40 Days & 40 Nights

Well, you know me... I'm always up for a challenge! And this comes as inspiration from my fellow vegetarian friend, Nicole. She's got more experience as a health nut than I, so I often turn to her for advise and discussion on all things wellness. And, it helps that we work together and this is part of our job!

So, what may this challenge be, you might ask? Well, I'm not as gung-ho as Nicole, but she has vowed to go on a modified detoxification for the 40 days during Lent. She is giving up coffee, artificial sweeteners, as well as cutting back on dairy and a few other things.

No coffee??!! I'm not going that hard core, but I have decided to give up artificial sweeteners, high fructose corn syrup and partially hydrogenated oils (aka trans fats) for the 40 days during Lent. Thankfully, I don't eat very much of these three items to begin with, so I have that going for me. I guess my goal is to just be much more aware of consuming these foods. For instance, I know the ketchup I occasionally use has high fructose corn syrup in it. So, for 40 days, no Heinz for me! We'll see how it goes... and I'll keep you updated!

the miracle seed.

Breakfast has become one of my favorite meals of the day because I float between two yummy dishes, and I know both are extremely good for me. Between what I'm in the mood for, and what I have on hand in the kitchen, I either have:

• Organic yogurt with my homemade granola and dried fruit
• Hot oatmeal with ground flaxseeds, brown sugar, and cinnamon
  

Both de-lish, both make me feel great. And speaking of flax seed (which is also incorporated in the homemade granola), I'd just like to take a moment and tout this little miracle seeds' health benefits.

Flax is one of the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which help in reducing risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, and LDL cholesterol. It is also one of the best sources of lignans - a natural antioxidant that may reduce cell-damaging free radicals and slow the aging process. Lastly, flax is packed with fiber which is essential for your heart, colon, and digestive health.

Visit this site for some excellent ideas on how to incorporate flax into your daily routine.

Now if only I could eat as healthy a breakfast on the weekends!