At 4:59 this morning I was in a Chinese restaurant with my family about to order a big bowl of ice cream topped with crushed toffee when BAM –
“beebeebeebeep. beebeebeebeep. beebeebeebeep.”
The alarm went off!! I tried to finish the dream, but for some reason that never works 🙁
It’s a bright sunny morning here in Charlotte!
Instead of ice cream, I started the day with half a pita with jam and Smart Balance – I almost set off the smoke alarm at 5 a.m. because I toasted it a little too long!
Went to my hour-long spinning class at 5:45. Instead of choosing my outfit for the day and planning what to have for breakfast, my brain was filled with oxaloacetic acid, ATP, and the hypothalmus. But it seems I retained a lot of what I studied last night!
Breakfast today was a bit extravagant – with a HUGE banana, trail mix (chocolate!) AND peanut butter. But I suppose my brain will thank me at 11:00 when my professor passes out the exam.
With chocolate enchantment tea (I think it’s by Celestial Seasonings) and a little skim milk –
This oatmeal breakfast was about 550 kcal.
See you for lunch!! The husband is beginning his first attempt at homemade bagels this morning – I sure hope they turn out OK!
jenna says
I would drive up to Charlotte RIGHT NOW just for a homemade bagel! let me know how they turn out..I would love to tackle that projecT!!!!
Beth says
This is my first time commenting, but I just wanted to say I’ve made bagels before and they are tons of fun! I’m a sophomore in college and while it did take up quite a bit of my day, it was pretty cool and they tasted really good. Good luck!
Anna says
I just finished a cup of that same tea! It is one of my favorites. It is Celestial Seasonings. Hope everyone has a wonderful FRIDAY! 🙂
the husband says
Well they’ll be done for lunch, so I’ll see you then Jenna.
Becky A. says
mmmmm Bagels! I love bagels! Will the husband be able to mail some out to your loyal readers???
Tina says
GOOD LUCK on your exam!
Katherine says
Kath, I would really love to hear your opinion as well as everyone’s:
I know a lot of people say they use exercise as a stress reliever, but I find that often I don’t exercise because I am too stressed. I have so many things to do, exercising would take up too much time (by the time I get to the gym, shower, etc). How do you guys not think about all the things you have to do while you exercising?
Also, what do you all use laughing cow light wedges for versus the light cheese circles that are only 15 calories more and to me, taste alot better?
Allison says
Weird question of the day. Does anyone ever dream that they binge? Sometimes, expecially if I have gone several weeks of really helathy balanced eating, I dream that I binge and then I wake up feeling bad and guilty. Then I realize it was a dream, although that doesn’t always make me feel better.
Ally says
Weird question….How much pb do you guys eat in a day? I am finding that I like pb more and more and want to eat it all the time! Just wondering how much one should eat in a day?
Kim says
I can’t wait to see the bagels! Hope the husband’s interview went well. I have two interviews on Monday. Your breakfast looks so tasty. Do any of you like granola? For breakfast I had strawberry yogurt, fresh berries, the most awesome granola ever (bought a big tub of it when we went to the Black Dog on Martha’s Vineyard/we live on the Cape), and a bit of honey. It was SOOOO good. Makes me yearn for beach weather.
Serena says
Not a weird question at all about pb, Ally! I love pb too and I try to keep it to no more than 1-2TBS per day, but it also depends on what else I’m eating, whether it’s the main protein in a meal (like a pb&j sandwich, etc.) I know it’s good fat, but it does have quite a bit of fat and is high in calories. I doubt two servings would be a big deal every once in a while, just not every day!
Dorothy says
Ohhh! Homemade bagels! I made some one time, and they turned out really yummy, though they were time consuming. I’m sure yours will be excellent! Are you planning on flavoring any, or all plain?!
Heather says
Katherine,
I can only speak for myself, but I work long hours at a pretty high stress job. I also travel for work at least twice a month. Things are always crazy and that’s something I can’t control. However, I can control what I eat and when/how hard I exercise. Like Kath, I plan out my meals in advance–usually the night before. I also get up at 5am just about every morning to go to the gym. I don’t LOVE getting up at 5am, but I do love getting to the gym and all the benefits that come from making sure I exercise. I may only have an hour to spend there in the morning, but I make sure it’s an intense workout worth getting up for. Hopefully that’s helpful.
CKMeg says
Good luck with your exam today, Kath! 🙂
VeggieGirl says
oh my goodness, the opening of your post is too funny!! I’m the same way with my dreams – if the alarm goes off before I can finish it, I’ll try to finish it; but then I just give up :0D
can’t wait to see the results of your homemade bagels!!
Happy Friday!! Get done with that exam so you can fully enjoy the weekend!! ;0)
Phoebe says
Allison — I have definitely dreamed that before. To be honest I think it is probably a sign that we are worrying too much about what we eat! I so get that about it not necessarily making you feel better that it was only a dream — to me, dreams that I feel guilty during always leave me still feeling that way afterward. These days I am a lot more relaxed about my eating (probably TOO relaxed actually but I’m not obsessing about what I eat) and I don’t ever have dreams about binging anymore. So, that’s my experience.
Lisa says
Does anyone know what month in the archives Kath talks about working 9-5 and getting up early in the morn to go to the gym??? I’d really like to read it!
mel says
Hey Allison,
When I was in High school I struggled with anorexia and I always dreamed about over eating (bc I was restricting my self so much my brain was starving!) I’m not saying you are restricting AT ALL- Just why I think I had them!! make sure you aren’t restricting your intake too much or making certain foods off limits (like the ones you dream about! ) good luck!! Keep dreaming but only happy dreams!!
Mel H
* I eat at least 1-2 tbsp of pb a day bc I love love it!! it works for me! also, my new obsession is honey!! Pb, honey, a banana on ww bread is heaven! haha
Holly says
What brand of PB does everyone use? I know this has been asked before but I can’t find it!
Justy2003 says
Lisa,
The post is at this link: https://www.katheats.com/index.php?s=9-5
Also, if you ever want to find anything, you can try the search tool at the top of the blog! It’s definitely usefuld 🙂
As for the type of PB, I use Arrowhead Mills creamy PB…only ingredient is peanuts! I like it more than some of the others I’ve tried…it’s my favorite!
the vegan blog tracker says
Allison – about six months after going vegetarian I dreamt that I was on an assembly line that was preparing hot dogs (hot dog + bun + toppings) and I was pigging out.
I’ve since discovered veggie dogs. 🙂 A couple days ago I made a killer vegan chili dog.
cattledog1 says
This is not a food question, but more of a general health question. Kath, I’d love to hear your input, but as you are the only one among us who remains un-anonymous, due to the nature of my question, I understand if you don’t want to share 🙂 Do people have any input/opinions on the safety of birth control pills like orthotricyclen, yaz, etc.? I know some people (including my doctor) promise that they’re harmless for the most part, but I’ve also heard some pretty bad stories (mood swings, weight gain, etc). Any thoughts?
Nicole says
ugh..Kath or ANYONE! this is no fun 🙁 I’m going on vacation for four days. V-A-C-A-T-I-O-N…the biggest one of my life! Once in a lifetime…I’ll probably never get a chance to go back!
ok..you get the point. Am I excited? sure. Am I anxious and worried? ABSOLUTELY. All I can think about is- when will I workout, how critical will the people I’m going with be if I get up a little earlier to hit the gym, what will I eat, do I have enough self control, have I eaten well enough this week to prepare myself for the next four days, blah blah. This is NO way to start my trip and I realize this kind of mentality is DANGEROUS. I understand that I can pick right back up with my normal routine and eating the second I get back, but still…….any advice on how to go into this?? I know Kath used her last big trip as a “test” for herself, and I plan on (HOPE TO) taking everything I’ve learned about food and my body over the last year and a half and be in control! but…I guess I don’t think I can trust myself to follow my gut…literally! this is truly frustrating…when did vacations become so nerve-racking?!?
Carrie says
Allison,
I am so glad you mentioned this. I have also had “binge” dreams! I struggled with really restrictive eating for a long time and during, I often dreamt I was eating things I had forbidden myself … I don’t have those dreams as often now, but I still will occassionally.
I know recovering drug addicts have “using” dreams for years after they stopped using … an interesting parallel, I think.
Carrie
JennS says
Nicole, RELAX. where are you going? no one will care. Just enjoy! Life is wayyyyy to short to worry about such things on Vacation.
Emily says
I’m a regular reader, never-commenter, but I wanted to respond to cattledog. I have had a really horrible time on birth control – I’ve been on Lutera (which is generic Alesse, a low-dose pill), Yaz, and Ortho-tri-cyclen (regular and lo). I do know lots of women who are very happy on all these pills, but I know that for me personally I often felt like a different person on them.
I do think they’re probably safe, but there may be a major risk of murdering your boyfriend or roommates while on them. I gained 15 pounds in the first month I was on Lutera. Mostly in my breasts, but all over too. They (the breasts, that is) were so sore that I could barely put a bra on, and my boyfriend was not allowed anywhere near them. Kind of takes the fun out of having D-cups for the first time ever.
I think the worst part was that I totally lost my sex drive. Of course birth control works when you don’t ever want to have sex! My boyfriend would get frustrated, and I couldn’t really explain to him what the issue was, and I was already feeling VERY moody and emotional on top of it. A very rough time for sure.
I went to see my doctor feeling so frustrated, and she recommended a copper IUD. I was skeptical, but I did some research – it’s the most popular form of BC in Asia, Australia, and all of Europe (where, coincidentally, they don’t have private pharmeceutical companies pushing pills), and it seemed safe. It’s totally non-hormonal, it’s a 5-minute insertion, and lasts for 10 years. So I did it, and it’s the best decision I’ve made in a long long time. I lost 5 pounds the first week, feel great, and am loving life (and sex!). Look into it, please!
Liz says
Allison-Regarding dreams about food (eating too much, guilt, etc.) I am in the same boat as Mel. When I had an eating disorder it was VERY common for me to dream about food (on top of thinking about it all day) This might be a coincidence (it’s not weird for someone to have a dream about food) but I find, when I am restrictive is when I have these dreams.
Nicole-I can totally relate to the feelings you’re having (I just got back from a big vacation) I think that you just need to remember that it is a VACATION and that it might be a chance when you can be a little more relaxed. You can still be good to your body and splurge a little. Try to keep in mind that people are often very active during vacations (walking, swimming, tours, shopping etc) Get up and workout a few days, and find exercise in other activities on others. Have a healthy breakfast and lunch, and have a little splurge at dinner. YOU ARE IN CONTROL!:-) Have fun!
Becky A. says
Nicole,
Kath answered a similar question recently and her answer really hit home for me. She said to enjoy the things you normally couldn’t while on vacation-for example, you can eat french fries any time you want, so don’t indulge in those, but eat the things you normally couldn’t or aren’t available. Also, about exercising, I think that it is still important to make a commitment to yourself that you will get some kind of exercise while you’re gone. Perhaps it will be walking a little more than normal, or a scheduled workout a couple of the days you are gone. However, I don’t think its a good idea to “miss” the activities the others are doing in order toget your exercise in. I dont’ think that waking up and hour earlier to go to the gym, or take a walk or something would draw too much attention or critical thinking from your travelmates. The most important thing is to remember to HAVE FUN!! Don’t stress about “gaining weight” or not being healthy as you normally are. We all take a little break from being healthy 100% of the time, and thats normal and OK! Enjoy your vacation!!!
Justy2003 says
Cattledog,
I’ve been on Ortho-Tri-Cyclen (now on lo) for about 6 years. I haven’t had any problems at all with it. My doctor randomly switched me to lo…no specific reason, but I don’t mind the lower dose since there’s no reason for the higher dose. I didn’t gain any (noticeable) weight. I wasn’t nearly as health-conscious as I am now (I was fairly young…) so I can’t guarantee that I didn’t gain weight, but I didn’t notice any. There have been studies saying that the weight-gain is just a myth, but there’s always disagreements on that.
All in all, I have no problems with being on the pill. I don’t have to worry about babies (yet!) and I like knowing when that “time of the month” will come…and being able to skip it if it comes at a bad time! 🙂 Also, there have been studies showing that your risk of certain cancers are lower (ovarian). However, I know there’s been alternate studies saying that it increases the risks of other types of cancers.
There’s always going to be a debate about these types of things, so I think you should look into it, try it (if you’d like) and see what works for you, specifically.
Wow, that was long, but hopefully some of it was helpful!
Jenn says
Hey Emily, I am glad this form of BC worked for you. however, anything that disables a young woman’s ability to have children for 10 years can be dangerous and is not normal for the female body. Women between 18-30 should look into Lo Pills like Ortho TriCyclen, they help acne, don’t cause weight gain, and regulate moods. plus you can stop them whenever if you decide its time for children.
Tracy Modin says
In response to the peanut butter question, I loooove Smart Balance…it has omega 3’s from flax oil added to it! It’s great!! And speaking of flax, I just bought flaxseed from the store yesterday and added it to my oatmeal…you all were right! Pretty filling!
Allison K. says
Cattledog,
I’ve been on various forms of birthcontrol for the past 4 years. Everytime I was on the pill, I was seriously some form of crazy. The crazy usually took form in crying for no reason at EVERYTHING.
I started using the NUVARING about six months ago, and I swear I will never go back. I don’t have to remember to take a pill, and with the ring, the hormone level is constant. With a pill you take a pill at the same time every day and your hormone levels spike when you take the pill, and then gradually wear off, only to spike again the next day. With the nuvaring, the hormones are slowly and constantly released….For me it has made ALL the difference.
I feel like my sex drive is the same, and I’ve been able to sucessfully lose weight (hit the 25 pound mark this week) while on it.
It’s worked for me, something you could def. talk to your doctor about.
Also, I’m not the same Allison that asked the question about Binge Eating in dreams…so I’ll change my name to Allison K.
Caitlin says
Allison, mel, etc.,
Re: dreaming about eating/binging
I’ve gone through periods of very restrictive eating (wouldn’t necessarily call it an eating disorder, but definitely disordered eating) and I very often had dreams about binging. In the dreams, I had tremendous feelings of guilt, and I woke up and was RELIEVED that it was just a dream, and HAPPY that I was hungry/my stomach was growling/etc. It was really sick, actually. When I think back to that time now, I think, WOW – how was that not a cue that I was living such an unhealthy lifestyle, both mentally and physically?!
Christin says
Good morning everyone! haha I want to jump in and give my two cents on these great discussions so I can feel included!
Cattledog, I have been on Yasmin (not yaz) for about 6 years now, and I have not noticed any negative side effects, but this was after I tried a couple of other pills. I have lots of friends who are on the shot and are happy with that, but I personally want to know that i can stop taking my birth control whenever i want, and on my terms…it’s my own personal preference, but for me it was a major factor in determining which way to go.
Allison, I dream about binging sometimes too, but usually i find that it’s when I am restricting too much. I have to remind myself that I am allowed SOME discretionary calories, so as long as I use them I don’t get so many eating dreams.
Katherine, I am on an extremely busy schedule, and am alomst never home so for me, I use workout videos since I can do them at home, if I am not going to dance classes…and the dance classes i chose involve performances, so it’s working out with an end result to look forward to, and that’s what keeps me from thinking too much about all the rest of the stuff i have to do with my limited amount of time. Oh! and Il ike the lowfat cheese rounds better than laughing cow 🙂
Nicole I am not sure where you are going and for how long, but I would REALLY encourage you to not worry about exercise, and just HAVE FUN! Choose activities that are active throughout your vacation instead of trying to squeeze in workouts…just watch your portions and you should be just fine. Everyone’s body and mind need a little vacation now and then…for me I find that if I don’t worry about actual workouts and focus on activities I get the exercise in anyway, and come back feeling renewed and ready to take on some serious exercise! 🙂
Nicole says
wow you guys are awesome!! (JennS, I’m going to Las Vegas!!) I’m like a kid some times. I KNOW the answer but ask the question anyway. I KNOW how to handle this, but I needed some encouragement and positive reinforcement! haha thanks so much guys! I feel confident now…I’m starting to get excited!
Christin says
Nicole, in that case, it’s all about “the strip” for you…when I was there, I started on one end, and walked the entire length AND BACK in stilleto’s! Talk about a workout! Whew! between that and the pools, you’ll be just fine, I promise!
AW says
Nicole,
I went to Vegas over the summer with family. we were there from thurs-sun and our hotel (Treasure Island) had a $20 PER DAY fee to use their workout facilities – yes, even as guests there. my dad and i walked in and walked right out! yeah, there are buffets and alcohol and such, but, honestly, it’s only 4 days. like other posters mentioned, it’s VACATION! you’ll be doing a lot of walking around and maybe even some sweating by the pool. 4 days without intense exercise won’t do that much damage.
you’ll be fine. don’t let trivial things like that take away from the fun you’ll have!
p.s. – hit the Maggiano’s italian restaurant. family style serving from apps to dessert!? SO GOOD!
Rebecca says
Kath, would adding a milk type product (half and half) to a pureed squash soup like you make not add enough flavor to compensate for the added calories? We seem to have similar food taste, and I have never had squash soup before, but know you love it!
Also, what are you favorite root vegetables to make? Are turnips white carrots? Thanks and hope you test is going well 🙂
BethT says
Kath/hubby – did any specific wineries REALLY knock your socks off when you went to wine country? I’m going there next weekend (driving through both Sonoma and Napa) and though I have a few in mind, I wonder if you recall any you really loved. Please share if you remember….restaurant recommendations would be great too! (If you’re like me, you tend to REALLY remember the places where you had a great meal!)
mel says
Nicole, can I come with you? haha! I don’t know how..but I actually lose weight on vacations. I think it’s bc my stress level is down and I can actually have time to sit down and enjoy my meals!! have so much fun!
About Birth control..I started taking it when i was 18 bc I stopped having my period for a yr. I didn;t start until I was 17- basically I onlyhad like 2 before they stopped! haha! I cheered on two teams and ran track so my body fat was really low (like 8% – gross!) the first pill I took I had a period for 30 straight days (hell!! ) then I switched to seasonal (4 periods a yr) and I love love it! I didnt gain weight from it – but I did purposely after I graduated bc I needed to! Now i can have periods on my own, but I still take it for sexual purposes! haha! It has definately NOT made me lose my sex drive, be moody, or anything like that. I’m very happy with it and would like to eventually go off it but I don’t want a baby now! haha! take care
– I love love skippy natural pb- no stirring and its soo creamy
goalie30 says
Exercise & Stress (Katherine):
I have a very busy schedule too but am usually able to still get in 30-60 minute workouts 4 days per week. I have moved the workouts to the morning for the most part, becuase it’s the only time of the day I’m not running around busy! Some weeks I workout less some more depending on how busy I am. Just think of it as spending 30-60 minutes of alone time for yourself on the days your workout, it’s something you do for YOU to make YOU healthier and feel better. But make it work with your particular schedule, don’t beat yourself if you can’t workout every day, aim for 30 minutes of walking or cardiovascular activity 3 days per week to start with and schedule it for days when you’re not as busy, so you won’t feel so crunched for time…
Ally/ Peanut Butter servings…
Good tips given above already, I agree aim for one serving if you’re going to eat it daily (or 2 tablespoons) everything in moderation!
Brand of Peanut Butter
I have tried the ‘natural’ pbs, but I hate the separation on top and refridgerating the pb makes it hard not creamy, so instead I opt for Skippy natural peanut butter which does not separate and only has about 2 small amounts of additives (I think a little sugar and some oil), and it tastes great!
Cattledog1/ safety of birth control pills
I am a physician assistant who prescribed these pills routinely and who is also on pills herself. Every woman is different, I have sometimes seen some ladies try 3 different pills before they found one that they felt the best on. Most the pills out there now a days are lower in estrogen, so there’s minimal to no risk of weight gain with these (maybe 1-2 pounds of water weight gain, but I haven’t seen that even in the majority). Most pills are great becuase they reduce risk of ovarian cancer, prevent unwanted pregnancy, cut down on PMS symptoms, decrease the duration and intensity of blood loss during periods, decrease acne, etc. Of course there are some risks, higher risks of blood clots but only in women who have clotting disorders or who smoke mainly, if you have a strong family history of breast cancer i probably wouldn’t recommend them either. Otherwise, I think most of the positives outweigh the negatives with these pills and usually women when they stop the pills are still able to get pregnant in a timely manner (3-6 months if that for most), I’d talk with your doctor or an ob/gyn for further information though.
Nicole/ Vacation stress
Being a former highschool and college athlete, I still am very concerned about getting my specified workouts in each week (although much less relaxed now then I’ve ever been since I work 9 hours per day and am busy!); however, when I go on vacation I go on vacation. I specifically plan my 1 week off every 3-4 months from exercise when I go on vacation be it with family or friends. I just want to relax on vacation, eat new things, enjoy time with others and not work or stress. Working out does destress me, but I often find that when I’m on vacation I’m getting plenty of activity in without even trying to set focused workouts in there (ie my honeymoon was in St. Lucia last year and we walked on the beach for 1/2 hour daily looking for sea glass and we took out the kayaks and hobies and swam)…so instead of stress about your own workouts, have fun with your family/friends and just be active and explore with them and you’ll find the workouts will take care of themselves and you’ll be having fun at the same time!
hope this helps,
Riese says
Hey all! Thought I’d chime in on the BC stuff. I’ve been on ortho tri cyclen LO for a few years now, and like the first poster, it has TOTALLY destroyed my sex drive. Which is obviously seriously annoying as what’s the point of being on it then basically (although regulated cycles are nice!)?? I’m actually going in for my annual check up on Tuesday and was going to ask about switching to another kind to see if that helps. The problem is it really just seems SO individual–I’ve had some friends go crazy/get horrible acne/etc. on various pills, and then had other friends go on the exact same ones and be fine! So that’s kind of annoying since it’s hard to get recommendations. Oh well, we’ll see. Wish me luck!!
cattledog1 says
WOW! Thanks for all the helpful responses!
Christy Greene says
I’d just like to chime in on the IUD conversation. I got the Mirena (5 year) IUD in August and am very pleased with it. My period has gone away, I have minimal cramps/bloating and don’t have to think about or spend money on birth control for 5 years. It is easily removed if I decide that I want to have children within that time with minimal complications of conception. It provides low dose hormones that are the same as taking a BC pill. I’d recommend it 100%.
Christin says
Hey all, since it’s friday, i want to take a poll…
1) what is your favorite meal and why
2)what is your favorite time of the day to work out and why?
Hoping to get some new ideas!!!
Christin says
oops, blonde moment, I guess i should start with mine..
1) whole wheat tortellini, asparagus, and grilled chicken…I just love the evenness of it, and how relaxed and full i feel!
2) in the afternoons becuase I cannot get myself up early in the morning! 🙂
Another Kelly says
Katherine- I agree with all of the other posters’ comments. I think once you get used to including exercise in your daily routine it becomes less stressful because you just learn to make time for it. Recently I’ve started going in the mornings and I have found that to be especially helpful because then I get it done first thing and go through my day knowing I have it checked off.
Allison- I dream about binging sometimes too even though I have a balanced lifestyle, allow myself treats, and don’t count calories. Who knows. Maybe for me it’s a subsconscious hold over form when I was dieting. I personally don’t let it bother me too much. I also have reoccuring dreams that I accidently cheat on my bf even though this is not a conscious concern in my daily life, have never cheated EVER, and am very happy in my relationship. I try not to put too much stock in what I dream about.
Nicole says
aww goalie, your honeymoon sounds amazing 🙂 I’ll have to remember that if my day ever comes-haha. I’m actually a college athlete too, so I think that’s why I “worry” so much about everything. I don’t give my instincts enough credit!! Again, I appreciate all of the great advice and recommendations!!
Emily says
Jenn,
Just so you know, the IUD doesn’t force you to not have children for 10 years. You can have it removed any day and get pregnant that afternoon! In fact, it affects your fertility much less than any pill, where it can take 3-6 months to get pregnant after stopping. It’s just a little sperm-killer, so to speak – it doesn’t affect YOUR body at all. So when it’s in there, it kills sperm, and when it’s not, it doesn’t. It takes 5 minutes to put in (a doctor has to do it in the office, though), and 5 to remove, so it’s really not a big deal at all. Not trying to push it on anyone, just letting you know the facts.
Cathy says
Kath- I hope your test went well, I am sure it did!
To “The Husband”….the bagels look amazing! I have such a weakness for NY bagels since I live here and these look pretty darn close! Thanks for writing up the entire recipe, I am definitely going to try it! 🙂
Kristin says
On the subject of BC, I think I’ve tried them all. I’ve had side effects from migraines to nausea to mood swings. Right now, I’m on Apri (generic Desogen). I really like it, but I really recommend trying a few different brands before you give up on it. Everyone’s different!
Beth T,
I was just in Napa in December. It was fantastic. Even though it was chilly outside, the scenery is still breathtaking. We went to several wineries, and they’re all so different. We took the tour at Beringer, and our guide was fantastic…as were the wines. Domaine Chandon was great too. It’s sparkling wine and much more modern than a lot of the others.
As far as food, you have to try Rutherford’s Grill. I was with a group of 7, and everyone loved their food. After all of your wine tasting, if you’re still in the mood for a cocktail, they squeeze fresh fruit juice at the bar for all of their drinks. Fresh squeezed grapefruit juice and vodka…yummy! Have a great trip. I can’t wait to get out there again (preferably when it’s a little warmer)
goalie30 says
IUDs
Actually, what happens with IUDs is it makes the uterus uninhabitalbe, so your body still produces eggs each month and they can become fertilized by sperm but becuase of the foreign object in the uterus, your body doesn’t allow the egg to implant into the uterus like it usually would so you instead would pass it with your period. I have heard of women still getting pregnant with IUDs in place but again, it’s really rare.
eliza says
Ok this may seem really stupid but people have addictions to certain foods or habits. Mine is chewing gum! I can go through a pack a day. and that just really bothers me. I always always need it in my mouth! help me!
Kelly T. says
homemade bagels? pleeease post the recipe!
Good luck on the test! The mention of ATP brought back nightmares from studying for my personal training certification…im sure yours is a bit more in depth than what i had to deal with so my heart goes out to you!
Emily W. says
About the stress and exercise:
I use exercise to think about the food I am going to have tommorrow, the things I need to get done that day/night, etc. I think it is relaxing and helps distract you from how far you have ran and before you know it you are further than you have ever gone! (on the treadmill that is!)
About the gum:
I used to be the exact same way…chew, chew, chew!! I tried tea, but it never really did it! However, I decided to give up artificial sweeteners and in turn, SF gum! At first it was VERY hard and people would continually offer gum at school, etc. but after about a week you move on and I feel better! (I feel better b/c the artificial sweetenerrs were giving me headaches!)
pjena says
1) what is your favorite meal and why – Kind of sad, but oatmeal is my favorite meal right now. Luckily, I get to eat it every day! =D
2)what is your favorite time of the day to work out and why? – hard one – I like working out right away in the morning because then it’s done for the day and I only have to shower/get ready once. However, because I work out at work and have to get the kids to school in the morning and so can’t come to work super early, I work out around 11am so that it’s far enough from breakfast that I’m not too full and I can eat lunch right after.
Kelly T. says
1) hmmm fave healthy dish….id have to say pasta with tons of veggies and ahomemade tomato sauce.
2) i cant work out in the morning. i feel like if i work out at night after everything i have to do for the day is taken care of, i will be more relaxed and stay longer at the gym and actually enjoy my workout instead of rushing or trying to meet a time limit.
Nicole (the other one) says
Just wanted to add my experience with BC. I was on Ortho Tri Cyclen from age 16 – 27, and had a really great experience with it overall. I went on it at such an early age due to suspected endometreosis. At age 27, I was officially diagnosed and my doc decided to make a switch to assist with it. First I tried Loestrin, and almost lost my mind. I was supposed to try it for 90 days, but called my doc around the 50 mark and requested a different option. I told him I didn’t need birth control because I was being so mean to my husband, he didn’t want to have sex with me anymore! I’ve been on NuvaRing for about 8 months and LOVE IT. I never thought taking the pill was a bother. But this is just wonderful. I do experience some dryness occassionally and for that my doc prescribed steroid cream (my vagina’s on steroids!) Overall, I think it’s different for every woman. You need to be willing to try out a few, and maybe go through a few difficult months before you find something that truly makes you happy. Good luck!
Allison says
Goalie30. Ordinarily, I love your advice but you are completely wrong about the IUD. I had a long conversation with two different gynos inthe pratice I go to about this and both said that with the new IUDs, you absolutely do NOT have a fertilized egg! That would basically make the IUD an abortificant and it is not! You do not release an egg that can get fertilized. Many tests have been done to check this.
Kim says
Goalie30, may I ask where in St. Lucia you went. My husband and I want to renew our vows this june (5 years strong!) Sounds great! That turkey bagel sammie looks great. I live around the corner from a jam kitchen and am taking a jam making class next week.
goalie30 says
Allison, I didn’t mean that every month you get pregnant but fail to have it implant due to the IUD, it CAN happen though, that is the reality, which I meant to say this on purpose, because if people are against abortion there is a small possibility that may happen, because unlike birth control pills, the iud’s such as copper ones, i was taught in pa school, that they do not prevent a woman from still developing an egg each month as usual. A lot of times what happens is the iud is such a distraction to sperm that the sperm get all mixed up on their direction when and IF they even enter into the uterus. I’m sorry I did not mention that the majority of the time the iud works to distract sperm and basically prevent them from getting into the fallopian tube to fertilize an egg in the first place, but on rare occasions this still COULD happen which technically means the woman is having a miscarriage since the fertilized egg can’t implant. I was told to warn patients of this in case it’s against their beliefs/religion. And the ob/gyn I did my rotation w/ in school also informed his patients of this as well…
Kim,
My husband and I stayed at the Sandals Halcyion in Castries, St. Lucia…it was WONDERFUL! I love St. Lucia and definitely want to go back some day! There’s a great gazeebo there with the ocean in the background you could renew your vows at and they have GREAT photographers as well…
goalie30 says
The newer IUDs may also have some type of hormone on them that they produce which could help prevent a woman from producing an egg each month, but when i was in school which was just a mere 3 years ago there were still a few out there namely the copper ones that could potentially result in a fertilized egg. They may have totally changed that with the newer devices. I do think they are good alternatives for women who can’t take pills and I don’t believe they have some of the side effects such as possibility of breast cancer increased risk or the risk of blood clots like the pills do, so women who can’t take pills would have this as a good alternative. They are only meant for women in monogamous relationships, as they may increase risk of STD infection, but I’d actually seen something printed recently stating that recent research may have found this to be false recently as well…
goalie30 says
This excerpt about IUD mechanism of action is from emedicine.com which is a common site a lot of docs and healthcare providers use daily for most up to date information…
“Mechanism of Action. Both the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the WHO recognize that the copper IUD works primarily by prevention of fertilization and not prevention of implantation.[25,26] According to the WHO Scientific Group, “It is likely that the uterine and tubal fluids that are altered in the presence of an IUD impair the viability of the gametes, thus reducing their chances of union and impeding fertilization. Copper ions released by an IUD probably potentiate these effects.”[26] In a landmark study of women about to undergo surgical sterilization, Alvarez et al[27] reported that no eggs were recovered from the body of the uterus within 132 hours after luteinizing hormone peak in any of 56 IUD users. Eggs were recovered in tubal flushings from 39% of IUD users (30% of copper IUD users) and 56% of control subjects. In this same study, 14 IUD users and 20 control subjects had coitus during the periovulatory period. None of the ova recovered from tubal flushings of the IUD users showed microscopic signs of normal fertilization, whereas 50% of the ova from control subjects did. Studies using highly sensitive assays for human chorionic gonadotropin reported fertilization in only 1 of 137 cycles among women using a copper IUD.[28] Copper seems to be especially toxic to sperm.[29,30] A recent comprehensive review of literature similarly states, “In Cu-IUD users, it is likely that few spermatozoa reach the distal segment of the fallopian tubes; those that encounter an egg may be in poor condition. Thus, the few eggs that are fertilized have little chance for development and their possibility for survival in the altered tubal milieu becomes worse as they approach the uterine cavity.”[31]”
B_hlthy says
Poll Answers:
1. favorite meal (yours was great!)
b: oatmeal w. pb has been my fav since college.
d: grilled chicken or fish w. veggies and whole wheat pasta or wrap.
2. fav time to workout. I workout after work ..4:15- 5:30-6…I have tried working out in the morning and I never had a problem waking up for it. But I found that my workout wasn’t nearly as effective and challenging as afternoon because I have much more motivation. It gives me something to always look foward to no matter what kind of day I had. (if you had a not so good workout to start your day- it sets a bad tone… but if you had a crappy day you at least have your favorite workout time to look foward to!)
Kath says
Katherine,
I think you got some great responses on the exercise and stress question. My only comment would be that when I’m exercising, I can’t be cleaning, cooking, blogging, studying, etc. so I can just relax for that hour. As for the Laughing cow, I like the wedges because they spread!
Ally,
I try to cap my PB to no more than 2 tbsp per day, but I have certainly eaten more than that on occasion!
Kim,
Good luck on the job interviews!!
Cattledog,
I’d love to write a response on birth control, but I’m not 100% comfortable, considering I don’t know who is reading! I think you got lots of great responses though!
Nicole,
Have fun in Vegas!! I think the other responses were all great 1) Only splurge on foods that you can’t get at home and that are WORTH IT 2) Get as much physical activity as you can in the form of walking, dancing, pumping iron on the slot machines (!!) but a few planned workouts would be perfectly normal and fine if they don’t interrupt your vacation’s itinerary and you have some downtime 3) Remember – your brain may be on vacation, but your body isn’t. Treat it with the same respect you would if you were at home 4) ENJOY it!! You don’t get to go to Vegas every day!
Rebecca,
I’m not sure I understand your question about milk/cream. Ca you re-phrase in another post? I love ALL root veggies – squash, parsnip, turnip, sweet potato, carrot!
Beth,
Here’s an email I wrote to another friend going to Sonoma. I’m SO JEALOUS and wish I could join you!!!
We just loved the town of Sonoma. When we were there, there was jasmine blooming everywhere and we went running in the morning and it was gorgeous! They don’t have a ton of nice restaurants but The Girl and the Fig was very good. I had a great rubarb tart there!!
As for a second restaurant, we stayed at this great Inn called The Farmhouse Inn that is KNOWN for its fabulous restaurant. It’s on the edge of the Russian River Valley. The restaurant is only open Wed.-Sat. so it was closed the Tuesday we were there, but if you can make it, it’s the restaurant every one talks about.
Healdsburg is really the place to have dinner in Sonoma. It’s the most “hoppin'” with people.
You HAVE to go to Ledson Winery, which is in Kenwood, just north of Sonoma. It’s this huge castle and we liked so many of their wines – we ended up buying a case there! They have a great deli too where you can get lunch. We got smoked salmon and cheese and bread!
You also should go to St. Francis, also in Kenwood. Their grounds are beautiful and they have a wonderful Chardonnay.
Ferrari Carrano was one of the highlights of our trip – their barrel room was quite the experience and worth the extra to taste there – the Tre Terre Chardonnay was AMAZING!
Send me an email if you want more specific recommendations!
Kath