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Dessert Gluten Free Recipes

7 Reasons I Switched to Matcha Tea

 

Why did I switch from Coffee to Matcha Green Tea?

The last round of Bibles and Bootcamps had a different impact than it has in the past.  Unbeknownst to me while doing the daily devotions, meditations, and reflection during my last round of Bibles and Bootcamps, while my Beauties were overcoming their dependencies. I too ended my relationship with Coffee.

Some of you may have gasped if you know me well and know that before I shut off the Black Coffee tap cancer-fighting, I was up to a MINIMUM of 44 oz of black, bold brew coffee a day.  It had little to know the effect on me other than making my breath smell and keeping me dehydrated. There are lots of significant benefits for coffee, but for me, it wasn’t working.

I also ended my nasty gum chewing habit since quitting coffee. Recently, I have been trying different things to get me over that 2:30p hump. Which also becomes my snack time frenzy when I am tired.  I think we all do.

Late to the party

Now I know the Matcha Tea trend is old and yes, I am just jumping on board. I am just not a trendy type of girl I am either ahead of the trend or behind but never on trend.

Although, I am late to the party there have been a few teas that have caught my useful interest energy.

I Needed a Natural Energy

We all can use more energy in this world that we live in and although I eat well and exercise often.  I even try to get sleep enough sleep, but I wake up at 4:30 a.m every morning (sometimes whether I want to or not). Usually, I am in bed no later than 10 p.m.

Yes, I live off of six hours of sleep, and I start to feel it around 2:30p.  Some days I do nap but others I am chauffeuring diva’s or just living life, and a nap is not an option. Those are the days that I am looking for that extra energy boost I need.

When I stopped coffee, I was looking for another natural source that had other health benefits.  I have heard of Matcha, but it wasn’t until I tried Ujido Matcha Green Tea Powder that I was hooked.

Pre-Workout Fuel

Especially with their travel on the go pouches.  I had one pre-workout, and I now use it in my “Pre-workout” drink that gives me the extra natural energy without the crash or itchy face feeling.

Other than just sipping on Matcha Tea itself it bakes so well and can be added to a lot of different things for a nice energy boost.  Other than taste and preference there are some significant health benefits for Matcha Green Tea Powder.

7 Health Benefits of Matcha Green Tea Powder

7. The Highest Antioxidants.

Studies have shown that Matcha Tea is one of the highest sources of antioxidants.  Antioxidants are this antioxidant buzzword among health-conscious people and food advertisers.  Antioxidants are nutrients and enzymes that help our body rid our selves of toxins that have adverse effects on our health.

Matcha happens to contain at least five times more antioxidants than foods like acai berries, dark chocolate, wild blueberries, pomegranate, goji berries, and broccoli.  Which are all popular natural sources of antioxidants?  It also has the highest rated Oxygen Radical Absorption capacity or ORAC than any other food currently known.

Some of the antioxidants that Matcha is overabundant in catechins (actually over 137 times more than other types of green tea) and EGCg which is well known for helping to fight cancer.

Out of all the antioxidants, EGCg is the most widely recognized for its cancer-fighting properties. “Scientists have found that Matcha Green Tea contains over 100 times more EGCg than any other tea on the market.”

6. Incredible Source of EGCGs Polyphenols.

I have written about the benefits of Polyphenols before and keeping this antioxidant in your diet can be very beneficial. I have never written specifically about the polyphenols known as EGCGs. EGCG is epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) which is a type of catechin (a group of flavonols that are high in antioxidants and plant based) that has been shown to have potent anti-cancer properties.

Matcha has been tested in the fight of several different cancers and has some positive effects.  Cancers like prostate, skin, lung, and liver cancer have proved conclusively with EGCG consumed against these cancers.

It needs to be noted that these studies were done in test tubes and did not necessarily translate to humans but there is high probability it can be an adequate defense.

5. It’s high in Chlorophyll.

Its beautiful bright green color is from its high Chlorophyll content. Matcha Green tea has lots of Chlorophyll which is beneficial in helping fight cancer among another chronic disease.

Chlorophyll is also known to improve liver detoxification, reduce the time of wound healing, increases digestion and improves weight control, and it is also great to help protect skin health. Chlorophyll is known as the superfood because of these health benefits it possesses.

4.  The ultimate superfood.

Superfoods are mostly plant-based except for some fish and dairy.  They are classified as Superfood because of the high nutrient content that these food contain.

Consuming these foods are great to optimize health.  Matcha Green Tea Powder is the ultimate of Superfoods because of the extremely high antioxidants it provides.  IF you are trying to add more superfoods to your diet, Ujido Matcha Green Tea Powder is the best quality on the market.

3. Easy to make and take.

I love the On-the-Go Matcha Pouches because they are premixed with Monk Fruit Sweetener, and it just tastes good. I don’t need to worry about mixing it myself like with the green powder I use to bake. We all love the convenience, but even without convenience packets, Matcha Tea is straightforward to make. Just add cold or hot water and mix.  That’s it very simple, and no steeping required.

2. Helps with Liver health

The liver is considered a vital organ with good reason.  It is essential in helping your body rid itself of toxins, process drugs, and process nutrients. It has proven to help diabetics, individuals with fatty liver, and liver disease.

There have been studies done that have concluded that Matcha can be helpful in protecting your liver. A study finding in rats found that it also can be useful in protecting diabetic patients kidneys and livers.

Matcha could be helpful to everyone and their liver health. There is still more studies need and conducted on humans and not just animals.  But there is strong evidence that consuming Matcha Green Tea Powder can have a positive effect on your liver health.

1. Improves heart health.

Studies reveal that green tea is helpful to reduce some heart disease risk factors.  Green teas have helped lower LDL cholesterol in people who consumed green tea on a consistent basis.  Green tea prevents oxidation of LDL cholesterol which is a risk factor.

It was observed that those who drank green tea along with a balanced diet and regular exercise reduced their risk of heart disease

Adding a little Matcha to your life can be beneficial to your over all health.  There are so many different ways to use Matcha!  The other day I made these easy Matcha Crack Bars.  They were adapted by Big Man’s World Lemon Crack Bar recipe and turned out delicious. Give them a try and let me know what you think!

[amd-yrecipe-recipe:47]

This post was written in partnership with Ujido Matcha Green Tea. Although, I am making a commission from affiliate links my thoughts and opinions are my own. My Full Disclosure Policy

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Fitness Product Review

Bounce and Bubbles

Bounce Fitt with Sweat Pink NJ

April has been such a busy month! Every weekend has been something exciting and new.  Last weekend, I got to introduce and reintroduce a fun new workout to our Sweat Pink New Jersey Chapter sisters!  Have you tried the new Bounce Fitt with Jessica! If you’re not local, you have probably seen or heard of the Bounce rebounding boots jump workout.   Think a fun hip hop class on floats because that’s how it feels to Bounce!  Bounce is a rebounding boot. Rebounding is the workout that we experienced.

It is said to, “reduces your body fat; firms your arms, legs, thighs, abdomen, and hips; increases your agility; strengthens your muscles overall; provides an aerobic effect for your heart; rejuvenates your body when it’s tired, and generally puts you in a state of health and fitness.”There are over 33 benefits linked to rebounding exercise.

The first questions that I always get is is bad for your knees.  It is said one of the benefits are “it provides an increased gravitational load and strengthens your musculoskeletal systems. It also is claimed to protect your joints from the chronic fatigue of exercising on hard surfaces.”  I did feel like I was floating, but the next day my right knee hurt.  I am sure it was from overcompensating for my left ankle, but I was able to jump while still healing.

 

Getting together at Retro Fitness Moorestown

We all gathered at Retro Fitness Moorestown who hosted Bounce Fitt Instructor Jessica Carabello and her crew!  We had so much fun dancing in bounce boots.  This workout was a very intense leg workout that had me crying out, “Oh Lord! My legs!” every set. My legs were on fire. Initially, I thought it was going to be hard on my ankle, although I pretty much feel every step on my left foot it wasn’t painful to Bounce in the boots.

Bounce Fitt with the Sweat Pink NJ SPAs

This group of ladies liked to move which made it so much fun.  The energy of the instructors was amazing they had us turning it up and had onlookers peeking in.  In between sets the Sweat Pink NJ SPA’s had an opportunity to try fizzique.  Everyone grabbed a can after a taste test!  I have been using fizzique in replace of protein shakes and as an energy boost for my long days.  I love the bubbles that’s my initial draw and then it’s boosted with protein which is a win for me too!  Protein is a great way to curb cravings and fuel my pre, during and post workouts.

Sipping on fizzique

fizzique is the only refreshing sparkling protein water on the market there is no other protein drink that has the fizz.  fizzique has a multi-patented technology that infuses protein they call it Protein Fizzology™. This unique fizzy protein water is not to be confused with a meal replacement it curbs cravings it does not replace a meal with just 20g of whey protein but it is very helpful to give you a boost of energy and satisfy cravings with its high protein content instead of the high carb snack that you really want to grab for that 2:30 snack.  It also does not smell, taste or give me the same reaction that other whey protein gives me. It does give me an energy boost like a cup of coffee would but without the crash.

Ways to Curb Your Craving!

My favorite flavor is Tropical Limon it also comes in Strawberry Watermelon.  Eddie B loves both, but he prefers the Tropical Limon- “if I have to choose.”  I have been packing these when I train at the gym.  Sometimes when you’re training client back after back, you have no time to stop and eat.

fizzique has been nice to have on the go with me and sip on in between clients and hold me over until I can sit and eat.  I used to chug protein shakes, but I love how fizzique is light and refreshing instead of heavy on my stomach.  I also don’t have to deal with the mess of protein powder because no matter what I do I manage to spill powder everywhere (even with a portable funnel). Pop the top and sip it’s a no mess and no fuss all the protein at 20g of protein Zero net carbs and only 80 calories.

You can get yours at fizzique, and if you use coupon code DEFIZZIQUE you can get 10% off your first case now through 7/31/2008!  Everyone who has tried it likes and I am sure you will too? What do you do to curb your cravings?

 

 

This post was written in partnership with Drink Fizzique and Fit Approach “Curb your Cravings” Campaign. Although, I am being compensated my thoughts and opinions are my own. My Full Disclosure Policy

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christian mom christianity Faith & Self Care Faith Journey faithfueled friday

I just want to “Say Thanks”

Declaring Gratitude

I declared my word for 2018 as gratitude, and I knew that it would be  challenged the moment I pressed “share.”

Here I am again reflecting. Ever since December, I’m not going to lie this girl’s mental strength has been on a 4 or 5 out of 10.  Anxiety has crept its way back into my life, and it’s only because I’ve been allowing myself to rely on myself. Old habits die hard, and I am five months into my recovery from my ankle injury. I am at another commonplace in my faith journey and through the seasons.

Bad Habits Die Hard

Yep, I have been running on my own but unlike in the past. I KNOW better and know that relying on my own strength, know-how and provision will last for a moment. God has shown me some amazing things in my life when I give them to Him!

I also have too much going on; Way too much and when your “still” (whether intended or forced by an ankle injury) like in my case. It becomes pleasantly clear.

To say God hadn’t warned me would also be a lie. I knew what I was doing it as I am very capable of saying, “No.”  When God would say “slow down.” I’d say, “okay, just after this one thing.”

When God said, “Ask me?” I’d say, “Sure but let me see if this works first” and here I am ending the first quarter of 2018. Spent, warn, lost and like the knucklehead I can be; finally listening.

Different Reaction

This time it’s different. I am no longer like; “Why me?” I have yet to say that but before that would have been my first go-to. Although, I fell back into old habits. One thing that has changed is my strength in the Lord. I am lost, but I am lost in the right direction. I know the burden is too great so I know I must give it to God. Even though I was disobedient, God did not turn His back on me but persistently reminded me to lean on Him.  I also am now fully aware and have experienced an unconditionally loving Father who will never leave nor forsake me. I can turn to Him anytime and seek His grace, mercy, love and guidance. I will continue to grow. God will continue to prune me.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deut 31:6

Why am I confessing?

I felt really led to share because I am not a perfect Christian. I am one of those who knows that my sinful nature will always take over my second nature to be obedient to God.

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV

That I too struggle with my faith walk. I think its great to see the highlight reel of life. To see how good it could be but let’s not forget and live in reality. We all struggle that’s why we need God, and we are also supposed to hold each other accountable.

“Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:1-2 NASB

You can’t hold someone accountable if they don’t tell you.  It’s also an opportunity to help someone else grow or relate. The facade of perfection has to stop. Because what are we genuinely seeking? Unless it’s to be more like Jesus, it is all in vain.

Plank Challenge?

So, I am giving all the things to Jesus second quarter and seeing where that takes me. I am going to give it my best try. I’ve done it in the past and it He has always surpassed my expectations or anything that I could have done on my own.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matt 11:28

Working on a Grateful Mindset

I am also doing a Challenge in April! I am beginning Easter Sunday and through the entire month of April!

Each day I will be planking for 60 seconds and saying “Thank you, God!” For the little and the big things.  Each day while planking I will be reciting or meditating Scripture!  

I want to invite you to join me? There is nothing to gain but a grateful perspective.

We did a plank “talk” challenge in Bibles and Bootcamps. Most of the women chose to meditate and recite their favorite scripture.  All were shocked at how much longer they held the plank with scripture. We call them “Power Verse” in #BaB.

One day I was thinking how amazing it would be to see women expressing gratitude to God; then planking came to mind-not because it rhymes with Thanks.  I just thought of my Beauties and how powerful it would be to see people praising God and thanking Him while planking.

Will you join me?

Join my event on Facebook and hopefully join a month of Praise and Thanks as we end our first quarter! Even if you do it privately on your own, I have some verses for you to use in your meditation.  If you do want to join me merely post on whatever Social Media platform you like (I will be on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter) and use and follow the hashtag #TYGod

Can you be grateful even with a little bit?

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Fitness

Fitness Fest is Coming-You Going?

Excited for 2018 Fitness Fest at the FitExpo Philadelphia

It finally springs ya’ll, no really it is, and I cannot wait.  I thrive in warmer weather although, I don’t complain about the cold. I kind of like every season for one reason or another and I am glad the seasons are short-lived throughout our year. So, I am ready for longer days, warmer weather and digging in the dirt with my garden.

I also am filling my calendar because the cold weather I tend to hibernate. in the spring and summer it’s gone time and I already have some fun things in mind this year. Last year, my spring was all about prepping and because of my ankle injury and also my pockets. I am not competing this summer as I planned.

Since I have been literally had been off my feet for 12 weeks, I am looking for fun events to get moving.  I cannot think of anything that fits my need to get out, try new things and hang with people who like to honor their temple than FitnessFest at the Fit Expo Philadelphia.

What is the Fitness Fest Expo?

Fitness Fest at the FitExpo is an expo that goes all over the country introducing fitness workouts, equipment and educating personal trainers, group fitness leaders, aquatic instructors, mind/body practitioners and healthcare professionals.  This jam-packed weekend allows professionals in the field to earn continuing education credits in a single weekend with some of the top presenters in the industry!

If you’re not a fitness professional, but you are a fitness enthusiasts you are more than welcomed to attend the conferences. There are going to be some incredible workshops you can shop at the expo and check out the latest in fitness equipment and trends. Also, come and participate in the FitnessFest Obstacle Course.  It’s going to be a really fun weekend, April 27-28 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Hourly there is something fun, and I can’t wait to check out some of my favorite workouts! Like B.R.Y.C.K.E.D is a can’t miss! I am (kind of) a Tru Adams groupie and wherever I see B.R.Y.C.K.E.D offered I’m there!

What will you get out of Fitness Fest this year?

It’s also an excellent opportunity to meet another professional in your field or similar.  You also know at expo’s there are lots of vendors. When it comes to fitness sometimes, you need to touch and feel to see if it’s worth it.  I know that I would never have made some of my fitness purchase like footwear or clothes.  I am eager to see what some vendors like 360 degrees have in footwear or Strong Board balance among so many other types of equipment and workouts. You know the things you see on Social media and want to see in real life first? Expo’s are great for that too.

How can you join me?

This year is a great lineup you can see the details on Fitness Fest Site. I already told you about my girl Tru who will be there but did you see that also  I would love for you to join me as I explore the Pennsylvania Convention Center April 28-29th and get my sweat, shop, and fun on at FitnessFest Expo Philadelphia. If you don’t get B.R.Y.C.K.E.D. up with me, then I will probably see you by the Bodybuilding.com table which is one of the sponsors of the event. Wherever it may be, I hope to see you there on April 28th or 29th.

For all of my followers, FitnessFest at The FitExpo Philadelphia has given me a discount code for $30 off your tick just enter “FAITHFUELED” in the promo code to receive your discount. Let me know your coming so we can meetup!  Can’t wait I hope to see you there!

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Dinner Mealtime Monday Product Review Product Reviews

Plate Joy makes Meal Planning Simple

Plate Joy is Making Meal Planning Simple for me

Here it is again, Sunday! Time to meal plan and nowadays I just use Plate Joy to make it simple for me. Busy schedules, short weekends and lack of time. Plate Joy has made meal planning so simple and tasty for my family.

Why did I start using Plate joy?

In the last year, I have transitioned from being a stay at home mom of twelve years to a working mom and entrepreneur.  Despite my efforts, life got pretty crazy for a while, and I found myself overwhelmed and over anxious.

A lot had to give, so I did just that.

I went from working at three gyms to only one. I have also been more discerning in where I go and the people I spend my time and how I spend my time.

I needed to simplify my busy life

I was also injured earlier this year and while off my feet it gave me plenty of time to stop think, reflect and rearrange some things.  I sometimes feel that my day is filled with lots to do, but nothing ever gets done.  I had to take some advice that a business coach gave me a few years ago.  First, she said to focus on one thing, master that and then move on.  Second, if you don’t like to do it and it is killing your time-outsource it.

Outsourcing my chores

It’s funny how an outsider can give you such a perspective, but she was right. I didn’t have to do all the things and with modern technology, apps and three able-bodied children.  Her words of wisdom gave me a great idea.  I am going to stop doing the stuff I hate and start outsourcing it.

We have been working on chores in our household, and my girls are 14, 10 and four years old.  I am not doing them or me any favors by being their housekeeper.  Lately, the Bolton diva’s have been contributing more to the house.

One thing that my oldest daughter is pretty good at is meal planning which is something I hate. I am so indecisive and it just a lot of pressure so I usually ask her to help.  She is also great at organizing and grocery shopping.  She took over for a while, but we got tired of eating the same thing.

New Meals and Meal Plans

When I got asked to try the app Plate Joy, it was just what my family needed.  Personally am tired of cooking the same thing, and my oldest has worked to be as creative as possible so having an app for that has been a God sent.

Plate joy is an app that is available for Android and iPhones.  I have been praising it’s amazingness to all of my Mommy friends and some clients.  So many things not sure where to start.

First, you enter each one: size and age.  You can specify any diet restrictions, things your family will not eat and pretty much customize the meal plan to exactly your needs. When creating your meal plan, Plate joy uses this information to make some fantastic seven days, cost friendly and reduced food waste meals.

Next, you tell Plate Joy what is already in your cabinet.  That way when creating your shopping list it will avoid or indicate the amount you need for the recipes. You can print it, use it off of your phone.  The recipes are printable too if you find one you love or want to share.

Then, the best part with all of your specifications, family size, portion control and budget in mind; Plate Joy creates a menu for the week. You can even have all of your groceries delivered or go shopping yourself with your list in hand.

The menu items sound so fancy, but it’s all food that my lil divas will eat.  I was beyond impressed with the menu.  Most of the meals were easily made under 40 minutes, and except for one chickpea salad my family loved and ate every meal.

Not only did they taste every meal but Plate Joy took into account Leftovers and even added that to the meal plan to reduce/eliminate food waste.

Plate Joy for my clients and others

The meals are nutritionally appropriate and by being able to customize it works perfectly for my personal training clients who have certain goals in mind.  I also instead refer them to the app than to help them get some creative, healthy, easy meal ideas.

Plate Joy also has a fantastic new program that recently came out, as highlighted on CNN for taking this nutrition program a step further and helping with disease prevention caused by obesity.  I have recommended it to some of my diabetic patients.

Over 20 million people can now qualify for this program which is 16-week disease risk prevention and reduction program.  If you are eligible, you will receive a free connected scale, a free Fitbit, virtual coaching, video lessons, and the PlateJoy meal planner all compensated by your health insurance. If you want to apply or know someone who could benefit from this program, please apply here to learn more.  

This is an excellent opportunity for someone to take back their health or like my family already making strides towards a healthy lifestyle but can use a little help.  I have been using Plate Joy for a month, and it has given me a little sanity, saved my pockets and given my family some new favorite meals.  I would like to share the wealth and offer you $20 off your own freedom from meal planning.  Got to Plate Joy and Use PROMO CODE: “FAITH10” to try it out yourself receive $10 off and let me know what you think?

Is meal planning a chore you would like to outsource?

This is a sponsored post. I received this product in exchange for a review from Plate Joy there are also affiliate links that I make a commission.  I’d tell you if I didn’t like it and why. My Full Disclosure Policy

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