Thursday, November 11, 2010

Holiday Eating


The holidays get busy and we forget to eat. Skipping meals, especially breakfast, is one of the worst things you can do for your metabolism. Whenever your body does not have enough energy, it slips into conservation mode. Going a long time without eating, more than three or four hours, is actually counterproductive towards weight loss. Your metabolism down-regulates in order to make up for the lack of energy (calories) being consumed. When you are planning a day of holiday shopping or cooking, start the day of with a balanced breakfast. Then, make sure to pack a non-perishable snack for a couple hours later. Try this smoothie recipe to keep yourself in the holiday spirit and energized for all the holiday activities. It will also help keep you away from all those holiday goodies!

Pumpkin Smoothie
Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients:

1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 very ripe medium-sized banana
3/4 cup 0 or 2% Greek yogurt (I recommend Fage brand)
1 tbsp agave nectar
1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup crushed ice

Preparation:

1. Place all ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth, making sure the ice is completely crushed.

Per 8-10 ounce serving: Calories 167, Calories from Fat 5, Total Fat 0.7g, Cholesterol 2mg, Sodium 74mg, Carbohydrate 34g, Fiber 3.1g, Protein 6.6g

For more balanced breakfast ideas, visit ebnutrition.com.

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