Little changes can make a big difference...

Today I thought I’d share some of my tips on little changes that can make a difference in your weight loss efforts/healthy eating lifestyle. Peanut Butter- is not the enemy! I remember people saying to me “should you be eating peanut butter?” The truth of the matter is, I had my greatest weight loss when I WAS eating peanut butter….almost every day. The key is, as with anything, portion control. The serving size listed on the jar of peanut butter is 2 tbsp. Well, I’m here to tell you that 2 tbsp of peanut butter doesn’t taste any better or different than 1 tbsp, so lose the extra fat & calories and go with 1 tbsp. If you slather it on your toast or english muffin as soon as it comes out of the toaster, the heat from the toast will make it melty and give you more “spreadage”. Peanut butter is one thing I will not give up or use a substitute for. I have used PB powder but just in recipes. Other than that I want the real deal! Baking- I substitute apple sauce for oil in recipes, measure for measure. This works especially well when making brownies. No one will ever know! I also use Splenda or Stevia in place of sugar. FF plain Greek yogurt is a great sub for sour cream. I’ve also started using sugar free cake and brownie mixes. Spices- Don’t be afraid to experiment! I never cook with salt nor do I salt my food. I use different spices to cook with. For example, onion powder, crushed red pepper, ground black pepper and oregano are great for pizza. I always use minced garlic, bay leaves and thyme in my soups. Mrs. Dash comes in many different flavors, my favorites are the garlic and herb & the extra spicy. I use Mrs. Dash in my scrambled eggs, sprinkled on salads and pizza, even in my spaghetti sauce. Spices add a lot of flavor to dishes, so try them, I guarantee you’ll like them. Mayo-I just gave it up cold turkey. I finally acquired a taste for Miracle whip…….it took a few tries but I love it now. Regular mayo is 3 points per tbsp - not worth it. Laughing Cow Cheese-isn’t just for crackers! I love this stuff. You get 8 wedges in a package. They come in a ton of different flavors- creamy Swiss and French onion are two of my favorites. Only 1 point per wedge. Soft and creamy, this makes a GREAT sandwich spread. My favorite sandwich to make is to take two slices of light bread, spread each with some cheese and a little mustard then add a slice or two of lean ham. Sometimes I will spray a small skillet with non-stick cooking spray and make it a grilled ham & cheese or if I’m feeling lazy I just toast it up in the toaster oven. Delicious! Quote of the Day: "My life tomorrow will be the result of my attitudes and the choices I make today." ~ Author Unknown