So, it's that time again! Summer has ended and teachers return back tomorrow! With a new school year right around the corner, I've created some goals for myself. These goals are health oriented and I hope they can help you set some goals, too!
Last year was a train wreck for me health wise as most school years seem to be for teachers.
During the summer, we (may) eat healthier than we would during the school year. Why is that?
CUPCAKES. COOKIES. CANDY. TREATS. BAGLES. DONUTS. COFFEE. COFFEE. AND MORE COFFEE!!!!!! (Did I mention Coffee!?!!)
I've decided that in order for myself to remain "on-track" with my healthy eating lifestyle that I've created for myself this summer, I must create an easy go-to meal that I can bring to school for breakfast and lunch. I would most often pack my lunch last year so my downfall was the coffee and the bagel. Sounds silly right? But seriously -- the INSANE amount of sugar in coffee and the carbs EVERY morning!? Please! No thank you. Plus, I was hungry about an hour or so later because all I ate was a bagel and coffee! No, no, no more!
For the past month, I've started drinking green smoothies. You might think "OK, that isn't happening." But, unless you make one yourself at home and try it... don't eliminate it just yet.
1. It is a FAST breakfast (5-10 minutes) that you can clean up before you leave, take it with you, enjoy in the car and even at work.
2. You can make double so that you have one for breakfast and one for lunch if you wanted. (It lasts for hours in the fridge!!)
3. It is HEALTHY for you and (not kidding) gives you energy like you wouldn't believe!
4. It keeps you FULL for hours! (Hours??....Um, yes, HOURS!!!)
5. It is super yummy! <3
If you're interested in what I do to enjoy my smoothies every single day of the week -- read on!
Have you ever had "Island Green" from Tropical Smoothie? This is exactly like it, but with no added sugar. You will need:
FROZEN:
Mango *high in sugar, don't use a lot!*
Pineapple *I usually use maybe 4 small pieces*
Banana *1 banana*
Spinach *Large Handful*
Kale *2-3 stems, leaves only.*
Lowfat / 0% Fat GREEK Yogurt Vanilla or Plain (adds creaminess and protein) *1 table spoon*
Water *Fill to the first line*
Optional:
Chia Seeds for additional protein, healthy fats and a more "full" feeling for longer periods of time. *1 table spoon*
Blueberries (TS doesn't use blueberries in the Island Green, but I usually take out the mango and put in the blueberries.) *10 or so*
Ice *1 handfull of bagged ice*
Blending:
Fill the blender with water (usually to the first line), a BIG hand full of spinach, 2 to 3 stems of Kale (leaves only, not the stem).
Blend it!
As it blends, add in your frozen fruits (not too much at a time or it will get stuck).
Once the fruit chunks have been blended, add in about a table spoon of greek yogurt.
After that blends together, serve it.
Usually while it blends, I put all of my ingredients away and after I serve it, I quickly wash out the blender and I'm on my way!
As you can see in the image, I pre-bag my fruit after cutting and stick it in the freezer. This allows me to easily grab it when I'm ready for breakfast or a quick meal! <3
This year, I plan on having one for breakfast and I am hoping to make double and bring one for lunch. Of course, I will have healthy veggies as snacks in my lunch box for when cravings hit! I am trying to stay away from coffee and bagels this year...! Here's to our health! <3 Enjoy!