I'm trying these, are you?

a few things to keep in mind if you're starting, continuing or improving your healthy way of life:
In regards to healthy recipes...

Rule #1:  KEEP AN OPEN MIND.  Chances are it won't be perfect the first time and that's okay.  

Healthy eating is a journey!  Like losing weight or training for a race, it will require a little effort.  

*Your family must learn a new way of delicious eats and that will probably take some time.  

example: Don't think for a second that if your child loves 

Dr. Pepper and you hand them flavored water that they'll jump and down,  shouting with excitement because that PROBABLY won't happen...like for a long time!  Ha!

If the family approves of a new recipe right away, GREAT!

If not, time to change things up a bit which can be fun.  

Rule #2: Don't panic...
sometimes our families prefer things "our way" and we must learn that way through trial and error.  
Trust me, I've had a lot of errors but have found what tastes great and works for my family and you will too!  
Sometimes a recipe that sounds good can taste terrible, but the good news...

Rule #3: Healthy foods are delicious!  TRUST ME!

Here's a few healthy recipes that I'll be trying this week and I hope you will too!

1.  Biggest Loser Hannah's flavored water- 
Water 
cucumber 
lemon
lime 
fresh mint
More of her delicious recipes can be found on her Instagram, @bl11hannah 

2.  Creamy Chickpea Salad from TastyHealth- 
1 can garbanzo beans, drained
2/3 can tuna (in water)
tomato
cucumber
red pepper
lettuce
baby spinach
3-4 tbs greek yogurt
2-3 tsp dijon mustard
salt and pepper to taste
More of her delicious recipes can be found at @tastyhealth on Instagram

3.  kid-friendly breakfast on the go-
Cherry Berry Breakfast Smoothie
1/2 almond milk
1/2 cup plain greek yogurt
1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries or strawberries-or both, 1/2 cup fresh cherries-pitted, 2 dates and ice cubes!  Blend and enjoy!

4.  Zucchini Pancakes- 
3 cups shredded zucchini
1 tsp sea salt
2 large eggs-beaten
2/3 cup whole wheat flour
3/4 cup crumbled feta
1 tbs extra virgin olive oil
* Sprinkle zucchini with salt after shredded.  Drain as much liquid as possible off of the shredded zucchini.  Add eggs, flour, cheese, and mix well.  Heat oil in skillet to medium, scoop zucchini mixture from bowl and spread in round, pancake shape.  Cook until golden brown.  
My kids have tried this with broccoli but I bet zucchini will give a little different flavor and texture that kids are sure to love!

I can't wait to hear what recipes you try with your family this week!  Make sure to get those kids involved in cooking too!  They are more likely to try new, healthy foods if they take part in the cooking process.  They'll learn about healthy eating and be proud of their work!  

After you try your recipes, take a family hike or walk!  Get moving, TOGETHER :)

Another issue for some of us adapting to a healthy lifestyle:

BLOATING?

We've all been there right?  Well, here are some tips to reduce bloating for you and your family!

Tips to decrease bloating:

1. Increase your fiber.  If used correctly, fiber helps aid in digestion and keeps us regular.  Regularity keeps things moving along, decreasing the amount of gas buildup in our colon.

2.  Drink Up!  Water will help flush the body of excess sodium and fluids, which can also reduce constipation and bloating.  

3.  Y is for YOGURT.  Yogurt contains good bacteria for your gut.  It helps break down foods and keeps your body balanced.  

4.  WATERmelon!  Well, as its name implies, watermelon is loaded with H20, so eat up!  And watermelon nutrients help boost the immune system which is always a good thing.  

5.  Eat your veggies!  Spinach and Asparagus more specifically.  Spinach contains fiber and when cooked, will decrease bloating in most of us.  Asparagus is full of water, which will act as a diuretic and rid the body of excess fluids.  EAT UP!

Do you like to try new, healthy recipes with your family?

Do you suffer from bloating?  How do you prevent?