Monday, December 27, 2010

Diets Are Fattening

The average person starts a new diet about one to three times a year, according to the Calorie Control Council in Atlanta. They may eliminate certain foods such as sweets, fried foods, red meat or alcohol. They may also try going on diets such as, the cabbage soup diet, grapefruit diets, no carb diets, and skipping meals. They deprive themselves until the pounds come off and then begin eating normally again.
You would think with all these diets the obesity rate would drop but the opposite is true, obesity is now at an all time high. Half of those who lose weight by drastically cutting calories regain or exceed their weight within a year or less. Why do diets fail? Researchers have come up with several reasons:

• Diets make your fat cells fatter. Diets only speed up the fattening process. Trying to starve a fat cell only improves its ability to retain fat. They boost up the ability of fat cells to store fat, to take in new fat, and can even increase the numbers. When our bodies think we are starving, they react by slowing down our metabolism and hold on to the fat they already have.
• Diets mess with your enzymes. Our cells produce enzymes that either encourage the body to burn fat or store fat. Dieting can double the number of fat storing enzymes and cut in half the amount of fat-burning enzymes.
• Diets put the brakes on your metabolism. When you diet you starve your body of important nutrients. Very low calorie diets can trigger a complex chain reaction that will eventually tell your metabolism to stop burning so many calories. You may lose weight initially, but eventually the pounds become harder to drop. Then when you start eating normally, it will take your metabolism a while to get back up to speed. Thus, you gain weight and usually more than what you started with.
• Diets make you rebellious. The more you deprive yourself of certain foods, the more rebellious you become. Instead of just eating a small amount of the bad food, you binge, eating well beyond fullness. Binge eating also makes you store more fat because the same number of calories is not spread throughout the day.

In conclusion, diets don’t last. With Transitions Lifestyle you will learn how to stop yo-yo dieting, eat healthy and begin exercising. Come to a free overview January 6th to find out how. Contact me for more information.

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Surefire Ways to Keep Off Weight During the Holidays

Do you typically gain weight during the holidays? I’m here to tell you it doesn’t have to be that way. If you can discipline yourself by following some of these “not so difficult” tips, you will be pleasantly surprised when you step on the scale after your Holiday meal.

1. Setting your mind beforehand will help you not give in. Before you even leave the house give yourself a good talk, or even write down what you will do to help you not overeat.
2. Exercise before your holiday meal will help burn off those extra calories. Muscle dictates metabolism.
3. Take some healthy appetizers with you so you’re not starving before the main meal. Such as, a vegetable tray with low fat dip, shrimp with minimal cocktail sauce or whole wheat crackers and hummus, (roasted red pepper hummus is one of my favorites!). Remember to control your portion sizes.
4. Drink plenty of water before and during your meal, at least 6-8 ozs.
5. Stop eating when you’re full. Sometimes your stomach doesn’t know it’s full right away so wait about 5-10 minutes after your first helping.
6. Eat your meal first, and then desert so you won’t eat so much. Take smaller portions but don’t deprive yourself of your favorites.
7. Don’t hang around the food table. Socialize, play a game or go outside.
8. Take a walk after your meal settles with the family. This is a fun and helps you feel much better after your meal.

Also, don’t beat yourself up if you do gain a few pounds. A way to help you get back on track after the holiday binge is a vegetable and fruit detox or cleanse. A detox will help cleanse your palette so you can avoid hard to handle cravings for high glycemic foods that stand in the way of maintaining a healthy weight.
Most of my clients have great success after a detox. They feel much better and learn to like healthy foods since they have removed the unhealthy ones. This also removes toxins that have built up over time by eating processed foods and fatty foods loaded with sugar and chemicals.

Of course, if you are a person who normally eats healthy, low glycemic foods, exercises regularly, and is disciplined to not overeat, a holiday meal won’t cause much damage. Especially if the next day you go right back to your healthy eating & exercise habits. You won’t have to worry what the scale says. It’s all about living a healthy lifestyle!

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Why Resolutions Don’t Work

Every January at the gym I see several people I’ve never seen before working out furiously on the equipment because of a New Year’s resolution they have made to themselves to lose weight. Unfortunately, most these people disappear by the next month, frustrated and no better off than when they started. Only the diehards remain.
Why is it the resolution to lose weight and diet hardly ever work? Here are some of the reasons I believe this happens:
• First and foremost; “Diets don’t work.” Diets are a temporary way of life. On the quest to lose weight many people try quick fix diets such as, shakes, low calorie foods, artificial sweeteners, fad diets, health clubs and other weight loss attempts. Being overweight is like wearing a bull’s eye — you are a target for companies trying to make money from your condition.

• Most dieters try multiple times each year to lose weight, only to fail. If you are a “serial dieter,” you need a more stable solution, one that will make permanent changes instead of temporary promises. You need something that provides not just answers, but solutions. One famous definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result.

• Behaviors do not change automatically. Instead of riding the diet roller coaster up and down, you need to make a constant effort to change. If you don’t change your lifestyle behaviors, don’t expect to achieve or maintain a healthy weight. That is why most diet plans don’t work; you are not taught how to eat for a lifetime, change your behavior or incorporate exercise.

• Lack of accountability. Many people try to reach their weight loss goals on their own. Usually, they quickly give up because no one is there to inspire or encourage them to press past the challenges. Having a coach is crucial for success. Just as a good coach helps their team win the game with education, encouragement and inspiration, so a Lifestyle Coach can help you achieve your goals of weight-loss and a healthy lifestyle.

The secret to the overwhelming success of Transitions Lifestyle System can be found in its name. It’s a LIFESTYLE change. We do not refer to Transitions Lifestyle System as a “diet,” because this implies a temporary solution. With Transitions Lifestyle System, you will be able to create “lifelong habits” that support long-term weight loss and maintenance.

Come to an overview January 6, 2011 and find out how Transitions can change your life. Contact me for more information.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Transitioning to a Healthier Life

The past two years that I’ve been coaching people towards a healthier lifestyle have been very gratifying and rewarding. Not only have I saw transformations in people’s bodies but in their mind and spirit. What a blessing to inspire others with a sense of self-reliance, determination, and confidence to unlock their true potential.
I was very touched by a client’s recent testimony she shared with me on how Transitions has truly changed her life. With her permission, I decided to share what she wrote:
The most helpful thing I have learned the last 12 weeks is food can and will control your life; mentally, physically, and emotionally! I did not realize how each day was controlled by what I actually put in my mouth. After a couple of weeks with the Transitions Lifestyle, I started to feel like a different person. No question my husband has noticed the changes in me and he is really enjoying the fact he is now eating healthier too. The information I have learned about processed foods, fiber, and good/bad fats have been a wealth of knowledge. However, the grocery store tour was my favorite class day with Transitions.
Since living the Transitions Lifestyle, I have felt like I finally know who I am inside and out. I found an inner peace with mind, body, and spirit. I have had more energy than I ever dreamed was possible, which in turn helps me with daily chores and keeping up with my boys. My workouts at the gym have even felt different. I feel like I can actually feel my muscles responding immediately. I believe this is due to healthier eating. The best part is my clothes are fitting better! Spiritually, I have had a calmness within, which has calmed down my “stressful” days and given me time to pray and meditate.
There is no doubt my family and I will continue to strive for a healthier lifestyle. The information I have learned in the last 12 weeks is an education that will last a lifetime and hopefully, help my family live a wonderful, lengthy lifetime! The information obtained from Transitions was more like a college course in nutrition. The cost of this program should never deter anyone from taking the class. The money is so worth the overall results on your body, mind and future.
I invite you to come and find out what Transitions is all about. Maybe it will change your life too! The next presentation is January 6, 2011. Contact me for more information: girene@sbcglobal.net,
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Martinsville-IN/Pressing-...

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Coaching for Success

Many people have asked me what I do as a Lifestyle Wellness Coach, so I decided to focus this article on lifestyle coaching. Each coach has a unique approach they take with their clients. My passion as a coach is to help people develop a healthy lifestyle which incorporates; spirit, mind and body.
Wellness coaches are trained to look at the bigger picture of wellbeing, as well as life issues that impact health issues. Most of the clients I see come to me for guidance on weight-loss. Of course, there are many reasons why people are overweight and throughout the coaching process these are usually revealed.
Here are some ways I help my clients achieve their goals:
• Accountability – This is the foundation of what coaching encompasses. Statistics have shown if you share your goals with someone you will be twice as likely to complete them because you know you are being held responsible.
• Education – I educate my clients on leading healthy lifestyles; guiding them to develop new behaviors, and become more knowledgeable on nutrition and exercise.
• Motivation – I stir people to accomplish more than they could do on their own. When you have a coach encouraging and praising you on even small accomplishments, this stirs up a person to want to achieve even more!
The coaching relationship is uniquely different than a counselor or therapist relationship, because the focus is on what your clients want to achieve, and how the coaching partnership can enable them to reach their goals. A therapist works to understand how the past is affecting and influencing the present to help heal wounds or resolve problems.
For me, the biggest part of coaching is developing a relationship with my client so they feel they can trust I have their best interest in mind. If this trust is developed then they will allow me to help them move on to achieving a healthy lifestyle.
Right thinking is the first step toward a better life. If you are stuck in a rut and can’t seem to move on, then this may be a time to ask a coach for help. We are creatures of habit and it takes a lot of determination to change. It also takes a little help from someone who has the expertise and knowledge to help you recognize what’s holding you back. Don’t throw up your hands and give up! Reach out and allow someone to help you.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Market America - Built on Product. Powered by People

Market America - Built on Product. Powered by People

Healthy Snacks

ExtendSnacks invites you to take advantage of a great deal on ExtendSnacks.

For a limited time, you can get 15% off all ExtendSnacks and Free Shipping on orders of $75 or more.

ExtendSnacks were invented by Dr. Francine Kaufman, a past president of the American Diabetes Association, to provide you with leading Nutrition. ExtendSnacks is a premier partner for the Transitions Lifestyle System.

Recently, the ExtendSnacks team had a chance to sit down with Amber Wamhoff, RD, CDE, for a Q & A session that debunks some of the most common nutritional myths. Check

Monday, October 18, 2010

Unhealthy Eating Can Hurt Your Pocketbook

Unhealthy Eating Can Hurt Your Pocketbook

So many times I hear that eating healthy is expensive, but in fact, the opposite is true; not eating healthy foods such as, fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains can be pricey for your wallet and your health. Not to mention, your increased energy and overall well being will benefit!
Eating out, buying frozen or processed foods is also more expensive. Buying fresh fruits and vegetables instead of a Big Mac is not only healthier but cheaper. We live in a fast paced society which can lead to many health issues if we do not prepare meals ahead of time. This is something I teach in my weight-loss groups. Preparing your meals on weekends and freezing them not only saves money and time, but is also much better for you. Knowing your meal will be ready to pop in the oven or microwave when you get home can keep you from running through the drive through.
One thing that is very insightful to my clients is when I take them on a grocery store tour. They learn how to read labels and understand what types of things to look for they want and don’t want in their foods. For instance, the first ingredient you want to see in bread is “whole” whether it’s whole wheat or whole grains. The next thing they want in healthy bread is at least 5 grams of fiber, and 5 or less grams of sugar. Also, shopping the perimeters of the store is where most of your shopping should be done.
I teach things like, good fats vs. bad fats, grains and your health, stress & weight gain as well as, overcoming bad habits and modifying behavior. I encourage all my clients to journal their meals, snacks and thoughts throughout the day. This helps them keep track of their eating behaviors and habits.
I also hand out several recipes that are very tasty such as: Spaghetti Squash Lasagna, lentil stew, balsamic chicken and awesome oatmeal, blueberry pancakes! Many of my clients never realized healthy cooking could be so good!
I look forward to hearing from you!

Irene Greiner, Certified Lifestyle Coach

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Ratatoullie

I made ratatoullie tonight with rosemary chicken & sweet potato fries. What an awesome dinner!
Here is the ratatoullie recipe:

Ratatouille

Ingredients
1 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons dried parsley
1 eggplant, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
Dash salt & Pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 zucchini, sliced
1 large onion, sliced into rings
2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
1 green bell pepper, sliced
2 large tomatoes, chopped
1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Coat bottom and sides of a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish with olive oil spray or canola oil spray.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic until lightly browned. Mix in parsley and eggplant. Sauté until eggplant is soft, about 10 minutes. Season with salt & pepper to taste.
3. Spread eggplant mixture evenly across bottom of prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle with a few tablespoons of Parmesan cheese. Spread zucchini in an even layer over top. Lightly sprinkle with a little more cheese. Continue layering in this fashion, with onion, mushrooms, bell pepper, and tomatoes, covering each layer with a sprinkling of cheese. Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top.
4. Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes.

This is an awesome low glycemic recipe. It can be a dinner in itself also!

Friday, September 17, 2010

leading a healthier lifestyle

Leading a healthy lifestyle is not always easy. Have you ever thought about what causes you to become unmotivated and unwilling to budge from your unhealthy lifestyle? Maybe it's because you need a boost- or most likely a kick in the rear!

It's very hard to reach your goals on your own. Having a coach not only keeps you accountable, a coach also helps you keep on track. A coach helps you pinpoint those things in your life that are keeping you from being your best, your happiest and your healthiest.

Sometimes we sabotage our efforts because we allow our emotions to get the best of us. The mind is definitely a battlefield but we can overcome if we can realize that we have control of our thoughts. You can't do it on your own. Our help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven & earth.

We are spirit, soul & body. All three must be in balance. With God's help and a little help from your coach, you can be all that you desire to be. It takes time, work & dedication. Don't give up on your dreams. The only way to fail is to give up!

Keep Pressing On!

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Healthy Brownies

Here is a testimony from a client:

“I received 2 boxes of chocolate cherries for Christmas. I had my first one after lunch. Normally I would have eaten an entire box by now! This new way of eating has sure curbed a lot of my desires – especially the quantity. I love it! Never going back! Praise the Lord!” (12 weeks: lost 27 lb. and 21.75 in. and at 7 months: lost 35 lb. and 29.5 in.!!!!)

This is a great recipe to help curve the chocolate cravings & you even get your vegies!

Healthy Brownies
Preheat Oven to 350
Non Stick Cooking Spray
3 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (or bittersweet chocolate)
½ cup carrot puree
-- (After peeling and trimming the ends, steam for 10-12 minutes and then puree in a food processor for 2 minutes)
½ cup spinach puree
-- Steam for 30-40 seconds, then puree in a food processor
½ cup firmly packed brown sugar or Splenda brown sugar, or agave nectar
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup canola oil
2 Tsp pure vanilla extract
2 large egg whites
¾ cup oat flour (or all-purpose flour)
½ tsp baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

Preparation
1. Coat an 8x8 baking pan with cooking spray.
2. Melt chocolate in a double boiler, or over a very low flame.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted chocolate, vegetable puree, sugar, cocoa powder, margarine and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and creamy (1 – 2 minutes).
4. Whisk in egg whites. Stir in flour, baking powder and salt with a wooden spoon.
5. Pour batter into the ban and bake 35 to 40 minutes. Cool completely in pan before cutting into 12 bars

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Overcoming Weight-loss Challenges, Recipes & Testimonials

Here is an exerpt from my book:

Weight loss is a life long struggle for so many. When I became a lifestyle coach I was amazed at how many people are so undisciplined in leading a healthy lifestyle. As author Hannah Whitehall Smith put it, “The greatest burden we have to carry in life is self; the most difficult thing we have to manage is self.” Training ourselves to lead a disciplined lifestyle takes work, especially in a world that says, “If it feels good do it!” Denying self is unpopular but necessary to leading a truly happy and satisfying life. Self discipline is a true friend that protects us and keeps us from a destructive lifestyle.
Many have tried to be disciplined by trying several fad diets, but have failed miserably. They may lose weight, but usually gain back even more than they started with! Their eating is as unhealthy as ever, they skip meals and fail to put exercise into their lifestyle.
I have had the privilege of coaching people and seeing their lives change. Not because of what I’ve said or done, but because they have finally realized they have control. It’s up to them to choose to change. Instead of letting the cookie control them, they make the choice to control themselves!
There is hope! I have seen unhealthy lifestyles of people that I’ve known for years change. These were people that had no desire to change at first until they realized how much better they felt after making minor, then major changes. They have made the effort and have won the battle. The mind is a battle field and we must constantly be on alert so as not to fall back into old habits.
In my coaching I assist my clients in changing lifestyle habits. The three areas we work on are: educating on eating healthy low glycemic foods, modifying behavior and exercise.
In this book I will not only have some tasty, healthy, low glycemic recipes, but I will also address some weight loss challenges my clients have experienced, (names have been changed for privacy). I will include testimonials from clients I have coached and clients that two of my business partners have coached.
You will read about the frustrations, failures and victories each has experienced while trying to lose weight and lead a healthier and more disciplined lifestyle. Read on and you will discover how many have overcome. You never know, you could also make the decision to transition into a healthier, happier you!