Wellness Wednesday - Mammograms

Today we are going to talk about mammograms.  My yearly check up calls for a mammogram.  I have been getting them for a couple of years now.  I have had a few scares and it can be quite traumatizing.  So what is a mammogram, what does it really do, and why talk about it?

What is a mammogram?  A mammogram is an x-ray picture that can show Radiologists what is going on inside of the breasts.  There are signs that they look for.  If you have never had one, usually at age 40, you will be recommended to have a screening.  Sometimes younger if there are signs or history of breast cancer in your family history.  I had first mammogram before I hit 40.  I remember being scared of the machine that I had only heard about.  You basically get your boobies squeezed to pancakes in every direction in order to get good pictures by a technician.  By the way, they are not allowed to tell you anything about what they see or your results.  Only your doctor or the radiologists can talk to you about what they see, find, or don't find.  One tip from me is don't go when your boobies are sensitive like right before your period.  Also, don't wear a dress because you will have to undress and de-robe.  And they make you leave all your personal belongings in a locker.  No phones or purses are allowed in exam room.

What is next?  In my case, results are mailed.  If any further testing is needed, I will receive a call from my doctor as well to schedule a diagnosis follow up.  In my case this has happened to me more than once.  It is so scary.  Even though they tell you not to worry, you worry.  You start thinking the worse.  The first time it happened my friend came and met me to be with me.  There was something seen in my left breast that look like a spec.  It could have been left over deodorant, this is why they ask for you not to wear deodorant or lotions the day of your testing.  My diagnostic came back as nothing.  It was a lymph node that needed extra looking at and after reviewing it again, there was no signs of anything.  A lymph node carries fluid like a tunnel from one place to another when there is no blockage.  This year I had another diagnostic follow up that needed to be done.  Like before, I started freaking out and was very concerned.  I am getting older.  I am not sure about you but when they tell you they need to see you again in the doctor's office, everything starts to hurt or feel broken all of a sudden.  My diagnostic showed nothing to worry about.  So I started asking several questions.  Are you looking at the same spot as the spot before?  What are you looking at?  What is the difference in my results?  The radiologists was happy to answer all my questions and put my mind at easy because of all my new found concerns.  The spot that was of concern this time was not the same one as before.  Lymph node is stable, no changes.  This was not what they were looking at.  The spot this time was a mass.  A solid mass that needed to be looked at.  But there was no concern from the radiologists after my 3D mammogram and ultrasound.

2D vs 3D?  I have previously had 2D and have been called back for testing.  I figured 3D would be better pictures.  I also thought that I was not going to be abused by that machine, but nope not happening.  The 2D and 3D are done similar.  But the 3D takes more pictures to compare versus the one shot with 2D.

Ultrasound?  This is like any ultrasound you have seen.  A sonogram of the breast.  It is not as painful as the mammogram but it can cause discomfort after you have had the mammogram pancake tests.  Also, when the technicians and the radiologists have to go over the same area several times.

Results?  These are immediate.  The radiologists came in, ran a few more scans on the ultrasound machine, and then she discussed my results.  It was a huge relief that I got the all clear, see you next year.

Costs?  My mammogram is part of my routine check up.  My diagnostic had to be part of my deductible.  I was mad that they could not fit me in the schedule in December.  Deductibles are calendar year.  They start over in January.  I was able to make a payment and pay the rest by mail.  I know that the hospitals have to get paid but I do not think this just prevent us from getting the health care we need.  What if I did not have the money to pay for my tests?

There are places that offer free mammograms, search online.  Also, do your research.  Ask a lot of questions.  There are no dumb questions.

Have you had any scares?  Any more tips?

Wellness Wednesday-2019 Health Review

Let's talk about health reviews.  Have you ever stopped to reflect on your current health and what you could be doing better?  Improvements could be small doable changes.  Look at the picture of me below, what do you see?  

No, I was not pregnant last year.  I was in very bad shape.  I had been for awhile now.  Everything I tried, failed.  I failed.  I hid behind other people in pictures or I was not even in them most of the time.  I was really struggling but I did not realize how bad until later on in the year.

Last year, my health set off all the alarms.  It really scared me.  Though my doctor had been warning me that this would happen, I did not listen.  I was too busy to be concerned with this.  My body decided otherwise.  And now I am determined to prioritize my body and get me to healthy.  How am I doing that?  

First, I reflected on the damage.  I did not get this way over night.  I traced it back to 2014.  Alot happened throughout this year and it basically is the root of my situation.  Even though I had been at my healthiest right before this, things got out of control.  I went from healthiest to the unhealthiest I had been.  I hit over 200.  I had been doing crossfit and stopped doing that by recommendation from my doctor.  In 2015 after I ran my last half marathon, my doctor restricted me from running.  This was something I loved.  I was putting too much pressure on my knees with the weight.  I walked the treadmill, watched what I ate, and I still could not make the scale move.  I kept feeling defeated.  But reflecting on all the things I tried help me figure out what I did not want to do this time.  I did not want to do crash diets, unhealthy habits, or create more damage.  It also helped me learn what triggered me to get to this point.  Not one single thing but a serious of events all contributed.    

Second, goals need to be realistic.  My only goal was to get healthy.  I did not focus on a number on the scale, nor a specific size in my clothes, or gave myself a deadline.  I only was working on improving from where I was currently at and every time, improve from there.  

Third, I am under the care of my doctor.  No, I am not doing doing crazy pills or weight loss shakes.  I am eating real food.  I am learning more about the nutritional facts in everything I put in my mouth.

Lastly, but maybe the most important change, this year I finally found something that worked for me that has completely changed the way I think about food.   There is a 80/20 rule.  They say, who knows who they are?  It is 80 percent what you eat, and 20 perfect how much you move.  By changing what I ate, I was able to finally lose weight and keep it off.   

Where am I at now?  I officially started in August.  The weight just started coming off.  I was more motivated because we had two weddings, one in October and one in December.  Those weddings happened to coincide with my check in dates.  Because I have been monitoring my calories, weight, and my measurements.  The first wedding would be right at my 12 week check in and the second would be at 60 days from there.  Also, my physical was at the end of the year too.  I have dropped 40 pounds.  I was already getting into 2X and currently am able to get into medium.  The biggest change was my food intake (fat, protein, carbs).  I tried to commit to getting on the treadmill at least Monday through Friday and tried to hit my goal of 10,000 steps.  

My journey has not ended.  Follow my journey on Instagram - @independentmamialba.  I am sharing my struggles and triumphs in hope of motivating others to start today.  Do not let it be years later.  Do not shock or damage your body so bad that it can't be helped.  I am not a doctor or professional to be giving advise.  

I am her to support.  Let's get healthy together.  Let me know how I can help.  Do you have any suggestions, tips, or have you recently reviewed your health?     

Wellness Wednesday - Clean Eating

My health has become my priority with all of the doctor's visits and results I have recently received.  I am taking it one day at a time and focusing on getting me better.  Thanks to one headache caused by TMJ.

After I found out I was no longer allergic to the long list of foods, I was still in shock.  See I was still getting hives after eating.  Stumped by the reaction, I decided to eliminate the things I was previously allergic to.  I wanted to try and pin point the problem.  That same week I was challenged by a blogger friend to make one change.  This was the start of me clean eating.

But what does CLEAN EATING mean?  I have been trying to lose weight for awhile now.  Nothing I tried was working.  I was already under doctor's care for my liver issues.

I decided, enough was enough.  This summer we traveled and of course, enjoyed lots of good food.  I had just came back from our last vacation.  I replayed all the sodas, sweet desserts, and don't get me started on all the fast food we ate.  My one thing to change was that I was not going to drink any more sodas or sweet teas.  I am from the South and sweet tea runs in my blood.  Also because in the past I had been allergic to yeast, I decided to give up bread.

That same day I told my husband we were going grocery shopping to start meal prepping.  While at the store I thought about what I wanted to eat.  I made a dinner schedule that worked for all of the family, not just me.  I know that this is a life style change.  I have been here before in the past and know whats to do.  I have done it several times.  Sunday night, meal prepping was done.  I was ready to start my week.

Then the week started and my 6 small meals was not cutting it.  Day one was super hard.  I felt as all I did all day was eat.  I was too hard to keep up with my eating schedule.  Day two came and it was still hard.  I decided that in order to be accountable I was going to be sharing my story online.  Soon enough I had friends and followers giving support and offering their success stories.  They shared what worked for them.  I felt very supported and listened to each suggestion.

Clean eating for me meant that I eliminate the food that was causing my body to react.  I eliminated sodas and sugars.  I eliminated yeast as it always made my stomach swell.  I started keeping a food diary and watching how my body reacted.  The changes I made actually worked.  I no longer suffer from hives after dinner and the scale has actually started moving.

In a little over a month, I had lost 20 pounds and after 3 months a total of 30.  I made changes to our eating.  We cleaned out our refrigerator and pantry of items that we were not eating.  We stopped eating food that comes in a box.  We started eating all fresh food.  I even have started purchasing organic and grass fed.  We plan a dinner schedule that everyone can enjoy.  We eat foods that we all like.  We cook together.  The life style change has began because we all are in this together.  I am really enjoying my husband cooking for us as well.  He is learning that he enjoys cooking.

And lastly, we eat something different everyday.  Previously meal prepping meant eating the same thing at least two to three times a week.  This time, we are enjoying a variety of choices.

Find what works for you and your family.  Start with one change and see how much this will change.

Wellness Wednesday - Eye Spy Answers

I have not always had 20/15 vision.  Maybe when I was little but through the years, I had to start using glasses.  And after several years of wearing glasses I decided to get lasik.  Best decision ever.

That is an oldie.  Circa 2007, car selfie.

If you are keeping up with my story, up to now, I have no answers.  My next appointment is with my eye doctor.  (Blurred vision often means there is a need for corrective lenses.) 

Did you know there are different types of eye doctors?

Optometrists prescribe and fit eye glasses and contact lenses to correct vision problems. 

Ophthalmologists are the next level.  They diagnose and treat eye diseases and perform surgeries.

I was referred to an Ophthalmologists. 

My eye doctor is an Optometrists.  He has had my chart for over 10 years now.  The testing he does goes beyond what regular eye doctor's have done previously.  I made the executive decision to go to him first.  (Again, do what make sense to you.  You know your body.)  I figured he has my eye's history.  I shared with him my symptoms and the results from previous doctors.  He ran scans of my eyes and compared them to my scans from previous visits.  The results... there was nothing wrong with my vision.  There were no changes that he could see from previous scans.  He showed me each eye and what he looks for.  He explained the different things that the eye can show.  The eyes can show:

- Diabetes
- Diseases
- Deficiencies

Not sure I have mentioned this but I am under doctor's care for my liver.  It really interested me to see how much my eyes showed. 

And yet, we hit another dead-end.  On to the next.

Stay Tuned... Wellness Wednesday - TMJ

Wellness Wednesday - I Am Allergic To What?

Have you ever had an allergic reaction?  Maybe you ate something and your lip started swelling.  Or out of nowhere, you start itching.  Your body gives off signs when it does not like something.  Are you listening to your body?  Are you looking out for the signs that may be there?

Last week, I told you that my doctor referred me to several doctors including the Allergist.  I had previously been to the Allergists when I started suffering from allergic reactions all of sudden a couple of years ago.  I went in then thinking OK I am allergic to something.  When I received my results, I was shocked.  After the birth of my daughter, I started suffering from several body ailments that I had not before.  I questions my doctor and she said our body changes as we get older.  And now my allergy tests, said I was allergic some of my favorite things.  It was like they took all of my favorite things and said you are allergic to all of them.  It was so hard to eliminate those foods that I have always eaten.  I even started the shots to help me.  I did them for close to two years and then, I just gave up.  It was hard keeping up with my shots and all those visits.  So what did I do to help my allergies?  I tried to avoid those foods.  I ate them in moderation.  I dealt with the reactions.

It is never a good idea to cause your body allergic reactions or live on Benadryl for the rest of your life.

Fast forward to this year and my current symptoms, swollen and rash on face.  The Neurologists had no explanation.  The Allergists ordered full allergy testing.  What does that mean?  I get to get poked with very small amounts of several items to try and trigger an allergic reaction.  The tests started.  I had been through this before so it was not a surprise.  But for those of you that have not, what actually happens?  There are two types of tests; blood tests and skin tests.  The skin tests is exactly that.  You get poked on your skin to test if you get a reaction for the items being tested.  They will ask you what caused the reaction, if you remember.  It is good to keep a food diary or write down what happens when you get a reaction.  When I went in for my visit, my face was still a bit swollen.  I explained all the symptoms I had been suffering from and the previous doctors I had seen and would be seeing.  The Allergists read all my results and then sat down with me.  And the results showed that I was allergic to....

NOTHING!!!

The Allergists explained that that is exactly why the shots are good for you.  She said the treatment I did previously had helped me overcome my reactions.  She did warn not to try and test my body.  She advise to take it easy on my body.  The allergies good come back.  Too much of something can become bad for you. 

And this point, she had no answers for the swelling in my face or the rash that I got.  Nothing had reacted.

I was still suffering from my headaches.  The Neurologists and Allergist both were dead-ends.  Next..

Stay Tuned... Wellness Wednesday - Eye Spy Answers

Wellness Wednesday - It All Started With A Headache

Where do I start?  It all started with a headache.  The signs were all there stress, not sleeping, and feeling super tired.  I ignored all those signs until my body decided to give me new signs.  Enough was enough, it said.  It would not take any more abuse from me.

One day, I woke up with blurred vision, my face was swollen, rash, and a piercing headache.  I was suffering and I did not know how to help myself.  Nothing I tried worked.  I was falling apart.

I went to the doctor and she did not have an exact answer for my pain.  She ordered a slew of tests and referred me to see a Neurologists, Allergist, Ophthalmologists, and a Dentist.  

I wanted answers and I wasn't sure how I get through those tough days.  I could not even focus.  The slight sign of any light bothered me.  I had to reevaluate, slow down, and care for me.  By me looking for answers, I would discover so much more.  

Neurologists.  Have you ever been referred to one?  Do you know what to ask?  What tests they will run on you?  Anything that has to do with my head or brain always scares me.  Was I having an aneurysm?  This was the first time I was going to a Neurologists.  I was not prepared.  I followed my doctor's orders and just went to the doctor she referred me to.  I just wanted answers and fast relief.  My experience ended up being horrible.  I did not do my research on the doctor or office I was being sent to.  I also trusted them to know what they were doing as professionals.  Regardless of their unprofessional care, I went through all the tests and visits.  When you are sick, all you want is to feel better.  

What I learned?  

-Research your doctor or referral.  Check online profiles, reviews, and web pages.

-Ask the doctor more questions.  You are paying for care.  There is no time limit for your appointment, so don't feel rushed.

-Review your request for testing prior to you leaving the doctor's office.  Ask why the test is being requested?  Are there different tests that can give the same results?

-Check your insurance coverage.  Does your copay cover the price of all testings?

-Listen to your gut.  If something seems wrong, do something about it.

After a handful of tests which even included an MRI, over $2000, and several visits later, I still had no answers.  

On to the next doctor, hopeful they can give me answers....

Stay tuned for next week, Wellness Wednesday - I am Allergic to What?

The Health Museum Presents Body Worlds RX

This year I am on a journey of self discovery and renew.  I am guilty of self neglect.  It is so easy to forget about yourself when you are running around taking care of everyone else.  Life should not get in the way of self preservation, self care, or self love.

Thanks to the Health Museum for a preview invitation.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal opinion.

How well do you take care of your one body?  Have you ever wondered what your heart looks like?

How big is your heart?  And I don't mean, how nice are you?  Do you suffer from an enlarged heart?  Do you know your family history?  All of these questions ran through my head.  A real reality check to face and see how our organs are affected.  Seeing them from the inside out.

Body Worlds RX was created by anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens.  She is the inventor of Plastination science.  The exhibit features Plastination, a complex technique that removes the fluids from the body and replaces them with plastics that harden.

This exhibit really woke me up.  I need to take better care of my body.  I need to learn more about my family history and make better choices.  This exhibit was like a fun Science class that showed you how the body really works. 

Prescriptions for Healthy Living on exhibit now until April 23, 2017.

Body Worlds RX is included in the cost of your general admission ticket purchase.

For more information, go to the healthmuseum.org/exhibit/body-worlds-rx.

March 2016 Health Check In

Oh March, I am so glad you are over!  I really had a hard time this month.  There was the week I took vacation, and Easter weekend.  Weekends are already hard for me as it is.  No excuses this month I had no self control.  It was hard to say no when there was so much yummy food around.

My challenges this month:

1)  Food-Road trips = junk food, travel = new foods to discover  I love food!  Good Food.  My husband and I did share a couple of meals.  I said no to all the fried food at the Rodeo. 

2)  Movement-No gym time.  I do not think I made it to the gym a day this month.  We did try to move wherever we were.  At the waterpark, we workout in the water.  We walked a lot. 

So if 80% was my diet and I was not on one, and 20% was my exercise and I did none, where do you think I stand.

After the week of Spring Break vacation, I weight myself and I had gained 4 lbs.  My husband had gained 6 lbs.  Then Easter came. 

My goals were:

1)  Measurements-We never got around to taking my measurements. 

2)  Steps-Oh my where do I start.  I tried to walk 10,000 steps everyday.  I forgot to wear my watch and most of the times, I did not have my phone on me. And well at the waterpark, I chilled.

3)  Running-I did not get to the park to run this month.  I hurt my toe on the last day of the month so I probably will be staying of my feet.  It hurts to walk.

What now?

Emerge (from Merriam-Webster) to rise or appear from a hidden or unknown place or condition : to come out into view

Remember this is a lifestyle change.  When we fall back into our old habits, we get those same results.  The above picture was taken on March 5th.  I was on track and feeling great.  I was seeing results.  But when I took time off, I fell back into my old ways.  We have all been there, right?  We yo-yo diet.  We gain the weight back.  Or we get comfortable where we are at with the progress we have had, and then stop. 

Where I stand today?

Like the above picture I am going to continue to EMERGE out. 

We will be participating in our first race this month.  I am so excited to get us back out there.  I am not trying to break records.  Baby steps...baby steps.

The goal this month is simple....stay on track everyday. 

February 2016 Health Check In

The shortest month of the year came and went.  60 days have already passed us by.  Where do you stand with your health goals? 

Here is where I stand with my 2016 goals:

1)  Run 365 miles-I ran 2.55 miles this month.  For 2016, I have ran a total of 4.06 miles.  Leaving me with 360.94 miles to go.  This mileage is not huge but it is huge for me.  Check this out:  

January 1  -  1.51 miles - 23.51 minutes
February 9 - 1.52 miles - 14.26 minutes

When I ran 1.5 miles in January I was dying.  My chest and knees were killing me.  When I ran 1.5 miles this month, I ran faster and felt great.  My pace in January was 15' 47" and in February it was 9' 26".  I took 9.25 minutes off my time.

2)  Walk 10,000 steps per day.

January -   average steps 11,953
February - average steps 10,099

No excuses but I did forget to put my watch on 2 days.  Both days were weekend days. 

3)  Weight-Drum Roll please...... I have lost a 2.5 lbs.  In total for 2016, I have lost 10.5 lbs.  Woohoo! 

4)  Weight Training.  At the end of last month, I said I wanted to start weight training and I have. 

That's my coach back there.  We have been hitting the gym together.  I am seeing progress in my body. 

For February being the shortest month, it packed a punch.  It put me to the test.  There was Superbowl Sunday, my son's birthday, Valentine's Day, and traveling.  The scale was not being my friend.  And for a minute, I was a little crushed.  Oh, let's be real.  I wanted to cry.  All the hard work of counting calories, walking every day, making time to work out, etc....and for it not to show on the scale.  I had to give myself the talk.  The how does your clothes fit, you are doing so great, keep up the good work, etc...  Every day is a struggle.  There are good days and there are bad days.  I can only worry about today and I'm ok with that.

Here are my goals for March:

Monday through Friday, I am able to do great.  I have a schedule I keep.  When it comes to the weekends that is where I can improve.  I am planning on getting the family outdoors. 

I am going to take my measurements.  Since I have been lifting weights, I am building muscle.  Muscle weighs more than fat.  Even if the scale does not move, I will take inches lost any day.

I also want to add more mileage this month.  Eventually I want to be able to run more than 1.5 miles at a time. 

I want 10,000 steps for 31 days straight.

I think that is enough for my goals.  What are your goals? 

Bulu Box Review

***Disclosure-I am a USFG member.  I received a 3 month subscription for review on the blog.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

Bulu box is a monthly box of healthy products.  The box is $10 a month and you get free shipping.

1. TRY SAMPLES- discovering new products, see which products don't work for you

Try 4-5 samples based on your profile before buying full-size so you don't waste your money

2. EARN POINTS-Each month you can earn up to 100 Rewards Points (that's $10!) just for subscribing and sharing your thoughts. 

Log in to your account to fill out your sample surveys about the products you just tried

3. CASH OUT-Once you've earned Rewards Points you can use them like actual cash towards a full-size purchase of your new favorite product. You can get your order completely free!

There are 2 different kind of boxes-

Bulu Box Original: This box provides a well-rounded sampling of all things health and nutrition. Each box contains 4 to 5 premium samples such as sports nutrition, sleep, and healthy snacks. Plus lifestyle extras like gym gift cards or DVDs to cover all aspects of health!

Bulu Box Weight Loss: Designed specifically to help with the varying factors of weight loss, this box contains 4 to 5 premium weight loss items such as energy aids, healthy snacks, sleep aids and fat-burners. Plus bonus weight loss items like fitness gear and kitchen tools.

I liked getting new products that I had never heard of.  I got to try them out.  I hate buying full size products that I do not like.  Wasting money.  This way I was able to try what I liked and didn't like. 

For more information, go to www.bulubox.com

Weightloss Wednesday-A Love Letter to my Body

Dear Body,

It's not you, it's me.  I think I have fallen out of love with you.  I am ready for change.  We seem to have gone into 2 different directions.  I can't see US anymore.  We lost what we had.  But I am not ready to give up on you.  You have been here for me through all these years.  You always have my back.  You carried me through all these years.  I think it is time for me to pull my weight.    

It seems that there is a strong girl inside of you and she is trying to get out. 

 2011

 2012

 2013

 2014

 2015

I don't think I say this enough or at all, but I DO LOVE YOU!  I appreciate you hanging in there.  Let me reassure you that I am not giving up on US.  I think this will only make us stronger.  We can make this work, if we work together.  There is no you, without me.  And no me, without you.

What do you say?  Give me a second chance.  You won't regret it.  I promise to give you my all, make you a priority, and not stop trying.  I do not know about you, but I am so excited for what the future holds for us.  As long as you are by my side that is all I need. 

Love,
Me

Ever felt like you need a good talking to?  from you!  Me, Myself, and I takes on a new meaning.  I have been thinking about this lately.  My mind and my body have seemed to be 2 different people.  I am on this journey - mentally and physically.  I need to be able to love my body.  My mind needs to not play any games with me.  It has not mattered what size or weight I was, my mind always told me I was FAT.  I was never content.  This journey is mine.  What is yours?  
  

Fitness Friday-Eatfitters

***Disclosure-I received a full day worth of meals to review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

On Sunday night, I noticed my finger was super swollen.  I had to take my wedding ring off because it was cutting of my circulation.  I have to admit my eating habits have not been great.  Just last week I was stuck balled up in bed from stomach problems.  See I normally do not eat greasy foods, but I had Menudo.  Menudo is a Spanish soup.  It is beef tripe in a broth of red chili base.  It is super greasy!  But we had just been out at my niece's softball game and we were soaking wet.  This soup just smelled great, and it was exactly what my taste buds wanted.  The problem is that I do not eat grease.  So my stomach freaked.

Thanks to Sam Jauode for inviting me to sit with him and learn about Eatfitters.  Sam is the owner but more than an owner, he seems to really care about nutrition.  His own personal story is what inspired him to open Eatfitters.  

How is Eatfitters different?

-They have real food (Carne Guisada, pizza, Jambalaya, pasta, and so many more of my favorite dishes)
-They are more than different versions of salads and grilled chicken
-Low in Sodium
-Family-sized meals

Today's Food Menu-

Turkey Breakfast Burrito-diced sweet potato, onion, tomato, cilantro and lean ground turkey wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla and topped with cheddar cheese. 280 cal

Hummus and Eggs 50 cal

Carne Guisada-Lean beef stewed in a blend of onions, red pepper, jalapeno and fresh tomatoes. Served on a bed of cilantro/lime brown rice. 370 cal

Hummus $4.25

Chicken and Spinach Enchiladas-special marinated grilled chicken blended with fresh spinach and a green chile sauce, then rolled into low-fat corn tortillas and topped with special cilantro sauce. 200 cal

I liked the variety of real food I had.  Each meal was flavorful.  And remember those swollen fingers, not after today's meals.

Sam was so gracious enough to send my husband some meals too.  He understands how important healthy meals are to our family.  He shared that he and his own family eat Eatfitters meals as well.

My husband's meals:

Chicken and Spinach Enchiladas LG 470 cal

Chili Migas-chili combined with egg whites and corn tortillas and high-protein  LG 320 cal

My husband is a picky eater, who compares everyone's cooking to his momma's, enjoyed both of his meals.  I did not get to take a picture of his breakfast.  With his work schedule we are on different meal times.  But we did get to sit down and have dinner together.  I warmed his meal and served it to him.  He did not look at the ingredients.  You know men and kids, sometimes, you have to just tell them to try it first and ask questions after.  This is the first time he and I have tried enchiladas that are not smothered in cheese and greasy chili.  We both enjoyed the healthy enchiladas with Spinach.

So my husband's next question was, can we afford the food?  Eatfitters has different plans to fit everyone:
 
-Go3 Plan-Allows you to try the food and get 10% off on your first order of 3 days of meals.
-Gold Savings Plan-Pay in advance.  Get 5% off on all meals, drinks, and products.
-Platinum Savings Plan-Pay in advance.  Get 10% off on all meals, drinks, and products.

You can also enroll into the FREE Rewards program where you can earn points for FREE meals.

For more details on the Plans and to schedule a Free Nutritional Consult, go to eatfitters.com.

Skincare Sunday-SeabuckWonders New Ultimate Hair, Skin and Nails

***Disclosure-Sample product was provided.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

Stop look at your nails...

Do you have split ends?

How is your skin doing?

Lately I am a hot mess which includes my brittle nails, split ends, and my super sensitive skin.  I am getting older this month and I am reevaluating my habits.  I have taken multivitamin supplements before to make sure that I am getting all the vitamins I need.  SeabuckWonders is a brand I like.  They have a new product I recently have started to take.

SeabuckWonders has a new Ultimate Hair, Skin & Nails supplement.  It is the only Hair, Skin & Nails product to feature both Biotin and Sea Buckthorn Oil with rare Omega-7 for U.S. consumers.  The vegan, 100% natural and gluten-free supplement supports healthy complexion, strong nails and shiny hair for lasting, healthy beauty.

 
The best way to fight brittle hair, skin and nails is with cellular support, as external remedies do not get to the root of the problem. With the unique combination of Sea Buckthorn Oil and Biotin, SeabuckWonders Ultimate Hair, Skin & Nails provides numerous benefits in one.
 

Benefits of Biotin & Sea Buckthorn
Biotin is a B vitamin that helps improve the keratin protein structures in hair, skin and nails for natural strength and softness. It also helps prevent hair loss, drying or scaling skin and other symptoms associated with B vitamin deficiencies.
  
SeabuckWonders Ultimate Hair, Skin & Nails includes a 30-day supply of 60 softgels for $34.99.

The entire SeabuckWonders collection of supplements and personal care products includes Sea Buckthorn Berry Oil, Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil, Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil softgels, and Omega-7 Complete softgels, as well as a Facial Cream, Body Lotion, Exfoliating Cleanser and Deep Hydrating Serum. The line is available at select Whole Foods and specialty stores nationwide.

For additional information about SeabuckWonders, visit www.SeabuckWonders.com, www.Facebook.com/SeabuckWonders,www.Twitter.com/SeabuckWonders and www.Instagram.com/SeabuckWonders.

Fitness Friday-Surrender the Hustle: Fitting in the 15

***Disclosure-No compensation.  Informational post only.

Attention Houston wanna a free workout?  I do, I do....

Momma Strong presents “Fitting in the 15” May 21

5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Momma Strong is offering a free 15- minute high intensity interval workout.  This event is free and open to the public.    

Whole Foods Market Kirby, 2955 Kirby Dr. – 

After the exercise, Momma Strong founder Courtney Wyckoff will lead a brief discussion about ways to fit exercise into a busy schedule.

“There are real deal ways to find time for a quick work-out – just like you make time each day to brush your teeth,” Wyckoff said. “The Momma Strong exercise routines are scientifically and strategically designed for the overall health of a woman’s body and not just for looking good – and they take only 15 minutes.”

Following the discussion, guests are invited to indulge in a “Happy Hour” special while watching a presentation from the Whole Foods Market Healthy Eating Specialist on quick snacks for before and after exercise.

Momma Strong, headquartered in Houston, is an international fitness, health and lifestyle company created for mothers who want to rediscover a life of resiliency, adventure and vitality.

Wyckoff, a certified personal trainer and corrective exercise specialist, has 14 years experience in the field of fitness, nutrition and injury prevention and treatment. 

After an injury forced her to retire from a professional ballet career, she began an in-depth research of biomechanical performance and jump-started her career in wellness.

Later, after becoming a mother herself eight years ago, she applied this research to women’s health, resulting in specializations in pelvic stabilization, core integration and postpartum resiliency training.

Wyckoff founded Momma Strong in 2011 and today there are more than 5,000 members worldwide.

For more information about Momma Strong, visit http://mommastrong.com.

Fitness Friday-Celsius Flo Fusion

***Disclosure-Sample product was received.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal opinion.

Are you looking to amp your workout?  Have you ever tried a pre-workout?  A pre-workout can help maximize your workout.  I always wondered when I was at the gym what people were drinking.  My husband uses a pre-workout to help him maximize his work outs.  He is a gym rat.

Celsius^®, the world's first Negative Calorie beverage, teamed up with International Platinum Recording Artist, Flo Rida, to create the Flo Fusion™ Transformation Accelerator On-the-Go Powder

Celsius^® Flo Fusion™ is Backed by 6 Published University Studies, and is Clinically Proven to:

• Burn 100 Calories and More Per Serving
• Burn Up to 93% More Body Fat Per Serving
• Increase Metabolism
• Provide Healthy Energy

Healthy Features of Celsius^® Flo Fusion™:

·         No Sugar

·         No High Fructose Corn Syrup

·         No Aspartame

·         Very Low Sodium

·         No Preservatives

·         No Artificial Colors or Flavors

·         Vitamin Enriched

·         Tastes Great!

I like that it is individually packed and ready for you to just add to your water.  It tastes good.  It comes in Berry or Orange.  It is helping me stay active, and continue my healthy lifestyle.  It has helped me to increase endurance and has provided me the lasting energy I needed to keep up with my training routine.  Getting back to my normal work out routine has been hard.  Sometimes we just need a little help or booster. 

Wojo Nutrition Review

***Disclosure-Sample product was received for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

My life has changed.  Change is good, they say.  The change was very uninvited and it caused a storm.  Trying to balance things has been very hard.  I recently was sick and it felt like my whole life including my body were giving up on me.  My husband's schedule changed.  My schedule hit double duty.

I have been so tired.  Drinking coffee to start my day and stay awake.  But that solution didn't help give me the energy I needed to conquer my day.

So I was looking for something that could help me?  Have your heard of Wojo?

Wojo Nutrition is giving people an easy and natural alternative to swallowing bulky vitamins, drinking sugary energy drinks or reaching for pharmaceutical pills. The single servings make it easy for people to take while on the go and the unique lines are tailored to fit their different needs.

-No sugar

-No artificial sweeteners

-No artificial colors

-No artificial flavors

You can add Wojo to water, tea, coffee, juice, smoothie, or soda.  I chose water.  This week I had a great week.  I tried Wojo Mon-Thurs and felt great.  On Friday, I did plain coffee and guess what I was sick to my stomach.  And I had no energy, still was sleepy, and felt horrible.

There are different Wojo products:

-energy

-mood

-calm

-sun

-focus

-well

Thanks to Wojo, I have been able to conquer my week.  Getting into the easy of my new schedule.  Things are starting to feel normal, at least they are my NEW normal.

Fitness Friday-Recover with Protein by Twinlab CleanSeries

***Disclosure-Sample receive to review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

Twinlab  CleanSeries, the first line of sports supplements to be able to claim the following:

• Independently certified by the NSF® International product certification program to verify products meet nutrient label claims
• Certified Gluten Free by NSF®
• Non-GMO tested by an independent third-party lab using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for genetically modified DNA to a limit of 0.9%
• Batch tested by HFL for banned substances in accordance with HFL’s Informed Choice and Informed Sport programs

The initial CleanSeries line features five products and a total of seven SKU’s when factoring in flavors:

CleanSeries™ Sport Protein, CleanSeries™ Whey Protein Isolate, CleanSeries™ Soy Protein Isolate,  CleanSeries™ Pre-workout Activator, and CleanSeries™ Veggie Protein

Twinlab CleanSeries has engaged Joel Harper, celebrity fitness guru and Dr. Oz’s personal trainer, as its official spokesperson.

“My clients are constantly asking me for advice about nutrition and supplements,” says Harper,“They ask, ‘Do I need supplements if I eat healthy already?’ My answer is always ‘YES,’ because it is tough to consistently eat a well-balanced diet and you want to make sure you get enough protein and nutrition every single day. But until I was introduced to Twinlab’s CleanSeries products, I never had a great answer to the inevitable follow up question: ‘What supplement do you recommend?’ Now I do. With CleanSeries, athletes at any skill level – from elite-level training for competition, to the mom or dad working hard on the treadmill –can all truly improve their performance and see results faster with this amazing product line.”

My thoughts-You need to recover when working out.  You need to fuel your body.  Protein shakes help your body, before, during, and after workouts.  I liked the flavor.  I like that is is Non GMO and gluten free.  1 scoop is 110 calories.

This is the one I received to try:

CleanSeries™ Whey Protein Isolate: Premium cross flow, ultra filtered Whey Isolate.

· 23g protein per serving from premium cross flow ultra filtered Whey Protein Isolate

· Promotes muscle repair and helps reduce recovery time*

· No fat and only 2g sugar

Healthy Fat - Filippo Berio® Extra Virgin Olive Oil

***Disclosure-I am a BzzAgent.  I received this item complimentary to review.  All opinions are my honest opinions that are based on my personal experince.

Are you looking to stay healthy?  Did you know there are healthy fats?  I am trying to learn everything there is so I can make better choices.  Remember, lifestyle change!!

Fat and Olive Oil


Olive oil is widely known to be high in monounsaturated (good) fat. It contains zero trans (bad) fats and is lower in saturated (bad) fat than other commonly used ingredients such as shortening and butter. Simply put, olive oil is one of the best ways to add good fat to your diet and avoid bad fat

Fr more information:  http://filippoberio.com/yourhealth

Adding Filippo Berio® Extra Virgin Olive Oil to your daily routine is an easy way to maintain a healthy lifestyle without ever sacrificing taste. Whether you’re creating your own marinade, preparing a family favorite or cooking for a group of friends, it’s the perfect complement to any meal. This olive oil is crafted in the true Tuscan tradition and to the uncompromising standards of its founder, Filippo Berio.

Fitness Friday-bodykey by Nutrilite

Thank you to Nutrilite for sending me a bodykey 30 day Jumpstart kit to review.  I was not asked to post about this product nor did I receive any monetary compensation.  All opinions stated below are my own based on my personal experience with product.

Now that we have gotten that out of the way, let me tell you what has been going on with my fitness this month.  I am on a mission to get healthy this year not only for myself but for my family.  I want to be a healthy mommy and wife.  A mother instilling lifelong fitness in my children's life!

(I found this picture on pinterest and I love the story it tells.  http://pinterest.com/pin/192740059025021301/) 

So not only have I been working extra hard at this but I have been kicking butt too.  But how do you kick butt?  You need energy for that?  And I have been out of energy since I had my baby?  Well not only have I been eating right, getting extra sleep, and trying to have some me time but I started the bodykey 30 day Jumpstart kit. 

So Day 1 and Day 2 you take the Super Green Aloe shots.  Throughout the day for the next 30 days, you replace 1 meal a day with the meal replacement shake, it comes with raspberry hunger chews to help you control your overindulging in between meals, and diet supplement tables to enhance weight loss.

So I must admit, trying to be healthy can and will be hard but you have to be committed.  It starts with you.  So everyday I have to remind myself to take my pills 30 minutes before I eat.  One change I have noticed is I think my stomach is shrinking or my appetite is disappearing.  I do have to take the hunger chews because I have very long days.  Long days use to mean drive thru and get an unhealthy meal.  Now a days with the hunger chews, I feel so full I do not have a need to think about food.  And even if I try to eat, I feel so full I do not want to take another bite after the first.  (By the way the hunger chews taste like candy.)  I do replace 1 meal a day with a shake which is great for my on the go life.  I prepare it in my shaker bottle and just grab and go about my day.  This is my very first meal of the day since I never have time for breakfast.  (I use to skip breakfast because I would run out of the house trying to hurry and take the kids to daycare/school and me get to work on time.) 

The kit also included a genetic test which was really easy to use.  I swabbed and sent it in and have been waiting for my results.  The genetic test is suppose to tell you a recommendation based on your genes, your genetic makeup.  I was kinda scared to find out what the results would be.

These are my results.  But now what does that mean?  Where do I go from here?  Well I called their hot line and was able to get a phone consultation with a board certified genetic conselor to explain everything in detail to me.

Based on my results, I have been doing it all wrong.  I have been extremed dieting myself and getting no results.  I have been killing myself taking Zumba, Yoga, Cycling, Crossfit, Bootcamp, and etc... and have not lost any weight.  Something had to give.  No wonder every time I started diets, I would quit and give up.  It seemed like nothing worked.  Or it only worked for awhile and then it stopped working.

Each person is different and what works for me, may not work for you. 

Stay tuned next month for final results....

Fitness Friday-Apps and Virtual Races

Today I am going to tell you a couple of tips to keep you motivated and hopefully help you keep the fire burning.

First-Do you have an app to track your running, walking, exercising?  I use Nike Plus app.  It tracks my mileage, time, how I feel, where I run, and I can even add friends.  I have also used Endomondo and it works good too.  But there are so many to choose from, find one that works for you.

Another app I use is MyFitnessPal.  It is a great way to keep track of everything, a fitness diary per say.  You can track your food, exercise, and even your water.  You can also add friends on this app and motivate each other.

Second-Have you ever tried a virtual run?  A virtual run is held online but you do it wherever you want.  I recently did my 1st virtual run...

I found it online at www.mamavation.com  It was fun.  My son joined me and we ran a 5K in our neighborhood.

This week I am doing my 2nd virtual race...

I found this one at http://jillconyers.com.  You still have time to participate, it starts 03/15-03/22.  There you can find out more information about #13in2013.
There are many everywhere that are working hard at fitness just like you and me.  Let us help each other.  I will cheer you on every step of the way!!  YOU GO GIRL or Boy!!

***Disclosure-I am not a doctor, physician, nurse, trainer, or whatever, nor I claim to be.  Please consult your own doctor before starting any exercise plans or diets.  These and others are suggestions of things that work for me.  You may have different results.  Independentmami does not take any responsibility for actions you may take.  These are merely recommendations.