It started off slowly with me switching over to a natural deodorant at first. But now I’ve fully submerged myself – and my entire family – into the world of au natural! I’ve got paraben free, sulfate free, cruelty free products all around my bathroom, and even Joe now (reluctantly) wears all natural deodorant.
I say reluctant because he gave me an eye roll when I threw out the 4 Costco antiperspirants he purchased last month but I mean, health. Also, his mom is a breast cancer survivor, which to me means everyone in our entire merged family should jump on this bandwagon. It’s really hard to find ‘natural’ products that ACTUALLY work so today I’m sharing with you my tried, tested, and approved list of skincare, body care, and hair care products that I currently have on repeat this summer. Here’s my natural and cruelty-free beauty routine and I can’t be held responsible when you too become obsessed.
I dumped out my skincare dufffffel and here goes:
OSEA – a natural, vegan, organic, non-toxic, family owned brand that’s been giving me life since I first discovered their Atmosphere Protection Cream. It protects your skin from pollution, the weather, and sets your face up for success. Yes you read that right, welcome to the new power suit, yo face. Here’s the breakdown babes: cleanse, tone, refresh, protect. Their Ocean Cleanser is super gentle, it’s an organic seaweed gel and it exfoliates and hydrates your skin all at once. When you’re done un-dulling your skin, hit it with a few spritzes of the Sea Vitamin Boost! It’s rich in antioxidants, locks in moisture, and is perfect to tote around for mid-day pick me ups. My absolute favorites especially during this warmer weather!
Mario Badescu – cleansing lotion that smells like cucumbers, I love swabbing this over my face with a cotton round after I’ve washed my face. It removes any residue makeup and isn’t drying at all.
Color Lover – primer 11 is a leave-in treatment that is free of sulfates and parabens, it strengthens and moisturizes your hair. If you’re like me and you color and curl all the time, you’ll love this and it smells great.
PUR – hydrafluid I love for these warmer months because it’s a sheer, lightweight tinted moisturizer that is buildable enough that you don’t have to wear another foundation over it. It’s for my more dry skinned readers out there as it’s a bit oily and leaves your skin looking dewy and fresh.
Nip Fab – hydrate hyaluronic acid shot can be combined with any moisturizer to to give you an extra boost of hydration. I add one drop to my 2 pumps of OSEA atmosphere protection cream each morning and my skin looks low 20’s and not mid 30’s lol
Native – all natural aluminum free deodorant! Back at it again with this product because I won’t stop until you’ve all converted! We’re supposed to sweat, we’re human baby. This one featured is their Grapefruit and Bergamont scented deodorant and I almoooost love it even MORE than the coconut vanilla . . . almost 😉 It’s so good!
And all things Coola – I’m a loyal daily consumer of these 3 products right here. The usual suspects, they’re mineral based, they don’t feel thick, greasy, or heavy, and they hydrate and protect your face and body. Not to mention, they smell like a tropical getaway. Do ittt, ahem GUAVA MANGO, you won’t regret anything from this line. It’s my final line of defense in my daily beauty routine, right before I apply primer and foundation. I’ll never go back to using store bought SPF ever.ever.never.again.
There you have it friends! My updated beauty routine! I’d never suggest a product to you that I myself don’t use and trust, so I hope you give some of these a try and let me know what you think!
Are there any all natural products that you’re currently obsessing over?
A few weeks ago I walked into Corrine’s room to find her rubbing some weird cream underneath her armpits to which I gave her a questionable look. “Don’t look at me like that mom, you’re the one putting aluminum into your body”. There it is everybody, my 19 year old daughter telling ME how I’m the one who should be offended by what I’m putting into my body. Well well, here we are present time and here I am with my top 3 ALL NATURAL DEODORANTS! Whodathunkit?!
It’s a popular movement that I’ve just thrown myself into, this idea of all natural skincare, body care, and hair care products. Not gonna lie, for the first week or so I was highly skeptical because as humans we have odor, and if you think you don’t I’m here to tell you that you do.
Coming in at the #1 spot is Native’s all natural deodorant in Coconut Vanilla. They had me at coconut, but also the bar applicator makes for an easier transition for this past ‘aluminum wearing antiperspirant doting’ consumer. It kept me dry, non funky, smells delicious, and wasn’t gritty. I took this to bootcamp with me, the ultimate test, and left feeling fresh and confident.
Primally Pure’s lavender tube is also chemical free, smells like lavender fields, and keeps odor at bay. It took the number 2 spot because the baking soda in the stick was a bit hit or miss when it came to irritating my sensitive under arm area. Other than that I loved the smell and it kept me just as dry as Native’s.
And last but definitely not least on this list is Schmidt’s Lavender Sage pot. I only ranked this as my third choice because I had to pick up the crumbles and maneuver them around my pits until the granules had melted and then got absorbed by my skin. Not the cutest thing to do every morning, but just as effective as the other two. It smelled divine, kept any odors away, I remained dry, and there was no chafing or irritation.
If you haven’t tried an all natural deodorant I HIGHLY recommend these brands (and these scents!), so so so good! I mean, we’re human, we’re SUPPOSED to sweat, but that doesn’t mean we have to stink 😉 I’m all about putting better ingredients into my food, and natural products onto my body these days and I couldn’t be happier to make the switch.
Have you ever tried a natural deodorant before? Which brand/ scent was your favorite?
Okay get excited because fitness and health related posts will be coming your way weekly! I’m obsessed! And I say: there is ALWAYS time for snacks … and dessert! Everything in moderation is the only rule I live by and it totally helps that the recipes featured today are nutrient packed, quick n’ easy to make, and best of all they’re SO DELICIOUS! Each of these taste like a dessert and are totally going to fuel your workouts and help you to recover from all those burpees and tuck jumps!
Most of these are breakfast recipes that I can’t live without that also double as a snack-time ‘grab and go’ when I’m in a pinch! If I have at least an hour before my workout I’ll reach for the heartier meals, but if I don’t have at least that; like I woke up late *raises hand- me today* then I’ll grab a piece of fruit or make a protein shake and run out the door. I try to always consume a protein and a carb before AND after a workout. I’m trying to build a booty over here whilst staying lean … is that a thing?! More on this later!
EVERY MORNING: Your metabolism BOOSTER shot!
Rev up that metabolism baby! I personally like to have my shot of ‘hulk power’ after a workout. I send this concoction right into my system for that warmth (ahem thank you cayenne pepper) and glow I feel all day! It’s one tablespoon apple cider vinegar, one tablespoon l carnitine, a dash (or two) of cayenne pepper, and a splash of pineapple juice! This helps with the taste trust me! I put it all into a shot glass because who doesn’t wanna feel like a total bad ass in the morning and I make these in bulk so that they’re ready for me to drink each day throughout the week. Just triple the recipe and secure tightly into a mason jar. I have this keep for about 3 days in the fridge before making a fresh batch!
BREAKFAST RECIPES (AND MY PRE-WORKOUT FUEL)
RASPBERRY CHERRY CRUMBLE:
I have a rectangle of this in the morning, remember I try to have my carbs before and after a workout when my body is either burning it off or fueling my muscles afterwards. For this you’ll evenly spread about a cup of fruit (I love frozen raspberries, cherries, blueberries, and strawberries) at the bottom of a glass dish, sprinkle over top a scoop of protein powder (see the very bottom of this post for some protein powder options you’ll love). Then sprinkle 1/3 cup oats, sliced almonds, a tablespoon of chia seeds, and some unsweetened coconut flakes over top that. Then squeeze the juice of half a lemon (or a whole one if you like the tang!), and sprinkle on some cinnamon. Slowly pour coconut milk (or your choice of milk) over top the layers and gently use your fingers to press the milk into them so that they’re all saturated (but not swimming in fluid). I used about 3/4 cup or so. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed and enjoy! THIS TASTES LIKE PIE! It’s insanely good I can’t even.
OVERNIGHT PROTEIN OATS … with a secret ingredient:
I make this at night so that it’s a grab and go for me in the morning! In a mason jar add 1/3 cup oats, a scoop of protein powder, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, a tablespoon chia seeds, unsweetened coconut flakes, and that secret ingredient I was talking about … pumpkin spiced granola (recipe coming soon), but just a teeny bit of it for flavor and use can use any granola you love. If you’re going to consume this in the morning or after about 4 hours, than pour your favorite milk (mine is unsweetened coconut milk) over top to saturate the mixture and shake well. Pop that into the fridge and give it another good shake after about 30 minutes or so. I LOVE this for breakfast or even after a workout if I don’t have time to prep a full meal before I start my work day. If you’d like to prep this for the week simply separate this recipe into different jars and you’ll have days worth of yumminess ready to enjoy!
PEANUT BUTTER PROTEIN WAFFLES:
Oh YES! One of my favorites, this tastes NOTHING like those boring, weirdly textured, cardboard tasting protein waffles you’ve seen before. This is a total treat and completely good for you! In a blender or ninja add together one scoop of protein powder, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 tablespoon PB2, 3 teaspoons coconut flour, and about 8 teaspoons of water. Blend until you get that perfect waffle mix consistency and then make that to your desired golden-ness! This serves one. I top this with a nice dollop of vanilla coconut yogurt (dairy free from Trader Joe’s), some cinnamon, and a pinch of unsweetened coconut flakes! No butters or syrups are necessary for this one TRUST ME! You will want to kiss me on the mouth for this one, but please refrain- I’m engaged 😀
CASEIN COOKIE DOUGH! Oh em gee I saved the best for last!!! I like to have this as my final snackie of the day OR as a snack because, cookie dough! Casein is a slower burning protein which feeds your muscles while you sleep, do it! For this magical mixture I mix one scoop of casein powder with 1 tablespoon PB2, and then I add as much water as I need (add about 1/4 cup of water at first and then slowly by the tablespoon) until I’ve reached my desired consistency. Then I drop in some cacao nibs or dark chocolate bits and DEVOUR NO REGRETS! This is my favorite way to enjoy a night-time treat that is completely reminiscent of my favorite cheat-treat!!!
Remember that our diet is 80% of our results so we want to fuel our bodies all day with good food, REAL food, and nutrient dense meals. If you missed my meal prepping lunch and dinner ideas, click HERE 😀 Sharing my day with you, I eat 5-6 times a day, that’s 3 meals + 2-3 snacks. My meals always feature a lean protein, a healthy fat, and a complex carb/fiber of some sort. My snacks are just to keep my metabolism moving- so less than 200 calories, and I eat every 2 1/2- 3 hours.
Keep your body burning all day so that it doesn’t store your food and go into survival mode. Oh oh, and I ALWAYS have a protein shake within 30 minutes of my workout if I’m not able to get a real meal in me, but that is only to hold me over until I’m able to eat real food once I’m home. You want to feed your muscles right away, a lean protein and a complex carb is what I reach for since my body will use it to repair and rebuild. Eat eat eat! <333
Lastly, if I can give you one piece of advice it is to not beat yourself up over food. Take each day to make good food choices, I always tell myself, “it’s meal by meal Jess, meal by meal”. That turns into day by day, and then BAM it’s been a month and you’ve naturally developed good habits on your own! This is a lifestyle so lets not put an expiration date on these habits, take these 30 days to ramp you up for the next 30 days and then the next! … oh and food can be FUN!
MY GO-TO PROTEIN POWDERS, HEALTHY FATS, AND SPICES!
Ok, about those protein powders! I’ve tried ’em all and to me it really does make a difference when you’re using a protein powder in recipes or drinking it with nothing but water in your tumbler. My personal favorites are THIS ONE by Bio Chem from Whole Foods, it’s an organic whey protein and I love the vanilla flavored one. It tastes like nothing to me honestly (that matters when I down it with nothing but H2O) and doesn’t make me gassy, haha TMI but hey, truth! And Vega One protein! However, this is an acquired taste, the flavor isn’t like a milk shake y’all- but with some frozen nanas, berries, coconut milk, and chia seeds it’s incredibly yummy! I wouldn’t drink this by itself but that’s just my preference.
To name a few, I love chia seeds, PB2, almond butter, avocado, and coconut oils for my healthy fats. For my carbs I opt for fruits, veggies, and whole wheat breads or ezekiel breads and tortillas. The milks I list in my recipes are always unsweetened coconut or almond milk, and cinnamon + unsweetened coconut flakes are my go-to to make ANY recipe more bearable ha! Everything in moderation for me!
So what’s your favorite protein powder? Do you have a favorite brekky or snack recipe to share?
Let me know so I can try them all out and stay tuned for our meal plan modified! Kick butt this week and I’ll see you soon with another article!
If you’ve been following me for a while than you know that my days are full of mom duties, and my nights with all the entrepreneur duties! So making time for myself yet alone a workout or a sit-down meal has been impossible lately. Our recent travels have thrown our ‘gung-ho-work-out-eat-right’ mentality right on out the window along with time to make logical food choices. But you know what they say … “we make time for the things that we want to make time for“. Ughhh who started that anyway … it’s a crazy, logical, guilt ridden statement.
BUT, I made time yayyy! *Please do this with me so we can all whine through it together!* Let me start by saying that ever since I took my first class at Fuel Rx in April, I’ve been slightly a lot addicted to seeing the changes in my body and energy levels. I’ve grown to LOVE working out in a class environment. It’s really motivating not to have to do it all alone! But I also REALLY LOVE food. Wanna hear the kicker?! Our results, our energy, and maintaining our kick ass bodies after all that hard work is 80% dependent upon what we eat. Let me let that settle … 80% is meals, ahhhh!!!!!
So I really wanted to share with you what I did this week to prep! I only had an hour and a half today to prep for lunch and dinner for the next few days. Tomorrow I will prep breakfasts and snacks. Hey, do what you have time for and what you have time for is enough! Some days you’ll cook 3 meals and 3 snacks for the week in advance, and some days you’ll only have time to prep for the next day. But do it and you’ll find that it takes less time than we think!
Side note- my daughter is a gluten-free vegetarian so the chicken protein is for me, and her meals will be substituted with shrimp and tofu. My fiancé eats everything so I will be doubling everything.
CAULIFLOWER FRIED RICE
I love a good fried rice recipe! Today I opted for a bag of cauliflower rice instead and tossed it around in 2 tablespoons coconut oil, crushed garlic,Flavor God’s garlic everything powder, green onion, and cilantro. I cooked it all over medium heat until it reached my desired crispness and then devoured.
CINNAMON SWEET POTATOES
Tastes like the holidays minus the family drama and being isolated to the kiddy table.
I popped a package of Trader Joe’s ready to eat sweet potatoes (baked and no seasonings added, hallelu for open and eat!) into a pan with a light spritz of coconut oil, some cracked black pepper, and topped them with a dash of cinnamon. So so so good!
THE WORLD’S BEST CITRUS SUMMER SALAD
I mean that with every inch of my dying love for gross BORING salads! If you like citrusy, peppery salads then this is for you! I mixed some kale with a spring mix, squeezed an entire lemon over top the leaves, drizzled on some extra virgin olive oil, and gave that a nice toss (coating them in this base will make them less dry and more appealing). Then I cracked some black pepper in there along with a turn of my Himalayan pink salt shaker, and then added in finely chopped red onion, tomatoes, parsley, and cucumber! THE BEST! So refreshing and so NOT boring!
CUMIN SPICED BRUSSEL SPROUTS AND TOASTED PINE NUTS
Probably one of my favorite ways to prepare brussel sprouts because, that ‘feet’ smell they give off. In a pan I took Trader Joe’s ready to eat brussels (again hallelu for open and eat, again no seasonings added), tossed them in a spritz of coconut oil, added in some toasted pine nuts, cumin, and red pepper flakes! Walaaa! I love this nutty combo and the cumin and red pepper flakes give it a nice lil kick! Hiiiyahhh!
CURRIED COCONUT CHICKEN
Ugh coconut milk dishes are LIFE! I browned some crushed garlic and yellow onion in a tablespoon of coconut oil and then added in 3 cubed chicken breasts. Then I tossed in some diced bell pepper, cracked black pepper, turmeric, and a can of coconut milk. I let that simmer up and then really TRIED to remember portion control. This can be added over a bed of brown rice (or white rice depending on your palette) or even that cauliflower fried rice we made earlier! This is equally as delicious with shrimp, tofu, or potatoes!
HOMEMADE KALE CHIPS
For this grab-and-go snack I simply stemmed a bag of kale, spread them evenly across a cookie sheet, gave them a light spray of coconut oil, and then lightly dusted them with Himalayan pink salt and cracked black pepper. I baked them at 350 degrees for about ten minutes, but you’ll want to keep checking on them to bake them for a shorter or longer period of time depending on your oven. Trust me, they get crispy quick!
Well I hope you try out these dishes and put your own spin on them! They really are easy to throw together- the most time-consuming task is chopping things up and then waiting for them to be cooked!
If you’re wincing from the amount of seasonings or coconut oil that I’m using, don’t fret, these are healthy fats, and I season in moderation. Salt is both necessary and beneficial to your results if you take into consideration timing (it’s a science I tell ya) and consumption (use a light hand). Also, each meal should consist of a healthy fat, a protein, and a complex carb (fiber), and don’t forget to EAT every 2 1/2- 3 hours! Your body will not be able to survive the workouts or push to your full potential if you aren’t fueling it properly. Eat eat eat <333
Next up this week is my meal prep for breakfast ideas and snacks! They’re kid friendly and fiancé approved! I also have a piece coming up all about what to eat BEFORE and AFTER a workout thanks to Patrick’s meal planning … and speaking of, I’ll be playing around with our custom challenge meal plan to bring you some modifications and thoughts! Stay tuned!
What’s your favorite or least favorite thing about meal prepping?
After coming off of vacation the last few weeks; from Vegas to Catalina to Florida … I was in need of a good ol’ cleanse.
I’d been working out pretty hard and eating pretty clean and then BAM, vacation came around and I FULLY indulged, no regrets! But now it’s time to get back to fueling my body with the good stuffs and so I decided for the next 30 days I will drink more water, eat more frequently, and keep it clean!
Okay, when I say ‘cleanse’, I really mean reset. I don’t mean juicing everything in site and having to run to the toilet because you don’t know if you have to toot or poop (hey I’m just being real here). We’re going to be consuming whole fruits and vegetables in a shake- dessert style, and eating real food! Yes eating! Wholesome, protein packed meals and never ever forgetting the good carbs! So here’s a sample day of my reset, and this was all of yesterday’s goodness in real life!
8 a.m.- BREAKFAST SMOOTHIE: Tastes like a chai blended ice cream!
You’ll blend together half of a frozen nana, a teaspoon cinnamon, four dates, and half a cup of almond milk with ice! Yummmerssss! I also added half a scoop of vanilla protein powder, because every meal I try to always have a protein, a healthy fat, and a fiber <333 THIS Tone It Up Perfect Fit protein is my current obsession!
11 a.m. – a Minty Pineapple Protein smoothie for my morning snackie! Tastes like a tropical dessert sans the sand!
Blend together a hand full of spinach, some mint leaves, frozen pineapple bits, coconut milk, and a scoop of protein powder. When it’s all blended pour it into a pretty wine glass (for me this just makes it taste better!) and then top with a tablespoon of chia seeds and sip away baby!
2 p.m.- Lunch time: Vegetarian Sushi! Tastes just like sushi thanks to the seaweed and quinoa … my go-to rice replacement!
In a seaweed wrap line up some avocado slices, quinoa (I made mine with coconut milk, corn, and black beans!), 2 egg whites, and all the sriracha your heart can handle! Roll it up, devour it, repeat! By this time of day I’m starving and this kind of meal is hearty, filling, and super nutrient dense! Win wine … I mean win!
5 p.m.- Dinner! Pizzaaaa! Tastes … just like pizza, but guilt-free and all the flavor you’re craving!
On a Ezekiel sprouted whole grain tortilla spread some sugar free spaghetti or tomato sauce and top it with whatever vegetables you have! I used grape tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, spinach, olives, green peppers, mushrooms, and fat free shredded cheese! I topped it with more sriracha and even more cheese and I wasn’t even mad about it.
This pizza will satisfy your craving for pizza, for carbs, for whatever it is that you think you can’t have. You can!
This ‘cleanse’ for me is really just about swapping out my bad decisions for home-made better ones! The fruitier/vegetable-ier (that’s a word) options! And of course, it’s not a day to enjoy if you can’t ENJOY dessert!
8:30 p.m.- Dessert time BABY! Home-made coconut chia seed pudding with frozen raspberries and coconut flakes! Tastes like heaven, feels like you’re on a tropical island!
Thanks to my babe Miya, you can make this beautiful delectable dessert right at home, and enjoy every.bit.of.it!
In a jar or bowl mix together 1/2 cup chia seeds with 2 cans of coconut milk (I used a can of full fat coconut milk and a can of coconut creme from Trader Joe’s), and add in cinnamon, some agave or pure maple syrup, some frozen raspberries, and SHAKE!
Pop that baby into the refrigerator and shake it again after about an hour or so. In the morning when you’re ready to eat it … or after only a few hours because you’re like me and you need a dessert, spoon it into a bowl and top it with more frozen raspberries and some unsweetened coconut flakes! Friends, this is the best thing ever!!!
Yayyy we did it! A whole day of eating nutrient dense foods, feeling full, having a ton of energy, and just enjoying the fact that we’re making better choices for a healthier us! Good job us! I really hope this post inspires you to try a few of these recipes, I promise you won’t be disappointed and it won’t even feel like a ‘cleanse’ at all, this is more of a reset!
Am I the only one who cringes when I hear the word diet or cleanse?! Lets just refrain from using those words here 😉
This my love, is not cringe worthy, give it a try and TAG me when you do <3
As I currently find myself in the middle of holiday season ‘feast mode’, I also find myself in the middle of “tis the season-full blown- freak-out-mode”! Anyone else find it difficult to say no to all the holiday food and NOT partake in all the merriment? Seriously, my body doesn’t know what to do with all the extra egg nog and yule log calories that I HAVE to indulge in because, Scrooge.
During this time of year I try to balance out all the holiday feasting with extra strength training and doubling up on HIIT workouts. So here is my number one tip to maintaining your waistline this season … get up and get moving! That’s right, gym time baby! Where’s the motivation you say?!
Well just like when we were younger and the new school year would begin, you’d have a new backpack full of shiny new school supplies, welcome to the adult version of that! Meet your new backpack … Lil Ms. (or Mr.) Totebag! Being fully prepped to hit up a sweat session will have you prepped to hit up the food table for seconds! Here is what’s in my gym bag!
1. The tote – this sleek lil baby will carry your gym essentials in style! It’s the perfect size, not crazy bulky like a duffel, yet spacious enough to hold all of these items AND a change of clothes!
2. A sweatband – oh that sweet sweat, it doesn’t stand a chance with this nylon sweat band. Ladies and long haired gents, you’ll be happy to hear that this also doubles as a hair tie!
3. Headphones – not just any headphones, these are blue tooth ear buds that allow you to lunge and lift without the annoyance of cords. Don’t you just hate that!
4. The kicks – my most recent obsession, these tennis shoes! Like with hand bags, shoes also set the tempo, literally. These are comfortable and classic, and will get you excited to pump some iron!
5. Recovery – this is important if you’re ripping and tearing through your workouts, AND your muscles. These are BCAA’s- branched-chain amino acids, which help to repair and build your muscles. I like this blueberry flavor, it’s like a sports drink meets koolaid! I habitually add this to my water bottle and drink it up during my workout. I’ll also reach for some coconut water during my more intense workouts, which replenish lost electrolytes and aid in hydration.
6. Protein – this is key to building lean muscle and fueling your muscle growth. Remember to have your protein shake or protein + carbohydrate packed meal within 30 minutes after completing your workout. You want to send protein to your muscles as quickly as possible so your body doesn’t eat away at the muscle you just worked so hard for! I love this Perfect Fit Protein because it’s a plant based protein powder that is especially good to bake with, ummm can you say protein waffles every day all day?!
7. Sweat be gone – I love this micro fibre towel because it’s made from a quick dry, anti-bacterial material, and has a grip covered underside. So no matter how crazy I get with my burpees and jumping lunges, this towel stays in place!
8. Hydration – hydration, hydration, hydration!!! It’s crazy to think that we should be drinking half of our body weight in water! Sounds daunting but it can easily be done if you infuse your water with some lemon wedges or some fruit pieces. Just a trick that makes your water delicious and extra beneficial! This water bottle is especially dear to me because proceeds from each water bottle sold goes to support clean water efforts in Africa. Also, it’s BPA-free, dishwasher-safe, reusable, and recyclable! I slip this into the side of my gym tote making it easily accessible, just refilling it at the water fountain. Ahem, Los Angeles tap water is OK to drink now haha!
There you have it! The only sure way to ensure that the only thing you’re spiking this holiday season is the eggnog and not your cholesterol! Share with me your gym and fitness essentials, and I hope you enjoyed this post!
This really is the time of year to indulge in all of your favorite holiday dishes with wild abandonment! No regrets! I’ll be doing the same, so just do it, and I’ll see you later this week with some festive side dish ideas! Yum!!!
If this sounds like you raise your hand … Wakes up early to work out, has a protein shake, eats every few hours while making responsible meal choices, 9pm hits and BAM … eats something bad EVERYTHING IN SIGHT!
Sound familiar? Well that is another reason why I jump started #30dayswithJess 2.0! Here are my go-to snacks that are … wait for it … late night consumption APPROVED!
Craving something sweet and savory? Well I have your new favorite treat! Here’s the recipe for frozen yogurt-banana cream filled strawberries – topped with salted caramel dark chocolate pieces! I know, I know, you love me. I love you too!
10-12 strawberries
1 & 1/2 Tablespoons of Blue Diamond sliced almonds
1/2 banana
3 & 1/2 Tablespoons honey yogurt (or any greek yogurt)
dark chocolate of your choice (I used salted caramel dark chocolate)
Method:
Smash the banana in a bowl with a fork and add the yogurt until mixed well
Cut the centers out of each strawberry – very carefully, this was tricky for my uncoordinated self
Fill each strawberry with the banana-yogurt cream and top with a sprinkle of sliced almonds.
Place a chocolate piece on top of each strawberry and freeze over-night or until firm. Which ever you have time can wait for! They are messy, but sooo delicious!
For that chocolate pudding crave, try making some chocolate coconut chia seed pudding! It’s so much healthier for you and is packed full of omega 3’s and antioxidants! I topped mine with frozen mango chunks and pomegranate seeds *insert drool emoticon*!
1/4 cup chia seeds (I used a chia seed, buck wheat, and hemp seed mix with cranberries and coconut flakes)
1/2 Tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 cup coconut milk (almond milk works also)
fruit and unsweetened cocoa powder for toppings (I used pomegranate seeds, frozen mango chunks, and 1/4 teaspoon cocoa powder)
Method:
Mix all of the ingredients together in a mason jar with the exception of the toppings
Shake well and refrigerate over night, giving the mason jar a good shake after about 30 minutes to an hour
Once thickened, top with your favorite fruits and cocoa powder for a kick, and ENJOY!
I saved the best for last! When that ice cream craving hits mid-day, or mid-night, you’ll be able to indulge without the bulge. Wow look at my rhymes! Here’s your chocolate cherry ice cream recipe! This ‘ice cream’ is made with frozen bananas, cherries (yes cherries), and peanut butter. Yes you CAN nix the PB, but combining cherries and peanut butter WILL be your newest obsession!
4 frozen bananas (this makes enough for our family of 3)
1 1/2 Tablespoons of peanut butter
1 cup of frozen cherries
1/2 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
Method:
Place the frozen bananas, peanut butter, and cherries into a food processor
Blend well until smooth and creamy, like ice-cream. It will look like this!
ENJOY!
I mean, how stinkin’ pretty is this home-made chocolate cherry ice-cream?! PS if you’re not a peanut butter fan, exclude this ingredient and add in some more frozen berries and you’re set! So delicious! Frozen fruit whipped up to make ice-cream … genius!
So there you have it! My current three most favorite, go-to treats! You can enjoy these any part of the day, but for me it’s all about settling those late night cravings.
I hope you’ve joined us for #30DaysWithJess 2.0, where we share our meal prep ideas, snack recipes, and workouts with each other! I love trying out your recipes too!
Have a wonderful weekend and remember, you can have anything you want! The key is: everything in moderation <3
Burpees. Mountain climbers. Jump Squats … forget calorie counting! How about you tell me how many repetitions of these exercies I’d have to do if I had that ice cream cone, and I’ll decide if it’s worth it or not! Ha! This is me welcoming you to #30DaysWithJess 2.0!
My Hapa sister Nikki is holding me accountable for the next 8 weeks as we embark on a fitness journey together! We’re on a full blown lifestyle plan that consists of 30 minute workouts, meal prepping, and acronyms like HIIT and LISS! So today I’m sharing with you how I’ve been staying on track by meal prepping and how my new partner My Fit Foods has made that so easy. You can join too with their #PayFitForward initiative!
this Monday’s meal prep MVPs
This week with Joe coming back from Maryland, my schedule taking on two new projects, and Corrine starting a drivers ed program, I was pressed for time to cook and plan! So I prepared a few lunches and dinners here at home, and then I supplemented the other meals for the week with ready-to-go meals from my local My Fit Foods store. The beauty of ready-to-go meals like this is that it takes the guess work out of it for me. I don’t have to think about ingredients, measuring, or macros. I just pack and go- 6 meals a day, that’s a lot of meals.
Think of it this way, our metabolisms are like a beautiful camp fire, and you have to keep feeding the fire with slow burning wood so that it is fueled throughout the day. This is my attempt at giving you a fitting analogy. The fire is your metabolism and the slow burning wood is good, clean, whole foods.
On the go I’m packing a MFF breakfast, a protein smoothie, and grab-and-go snacks
So about every 2 1/2- 3 hours you should be fueling your body with a serving from each of the food groups, and contrary to the no-carb fad I’ve seen, I am a HUGE fan of carbs! It’s our energy and our brain’s fuel! As you see in this week’s preparation photo, along side our MFF meals there is quinoa, sweet potatoes, and fruit. With each of my meals I try to also include a protein, a carb, a healthy fat, and some vegetables. MFF meals already incorporate the ingredients I prepare for myself, so it’s a no brainer to conveniently add them into our plan!
Corrine and I enjoying lunch at our local MFF
Preparing meals in advance can be a bit daunting, even if you’re only cooking for 3 days at a time like I do. So it makes my life a whole lot easier that My Fit Foods prepares each of their meals with a variety of options for each, even for Corrine! As the mother of a Vegetarian child, it can be difficult to find places that accommodate her, so it’s really nice to have a selection for her to choose from also!
Since our breakfasts were prepped with snack grabs, protein smoothies, and MFF veggie omelets, Corrine and I enjoyed our lunch at our MFF store while we stocked up on meals for the rest of the week. I knew we’d be on the road for the majority of the week, so I got 3 dinners for each of us, some more GF oat bars (also available at MFF woot!) for Corrine, and some peanut butter packets.
Plated up our MFF dinner and even lit some candles!
Dinner time is my favorite time of the day because it’s the one time we’re all at home and can sit down to enjoy a meal together. I plated up our MFF dinners and even added in some baby carrots and a side salad. I had the almond crusted chicken with mashed potatoes and green beans, while Corrine and Joe savored the shrimp tacos with guacamole. To enjoy some more crunch I tossed in some additional sliced almonds, and I completely recommend you do this and add your favorite ingredients with your next meal!
When we went into our local My Fit Foods store on Friday we were happy to learn that the meals we purchased were a part of the #PayFitForward initiative! Get excited because you too can try our their new dishes AND give back!
Every Friday during the month of September when you purchase a meal from your local My Fit Foods, you’ll get a FREE meal to donate to a participating food bank, or to give to a friend! We volunteer with Earth Angels who participate in Meals On Wheels so we are beyond happy to #PayFitForward each week and spread the love! It’s not only promoting health and wellness, but giving back, and community.
It really does help to involve your family with your health and fitness goals so that you can all do it together. It also really really helps when a friend holds you accountable and checks in with you each week! So grab a friend and create a buddy system! Plus, you can treat them to a healthy meal with the MFF initiative as a thank you for keeping you on track! Win, win!
I hope you join us in #30DaysWithJess 2.0, you still have 3 weeks and if you get stuck on the whole meal planning thing, head on over to your local MFF store and stock up! It’s all about getting your body moving, choosing healthier meal options, and having fun while doing it!
Have a be-you-tiful week!
This post is in partnership with My Fit Foods and their #PayFitForward initiative. We’re proud to share this awesome philanthropic campaign!
With summer upon us, the heat and humidity challenge us to find new ways to look and feel our best. Luckily, I’ve recently discovered some life saving products that keep me feeling, looking and smelling my best this season. Besides smelling great, they each come with an added plus: they are 100% natural and eco friendly. Each product listed below has been crafted from earth derived ingredients, which means no trace of harmful chemicals here! Not only are they perfectly suitable for all seasons of the year, they help you feel good and smell even better, all while sustaining the planet!
Schmidt’s Lavender + Sage Deodorant
I can faithfully declare that this is one of the few natural deodorants that actually work to successfully keep body odor at bay — and trust me, that’s saying a lot. I have conducted extensive research on effective natural deodorants, so I am pretty much a wiz at this stuff. Also a plus: It smells like fresh fields of lavender and is a perfect blend of both sage and lavender. The result? Magic. This is like wearing magic instead of deodorant. However, it is not an antiperspirant by any means which is the only downside. Fortunately it makes up for what it’s lacking in, in more ways than one. Schmidt’s is vegan, paraben-free, phthalate-free and cruelty free! Totally worth it if you ask me.
Acure Calming Lavender Body Lotion
It is important to note that keeping the skin hydrated in the summer is just as important as it is in winter! Seriously! Maintaining soft, healthy and moisturized skin is an extremely important thing for me considering I’ve been haunted by eczema since birth. Naturally, I was sent on an extensive search for an eco-friendly body lotion that smells good, calms my skin and keeps it real with natural ingredients. The formula is smooth and creamy, offering deep hydration all while rejuvenating dry skin and keeping the skin effortlessly aglow.
Weleda Skin Food
I love the way this smells and leaves my skin deeply moisturized and protected. My hands have a mind of their own and tend to get dry and rough whenever they feel like it. Use this on any dry area for deep moisture and antiseptic properties that calm irritation.
Acure Argan Cleansing Makeup Wipes
If you’re like me and at the end of the day think taking off makeup is too much of a hassle, then we’ve found our match. These wipes are gems because they are 100% biodegradable, vegan, sulfate free, paraben free, gluten free, cruelty free, and guaranteed not to clog your pores. I know, it’s a lot to absorb. They’re unscented so if you’re one of those that are sensitive to scents, look no further. Use them on your face and/or body to gently remove makeup, dirt, oil, glitter — whatever you need, they got your back. The argan oil infused in them are great for moisturizing skin and even hair. Nature’s products are all purpose!
Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Handsoap
Lastly, we have a hand soap that is absolute perfection, I don’t even know how they do it. Technically this isn’t a beauty product, but I think it deserves some love. When I discovered this basil scented soap a few years back, it’s all I stocked my house with. It’s fresh, crisp and all around lovely. Eventually, I discovered that Meyer’s also creates candles, all purpose cleaners, laundry detergent, dish detergent and so forth out of a variety of their signature fragrances. The soap itself is paraben free and made with ingredients that are atleast 98% naturally derived, which is something I can get behind. From face to hands, it’s important to notice what you’re putting on your body!
I hope this tiny guide was insightful! Enjoy this summer season and don’t forget to take care of your skin — and the earth!
