Fit Chick Wednesday: Eating Clean

A lot of people ask me how often I work out in order to keep my figure.  My answer is generally 3 to 5 times per week (seems like a lot but I sit at a desk all day).  However, I wholeheartedly believe that while working out is good much of my success as far as fitness is because of my diet.  I eat clean majority of the time and my meals are generally smaller.  So what is eating clean?

Okay, clean eating centers around consuming food that is as close to it's natural state as possible.  Not to be confused with a raw food diet, you can still cook your food but try not to add much.  Also steer clear of refined sugars and become label conscious.  Also, whenever possible try to buy organic items.  I generally eat 5 to 6 small meals per day (2 are generally snacks). It will take some research but eventually it will become easy.  Remember this is not a diet it is a lifestyle change.  Anytime that you're making such a drastic change it will be hard and you'll want to give up but don't it's worth the pain.  Also, remember that water is important.  I do not drink soda or many juices because that's too much sugar.

Don't know what to buy?  No problem I've found a shopping list for you.

thescienceofeating.com

Well there you have it.  Being healthy isn't just about exercise.  You have to fuel your body with the appropriate foods.  You will not see results overnight but you will see results, trust me.

Here's a list of other resources to help you get started.

http://www.thegraciouspantry.com/clean-eating-shopping-list-for-beginners/

http://www.simplyhealthymama.com/2013/06/clean-eating-101-what-and-why.html

http://www.skinnymom.com/2012/05/21/clean-eating-101-change-your-body-the-healthy-way/

Thanks for reading.  Now go out and get healthy.


Next Fit Chick Wednesday:  My Fitness Journey & Motivation

Amazing All-Natural Beauty Tips

Recently I've tried my best to stay away from products that contain too many chemicals and honestly it  has been the best thing that I've decided to do.  My skin is clearer, I have fewer breakouts, and I'm saving a lot of money.  So if you want to know the all natural beauty secrets that I swear by keep reading.

1.  Coconut Oil+Banana+Honey Hair Mask

This combination is the ultimate deep conditioner.  It's great for decreasing hair loss and soothing dry itchy scalp.  The honey acts as a humectant and helps retain moisture in the hair.  This hair mask consistently delivers.  Also, if you don't feel comfortable mixing your own conditioner try adding a little coconut oil to your normal conditioner, it makes a difference. 

2.  Tomato+Avocado Face Mask

I use this mask to treat acne (and the scars), brighten my skin, and remove the impurities. I place the ingredients in a blender and then blend until it's as smooth as it can possibly get.  I then was my face with my usual cleanser and warm water (always warm water to open my pores) and I apply the mask.  I leave it on for about 30-45 mins then rinse with cool water. I always finish up by moisturizing with coconut oil. 

3.  Rose Petals+Filtered Water+Witch Hazel+Glycerine Toner

I can not praise this mixture enough because not only does it act as a toner but it is effective as a setting spray as well.  Just boil the rose petals in the filtered water add about 8-10 drops of glycerin and then 8-10 drops of witch hazel.  Let it cool then place in a dark bottle.  This toner fights acne, wrinkles, and soothes irritated skin.  It is a real treat especially during the colder months.

4.  Apple Cider Vinegar+Water Drink

Sounds disgusting I know but if you can stomach the thought I promise it's not that bad. Apple Cider Vinegar has many antibiotic properties.  It can clear a stuffy nose, prevent indigestion, whiten teeth, soothe tummy ailments, and help with soar throats.  It even helps soothes menstrual cramping and did I mention studies have shown that it aids in weight loss.  So add a cap full into your next bottle of water, it can't hurt.

5.  Aloe Vera Water+Olive Oil Makeup Remover

Aloe Vera has been used for years for it's soothing qualities.  Aloe Vera water (found in most drug stores) is made up of 95% water so it's soothing and hydrating.  Adding oil to your face may seem daunting but no worries especially with olive oil because it resembles the skin natural oils production.  It won't clog your pores or cause any breakouts.  Just add about 1/2 a cup of olive oil to your aloe vera water then shake and voila you have a gentle but strong makeup remover.  This is a great remover for those with sensitive skin. 

There you have it folks my favorite all natural beauty tips.  Keep in mind that every single one of these ingredients can be used in a multitude of ways.  That's what makes them so cost efficient.  If I named every way that I use these ingredients I'd have to write a book.  By the way what are some of your favorite all natural beauty tips?