Today, a doctor at the wellness center that I work out of asked me to evaluate a package of the Skinny Cow Low-Fat Ice Cream Sandwich.
The front of the package sounds good:
97% Fat Free
140 Calories Per Serving
3 Grams of Fiber
0 Grams of Trans Fat
4 Fl Oz
Okay, let’s stop right here.
When I first read this I immediately had a few red flags come up.
First off, whenever you see a product, especially ice cream or pastries, that say low fat or 97% fat free, there is almost always a ton of chemicals, sugars, and hidden fats added.
However, the proof is in the pudding…
So, let’s turn over the package and look at the nutrition facts and ingredients list.
Nutrition Facts:
Total Fat: 1.5 grams
Total Carb: 30g
Protein: 4g
Total: 35.5 grams
To the average “weight loss victim” this sounds good.
But let’s examine this a little further.
The front of the package states that the ice cream sandwich is 4 ounces.
4 ounces = 112 grams
112 grams - 35.5 grams = 76.5
Okay, here’s the deal:
The nutrition facts section gives nutrition information for only 35.5 grams of food, but the ice cream sandwich actually contains 112 grams of food.
What happened to the other 76.5 grams of food that are not accounted for?
You guessed it… hidden fats, hidden sugars, and chemical preservatives!
Don’t believe me? Read on to discover the TRUTH.
Note: I’ll let you in on a little secret. I never look at the Nutrition Facts section of packaged foods. The only thing I look at is the list of ingredients.
Why? There are too many FDA loopholes that allow food manufacturers to lie on the Nutrition Facts section of a food label. However, food manufacturers are required to list all of a foods ingredients in its Ingredient List.
Watch the following video to get an explanation of what these ingredients actually are and what they mean to your diet and weight loss goals:
After reading this post and watching this video, it is easy to see that this product and products like it do nothing more than sabotage your weight loss and fitness goals.
This is deceptive marketing at its finest.
Poor unsuspecting dieters eat this stuff on a daily basis thinking that they are eating a “healthy” ice cream.
One of the things that really gets me is the fact that some of the biggest fitness and weight loss “gurus” recommend and approve Skinny Cow ice cream as a healthy alternative to regular ice cream.
In conclusion, Skinny Cow ice cream is extremely harmful to you. It will sabotage your weight loss and diet goals.
Avoid Skinny Cow ice cream like the plague.
Let me know what your thoughts are on this subject.
I’d love to hear what you have to say.
Committed to your success,
Alexander Morentin, C.E.S.
Whole Foods Evangelist
My Fit Life
In a recent post titled Cafe Femenino, I mentioned the importance of purchaisng coffee that is Fair Trade and organic.
As promised, this post discusses why this is true and how you can make a difference in the world… one cup at a time.
The following excerpt was taken from the book, Better Living With Whole Foods:
There are a couple of things to look for when selecting coffee, tea, or yerba mate:
• Shade Grown
• Organic
• Fair trade
Coffee is grown in tropical climates; most of it is grown on small farms. Historically, these small coffee farmers have been treated unfairly:
Shade Grown: Coffee farmers have been forced to cut back the trees on their farms in order to increase their yields. These trees are more commonly called rain forest. As you probably know, the destruction of rain forest is a hot topic today.
In other words, shade grown coffee helps preserve tropical rainforests, which in turn helps to protect our delicate ecosystem and reduce global warming.
Organic: What you may not know is the fact that coffee grown in direct sunlight requires large amounts of pesticides. As you know, pesticides and herbicides are harmful to you. Also, since countries outside of the United States are not regulated by the FDA, they will typically use a larger amount of pesticides. These high levels of pesticides soak into the coffee beans which in turn get transferred into your body.
Fair Trade: Here’s the problem: 70% of the coffee grown in the world is produced by small rural farmers. Their farms are typically five acres or less. Rural farmers in other parts of the world do not realize the dramatic effect commercially grown coffee, tea, and cacao has on consumers and the environment. Many of these farmers and their workers have been kept in poverty by large corporations. Fair Trade certification was established in order to stop the exploitation of these farmers, workers, and the environment.
Fair Trade is much more than a fair price! Fair Trade principles include:
• Fair price: Democratically organized farmer groups receive a guaranteed minimum floor price and an additional premium for certified organic products. Farmer organizations are also eligible for pre-harvest credit.
• Fair labor conditions: Workers on Fair Trade farms enjoy freedom of association, safe working conditions, and living wages. Forced child labor is strictly prohibited.
• Direct trade: With Fair Trade, importers purchase from Fair Trade producer groups as directly as possible, eliminating unnecessary middlemen and empowering farmers to develop the business capacity necessary to compete in the global marketplace.
• Democratic and transparent organizations: Fair Trade farmers and farm workers decide democratically how to invest Fair Trade revenues.
• Community development: Fair Trade farmers and farm workers invest Fair Trade premiums in social and business development projects like scholarship programs, quality improvement trainings, and organic certification.
• Environmental sustainability: Harmful agrichemicals and GMO’s are strictly prohibited in favor of environmentally sustainable farming methods that protect farmers’ health and preserve valuable ecosystems for future generations.
Fair Trade Certification has been available since 1999, but it’s just now beginning to gain public awareness. I consider it a moral obligation to support the Fair Trade initiative. Fair Trade Certification offers a simple way for conscious consumers to know that their products were produced in a socially, environmentally, and economically responsible manner.
With Fair Trade you can make a difference. Look for the Fair Trade Certified label the next time you buy coffee, tea, or cacao.
Hi,
This is the first in a series of readings and discussions from the book, Better Living With Whole Foods.
Let me know if there is anything that I can do to make these readings more enjoyable for you. I am doing these readings for your benefit. I welcome your thoughts and opinions on how I can make your experience with these videos or with this blog a more enjoyable one.
As usual, I stopped by the live display in the back of the store and poured myself a free sample of the coffee of the day.
It was so good that I decided I would have to buy some. So, I headed for the coffee section…
For those of you that aren’t aware; Trader Joe’s has a nice variety of quality coffees.
The coffee of the day was not only delicious, but it was also Fair trade and organic. These are two very important qualities that I look for when purchasing coffee and tea.
This coffee had all of the attributes that I look for in coffee, but there was one more endearing quality that has caused me to write a blog post about it…
The mission of the Cafe Femenino Foundation is to enhance the lives of women and children in coffee producing communities throughout the world.
Why Is This Important To Me?
The main focus of my business is to enhance the lives of women and their families through education and empowerment.
I drink coffee everyday. If I can make a difference in the lives of women and children through the simple act of buying a particular brand of coffee… you better believe I will do it.
This is similar to supporting local farmers by purchasing produce at Farmer’s Markets.
The Story of the Cafe Femenino Foundation The story began with 464 women in Northern Peru in 2004. At the first gathering of Women Coffee Producers a new ” idea separating their coffee from the rest of the production” was proposed. This concept was conceived through the combined efforts of PROASSA, CICAP, CECANOR, and the women themselves searching for ideas that would improve the conditions of their lives.
These women represent new century pioneers. Theirs is the story of women not just in the rural communities in Peru, but of women throughout developing nations. Many of these women have no rights, have been abandoned and are abused. Many are alone with children and no income. Even with little or no self esteem left, they continue to hold out hope for a better life. Read More…
This story is about hope, but the story must be shared. The Café Femenino Foundation supports this circle of hope. The women produce the coffee. Their consumers donate to the Foundation. The Foundation completes the circle by providing grants to worthy projects and programs that enhance the lives of all members of the coffee producing community.
We hope you share the story and the coffee, and become a part of an endeavor that can change the lives and future of women and families throughout developing nations. Cafe Femenino Foundation, Post Office Box 2187, Vancouver, WA 98668.
What Is Fair Trade Coffee?
You are a probably asking yourself: What is Fair Trade coffee and why is it important to me?
This is a question that cannot be answered in one sentence or one paragraph. For this reason, I have decided to write a separate post regarding Fair Trade coffee and tea and why they are important to you and I.
Let me know what your thoughts are regarding this subject.
I’d love to hear what you have to say.
Committed to your success,
Alexander Morentin, C.E.S.
Whole Foods Evangelist
My Fit Life
While 4th of July cookouts are a great opportunity to relax and visit with friends and family did you know that the average barbecue meal exceeds 1500 calories? That’s almost an entire day’s worth of calories in one meal.
That can really added unwanted inches to your waist line.
The good news is that the Fourth of July doesn’t have to be fattening. In fact, with a few small changes to your barbecue menu you can turn your Independence Day into the perfect opportunity for health.
So before you slather on the sun screen and fire up your grill, read the following tips to have a happy healthy 4th of July:
1. Use leaner cuts of meat, ground turkey or wild Pacific salmon.
2. Cut the bread. Lettuce wrap your burgers instead.
3. Grill vegetables or vegetable kabobs
4. Use mustard instead of mayonnaise.
5. Prepare fresh green salads and fruit salad instead of macaroni salad, creamy coleslaw, and potato salad.
6. Eat your corn on the cob or baked potato plain. Enjoy their natural flavors.
7. Put out a veggie tray and use mashed up avocado for dipping instead of ranch dressing.
8. Drink water or unsweetened iced tea instead of sugary soft drinks and fruit drinks.
9. Eat until you are satisfied and not over full. The 4th of July is a social experience, not a food orgy.
10. Add fun activities into the mix. Think sack race, three legged race, and balloon toss. These activities are an excellent way to burn calories while having fun.
By following a few of the tips outlined above, you will stop holiday weight gain and have a happy healthy 4th of July. Enjoy!
Do you have any suggestions for a healthy happy Fourth of July?
I would love to hear any input that you may have.
Committed to your success,
Alexander Morentin, C.E.S.
Whole Foods Evangelist
My Fit Life
GLUTEN: WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL?
Gluten is the protein part of wheat, rye, and barley. Gluten is found in a wide variety of foods; especially processed foods. Here’s the problem: Many people are allergic to gluten and don’t know it.
In our society, we are bombarded with grains. They are everywhere. Grains, especially processed grains, have become the main staple in our diet. Many people don’t even eat fruits and vegetables on a regular basis anymore.
The major allergic reactions to gluten are inflammatory responses. Symptoms such as arthritis and fibromyalgia, as well as aggressive behavior are common. Wheat and gluten can also cause irritability, lethargy, and is a major contributor in the epidemic of obesity.
MY FIT LIFE
When I eat wheat, especially processed wheat, it makes me feel extremely tired. At times, I will notice that I become more aggressive. I will get irritated at situations that normally wouldn’t affect me. Many of my clients and friends have reported similar reactions to eating wheat.
As mentioned above, grains are used in many processed foods. The following terms found in food labels may mean that there is gluten in the product:
• Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Hydrolyzed Plant Protein, or Vegetable Protein
• Flour or Cereal Products
• Malt or Malt Flavoring
• Modified Starch or Modified Food Starch
• Vegetable Gum
• Soy Sauce
• Malt Vinegar
Also, any of the following words on food labels usually means that a grain containing gluten has been used:
• Stabilizer
• Starch
• Flavoring
• Emulsifier
I have seen many people come off of gluten and they have experienced radical changes in their lives. They act, look, and feel remarkably better. People that were once bed ridden now lead healthy vibrant lives.
Some of the positive effects of a gluten free diet include:
• Relief of body aches and pains
• Relief from depression
• Increased energy
• Weight loss
Of particular interest to women: I have found that women who eliminate gluten from their diet find it much easier to lose weight and keep it off. Relief from PMS symptoms has been reported by my clients as well.
GLUTEN-FREE FOOD TAGS
You are going to start to see “gluten-free” tag’s on many products in the supermarket, especially Whole Foods type markets. It’s like a buzzword right now. This is not a bad thing. Remember, what I have found with people is that if they can cut gluten out of their diet it is much easier for them to obtain a desirable body weight. In other words, you will lose weight and keep it off with less effort. It takes a little time to learn which foods do and do not have gluten in them, but once you do it becomes second nature and it is not a problem at all. It is definitely worth the effort.
Grains that do not contain gluten:
• Corn
• Rice
• Arrowroot
• Buckwheat
• Millet
• Amaranth
• Quinoa
You’re probably asking yourself this question right now:
Is it really worth the effort to cut gluten out of my diet?
The answer is YES!
Let me give you a personal example of how it helped me:
I like to run in 5k races. Here’s the problem, I was limited on the amount of times I could run a 5k every year because my left knee would get sore every time I trained for an event.
At the request of a naturopathic doctor, I cut gluten and corn from diet. I didn’t want to, but I did.
And, it was the wisest decision I’ve ever made.
Today when I run in a 5k, I have zero knee pain. Can you believe that? No knee pain whatsoever!
All this because I cut gluten and corn from my diet.
Note: I completely cut gluten form my diet for three weeks in a row. That’s it. That is how quickly you can see the benefits.
Nowadays, My diet isn’t 100% gluten free. It is almost impossible to remain gluten free in our modern world. However, I am probably about 99% gluten free.
Why? Because I like living pain free, maintaining my energy levels, and being in control of my emotions.
Staying away from wheat and gluten does all of these things for me.
What do you think?
Do you have any food allergies? Or, do you think you might have some food allergies that you don’t know about?
Leave me a comment, I’d love to hear what you have to say!
Committed to your success,
Alexander Morentin, C.E.S.
Whole Foods Evangelist
My Fit Life
A few months ago I formed a meetup group on Meetup.com called the Better Living Community. It’s a group of like minded people in my local community who are interested in improving their lives in a natural holistic manner.
On Friday night, a group of us met at Orange County’s premier raw food restaurant 118 Degrees.
118 Degrees is an awesome raw food restaurant owned by my good friend chef Jenny Ross.
June marks the 1 year anniversary of the restaurant, so we naturally wanted to show our support and partake in the awesome food and festivities that 118 degrees has to offer.
Note: For those of you who aren’t aware; raw, organic, living food is nutrient dense, enzyme rich and completely bio-available.
In other words, it’s really good for you.
Chef Jenny went all out for our group… preparing a variety of scrumptious dishes and tasty beverages.
Everything was absolutely delicious. From appetizers, to entrees, to desserts, it was the best dining experience I’ve had in a long time.
What sets 118 Degrees apart from other raw food restaurants is the decor and the ambiance.
The decor is beautiful, the music is fantastic, and the service is out of this world.
Needless to say, the Better Living Community had a wonderful time at 118 Degrees.
Remember, these foods are not only delicious, but they are raw, living, and totally good for you.
Many thanks goes out to my good friend, photographer, and fellow blogger, Greg Lunger of yogizendude.com
Greg provided the wonderful pictures in this post.
Have you had any experiences with raw foods or have you eaten at a good raw food restaurant in your area?
Leave a comment and tell me about it, I’d love to hear about your experiences.
Committed to your success,
Alexander Morentin, C.E.S.
Whole Foods Evangelist
My Fit Life
I recently wrote a post, ‘AMERICA AT RISK!’, discussing the increasing rates of overweight and obesity across the United States.
What I did not realize is the fact that there are many other nations throughout the world whose rates of overweight and obesity are increasing at a much quicker rate than that of the Unites States.
Yes, it’s true… the entire world is getting fatter at an alarming rate.
In the United States, roughly 2/3 of our population is overweight and nearly 30% is considered clinically obese.
According to the report, several Pacific nations are more than 90% overweight.
Yes, you read that right. More than 90% of their populations are considered overweight by World Health Organization standards. That is absolutely crazy!
The United States comes in 9th in the world for rates of overweight and obesity.
Australia came in at number 21, behind countries such as New Zealand, Mexico, Argentina, Greece, and Kuwait.
Let’s put this into perspective:
According to Australia’s government data, nearly 70% of its population is considered overweight and 26% is considered obese. Countries such as New Zealand, Mexico, Argentina, Greece, and Kuwait have higher rates of obesity than Australia.
This means that more than 70% of the people in these countries, and many others, are overweight or obese.
I don’t know about you, but I have always thought of countries such as New Zealand, Australia, and Venezuela as being fit. I would never guess that they would have rates of overweight and obesity at more than 70%.
A recent article in USA today reported that more than 250 million Chinese are overweight. More than 250 million!
In fact, the World Health Organization estimates that there are currently 1.6 billion overweight adults in the world, a number that is expected to grow by 40% over the next decade.
Why is this happening?
The massive increase in the availability of fast food and packaged foods is directly correlated to the world wide increase in obesity. As the world becomes more “Americanized” it is also getting fatter. Countries that used to laugh at the fat Americans are now experiencing a rapid increase in overweight and obesity.
Because of this, the entire world is now experiencing increased rates of diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, and other obesity related chronic diseases.
Now that we know that the crisis of overweight and obesity is a worldwide phenomenon, we have to do something about it.
We need to say no to fast food, packaged food, and processed food… including processed meat and dairy.
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Let me know what your thoughts are on this subject.
What do you think should be done to help this growing crisis?
