6+meals per day

From my perspective, six to eight small meals a day is key to boosting energy levels, kicking metabolism in to overdrive, and actually saving you time each day. It works for me because I enjoy getting to eat something every couple of hours. The best way to describe this benefit is each meal is a pit stop to fuel energy for the upcoming hours. I am eating smaller meals so I don't feel full and tired after eating. Metabolism is revved by the food and fluids you put in it. Eating and drinking healthy foods as the day goes on is a good way to keep metabolism from coming to a halt. Smaller meals are easier to plan out ahead, since they are more convenient to throw in a lunch bag and go. Taking meals on the run are so essential for hunger cravings and keeps me from making poor food choices.

I could go on with many benefits that has come from this lifestyle change, but energy, metabolism, and saving time are a few of my favorites. There are many different metabolism boosting theories out there, so it is up to each individual to find out what works for them best. I thought it would be fun to share a days worth of my healthy meal ideas, for anyone who would like to see how the change might affect them.

7 A.M. . . Smoothie

•  1  Banana
• 1/2 cup Strawberry
• 1 cup Fat free vanilla yogurt
• 3 cubes Ice
• 1 cup Organic fat free milk
• 1 tsp Flaxseed

*Toss all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth and creamy.

9:30 A.M . . .Oatmeal                                                                          

• Sugar free original flavor oatmeal (off brand is only $2)

*One package of oatmeal. Try sweetening with splenda or natural honey.

12:00 P.M. . . Grilled Tofu or Chicken Salad

• 3 cups Shredded lettuce
• 1pinch Shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup Chopped onions
• 1/2 cup Tofu
• 1/4 cup Low fat ranch

*Grill up tofu or chicken the night before, with you favorite seasoning.

2:30 P.M . . .Trail Mix                                                                            

• Pick out your favorite all natural mixture at your local health store. (Trader Joe's, Whole Foods)

*One handful is enough. Prepare into portion sizes to easily grab and go in the morning.

***Still hungry?  Grab a small handful of grapes or whole grain crackers!

6:00-7:00 P.M . . . No bun Veggie burger

• 1 Vegetable burger
• 1slice Tomato
• 1  Lettuce leaf
• 1/4 cup Organic Ketchup or Mustard

*Have a side of black beans with the burger.

Try to avoid any late night snacking. Especially avoid items loaded with carbohydrates after 8:00 P.M.