1. Leafy greens are loaded with minerals including potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron as well as dozens of trace minerals, are a robust source of living nutrients.
2. Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruit are superb sources of raw vitamin C and bioflavonoids.
3. Sunflower, sesame, and pumpkin seeds are tiny nutrient powerhouses that contain B vitamins, vitamin E, and key minerals, including phosphorus.
4. Avocados are a great source of potassium and vitamin E.
5. Coconut kefir contains probiotics, enzymes and a large amount of potassium per serving.
6. Carrots are a great source of carotenoids, including beta carotene; they’re also a surprisingly good source of calcium.
7. Raw yogurt, good source of calcium.
8. Celery is a first-rate source of electrolytes such as potassium and sodium, which is important for proper cardiovascular function.
9. Cultured vegetables contain vitamin C, probiotics, enzymes and vitamin U, which is an active form of sulfur.
10. Watermelon and cantaloupe are two fruits rich in beta carotene and potassium, and lycopene (watermelon only).

Jordan Rubin, The Raw Truth

Did you know that almonds, walnuts, pecans, cashews, macadamias and coconuts are know for their good fats? Nuts contain various antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

The nutrients in nuts can help your body to:
•    Lower blood pressure
•    Raise HDLs (good cholesterol) and lower LDLs (bad cholesterol)
•    Promote improved brain function
•    Reduce inflammation throughout the body
•    Improve moods, reduce depression and behavioral disorders
•    Help maintain healthy body weight

Enjoy some nuts, but remember, everything in moderation!

How THIN Do You **REALLY** Want To Get?  This question evoked a lot of interest with many questions.  However I noticed that a lot of you were very concerned about what you should eat and wanted to know which diet is best. I do not believe in diets because they don’t work. It is a vicious cycle that never ends. Think lifestyle change so you can accomplish your weight loss goals and maintain your weight loss.

Raw, Vegan, Gluten-Free are the top lifestyles that you wanted feedback on. I am high raw and I also eat clean vegan and clean gluten-free. What do I mean by “clean” vegan and gluten-free? It means no white sugar, brown sugar, white flour, or anything that is processed. This lifestyle works great for me and my weight is maintained at 125 and has been for years.

YOU must decide what works for you and what you will allow to go into your body. There are a lot of people that are raw and eat cooked vegan food. There is nothing wrong with eating cooked food if that is your choice. Listen to your body and it will tell you what it need.

I have been asked a lot of questions from people that watched Oprah’s Vegan show. I think it was great and I applaud Cargill for allowing the cameras in, but I didn’t see anything about grass-fed beef only grain-fed. If you choose to eat meat, I suggest only eating grass-fed and preferably organic.  Again, that is your choice and not mine. If you choose to remain a carnivore be aware of the food the animals ate and the way they were processed before and after their demise.

Their bacon and hot dogs are uncured, gluten free, casein free, dairy free, with no preservatives. Their hot dog product states that after opening the product it will keep for only 4 days, but you can freeze it up to 9 months. Their bacon products states that it will keep for only 5 days, but you can freeze it up to 12 months.

Do your due diligence. I am constantly in Whole Foods educating myself on various products and researching and you can do the same. Become your own advocate. DO YOUR DUE DILIGENCE!

Eating whole foods (no pun intended) and exercising is the perfect way to change your lifestyle and become a healthier YOU!