Carol brought up a good point about the added sugar in orange juice, and can’t we just eat the orange? Of course we could eat the orange, but many don’t take (or more accurately make) the time in the morning to cut/peel, etc. During the winter months, Mitch always makes fresh squeezed orange and grapefruit juice. That solves the problem of added sugar, while still getting the fiber. Remember that this particular study was done on obese women, as they are transitioning their bodies. So thanks, Carol, for pointing that out. Yes, I agree that a whole fruit is always going to be a better choice than the store bought doctored up juice.
Speaking of drinking choices…happy 4th of July weekend. It’s a long one and for most of us it’s gonna be a hot one, too. Remember to drink plenty of hydrating water. Even more than usual if you are indulging in libations, as well. If you are counting calories (at least for part of the weekend!) you can opt for Skinny Girl Margaritas (available bottled in the liquor store) which have only 100 calories in a serving. We bought a bottle (thanks, Shelli) to try at a recent appetizer party, but we had to doctor it up to taste really great, so not sure it’s worth it.
I always opt for vodka on the rocks. Low in calories, with no added sweeteners, but any liquor on the rocks is a better calorie choice than one mixed with juice or soda, or even worse a mix. Bloody Mary’s have a lot of salt, but NOT a lot of calories. They are also one of the healthiest drinks you can consume, especially if you eat your celery!
Whatever you eat and drink this weekend, give some thought ahead of time. If you are counting calories, make sure to count your drinks, alcoholic and otherwise. Eat lots of veggies so you don’t drink on an empty stomach, but you don’t overload on food calories.
In this recession we have learned a lot about budgeting. Budget your calories and you’ll be just fine come Tuesday morning. A good workout or two wouldn’t hurt, either. Wink. Wink. Jane, my legs still hurt from sprinting and walking lunges done outdoors on Thursday. And we thought we were just playing. Happy weekend everyone. Be safe and have lots of fun and above all else, please don’t drink and drive!
