Lunch

Meh

I’m finally home after running like 4 hours of errands! I kept remembering things I have to do! Anyways, my roommate has some really overripe bananas so I thought it would be fun to bake banana bread with them today and I found a recipe I liked in Veganomicon so I stopped at the health food store to pick up some more whole wheat pastry flour (I was out!)…when I was there, I saw that “Follow Your Heart” brand of “cheese”! I picked it up as well then went home to make lunch. I made a wrap with a sprouted wheat tortilla, a quorn cutlet, lettuce and some of the “cheese”. I also did an Agave-Dijon sauce on it. I think I might be getting a little ahead of myself and added way too much of the “cheese”. As a result, my wrap was not what I was hoping for or craving. I think I need to slowly wean myself into this product instead of just piling it on.

I did eat the sandwich and an apple, but it was a disappointment. I’m thinking I also might have used a little too much agave nectar in the sauce so the wrap was too sweet. Blah. I had a small piece of chocolate to fix it!

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In theory, the contents of my toasted wrap SOUND good….a yummy quorn cutlet, a sweet mustard sauce, lettuce and melty “cheese”…however it didn’t step up to par. 🙁 Hopefully dinner will be better!!!

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  • Annie
    February 19, 2008 at 4:52 pm

    Ha, Im having the same thing for lunch today, except with a boca chicken patty and a luaghing cow cheese! Srry your wasnt any good 🙁

  • VeggieGirl
    February 19, 2008 at 4:56 pm

    Oh no!! I’m so sorry that the wrap (and especially the “cheese”) was a disappointment :0( Definitely start out slow, girl!! Don’t add as much “cheese” as “real cheese” when it’s your first time trying it – use it more as a garnish :0)

    I’m praying that your dinner is phenomenal, to make up for your sub-par lunch!! Hang in there!! Have a nice snack this afternoon to make up for it, in the meantime ;0)

  • Nicole
    February 19, 2008 at 4:59 pm

    Lynn–

    I am still a senior, but was accepted to Boston U medical school in my sophomore year and started taking some classes there and at our School of Public Health in my junior year. I can’t wait to finally start this fall, it’s been such a tease haha! Thank you for congrats!!

  • Nicole
    February 19, 2008 at 5:16 pm

    Also, Lucy–

    I’m in Boston too!! The South End has some GREAT restaurants–a really fun place to go is Sibling Rivalry. Basically, the two chefs are brothers and their menu changes weekly (or daily? I forget). They each make 11 dishes, each dish focusing on a different ingredient (beef, a fish, different vegetables, a pasta, etc etc). Each night is pretty much a duel between them to see whose menu gets the most orders. The food is DELICIOUS. Another great place to go is Stephanie’s on Newbury—just classic, good food. Sonsie is really good as well. Tons of places in the North End–my two favorites are Carmen & Limoncello. If you like tapas, there is a FANTASTIC tapas bar on Comm ave called Bar Lola—my friends and I go there all the time. Sushi here is good almost wherever you go, and Thai also. Have fun!

  • blueberrybabe
    February 19, 2008 at 5:25 pm

    thanks for all the avocado suggestions! i think i am going to try it on a turkey sandwich today for lunch… but i have no idea how much to use? half seems like a lot? like an 1/8 of one or 1/4? so i put it on the sandwich in slices or mash it up? what condiments does it go with? mayo? honey mustard? i am so sorry if these are dumb questions!!! enlighten me please 🙂

  • SDF
    February 19, 2008 at 5:26 pm

    Hey ladies,

    I just finished reading all of the comments from yesterday (it was a long weekend for me so I had 3 days of this blog to catch up with) and I wanted to celebrate a huge accomplishment of mine with you all because this blog has such an amazing, supportive community.

    I’m a terrible calorie counter-I count everything that I consume and worry if my calorie intake reaches 1500. But since finding this blog, I’ve started working on stopping my calorie counting and listening to my body and stop eating when I’m full, and continue eating if I’m hungry-even if that means that I consume more calories then I think I should be eating. Yesterday, my boyfriend made me a cream of broccoli soup and while I’m eating it he told me it was really high in calories and I just kept eating it and enjoying it. Then, for the main course we had lobster and crab-and I dipped it in butter and enjoyed every single bite! Then, even though my plate was still about half full, I realized I was full, so I stopped!

    I was so excited with myself and needed to share it with you all! Thank you everyone-because without reading everybody elses’ personal struggles, and hearing about how you all try to eat healthy and enjoy food without it controlling you is helping me to view food in a more healthy light! (sorry this is so long)

  • VeggieGirl
    February 19, 2008 at 5:27 pm

    **blueberrybabe:

    half of an avocado contains about 170 calories, 16 grams of fat (2 grams saturated fat) and 6 grams of fiber; so just adjust the amount to suit your needs and tastes :0)

  • Lynn
    February 19, 2008 at 5:38 pm

    Jenna,

    What type of wrap is that……I am always looking for goods one and trust what you buy. Also, you mentioned you do hot yoga, I have a power yoga class taught in my area (85 degrees heat, is this the same thing)? do you think iyengar yoga (sp?) helps build muscle too. Since it doesn’t involve heat, I am thinking I may like it better. Thanks!!

    veggie girl thanks for the info about dates, do you have a online resource or something similar where you learn this info. If so would you mind sharing it? I love learning about things like this.!

  • jenna
    February 19, 2008 at 5:45 pm

    Lynn,

    This is just a sprouted wheat wrap that I found at the health food store. I’m not sure on the brand but it was in the frozen section with the Ezekiel products (even though its not Ezekiel brand). it has 170 calories per wrap and 5 grams of protein.

    Power yoga is not the same thing has Bikram. Bikram is 103 degree heat and is usually only offered at select yoga studios OR certified Bikram College of India studios. I would google that to see if any are in your area. All yoga builds muscle and tones your core. Some people love the heat (me because I’m always cold!) while others thrive in cooler environments. You can reap the benefits of yoga regardless what kind your practice. Try a couple and see what you like best!

  • JennS
    February 19, 2008 at 5:47 pm

    question… has anyone ever drank a lot of caffeine (couple cups of coffee) then get that caffeine high and mikstake it for hunger so you snack? just curious? thanks!

  • VeggieGirl
    February 19, 2008 at 5:49 pm

    **Lynn:

    Haha, actually, I read about the benefits of dates right on Larabar’s website! They provide a nutrient break-down of each ingredient that is in EVERY single one of their bars/products. But for all other nutritional information, I always refer to this website: http://whfoods.org/foodstoc.php

  • Amy
    February 19, 2008 at 6:02 pm

    Delayed response to questions about gluten

    I didn’t get a chance to get online last night and join the gluten-free discussion that I started, but thank you all for the suggestions –I’m excited to check them out after work tonight. As for a simplified explanation of celiac disease (gluten intolerance), some people cannot properly digest gluten, the protein found in most cereal grains (wheat,rye, barley – sometimes oats as well) I am SO glad oats are not a problem for me. I would die. Celiac disease can develop at any age. The cause of onset and a cure are not known now, but it’s being researched as more people become aware of this problem.
    (Note: I am describing this very casually and not getting into the scientific terms too much. Google it if you want to read a more precise explanation – there are lots of credible websites out there!)

    Basically, for a gluten intolerant person, gluten causes the lining of the stomach to attack itself instead of properly absorbing nutrients. The classic symptoms include: diarrhea, constipation, bloating, weight loss/gain, anemia, chronic fatigue, weakness, bone pain, premature osteoporosis, muscle cramps, concentration problems, irritability, and dental enamel defects. Others will have symptoms such as rheumatoid conditions, chronic anemia, chronic fatigue, weakness, migraine headaches, nerve problems such as tingling of hands or difficulty walking, or other conditions that are unexplained and/or do not respond to usual treatment. People may have one or more of the above symptoms. Patients are frequently misdiagnosed as having ‘irritable bowel syndrome’, ‘spastic colon/bowel’, or Crohn’s disease’.

    There is not a completely, definitive means of diagnosis. A blood test is fairly definitive, but if you haven’t consumed gluten for a while prior to the blood test, you won’t show the antibodies that signal a problem. Another way to test is by taking a biopsy of the small intestine, though doctors usually recommend trying a gluten-free diet before doing a biopsy. It is possible to have celiac and have normal test results, so if cutting out gluten improves symptoms, that’s a good indicator! So, basically, in the last 10+ years, I’ve had trouble with all of these symptoms.

  • Amy
    February 19, 2008 at 6:09 pm

    Part Two: (sorry, but this is kinda funny and there’s a link to an interesting article!)

    So, a couple weeks ago, a friend of mine sent me an article about food allergies and highlighted a funny quote. Coincidentally, around the same time, the severity of my gluten intolerance became an issue I could not ignore. So, here is the email exchange, which contains the article link and an explanation of my “diagnosis.”

    Message from sender:
    ” I went out with one guy who said I seemed really great but he liked bread too much to date me, said Ms. James, 41, a writer in Seattle who cannot eat gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye.” 🙂

    DINING & WINE | February 13, 2008
    I Love You, but You Love Meat http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/13/dining/13incompatible.html?ex=1203570000&en=8da92d9378f88a28&ei=5070&emc=eta1

    It’s funny that you sent me this because just in the last couple weeks, I’ve realized that i do need to be really careful about what I eat. The whole gluten thing affects so many things, including your mind(at least mine). So, I think I’ve been wanting to not be the odd one out and wanting to think i just have a mere sensitivity to gluten, when it’s actually been causing a variety of problems. The thing is, if I eat it, I need to eat more of it. I get raging, insatiable cravings for gluten/wheat containing foods, even though it is wreaking havoc on my body. It’s becomes a vicious cycle because I convince myself that it’s not that bad for me, and it is. I finally decided to reconsider my reasoning after going to the doctor last month and finding out my feet were swollen to 2-3 times their size and I had stress fractures in my foot. I looked like I had club feet and could barely walk. The celiac disease prevents your body from properly absorbing nutrients, causing the body to retain water and making bones brittle, among other things. It also disrupts sleep and digestion, and causes skin rashes, irritability and depression, all of which I experienced. So, in desperation, after feeling like I hadn’t slept in the last 6 months and finding out that my bones are starting to shrivel, I realized that telling myself it’s not a big deal is a lie! I realized, I didn’t exhibit some symptoms of celiac — I exhibited every single one. So, gluten-free for a week and a half now, I’ve had a few nights of rest, my feet are almost back to normal size and my shoes fit again, my foot is getting stronger, and life is not so grim.

    So yeah, life is alright, becoming increasingly better. No gluten is not restrictive for me; it’s a relief.

    And so, I pity the fool who would force me to eat gluten to date him. I wouldn’t want to date a gluten-eating Amy!

  • Mandee Lei
    February 19, 2008 at 6:13 pm

    Ok I might feel dumb after I write this but oh well! I use Galaxy brand Veggie “Cheese” that are dairy free I do believe. I use the slices and the shreds.. my favorite is the mozzarella slices and cheddar slices and as far as the shreds go I like the Cheddar Pepperjack blend. Maybe this isn’t what you are looking for or maybe you have already tried it?? But I love it and to me it tastes great!

  • TimeofButterflies
    February 19, 2008 at 6:14 pm

    I’m going to have to get back into eating wraps again…sooo yummers.

    Thanks for all of the support and positive energy from this blog. I can definitely say I’m feeling much better about eating! I eat meat (just chicken) and don’t feel isolated because of Jenna’s switch.

    -Amanda (TimeofButterflies)

  • Lynn
    February 19, 2008 at 6:17 pm

    Veggie that made me laugh out loud………of course I should have checked the site!

  • Susan
    February 19, 2008 at 6:24 pm

    Thanks Jenna for your answer……..I can’t wait to see all the great treats you make!

    Your response made a lot sense, but I do have a follow up. My problem is I always seem to want a treat for my afternoon snack and sometimes right after lunch. The small piece of chocolate doesn’t do it for me. How to you control your sweet treat to just after dinner? (anyone else can chime in as well)

  • Nicole
    February 19, 2008 at 6:28 pm

    Do you have to chew it? I really like chai lattes–if I want something sweet in the middle of the day, this totally satisfies that for me. Starbucks has cups they don’t advertise (but are my favorite size) called shorts–it’s 8oz, which is perfect for lattes I think (I’m a black coffee/cappuccino person myself, I hate when I can’t taste the coffee).

  • pinklilly
    February 19, 2008 at 6:35 pm

    Susan,

    I don’t know if this will help you or not, but I chew a piece of sugar free Bubble Yum gum in the afternoon – they come in difference flavors and it usually hits the spot for me after lunch or when my mouth just wants something more. Also, I’ve noticed that there are different brands of yogurt available that feature sweeter flavors catered around dessert items. That might help? Or, you could always try one of the dessert flavored bars that are out there.

    I allow myself a sweet treat in the evenings. Usually, it’s sugar-free, fat-free Jello pudding. I also add a tbsp of fat free Cool Whip to it. It’s so simple to make. I just love it!

  • Beth
    February 19, 2008 at 6:39 pm

    Blueberrybabe,

    You can either put slices of avocado on your sandwich or mash it up first. I like to mash it up because I find the slices like to slip out when I bite in. I typically sprinkle a bit of garlic salt on it and lime/lemon juice on it before spreading on the sandwich.

    Enjoy!

  • Sloan
    February 19, 2008 at 6:45 pm

    Hey Jenna,

    I live in Charleston, and was wondering which yoga studio you went to while you lived here?

    Cheers!

  • rachel
    February 19, 2008 at 7:00 pm

    erica–this is in response to a question you posted last night (i also posted this there)

    erica–im not exactly sure. the rd i saw (only once or twice) recommended 1800 calories. this number overwhelmed me because i was used to eating 700 and running 4 miles a day (plus walking around campus! probably an additional 2 miles). i am sure i counted–it was part of my compulsion at the time, but i tried not to because i felt guilty.

    it took a while for any weight to stick! i think this is partly because i was inconsistient for a while. once i was more serious i would probably eat about 1600-1700 calories. i also slowed down my exercise habit–in fact, my parents encouraged me not to run until i reached 105 lbs (i still walked though). i added snacks/meals like this to my diet : graham crackers slathered with pb, soy milk, oatmeal made with skim milk and walnuts, WHOLE sandwiches on ww bread with >100 calories, apples and peanut butter, etc….)

    hope this helps. i cannot emphasize the importance of good social support. i would not have gained if not for my spiritual life (which still keeps me from going to old habits) and the accountability of my family and friends.

  • Kelly
    February 19, 2008 at 7:18 pm

    Hi girls,

    There are so many fabulous girls on here that seem to have a problem with restictive eating and want to put on some weight. What worries me is that many of you are still eating 1500-1800 calories PLUS being active.

    You all have given some great advice to each other but keep in mind that living an active lifestyle and eating 1500-1800 calories won’t make you gain weight. In the long run you can still lose at this amount. I know it’s scary but like Blueberrybabe said think of it as nourishment. Give your body want it wants and needs.

    Shoot for 2000 calories and then go from there. As you put on weight (slowly) your body will require more calories. Eventually if you listen to your body and NOURISH it it will stop where it’s comfortable. I used to worry I was going to get eating and not stop and my body would get huge. Then I said to myself, 1) I generally eat healthy foods so that won’t happen 2) you can tell the people that take care of themselves mentally and physically (by this I mean look around at the people eating JUNK all the time)

    I know it’s scarcy girls but I’m fearful that many of you are still eating too low….. YOU CAN DO IT!

  • jenna
    February 19, 2008 at 7:22 pm

    Sloan,

    I’m jealous you are there!!! I was a member of Eco Fitness and with that membership I could go to Blue Turtle Yoga (downtown). It’s absolutely fabulous—highly recommended!!!

  • jess
    February 19, 2008 at 7:25 pm

    Kelly and Racheal- thanks so much for the great information. You are absolutely right, a good support network is So necessary. I know that I rely on it a bit too much at the moment (i.e. I have my mom and best friend on hand to let me know if I ever begin to ‘look chubby’ [not likely, at least not anytime soon]) simply because I have lost touch with my body. I mean, I don’t really have an accurate perception of what I look like, which is a shame, so I’m really trying to just go by how I feel and be confident in the fact that others want the best for me. I’m really excited to maybe try some more yoga or something and cut back on cardio (although not SO excited about that aspect of it, haha) because I’ve heard that it really gives you a unique and in depth perception of your body and health. Anyone experience this through yoga? or other exercise?

    Jenna- I’m so sorry your wrap wasn’t as successful as you had hoped- definately hate it when that happens. But just think, now you know for next time and part of being fun and good in the kitchen is experimenting and just think of how amazing your wrap could (and will!) be with some tweaks.

    I’m thinking about making some vegan pizza tonight (pretty much just because I don’t like cheese and am feeling a little ‘meated out’) because trader joe’s sells this amazing whole wheat pizza dough! SO excited!

    -jess

  • Erica
    February 19, 2008 at 7:31 pm

    thanks so much Rachel! i’m trying to gain, and i’m making sure i eat around 1900-2000 a day until i do. it just seems as though the weight doesn’t want to come on! i’ve even halted all exercise in order to try to put on weight. i guess it takes time! 🙂

  • Beth
    February 19, 2008 at 7:49 pm

    I do find it odd the number of people on this blog who have experienced an eating disorder or are currently coping with it. While I enjoy reading this blog and love the ideas that I get from Jenna and you all, I think we all have to be careful not to make food consumption an obsession. I personally do not count calories but rather think about how each meal will benefit my body. I try new foods when they sound interesting and steer clear of those I know will cause a problem for me. I know eating disorders tend to be a much deeper problem, and the negativity that’s tied to it I believe affects the blog. Maybe blogs of this sort tend to attract people who are already obsessive eaters?? I’m not sure what it is, but I do wish we could all just share our new food finds/recipes and discuss our successes rather than bringing up calories and eating disorders. For those of us who don’t have a problem, I think it’s unhealthy to constantly hear about the issues of others. I lived with a girl in college for a year who had an eating disorder and I noticed the negative effects it had on me right away. Just want this to be a lively place that we all can enjoy! On that same note, for those of you who are battling an eating disorder, I truly hope you get well so you can enjoy the pleasures of food and a well balanced diet!

    Jenna- thank you for all your wonderful ideas! You have inspired me to try new foods and that’s so exciting!

  • Anne
    February 19, 2008 at 8:02 pm

    Blueberry babe– I like my avocado in slices on my sandwiches and honey mustard goes amazing with it! I usually have it in a pita with sliced turkey (or something else if you’re a vegetarian!), provolone cheese, spinach, and honey mustard. Yum!! I usually use about half of a smaller sized avocado.

  • registered dietitian
    February 19, 2008 at 8:07 pm

    As a registered dietitian I think your ‘tip of the week’ is not nutritionally accurate nor well researched. I caution everyone who reads this blog to take the nutritional advice with a grain of salt because while ‘certified’ it really doesn’t mean much in comparison to someone who went to school for 4 years and has a strong background in biochemistry, nutrition, biology, and anatomy, which a credentialed RD will have. For factual nutrition information a RD is your best bet–find one at http://www.eatright.org

  • jenna
    February 19, 2008 at 8:19 pm

    RD,

    I’ve never once claimed to have the educational background of a registered dietitian. I’ve made my readers aware on day 1 that I only held my certification and if they have questions they should seek someone in the medical field. So, read what you what, dismiss what you want and take it with a grain of salt if you like. It’s just a blog with some ideas I’ve gotten after reading a ton of health/medical books and articles. There’s always something new out there!

  • Leah
    February 19, 2008 at 8:30 pm

    Hi Jenna!

    I was just curious while looking at your recipe section.. is it possible to put a list at the top of the page for what recipes you’ve included on the page? That was we can use the “find” search option for the page. Just wondering if that’s possible! If not, don’t worry! You are doing an awesome job and I don’t want to add to your work load!!!

    Take care.

  • Nadia
    February 19, 2008 at 8:30 pm

    Actually what’s posted as the tip is accurate. One of my aunts is a dietitian and my sister is a doctor – i actually was curious about fruit consumption and have asked them on separate occasions. What is posted is true.

  • arimcg
    February 19, 2008 at 8:46 pm

    JennS – I have definitely experienced that with coffee! In fact, just last week I did a little test and eliminated it totally for a week…I’m not really sure if I was any less hungry, but when I drink to much, I definitely mistake the caffeine high for extreme hunger (it’s the same shaky feeling, etc). I wrote about it on my blog and a few other people said they felt the same way, so it’s not just us! I’ve been trying to only drink coffee with food now, and I think that helps a little.

  • Phoebe
    February 19, 2008 at 8:52 pm

    In response to Beth:
    Full disclosure, I am a former anorexic (in high school) with no current problems with eating. That said, I think that the propensity of people with eating disorders for blogs like this is due to a few factors:

    1. It’s estimated that something like 1 in 5 women struggle with eating issues of some kind, so you can basically throw a stone and hit an eating-disordered girl
    2. This is particularly young women who are smart, educated, motivated, and pro-active about health, which is also the type of woman interested in healthy eating & lifestyle, which is the demographic of blogs like this
    3. Restrictive eating or eating disorders make you obsessed with food, so you seek out reading about food, cooking food, learning stuff about food, looking at pictures of food (especially “healthy” food) and basically everything about food, eating, diet plans in general. Heck that’s why I started reading food blogs 3 years ago in the first place.

    So, I think that it is that people with eating issues are drawn to sites like this, and I definitely DO NOT think that blogs of this kind inspire people toward more restrictive eating. (I.e., the cause and effect are the other way around — eating disordered people like blogs like this, rather than blogs like this inspiring eating disorders) I think that this blog and Kath’s as well are really good examples of super-healthy, very non-restrictive eating. Additionally, all of the comments I’ve read so far that have to do with eating disorders are focused on ways to EAT MORE healthy food and to avoid eating restrictively. I know this isn’t an eating disorder support community (maybe if there were a message board or something, these conversations could be more specifically directed) but I think that a wide range of topics are addressed in the blog comments and that it’s all positive.

  • Serena
    February 19, 2008 at 8:59 pm

    Beth, I’m really glad you wrote your comment. I sometimes feel like the odd-ball here because I don’t have an eating disorder nor have I ever had one. I am a healthy weight (5’5 and anywhere from 127-133 pounds) and while I’d love to weigh 120-125, I try to focus on eating healthy and exercising first and losing weight second. I think it’s fantastic that this blog has generated such supportive and empathetic people and I definitely won’t stop reading it because of the comments’ sometimes focus on disordered eating. that’s mostly because it really seems like people who have/had problems are really trying to recover and work on them and i think that’s great – if that wasn’t the case, i might feel differently. when i’ve felt like i can’t relate to the comments, i’ve tried to stop reading the comments and just focus on jenna’s posts, but i really do enjoy reading everything people have to say and i love how supportive everyone is. I love that Jenna doesn’t count calories and I thought a lot of people agreed, but it sure seems like a lot of readers here count them! Hopefully people can become more like Jenna in that regard over time!

  • Arika
    February 19, 2008 at 9:12 pm

    I agree with Beth and I find it a little alarming that suddenly Jenna’s blog has seemed to be bombarded with people who have issues with food. I love this blogs happy and easy going attitude and now the comments section has seemed to have turned into some group therapy forum, almost completely unrelated to the posts Jenna is making. Ladies, I am not at all saying this in a negative way, but I liked the site better when its focus was food in a positive light, recipes, fitness, and Jenna’s culinary adventures. I used to look forward to reading the comments, questions and talks related to what Jenna was posting about, but now it’s been over taken by something else entirely! Now when I come I see the comments are filled with all sorts of therapy sessions on restrictive eating and being under weight. I find this takes away from Jenna’s intentions with her blog. I can’t speak for her, but I do wish this site was more focused on recipes and foods in a positive light in the comments section. I really do wish the best for all of you, and am not trying to stir up controversy. I just thought it seemed important to remember Jenna’s purpose of the blog and keep that in mind when commenting. Jenna~ I appreciate your blog and love all the recipes and tips! Thank you, and I hope everyone has a good day!

  • lucy
    February 19, 2008 at 9:14 pm

    Thanks again Nicole – I live right on Tremont and will have to check out Sibling Rivlary right down the street! 🙂 Thanks for the others as well. The South End is so $$$ I try to be cheap and not eat out much, but it’s nice to have some options for when I want to!

  • Kelly
    February 19, 2008 at 9:18 pm

    Erica-

    Just a little bit of advice: If you are eating 1900-2000 calories and not gaining it’s because that still isn’t a lot of food!!!! Most women that are active can eat this much to maintain and that’s MODERATLY active. Not lots of cardio, running, weight lifting, etc. You really should think more in the ball park of 2000-2500 and see what that does for you. I’m not trying to be “preachy” I’m just concerned that’s all!

  • Romina
    February 19, 2008 at 9:19 pm

    Hi Jenna,
    Thanks so much for your comment on my blog. Do you know what’s crazy? I just happened to be browsing your website!! Your meals look so wonderful, it’s inspiring. =)

    I’ve tried a few types of non-cheese, including Galaxy Foods. I found that one doesn’t melt and it just tastes awful! I hear “Sheese” is pretty good, and it comes in a very wide variety of flavours, but since it includes “isolated soy protein” in its ingredients, I avoid it. Vegan Rella is the best for me, because it’s made from Oat and Rice milk and doesn’t contain MSG, and it melts in less than 30 seconds in the microwave! It tastes pretty close to real cheese (which is something I miss incredibly too).

    Good luck with your transition to veganism! It was tough for me, as it is for many people, but it’s so rewarding. I can’t wait to read your future posts.

    Romina

  • Greta
    February 19, 2008 at 9:20 pm

    Jenna,

    I love tofu and other soy products, but I was wondering if you were at all worried about the research stating possible dangers of soy isoflavones. I know nothing has been proven, but I have heard from nutritionists and read in Vegetarian Times (or maybe it was Eating Well..) that people should watch their soy intake until we know for sure if isoflavones are dangerous.

    Since you have recently started consuming more soy, are you at all concerned about this?

  • Heather S
    February 19, 2008 at 9:22 pm

    Women whats wrong with us. We should take everyones comments and learn from them. I dont know why we need to sit here and judge everyone for what they say. I find this blog very informative and i love to read it, if you dont like some of the comments read it and go on. Ive never had an eating disorder but thank you for the ones that are open about it. Its in society, why not talk about it. Talking about it can help someone that has this disorder and maybe help them through it and let them know they are not alone. Girls lets work together and help each other out!!!

  • Kelly
    February 19, 2008 at 9:26 pm

    Heather S-

    I completly agree with you. What’s frustrating to me is that so many girls keep saying “I’m not gaining and I’m eating 1500 calories (or some low number)” Nobody is saying EAT MORE. I too, have struggled with resticting myself and now I’m learning to not do it. I have to eat more and I know that. 1500, 1800, even 2000 calories won’t do it for me. We should all be supportive of each other but also understand what we can all do to get healthier. This is either eating more, eating less, eating more organic, eating vegan, etc. Everyone has different intentions for following this blog. Let’s listen, learn, and most of all LIVE. 🙂

    Okay, that just sounded really doppy. Sorry. LOL!

  • Danielle
    February 19, 2008 at 9:32 pm

    Blueberrybabe,
    Sorry I’m responding so late but I have an avocado suggestion for you too! I went to Paris last winter for 3 weeks and stayed with my best friend and her family (she lived with me 2 years ago as an exchange student). I ate 90% of my meals with them and at least 4 included a half an avocado as an appetizer. They simply sliced it in half and poured a little extra virgin olive oil with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance the taste. It was so yummy! and a great way to start a meal. Enjoy 🙂
    Good afternoon ladies,
    I guess everyone missed my question this am, ha, so I figured I’d ask again… I feel very naive asking this but… how exactly do I ask for salmon at the grocery store? I had no idea that there were so many different kinds?! Which one is best? I only need enough for me so how much should I get? And, finally, do I buy it frozen or fresh? What exactly is the difference? Thanks for your input girls, I really appreciate it!

  • Nicole
    February 19, 2008 at 9:38 pm

    Lucy–
    I know—it’s all really expensive—that’s why I’ve grown so fond of the sushi & thai here. Tremont is a great spot–you’re basically on restaurant row!! My school (BU med) is in the south end, so I’m over there a lot. Another GREAT place to try, on Washington, is this coffee shop called Flour. They have the most DELICIOUS coffee, as well as different pastries and what not (not so healthy…but whatever, they’re SO good!!).

  • CR
    February 19, 2008 at 9:46 pm

    I agree with Beth, Serena, Arika, etc. I think the comments section on this blog is headed to the “danger zone” and I almost hope that Jenna does something to steer it back to what she originally created it for. Over recent days, the comments have definitely had too much emphasis on eating disorders and taken a turn towards “group therapy.” ***Note: This is NOT, in any way, a slam on eating disorders or those who have them!***

    I just hope the readers can keep on course with what this blog is supposed to be about, and not turn it into something it’s not. It’s very disconcerting for those of us withOUT eating disorders to have to trudge through this new atmosphere.

  • Katherine
    February 19, 2008 at 9:49 pm

    Veggie Girl

    Have you tried Vegan Gourmet “cheese”? I am wondering if it is good – they sell it at Capers (aka Whole Foods)

    I found Tofu Rella at the store today, but had it in my mind that it wasnt the right kind to buy – then realized once i got back that it was exactly the kind i should have bought! But I won’t be back there for a while so i thought i would ask about Vegan Gourmet.

    Thanks!

  • rachel
    February 19, 2008 at 9:50 pm

    i too am really impressed by how open and eager everyone is to learn. i posted earlier about weight gain and calories. i just want to clarify–i am not saying 1600-1700 is the right amount for most people! and it really isn’t the best for gaining–but in my case this was double the amount of calories (yikes) i was eating AND i wasn’t really exercising (except for the bit i walked around campus).

    i think we all know the best solution is to talk to an expert–they will be able to tell you a good number!

    i agree with a previous post–the best thing to do is start living! eat what you enjoy, be healthy, and stop obsessing (ALL easier said than done, isn’t it though?)

  • sam
    February 19, 2008 at 9:53 pm

    I personally do not like most “RD’s”. They are taught out of date info and do not usually practice what i consider a healthy lifestyle. They usually follow the US/Canadian food guide and I don’t feel that those are the greatest things to base your diet on. I much prefer holistic nutritionists!

    FYI- the fruit thing is true!

  • Ashliqua
    February 19, 2008 at 9:54 pm

    Jenna,

    Sorry that your lunch didn’t turn out that great. I wanted to share with you (and others!) a fun little vegan snack that I make from time to time that I as well as my meat-eating friends love 🙂

    I believe people (including myself maybe?) have posted on here about the Field Roast brand before (I get it at WF)…I like to take their wild mushroom flavor, put it on top of a whole wheat English muffin, and top it with one very thin slice of Follow Your Heart mozarella “cheese”. Stick it open-faced under the broiler for 3-5 minutes and you have an amazing melty treat!

    Even before becoming a vegan I really enjoyed meat substitutes, but I never liked vegan cheese. I still haven’t really found one I like…at least not one that I can incorporate into daily meals or be creative with like you tried to do today with your wrap. Besides what I do with the snack mentioned above, I’ve just kind of accepted not having cheese as part of my vegan lineup. But I’m looking forward to seeing what you come up with and most likely copying off of you 🙂

    Thanks so much for the blog, I love it!

    Ashley

  • Lyra
    February 19, 2008 at 10:02 pm

    I think it’s really inspiring to hear about girls/women who have gotten to a really low weight without totally starving themselves, but by eating 1,2001,400 cal or so a day! That’s awesome!!!! you’re still eating regularly, and with exercising, slowly dropping down to a BMI of around 17 or so.
    Why would you want to gain weight?! Curves are so unattractive… well, in my opinion.

  • TimeofButterflies
    February 19, 2008 at 10:06 pm

    Part of the reason why I think we are talking about our eating disorders is because we feel *inspired* by Jenna. Why should we hide our issues, which are certainly prevalent and rampant in society? It’s life, and part of being in this life is learning how to deal with different aspects of it, good and bad. I don’t feel AT ALL there is any “danger zone” being approached — I feel there are women who are relieved to throw the shackles of being silenced off. We’re not wallowing in our disorder, we are reaching out and nurturing each other in our pain. I think, as woman, we could support each other in all our foibles, not quickly try to tramp each other into silence because the other is uncomfortable with the subject matter. Yes, eating disorders are not comfortable or pretty…but they are indeed extremely prevalent in our society and so let’s get it out into the open, already, and try to heal some of that pain.

  • M.E.
    February 19, 2008 at 10:11 pm

    Hey Jenna, I absolutely love Charleston and vacation there every summer. The city is a culinary haven! Have you ever been to Cru Cafe or High Cotton? Those are 2 of my favorites!

  • jenna
    February 19, 2008 at 10:13 pm

    I have only HEARD of the amazing brunch on sundays at High Cotton!!! I never got to go! I also have heard of Cru Cafe, but never been there either! so sad!!!!! My absolute favorites are Five Loaves Cafe, Magnolias, S.N.O.B, Hank’s Seafood, Papa Zuzus, Kaminsky’s (for dessert!!). I have to say…the tuna at Hank’s is still the most wonderful meal I have ever eaten…I dream about it all the time!

  • Beth
    February 19, 2008 at 10:19 pm

    Timeofbutterflies,

    I don’t want to put words in Jenna’s mouth, but I think she created this blog so that people could have fun with it, not turn to it as a means of therapy. I just feel that there are other forums out there designed to be an outlet for those with eating disorders and I don’t think this should be one of them. This isn’t a big problem for me, I just happened to notice quite a few eating disorder focused comments in the past few days and it made me start to feel like I was in the same boat by partaking in this blog! Anyway, thanks for sharing your opinion. I’m not usually one to comment much but I just wanted to share my thoughts to hopefully turn this blog to the correct focus.

  • Kristin
    February 19, 2008 at 10:26 pm

    I read this site every day and I am a recovering anorexic. I have to say that this site has helped me..not harmed me. At first, I thought that I could never eat as much as Jenna. Then, I realized that Jenna is what NORMAL eating looks like. For many anorexics, what we think is overeating is normal or even under. I try to mimic Jenna just to give me a gauge and I have finally started to gain weight. If we want to support one another, then I say why not. It is not like anyone is forced to read the comments. I have been searching for help to gain weight and every blog seems to be about losing so this is a great tool for my recovery…even if Jenna did not intend it for that.

  • Serena
    February 19, 2008 at 10:28 pm

    Danielle,

    In response to your salmon question – I’d choose wild over farm raised, and maybe 4-6 oz per serving. A lot of it is up to your taste preferences – you may have to try a few different types to see what you like. It depends on where you live, but I’d also chose fresh over frozen – wild alaskan salmon is great. I prefer fillets to steaks. Here’s an article that might help: http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=104

  • Jess
    February 19, 2008 at 10:36 pm

    Hey guys, I’m a little hurt by all of the negativity in response to the posts made by those in recovery from a disordered relationship with food. However, I do agree that this blog, and the comments section, should be about food and positivity and healthy eating and all of that. That’s precisely the reason why I tried to get the emails of the girls who ARE supportive and/or could use some support in reaching a healthier relationship with food(including myself) so that we could communicate with eachother that way and not take over the comments section. That said, I found the comment hoping that Jenna will “do something about it” in reference to the positive efforts that the girls in recovery are making and happen to be posting about pretty hurtful and uncalled for. No, this should not be a forum for recovering anorexics because that is not what it is designed for, but I don’t believe it’s heading in that direction at all! I think that Jenna’s blog inspires ALL of us to make better, healthier, more exciting, and/or more mindful choices when it comes to food- so can’t we all just get along?

  • VeggieGirl
    February 19, 2008 at 10:43 pm

    **Katherine:

    I DEFINITELY recommend the Vegan Gourmet “cheese” – my omnivore family and I (I’m a vegan, not an omnivore, haha) love it! Hope you see this comment!!

  • Jess
    February 19, 2008 at 10:49 pm

    Regarding Salmon: if you’re new to buying and/or cooking salmon I’d definitely suggest opting for a fillet over a steak. Just ask for a fillet of (preferably wild-caught, there are all sorts of color additives in farm raised, but its cheaper and will do in a pinch) salmon. I agree with serena that 4-6 oz. is a good serving size. If you ask for 1/3 lb (because they usually do things in pounds at grocery stores) you’ll get just over 5 oz. As far as cooking it goes… My dad has always pan fried it in a little olive oil, lemon juice, and copius amounts of garlic and dill (we’re scandinavian, can ya tell? haha) but it’s also very good baked. I usually grill it- I bought myself an indoor grill pan for my birthday last year 😉 There are Tons of recipes online. Good luck- And tell us how it goes!!
    -jess

  • Katherine
    February 19, 2008 at 10:57 pm

    Veggie Girl,

    Thanks so much! I am really intrigued by the Vegan lifestyle – I am blood Type A and although i am not completely convinced that blood type has everything to do with what we should eat – i feel so much better on a vegetarian/vegan diet – my body loves veggies and beans and tofu – and hates red meat and dairy! I do not claim to be a vegan, but most people would think so if they saw what i ate on a daily basis!

    I actually recently found a place called Radha Yoga and Eatery – they also have cooking classes whcih I am going to sign up for! Unfortunately I don’t think that any of you are from Vancouver, BC! If you ever come try the Radha Yoga and Eatery! They have a monthly menu so it is switched up frequently and it was OH SO DELICIOUS – even my boyfriend who eats copious amounts of meat (he is a type O after all) LOVED the vegan food.

  • Beth
    February 19, 2008 at 11:05 pm

    Jess – it’s not negativity, it’s constructive feedback to us all as we’re posting on this blog. It’s something most of us frequent on a daily basis, so let’s make the discussion positive! Jenna’s inventive recipes and workouts are an inspiration and I think we should all be motivated to inspire each other in the same way. I have my own health issues (food allergies & such) that I could discuss on here daily, but I’d rather put my focus (and yours) on healthy topics so this blog is a positive tool for everyone.

    By the way you guys, I tried the Sunshine burgers this weekend and loved them!! Much better than Boca.

  • VeggieGirl
    February 19, 2008 at 11:17 pm

    **Katherine:

    Wow, Radha sounds wonderful!! If I ever make it out to Vancouver, I will for sure try it out – in the meantime, enjoy it for me :0)

    If you ever have any questions about veganism or anything, feel free to contact me on my blog (my name is a link – it will take you directly to my blog).

  • Mel H
    February 20, 2008 at 3:08 am

    Lyra,
    just wondering what you meant by your comment? It was kinda out there and against the whole purpose of the blog

  • Steph
    February 20, 2008 at 3:33 am

    I assumed that Lyra was joking by the comment. If not, please explain. I’d love to hear why you think curves are “unattractive”.

  • CR
    February 20, 2008 at 7:07 pm

    I agree – Lyra, are you freaking serious?!