Good Morning!
Tuesday is one day closer to Friday….so let’s all smile today! For breakfast I broke out the soy milk and had a cup of Nature’s Path pomagranite plus granola with it and topped with a sliced banana. I’ve used this brand of soy milk for years and I like it because it has a nice mild taste and is “lite”…aka not as caloric as some of the soy milks on the market. This soy milk cost $2.99, which I think is pretty good…that’s cheaper than the skim milk!
I have a bit of a headache this morning (hoping it won’t turn into one of my migraines), and I think it might be because I didn’t drink enough water after spinning. During spinning I drank 40 oz, but then after I had only a glass or two + hot chocolate. I didn’t want to have to pee all night! Now I’m regretting that decision. Ugh, I hate headaches 🙁 Hopefully this one will go away soon….
About 455 calories.
ps- Added the hummus recipe my mom makes sometimes in the recipes section, along with her shrimp scampi! Enjoy!
p.p.s- Does anyone else get migraines and know of a more natural remedy? The thing that makes me most upset when I get them is that I absolutely HATE taking heavy drugs to make them go away. I have prescription migraine pain killers and also excedrin migraine but would love to know of something more natural I could do to ease the pain. I’m not really one for western medicine and like to use homeopathic cures whenever I can……anyone?
VeggieGirl
February 5, 2008 at 1:08 pm“Tuesday is one day closer to Friday” – I love the way you think, Jenna!! A much more optimistic phrase, than my “Is it Friday yet?!?!” phrase :0D
Once again, you’re enjoying another scrumptious breakfast meal. This is slightly random, but have you ever tried hempmilk?? Hempmilk = VeggieGirl’s obsession :0)
I do hope that your headache ceases quite soon – be sure to drink enough water, for sure.
Happy Mardi Gras!! :0)
Helen
February 5, 2008 at 1:18 pmI love that mug! You have the most adorable glasses! :-]
jenna
February 5, 2008 at 1:18 pmVeggie Girl,
I’m so interested in Hempmilk but I haven’t tried it–I dont think I’ve ever even SEEN it. What are the pros of it because I know how much you like it! What does it taste like? I think I would really like it and I love trying new things!!
Casey
February 5, 2008 at 1:31 pmI have to take preventative medicine for mine 🙁 I get them sooo often but my roommate eat cheese!!?? I guess her doctor said it has some natural healing aspects.
Lisa
February 5, 2008 at 1:44 pmThat’s awesome you really liked spinning! I’m either gonna go to a spinning class tonight or just do the whole running thing with the way you suggested earlier…not sure what I’m feeling yet. My gym is offering different times for classes this month…I’m SOOO PUMPED! I got to try this Bosu challenge last night and loved it! I was looking for another strength class and I FOUND IT! Going to the gym is just a wonderful thing!
Thanks everyone (Jenna included!) for participating in this blog! I have found so many new food ideas that help me get more of a variety for meals and snacks…and nutrients!! Also, I bought some pears last night while I went grocery shopping because of all the wonderful comments people had to say about them! I’ve had them before but I normally just stick to my apples and bananas! I had one with my dinner and it was excellent!
Oh and thanks jenna for the hummus recipe! I made a wrap today using the “ok” hummus I made from the weekend with spinach, tomatoes and cheese! We’ll see how it turns out!
Taylor
February 5, 2008 at 1:44 pmDoes anyone know what happened to Foodie911’s blog??? I really liked checking it out daily. Thanks!!
VeggieGirl
February 5, 2008 at 1:44 pm**Jenna:
I don’t mean to self-promote, but I did write a product review on the Living Harvest hempmilk, at GoDairyFree.org (I was NOT paid for the review – I even got to choose the product to try; so it’s not a “super biased” review, I swear). You can click on the link below, to read all about hempmilk and it’s EXTRAORDINARY benefits (if you need more information, feel free to ask!): http://www.godairyfree.org/Product-Reviews/Alternatives-Milk/Living-Harvest-Hempmilk-Vanilla-Flavor-Vegan-Gluten-Free-Nut-Free-Soy-Free.html
Lynn
February 5, 2008 at 1:51 pmI don’t get migraines, but when I get headaches, I like a cool dark room.
Jenna, how many ounces of water do you drink typically a day and how many ounces while exercising (yoga or running)? Thanks feel better!
ibex
February 5, 2008 at 2:01 pmtaylor-
i liked foodie911’s blog too–she commented a little while ago and said that her website/address had been taken over and has yet to start up another blog at a new location.
I hope she does, soon! let me know if you find anything else…but last I heard her blog is kaput for now 🙁
MaureenLC
February 5, 2008 at 2:06 pmI would suggest checking out chiropractic care. It’s likely that your migraine problem is stemming from a bigger problem like being slightly off balance or having a pinched nerve. If you’re interested in checking out homeopathic remedies, this would be a good place to start.
Susan
February 5, 2008 at 2:15 pmthank for the hummus recipe …….can’t wait to try it!
How did your mom get black dog tavern recipe?
Taylor
February 5, 2008 at 2:16 pmThanks Ibex! I will definently let you know if i find anything else out!
Susan
February 5, 2008 at 2:19 pmVeggiegirl,
You probably know the answer to this, if you want to turn Jenna’s hummus recipe into roasted red pepper hummus, would you literally just put in the food processor roasted red peppers along with the other ingredients? Is that all there is to it? Also, do you know if you can make hummus in a blender?
chandra
February 5, 2008 at 2:25 pmI totally LOVE what you said about the shrimp scampi!
“It will probably make your boyfriend want to propose….I wouldn’t be surprised. It’s THAT good. Trust me on this.”
LOL – that is the best! I love making foods that make guys fall in love with me! I know exactly who I’ll use it on too! 🙂 ha! Thanks Jenna!
Rachel
February 5, 2008 at 2:43 pmHey Jenna! I get chronic migraines! Its taken me years, (I’m 23, and I’ve been getting them since I was 13 or 14) to figure out my triggers, I’ve cut out certain foods, all artificial falvorings, tried to avoid forescent lights, drank tons of water, stopped caffiene, etc. But, I still was getting them clustered up to 3 times a week, during college, it was the most frustrating thing in the world. In the end though, after doing my own research and talking with my doctor, i really found it to be mostly hormone related, serious stress situations and then the rest kind of out ot hands, do to weather pressure changes for example.
With my doctors help
I know you may be looking for a natural cure, but its been scientifically proven that those who get migraines have a different brain make-up. In the end, for me, and I know many others, preventative medication was the only thing that works. I got on lower estrogen birth control and a calcium blocker, that I take once a day, that keeps the blood vessels in my head more stabilized, now I only get migraines once every 3 months or so, and the medicine has had little to no side effects. Of course, this might not be right for you, but its worth looking into with your Doctor. I hope this helps, though I know you may not have been looking into medical advice. If you want to know more though I’d be happy to email you with more details or we can just comiserate about how awful migraines are!
~Rachel
Amanda
February 5, 2008 at 2:50 pmI love making Jenna’s oat meal but it always seems to get stuck in the bottom of the pot, making it difficult to clean.
Are there any tricks to preventing the oatmeal from sticking???
Thanks!
Katie H
February 5, 2008 at 2:50 pmJenna,
Thankfully, I rarely get headaches, but my husband gets them frequently. He puts cold packs on his head and swears by them. Frozen peas work well because the peas will conform to your head.
Also, try asking a clerk for advice in the Whole Body section of Whole Foods. I currently have a nasty head cold and didn’t want to take any sinus medicine because of the way they make me feel. I bought an herbal cold remedy from Whole Foods, and so far, it seems to be working well.
Hope you feel better soon!
kay
February 5, 2008 at 2:58 pmI also get migraines like you… The last prescription pain killers (made especially for migraines) that I tried were horrible. Thirty min after taking them, my head was spinning and I was in more pain. Ever since that, I have been searching for more natural methods! I have found a few things that work for me so far. Temples are usually were I feel more pain.
-Massage your temples in a circular form using your fingers.
-Putting something cool and soft around temples (I heard that for some people something warm helps them better)
-Massage between your index finger and thumb (pressure point)
I have also stopped using aspartame (it is in fiber one and other cereals) and it seems to help. Splenda does not appear to affect me too much though. I just try to prevent it from coming because once it starts it is more difficult to stop/relieve it. No noise, less light, some fresh air, avoid stress, relax with eyes closed, etc.
Have you had your teeth checked? I was told that if your jaw is slightly off when you bite, it make cause migraines as well.
Let me know if anything helps you!
Arika
February 5, 2008 at 3:06 pmJenna or anyone with an answer,
I have a somewhat random question. I found a really yummy chilli recipe and it says to make polenta (sp?) to put under the chilli. It kind of looks like the polenta is formed into a bowl shape and then the chili is heaped in to it. I beleive its similar to cornbread but has the consitancy of mashed potatos…correct me if I am wrong. The recipe says to make it with yellow corn meal, however I swear I have seen boxes of polenta before at the store, but can’t remember. Have you or anyone else ever made it? Is it good? Just wondering if its worth a try. Any recommendations are welcome. Thanks!
Trina
February 5, 2008 at 3:15 pmJenna,
I don’t get headaches myself but I took some health classes in college where a Homeopathic Physician came and spoke to us!! The thing with homeopathic medicine is it is highly individualized and they look at very specific symptoms to figure out how to help YOU. Here is a little article that maybe could help you figure out what “type” of migraines you get and I think it suggests remedies for each type 🙂
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3987/is_200306/ai_n9255367
Trina
February 5, 2008 at 3:18 pmArika,
Polenta is basically a type of paste that IS made with cornmeal. You are right about what it is and its consistency. They also DO sell it at some stores just as a premade type of thing. I think the difference is (like most food items) that when you make it at home it is going to taste a lot better and you know what you are putting in it.
I think either way it will be great! Polenta is really good, so you should try it! If you don’t have the time, then just pick some up at the store this time and then try making it another time 🙂
Amanda
February 5, 2008 at 3:25 pmI got a polenta brick and only want to make one or two servings. Does anyone know how to break it off or how to handle it?
Laurie
February 5, 2008 at 3:27 pmHi Jenna,
First of all, your blog is great! Second, I do get migraines. I used to get them about once a month when I was in school but now they are less frequent. They always seem to strike when I haven’t been taking care of myself (not getting enough sleep, not eating enough fruits and veggies but eating more processed foods, and stress!). I actually decided to skip my work out this morning and get some extra sleep because I was afraid I’d get one soon. Anyway, I used to retreat to a cool, dark room whenever I’d get a migraine but now I’m at work and don’t have that luxury so what I usually do is drink a ton of cold water, eat something like crackers or grapes or an apple, and I just take ibuprofen. I also try to go for a slow walk around the block to get some fresh air. I stare at a computer most of the day so I think my eyes need a break! I’ve also used ice packs in the past and I think they really help. But I do think it’s my body’s way of telling me to slow down.
arimcg
February 5, 2008 at 3:46 pmI grew up using homeopathic remedies for everything (my mom is really into it) and it can really work wonders. Try this link for finding your symptoms and the corresponding remedy: http://www.truestarhealth.com/Notes/2242005.html
Erica
February 5, 2008 at 3:52 pmHi guys, this is kind of a random question, but if Jenna or anyone else can help me out, i’d appreciate it. If i’m making couscous, and only want to make a single serving (3/4 cup dry), how much water or broth should i cook it in? Thanks!!
VeggieGirl
February 5, 2008 at 3:57 pm**Susan:
yep, that’s all there is too it, to make roasted red pepper hummus :0) I highly recommend making it in a food processor rather than a blender, in order to get the desired consistency of the hummus. let me know how it turns out!
**Erica:
3/4 cup couscous (which is the single-serving) is the amount AFTER it’s cooked – you want to use 1/4 cup dry couscous to make that amount, with about 1/2 cup of water or broth.
AW
February 5, 2008 at 4:03 pmJenna, is the Cordon Bleu doing anything special for Mardi Gras? Baking King Cakes, maybe?!
Happy Fat Tuesday!!!
Arika
February 5, 2008 at 4:10 pmHmmm, polenta sounds good, like cornbread only warm and mashed like potatos. I am for sure going to give it a try! I think I will just by the cornmeal and take a swing at the homemade version. Thanks for the advice Trina!
Susan
February 5, 2008 at 4:36 pmVeggiegirl, I don’t have a food processor, do you think it will work in a blender?
Soi
February 5, 2008 at 4:38 pmHi
I would try Chinese herbal tea (well, i drink Korean tea made of Chinese herbs…lol)
the one i drink is called “ssang hwa cha” which also has dates and nuts in it.
it’s supposed to help when you’re sick. i’ve found it helps with sore throats and headaches too
i luv the westsoy milks too! yum…lol
Erica
February 5, 2008 at 4:41 pmThanks veggiegirl! And yes, I knew that it was 1/4 cup dry, just made a typo! 🙂
Another question (i’m full of them today!) for Jenna or anyone else who’d like to chime in – i’m currently trying to gain 10 pounds in a healthy fashion. Generally, i’d do cardio about 5 days a week. Should I totally stop my cardio regime until I gain some pounds, or should I continue to cardio but at a lesser intensity?
Emily #2(haha)
February 5, 2008 at 4:46 pmI have a question about eating before working out. I usually don’t eat before I workout in the mornings. I’ve heard that, at least cardio, is most effective in burning fat if you have nothing in your system (aka no glucose to burn). Lately I’ve really noticed a lack of energy from not eating beforehand, but I always feel so sick if I don’t have 1.5 hours at least to digest. So what should I eat if I’m waking up and going straight to the gym. I’ve heard simple carbohydrates if you’re working out within the hour, but I don’t usually eat those so I can’t imagine having refined carbs…I’d feel like I was eating pure sugar. I know Jenna has recommended half a cliff bar but I would def feel sick to my stomach if I ate that before my workout. Any thoughts/ideas? Thanks guys!
Lizzy
February 5, 2008 at 5:00 pmEmily, you might want to try a small piece of fruit with a little protien. The classic apple and pb might do? Fruit is high in sugar and is digested into your system pretty quickly…it might help give you a little boost before you workout…I know it works for me! Also, some people like to eat a few crackers for some fuel!
Lizzy
February 5, 2008 at 5:01 pmprotein**
nat
February 5, 2008 at 5:03 pmHey there jenna. Well you always motivate me in the morning! 🙂 for headaches I use tea tree oil on my temples and on the back of my neck. It doesnt smell too lovely but i swear it works!!!!! I HATE taking heavy drugs as well because im just soo sensitive to them. One alavert or something and im just out there in space alllll day.
hope u feel better!!!!!!
linds
February 5, 2008 at 5:08 pmEmily #2- I have heard that as well about fat burning and cardio. Also like you I am exhausted if I workout first thing with no food. I’ve started eating a real breakfast before I go (I’ve found I’m ok with only 30-45 minutes digestion time) but since that doesn’t work for you.. Do you absolutely have to exercise in the morning? But I guess if you can’t change your workout time.. What about sport drinks? Maybe have some gatorade or vitamin water just to get something more substantial than water into your system. Dilute them with water if the taste is still too strong and maybe that won’t make you feel sick.
VeggieGirl
February 5, 2008 at 7:20 pm**Susan:
I’m sure it will work in a blender – just be sure to watch the mixture so that it doesn’t get TOO smooth.
**Erica:
I too am trying to gain weight – I still do cardio, but I only do it for 30-40 minutes, 5 days a week; and I have been strength-training twice a week as well.
I hope you guys see these comments!!
Erica
February 5, 2008 at 7:32 pmThanks for all your help Veggiegirl, it seems like both our exercise routines and situations are very similar. I will do exactly what you suggested considering that was what I was planning on doing. 🙂
laila
February 5, 2008 at 7:39 pm“lite” soymilk is just regular soymilk with extra water. the only difference is it costs the same. if you want to get into real frugality ;), you can always buy the “regular” soymilk and add a little water to it. voila – you have “lite” soymilk.
Rachel
February 6, 2008 at 12:50 amHi Jenna,
I love your blog but do not usually respond. I know of a natural migraine solution you can try although it may be a bit pricey- acupuncture. I am a licensed acupuncturist in Utah and have treated a number of chronic migraine sufferers with great success. It usually takes a couple treatments, and in some states is covered by insurance. Don’t worry about the needles, they are super thin and don’t hurt. Really, most people find acupuncture very relaxing. You can find a licensed acupuncturist by going on the NCCAOM website and select “find a practitioner.” Acupuncture is becoming more mainstream, and it is a natural but legitimate medicine. You should check it out. I hope you are feeling better and thanks again for the lovely blog.
Guruchel
February 20, 2008 at 9:06 amNice! Thanks!