest Fit Moms are here to empower ourselves while we empower others!

see an easy lo-fat/lo-carb/lo-sodium/hi-protein meal here!

Thanks for stopping in at NitasWorld.com, home of America’s Hottest Fit Mom™ Fitness Empowerment for Everyone!

Join our following at Facebook by liking NitasWorld.com on the homepage of the site!

Or follow me! Nita Marquez www.nitasworld.com

 

Get Fit. Stay Fit. You are Worth the Work!

Be Phenomenal!

Nita Lee Marquez

www.NitasWorld.com

Marquez Family Fitness