The Most Important Meal of the Day?

By Carly Hoilman

     An article recently published by the New York Times reveals that breakfast might not be as strongly linked to weight loss as studies have led many health-conscious individuals to believe. Like I try to emphasize in every post, it all comes down to knowing your body--its likes, dislikes, energy-boosters, and energy drainers.
     For me, breakfast is a very important part of my daily routine. I typically wake up hungry. By the time my coffee is done brewing, I normally will have finished slicing up fruit, boiling eggs, or blending my breakfast shake.
     Don't let society, or even seasoned health professionals, determine what only you can. Just as parents know which methods work best for raising their kids, you know your body better than anyone else, and if you spend time listening to its rhythm, you'll have all the information you need to achieve balance.

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/09/10/myths-surround-breakfast-and-weight/?smid=fb-nytimes&WT.z_sma=HL_MSB_20130911&_r=0

Shake Walk

The inspiration for this post came from a fantastic info graphic I discovered (pictured below) on Pinterest. I stumbled across this gem while researching for a separate blog post and decided that it was time for a little fun. Summer is the perfect time to try out new recipes, especially ones that require plenty of fresh fruits and veggies. New York is abounding with farmers markets and fun little grocers stands this time of year, so it seemed only logical that I take full advantage of my plentiful resources.

The results? Five HDOF-approved shakes that will get you (and your beach bod) feeling satisfied and energized, just in time for swim season. "Shake Week" has arrived early this year, people! Cheers!

Monday: The Hampton 

(serves 2-3)

• 1 cup baby spinach
• 2 apricots, pitted and chopped
• 3/4 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
• 3/4 cup coconut water
• 3/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 tablespoon chia seeds--these things are amazing! If you're not familiar with these super-seeds, check them out here!
• 1 teaspoon honey (I used local honey, manufactured in the Hamptons--hence the name!)

Tuesday: Central Park Sunrise
(a roommate-approved post-workout pick-me-up; serves 2-3)

      

• 1 apple (any kind; I used a Pink Lady apple)
• 1 banana
• 1 cup kale
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1/4 cup oats
• 1/2 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 tablespoon peanut butter (natural, unsalted)
• Pinch of cinnamon

Wednesday: Sass in a Glass
(serves 2-3)

• 1 pink grapefruit (medium)
• 3/4 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup pineapple coconut water
• 1/2 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 cup kale
• 1 cup ice
• 1 tablespoon honey (add more to taste, depending on the tartness of the grapefruit/berries)

(Thirsty) Thursday: Spa Day Splash 

(serves 2-3)

• 1/2 cup cucumber
• 1 banana
• 1 cup spinach
• 3/4 cup coconut water
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh ginger
• 1/2 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1/2 cup ice

Friday: Coco Berry Chanel
(satisfy your chocolate craving with this protein-packed treat; serves 2-3)

• 1 cup strawberries
• 3/4 cup soy milk
• 3/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon pure coco powder
• 1/2 cup ice
• Drizzle of honey or agave

This was such a fun project! I encourage you all to try out these recipes and experiment with your own variations. Smoothies are great because they can be altered to meet individual tastes and dietary needs. Bon appetit!