No products in the cart.

Tag: healthy recipes

FitnessHealthy TipsLifestyle

Passover Week

[dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]This Saturday March 27th, marks the first night of Passover. This week long holiday is a celebration of freedom in the Jewish faith, with traditions including celebratory meals and symbolic foods and restrictions. This can be a tough time for many of us, trying to navigate the dietary changes, staying on program and also being faced with huge feasts. Many of you will choose one of the days this weekend as your Cheat Day, but as usual the celebrating will probably last for more than just one day. Now is the time to plan out your week, weekend and be ready to get back on track next week. Don’t let things surprise you – you should have your family dinners and holiday celebrations planned so there is no reason for you to be unprepared. Some of us may be more restricted than others for the holiday, but it’s always possible find healthy and clean alternatives that fit into your Passover plans, such as these suggestions and recipes below.[dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]

Green Shakshuka

[dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]Shakshuka is a middle Eastern dish traditionally made with poached eggs in tomato sauce and spices. In this clean version, it features egg whites, onion, spinach and spices. Perfect breakfast option![dt_sc_hr_invisible_small] [dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]Ingredients:

•1 onion

•1 lb bag of spinach (fresh or frozen)

•1/2 tsp paprika

•1/2 tsp cinnamon

•1/2 tsp coriander

•2 tsp cumin

•Salt to taste

•1 tbsp oil

•Egg whites (depends on size of skillet)

 DIRECTIONS:

1. Dice the onion.

2. Heat skillet and add onions and spices. Cook until onion is soft.

3. Add spinach and allow all to cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Make spaces in the spinach to hold the egg whites so they don’t run all over. Cook on low-medium heat until eggs are cooked thoroughly.

5. Remove skillet from heat and serve. 4 egg white is 1 meal serving.[dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]

Root Vegetable Medley

[dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]Bring together traditional root vegetables in this new way for an exciting and delicious festive dish.

Ingredients:

•2 red onions, diced

•2 cloves of garlic, chopped

•2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

•1 lb carrots, cut into 1 inch pieces

•1 lb beets, peeled and cut into wedges

•1 lb celeriac, peeled and cubed

•Zest of 1 lemon

•Zest of 1 orange

•2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme

•2 tbsp chopped fresh savory

•1 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon

•Salt and pepper

•1/2 tsp ground coriander

•Cooking spray

DIRECTIONS:

1. Heat oven to 375 F and coat large casserole dish with cooking spray.

2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, spray with cooking spray then add onions and garlic. Sauté until soft and starting to brown, about 10 minutes.

3. Transfer this mixture to a large bowl then add sweet potatoes, carrots, beets, celeriac, lemon zest, orange zest, thyme, savory and tarragon. Season with salt and pepper and toss. Spoon into casserole dish.

4. Bake for 1 hour, or until vegetables are tender. 1/2 cup serving is one side.[dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]

Lemon Mousse

[dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]Ingredients:

•One 4-serving size package of Jell-O  vanilla pudding mix

•2 cups skim milk

•1 packet Crystal Light Lemonade powdered drink mix (the size that makes 1 pitcher)

•One 12 oz container of low fat Cool Whip

1. Add pudding mix and milk into a medium bowl and beat until smooth and thick.

2. Beat in lemonade mix until combined.

3. Fold in Cool Whip.

4. Chill before serving. 1 cup serving is one dessert/snack.[dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]

[dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]CAN I HAVE MATZAH? YES!

MATZAH – 2 Matzah with 1 tbsp of peanut, almond or Sun Butter,  light cream cheese or 1/2 avocado = meal

MATZAH AND FRUIT: 1 Matzah with 1 tsp of pb or sunbather with 1 piece of

fruit or 1 cup of fruit = meal

MATZAH AND EGGS – one Matzah with 3 egg whites = meal

•1/2 container Light tuna or chicken salad or egg white salad with 1 matzah = meal

• 1 slices of low fat cheese or 1 light part skim cheese stick with 1 Matzah  =. Cat 3 Snack or you can do 2 slices with 2 matzah as a meal 

[dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]Matzah is only once a day and remember never eat just to eat. If you don’t need it, don’t eat it. You don’t want to end the night feeling bloated and sick. Like you over did it and you regret it. Instead, you want to end the holiday feeling amazing and in control. You will enjoy the food, but also what is really important – the company and the celebration.[dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]

[dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]Have a Happy Passover and Safe Travels to everyone going away!

~Love to Live Healthy with Josephine Fitzpatrick[dt_sc_hr_invisible_small]

FitnessHealthy TipsLifestyle

Super Bowl Sunday

 

Whether you are a football fan or not, this Sunday is one of the biggest sporting events of the year. It has something for everyone – the biggest game of the year, popular musical performances, and entertaining commercials all wrapped into one afternoon that is celebrated at the Super Bowl Party. Infamous for its notoriously unhealthy finger foods, Super Bowl parties can be hard to navigate when you are trying to eat healthy. Even if you couldn’t care less about the game, when we are faced with tantalizing treats and junk food, we can’t help but be tempted. If you find yourself hosting or attending a Super Bowl party this weekend, you will find yourself faced with difficult decisions. Here are two ways to handle it:

 

 

1) Make it your Cheat Day! Kick back and enjoy the game, the party, the food and your loved ones. But remember to get right back on program 110% on Monday. No eating leftovers! 

 

OR

 

 2) Stay clean! It may seem easy now, but things can quickly fall to pieces when you are wrapped up in the excitement of the game, or bored by the sport and looking for food to entertain you. If you make the decision to eat healthy tomorrow, stick to it and plan now. 

 

Here are some healthy game time tips for this weekend:

 

1) Whether you are watching the game or more interested in the commercials, take some time to get up and move when there is a pause in the game or you want a break from the television. Get up and make your way around the party to socialize or just go for a good stretch.

 

 

2) Avoid eating absentmindedly. Whether you are eating clean or cheating, eat with intention. Beware not to eat out of boredom or because food is just sitting right in front of you. Try and find a place to watch from that isn’t within arms reach of any food if possible.

 

3) Start small. You’re going to be there a while, so there’s no reason to get ahead of yourself and load up on food and drink right away. If you are cheating, eat what you want to eat – don’t stuff yourself until you are sick just because it is there. If you are eating clean – stick to your meal and snack plan like any other day. Remember: it doesn’t always have to be about the food. The same goes for drinks: take it slow with alcohol and be sure to hydrate with water.

 

4) The best way to ensure that there will be a healthy option available to you is to provide one yourself. You can reach for your favorite Innovation meals and snacks such as Chicken Wings, Turkey Taco, Beef Stew, Turkey Chili, Pizza and more to nosh on during the game. Or, you can try one of these healthy swaps for some Super Bowl favorites:

 

Veggie Chips, instead of potato chips

 

 

1. Select your vegetable of choice, such as zucchini or beets, or even broccoli or green beans – anything that can be baked to be crispy and crunchy. Preheat oven to 300 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 

2. Clean and chop or slice the veggies into bite sized pieces. Use a paper towel to blot the veggies to be as dry as possible. 

3. Place veggies in a bowl with a drizzle of oil, salt, pepper and any other dry seasonings of your choice such as garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, etc. Toss the veggies to coat them.

4. Spray baking pan with cooking spray and lay out the veggies in one layer. 

5. Bake for 10-15 minutes then rotate the pan and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until edges start to brown. Remove from oven and let them cool before enjoying. Have them plain or you can dip in hummus or guacamole.  

 

Sweet Potato Skins, instead of loaded potato skins

 

1. Position oven rack in the top of the oven and preheat to 350 degrees. Bake sweet potatoes (number of potatoes depends on your needs) until fork tender, about 40-50 minutes. Let them cool completely. 

2. Cut the potatoes lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh. Cut each piece in half. 

3. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cover baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange potato skins (skin side down) on the baking sheet. Brush with oil and bake for about 20-30 minutes (until potatoes are slightly browned).  

4. Remove pan from oven. (Optional: sprinkle skins with light cheese and put back in the oven for a few minutes to melt cheese)

5. Let cool. Serve with toppings such as chives, onions, tomato, peppers, salsa, cilantro, and/or other dry seasonings. 

 

Buffalo Cauliflower, instead of fried chicken wings

 

 

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.

2. Mix 2 tsps garlic powder, a pinch of salt, a pinch of pepper, 1 tbsp oil, and 3/4 cup hot sauce in a small bowl.

3. Add 6 cups fresh cauliflower into a large gallon-sized bag, pour the sauce into the bag. Shake until the cauliflower florets are fully coated. Spread on a baking sheet.

4. Bake for 20 minutes.

 

Flavored Popcorn, instead of party mix

 

 

 

1. Microwave a bag of low fat popcorn, or use a bag of Skinny Pop Sea Salt Popcorn. Place in a bowl and top with dry seasoning of your choice such as:

    • Italian seasoning (such as a mix of oregano, fennel, red pepper flakes, basil, sage, thyme, rosemary)
    • Old Bay seasoning, dried lemon zest, pepper and salt
    • Jerk, curry, wasabi powder or other dry spicy seasoning

 

~Love to Live Healthy with Josephine Fitzpatrick

 

Innovation Weight Loss and Fitness

8031 Jericho Tpke Woodbury, NY 11797

211 E 43rd Street Manhattan, NY 10016

FitnessHealthy TipsLifestyle

Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes

 

It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving is only one week away! Time really flies, so make sure you are making this next week count, such as eating really clean or getting in some extra exercise time, because before you know it you will be faced with one of the biggest meals of the year. Whether you are preparing to host, bringing a dish or attending dinner in someone else’s home, there are a couple dishes and sides that can be great options for a healthy and yummy holiday. Here are some tips and tricks for making healthy Thanksgiving dishes.

 

The first recipe is a great substitution. Cauliflower can be cooked and mashed just like mashed potatoes and taste just as delicious. It’s a healthy version of a Thanksgiving staple, and many people at the table might not even notice the difference. It’s a great dish because you won’t feel like you’re missing out on anything and you can feel good about what you’re eating. All it takes is 6-7 cups of cauliflower, a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

 

 

 

Another simple dish features and great fall vegetable is Brussles sprouts. Brussels sprouts have so many health benefits – they offer extensive detox and digestive support, are packed with antioxidants, and can also help reduce inflammation and cardiovascular problems. If you simply coat them lightly in olive oil and balsamic vinegar, cook them in the oven then you have a tasty side that you can really feel good about.

 

 

This next recipe combines another fall vegetable with a popular grain: Butternut squash and quinoa. While this selection would normally be a main for you on any other day, on Thanksgiving you can take a scoop as a side. This is a delicious, hearty dish that is also packed with mushrooms, carrots and onion. Cook the squash in the oven, the quinoa according to normal instructions, and the rest of the ingredients cook on the stove. When they are combined, you have a sweet and healthy dish that will please anyone at the table.

 

 

 

This last recipe combines a lot of great fall foods in an interesting salad. It includes pumpkin, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, green beans and beats in olive oil and vinegar. It has plenty of nutrients from the variety of ingredients, such as fiber, protein and antioxidants. Each bite is bursting with flavor and will fill you up with healthy foods.

 

 

 

Having some healthy sides up your sleeve can help make smart choices easy so you can relax and enjoy your family and friends. When you’re not worrying about what you’re eating, you can really embrace the holiday.

 

~Love to Live Healthy with Josephine Fitzpatrick

 

Innovation Weight Loss and Fitness

8031 Jericho Tpke Woodbury, NY 11797

211 E 43rd Street Manhattan, NY 11797

 

FitnessHealthy TipsLifestyle

Fall Recipes

 

Pumpkins and spice makes everything nice!

 

Recipes for the thirst of fall…

 

It seems that the start of Fall brings out the “Pumpkin Spice Everything” phase. Walk down any grocery store aisle and you will see Pumpkin Spice flavored items everywhere. The biggest craze seems to be Pumpkin Spice flavored drinks. Now I’m sure it goes without saying, but most of those Pumpkin Spice drinks that we all look for in the Fall are loaded with a ton of fat and sugar. If you’re looking for a yummy Pumpkin flavored drink, try one of these options below. If you do make these please feel free to share with us as we would love to see! Email or text us a picture, or tag us with #InnovationRecipes

 

For all of you out there who are like me that live for their iced coffee, then try this guilt free option below:

 

Flavored Iced Coffee: A good idea is to prep this the night before so it’s ready in the morning

 

 

Ingredients:

-3 cups fresh coffee

-ice cube tray

-unsweetened almond milk

-McCormick Apple Pie or Pumpkin Pie Spice

 

Directions:

-brew 3 cups of coffee

-Take 1.5 cups of coffee and pour it into the ice cube tray. Freeze overnight for 6-12 hours

-Take the other 1.5 cups and place in a cup that you can refrigerate over night (a mason jar works great for this)

-Add the coffee iced cubes in a glass (using coffee iced cubes helps prevent your coffee from becoming watered down). Pour the plain cold coffee on top.

-Add in a splash of unsweetened almond milk and a sprinkle or two of either Apple Pie or Pumpkin Pie spice (depending on the flavoring you want) and stir.

 

Pumpkin Hot Chocolate

 

 

And if you’re looking for something a little warmer then you’ll love this one!

 

Ingredients:

-1/4 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade is fine)

-1 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder

-1 tsp vanilla extract

-1/4 tsp cinnamon

-pinch of salt (don’t omit)

-1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk

-low fat whipped cream

 

Directions:

-Blend all of the ingredients together

-Transfer to a mug and microwave 1-2 minutes until hot

-Add 1 tbsp. low fat whipped cream on top

 

 

~Love to Live Healthy with Josephine Fitzpatrick

Innovation Weight Loss and Fitness

8031 Jericho Tpke Woodbury, NY 11797

211 E 43rd Street Manhattan, NY 10019

FitnessHealthy TipsLifestyle

Yom Kippur…

 

Tomorrow at Sundown begins Yom Kippur the holiest day of the year — the day on which we are closest to G‑d and to the quintessence of our own souls. It is the Day of Atonement — Be forgiven and cleansed from all your sins before G‑d.

 

For nearly twenty-six hours — from several minutes before sunset on 9 Tishri (Sept. 29) to after nightfall on 10 Tishrei (Sept. 30) — we “afflict our souls”: we abstain from food and drink, do not wash or anoint our bodies, do not wear leather footwear, and abstain from marital relations. Instead, we head to temple and our time is spent in prayer to G‑d. It’s truly a beautiful holiday.

 

For those of you who follow, it’s a great time to give your weight loss a boost as well. Your last meal on Friday should be a nice balance of protein and healthy carbohydrates and this combination will sustain you throughout your fast. Some great choices would be:

 

  • Grilled or Roasted Chicken (no skin)
  • Vegetables – string beans, broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus
  • Mashed Sweet potato – (no milk or cream)
  • Fresh Fruit – nuts

 

Water water water throughout the day before you fast. You should never go into the fast thirsty. When you feel thirst that means your body is already dehydrated which is not good for any of your organs and will make you feel hunger. You should drink water all day when you are NOT thirsty to avoid dehydration.

 

When you Break the Fast you should not go crazy and eat everything in sight. Some of you will want to and others will not. If it’s your Cheat Day then have a piece and/or spoonful of the foods you like – scoop out the bagel and try to taste smaller choices – instead of eating large servings. If you over eat after fasting you will get sick. Ideally you should stay on program and let the fast work in your favor and Break the Fast with the following:

 

  • Light Tuna or Vegetable salads with ak mak or wasa crackers
  • Whole wheat or rye toast with lox and light cream cheese
  • Egg White salad with vegetables
  • Vegetables and guacamole or mashed avocado
  • Fresh Fruit – nuts
  • Water Water Water

 

If you do this you will lose more weight because you are having two clean meals with a long fast in between. The fast helps the weight loss because when your food is digested and used by the body – your body will then begin to burn stored fat. When the fast is over and you fill it with balanced nutritional foods and snacks you will see how much better you feel and will maintain that lighter healthier cleansed feeling. All the yummy treats that are around the table should be saved and taken home in a goody bag or put in your refrigerator and have it on your Cheat Day Sunday so you can enjoy the treats throughout the day and not try to get them all in after nightfall.

 

You should only be breaking the fast if you actually fasted:

 

If you are not fasting because of medicine, not religious, you just can’t do it….  then you should be sticking 110% to your program, and eating on program Friday and Saturday and unless it’s your Cheat Day Saturday then you should be on program and your Cheat Day is your Cheat Day – Done!

 

Innovation Weight Loss wishes you all a healthy peaceful and fulfilling year.

 

G’mar Hatimah Tovah
FitnessHealthy TipsLifestyle

Rosh Hashanah

As we approach the New Year it’s a great time to think about what the Holiday is about and what it means to you. Rosh Hashanah is the celebration of the Jewish New Year. In celebrating the New Year, Rosh Hashanah celebrates the creation of the world. It is one of the holiest days of the Jewish Year. With that said, it’s important to understand that while celebrating with food is fun and exciting – the most important thing today is to understand the holiday and celebrate the meaning of it, not celebrate eating for it. Take a moment this evening to remember the meaning of the Holiday. One part of the holiday is to reflect the mistakes of last year and focus on being a better YOU this year. That better person that you want to be starts today, it starts tonight. Focus on what you want and start the New Year with making it happen. Remember this holiday is to celebrate the world, it’s to celebrate life and those you love, and to be thankful that you are all together today to be able to celebrate it. Keep reminding yourself that you do not want to start your New Year with the same mistakes that you have been working hard to put behind you. It’s all about choices. Even on the holiday – we can celebrate it, but it’s life changing to understand and live the true meaning of it.

 

If food is going to be a challenge for you tonight – here are a few tips to follow:

 

CLEAN DAY: If it’s not a Cheat Day and you want to continue to lose weight today then you need to treat it like any other day when it comes to food. Have the roasted chicken or turkey and side vegetables. Save your snacks for after dinner fruit and if you choose to have a drink. Remember if you have already started losing weight then it’s part of your holiday to Start the New Year continuing on the right track. There is no reason for you to take what this beautiful Holiday is about and go backwards. Stay on your path and on your healthy eating and continue it through the New Year doing the right things for you and what makes you feel your best. Someone recently said to me, “I’m staying clean tonight because I’m really tired of feeling crappy from food” – if that is how you feel then don’t let the Holiday be the reason to take you off your path. After all, that would be contradicting what the holiday even means. It means to start new and put the mistakes behind you – so do just that. Continue on your path of weight loss and eating clean because that is what makes you feel the very best and how you want to start your New Year.

 

MAINTAIN DAY: If you choose to make it a Maintain Day then the best thing to do is this: Whatever meat you do whether it’s brisket, chicken or fish make sure it’s 6 oz with a vegetable. If there is something you want to try like a soup or dessert then do just that: try it. Take a small portion like a cup of broth instead of a bowl. A tablespoon of dessert instead of a piece or a slice. If you are celebrating more than one day – don’t do it both days. Choose each night to try something whether it be a small cup of soup or a tablespoon of dessert. The most important thing is that you go in with staying On Program and stay extremely mindful and know in your head that if you want something you will taste (not eat it). It’s only one thing each night if, and only if, you need it. Don’t treat it like a Cheat Day because it’s not. Sometimes just tasting it is enough and you realize you really don’t want it or need the whole thing. Being mindful on the holidays helps a lot because we get caught up with eating because it’s a holiday and not eating because we need or even want it. Think before you reach. The very worst thing you want to happen is you don’t end up Cheating and your Maintain Day ends up to be a Weight Loss day.

 

While you are remembering and celebrating what the holiday means to you and those you love – also remember how much better you feel and look when you do the right things for your mind and body. 
This New Year live and be the Healthy Example to Others

 

The Staff of Innovation Weight Loss
wishes everyone a Healthy Happy Holiday

 

Here are some on Program Recipes to help you celebrate the holiday

 

Sweet New Year Salad (Meal)
Ingredients
SALAD:
•5 cups of chopped spinach
•3 cups of chopped red cabbage
•2 carrots – shave with a peeler for sliver thin pieces
•1 apple – cored and sliced into 1/2 inch size pieces
•1 cup of chopped pecans
DRESSING:
•1/2 avocado
•1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
•1 teaspoon of fresh rosemary leaves
•1/4 teaspoon of seal salt
•Ground pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Put the salad ingredients in a large bowl and toss with the dressing until fully coated.
2. For the dressing: Blend the ingredients in a small food processor until smooth and creamy.

 

Roasted Beets (Side)
 
Ingredients:
1½ pounds golden or red beets, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces or wedges
4 teaspoons oil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh or 2 teaspoons dried herbs, such as marjoram, oregano and/or rosemary
1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Position rack in lower third of oven; preheat to 450°F.
2. Combine oil, herbs, lemon zest, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Add beets; toss to coat with the seasoning mixture.
3. Spread the beets evenly on a rimmed baking sheet.
4. Roast, stirring once or twice, until the beets are tender and browned, 20 to 25 minutes. Toss the roasted vegetables with lemon juice.

 

~Love to Live Healthy with Josephine Fitzpatrick

 

Innovation Weight Loss and Fitness
8031 Jericho Tpke Woodbury, NY 11797
211 E 43rd Street Manhattan, NY 10019
FitnessHealthy TipsLifestyle

Easter Weekend Tips and Recipes

Easter weekend is here! Like most holidays, the celebration can last several days so make sure you are prepared. It would be easy to snack on chocolate and jelly beans all weekend but you have to stay strong and save it for just your Cheat Day. Remember – even bite sized candy counts. Even if you just have one, every piece counts. No exceptions!

 

Focus on all the fun activities you can take part in this weekend, like going to a Spring Fair. They can offer everything from Easter egg hunting to arts and crafts, games for kids, parades, petting zoos, pictures with the Easter bunny and more. Some of them in New York are hosted at museums so you can make a day of it. Even if you stay in and hunt for eggs at home it’s a great way to be active and have fun with your family. 

 

If you are about to have your Cheat Day – enjoy! If you are staying on program today or tomorrow or the whole weekend, here are some festive recipes for the holiday. 

 

Easter Vegetable Platter with Hummus

 

 

Nothing easier or safer to bring to someone’s house than a vegetable platter! These two above are adorable ones you can try and most of these vegetables you can get pre cut and washed from the supermarket.

 

Take a variety of vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, edamame and celery which are all great options! You can arrange them into a fun shape such as an Easter Egg or a Carrot as seen below. 

 

A great pairing with this would be hummus. Here is a great easy Springy take on hummus that you could try below

 

Lemon Garlic Hummus

 

 

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed really well

1 small clove of garlic, finely chopped

2 tbsp tahini

Juice from 1 large lemon, about 1/4 cup

3 tbsp water

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

1/2 tsp Dijon Mustard

1 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

 

Directions:

Add all ingredients, except for oil, to a food processor and blend. Slowly stream in the oil and continue to blend for 3 minutes until very smooth.

Serving size: 1 cup of vegetables with 1/4 cup hummus is 1 snack

 

Frozen Yogurt Egg Pops

 

This super easy recipe will make a yummy treat or breakfast that even your kids will love. 

You will need the following, quantities depend on how many you would like to make.

Plastic Easter Eggs

Plain, vanilla or fruit regular non fat yogurt

Fresh or frozen fruit of your choice

Plastic ziplock bag

Piping tip

Lollipop sticks

Egg carton

 

  • Start by washing the plastic eggs, then make a hole on the bottom of each egg that will fit the lollipop sticks. 
  • Cut the tip off the ziplock bag and add the piping tip, then fill the bag with your yogurt. Fill each egg with yogurt through the hole you created, or you can open the egg and fill it halfway and add a piece of fruit in the middle. 
  • Place the filled eggs in the egg carton and freeze. 2 eggs are a snack. 

 

Easter Fruit Kebabs

 

 

Ingredients:

4 large watermelon slices, 1 inch think

4 pineapple slices, 1 inch thick

strawberries

grapes

melon

wooden skewers

easter cookie cutters

Directions:

 

Cut your fruit into assorted shapes with cookie cutter. After the fruit has been cut decorate a wooden skewer with various fruits.

-These fruits are just some of our suggestions, you can use others that you like. 1 kebab is a snack. 

 

Avocado Toast

1/2 an avocado on 1 slice whole wheat toast is a great breakfast, here are some unexpected ways to mix it up for Spring.

 

Cucumber, red peppers flakes and lime juice

 

Roasted artichoke, radish, dill and lemon

 

Spice it up with Sriracha, jalapeño or chili flakes

 

Kale sprouts, sea salt and turmeric 

 

Wishing everyone a Happy Easter and we hope you enjoy the beautiful weather!

 

~Love to Live Healthy with Josephine Fitzpatrick

 

Innovation Weight Loss and Fitness

8031 Jericho Tpke Woodbury, NY 11797

211 E 43rd Street Manhattan, NY 10019

 

FitnessHealthy TipsLifestyle

Passover Week

This Monday April 10th marks the first night of Passover. This week long holiday is a celebration of freedom in the Jewish faith, with traditions including celebratory meals and symbolic foods and restrictions. This can be a tough time for many of us, trying to navigate the dietary changes, staying on program and also being faced with huge feasts. Many of you will choose one of the days this weekend as your Cheat Day, but as usual the celebrating will probably last for more than just one day. Now is the time to plan out your week, weekend and be ready to get back on track next week. Don’t let things surprise you – you should have your family dinners and holiday celebrations planned so there is no reason for you to be unprepared.

 

Some of us may be more restricted than others for the holiday, but it’s always possible find healthy and clean alternatives that fit into your Passover plans, such as these suggestions and recipes below.

 

MAINTAIN:

 

If you want to have a Cheat Meal on any of the nights of Passover then you must stay clean all day and only go off at night. If you choose this option you will have a Maintenance Week. All other days must be clean and on program. You can only do this if you give up your Cheat Day and replace it with cheat meals for the week.

 

Remember, when you go off at night it doesn’t mean you have to eat everything in sight. In fact, a great way to enjoy is to take a large spoonful of everything you like. This way you get to taste everything but you won’t over do it. Sometimes a taste is all you need to feel satisfied and not stuffed.

 

*If you are going away on a trip during the holiday week it might be best to plan to maintain to limit your confusion and stress. Many of us start a vacation with the best intentions but when we get there we can’t stay in control. Eat clean all day then treat yourself to one off meal, dessert OR drinks. If you do this you should give up your one Cheat Day and have only cheat meals throughout the week when you need them. REMEMBER: It’s a meal, dessert or drinks each day. Not all three. Choose what works for you and stick to it. You can still enjoy everything about your trip and be able to come back and get back on track. You can even switch it up each day and choose which option to cheat with (drinks one day, meal the next, etc.).

 

WEIGHT LOSS:

 

If you decide you want to keep this Passover Holiday a Weight Loss week then you must stick to only one day cheat day. On the remaining day(s) that you celebrate Passover you can incorporate some of the suggestions below to keep you on track and stay true to your holiday traditions.

 

Green Shakshuka

 

 

Shakshuka is a middle Eastern dish traditionally made with poached eggs in tomato sauce and spices. In this clean version, it features egg whites, onion, spinach and spices. Perfect breakfast option!

 

Ingredients:

•1 onion

•1 lb bag of spinach (fresh or frozen)

•1/2 tsp paprika

•1/2 tsp cinnamon

•1/2 tsp coriander

•2 tsp cumin

•Salt to taste

•1 tbsp oil

•Egg whites (depends on size of skillet)

 

1. Dice the onion.

2. Heat skillet and add onions and spices. Cook until onion is soft.

3. Add spinach and allow all to cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Make spaces in the spinach to hold the egg whites so they don’t run all over. Cook on low-medium heat until eggs are cooked thoroughly.

5. Remove skillet from heat and serve. 4 egg white is 1 meal serving.

 

 

Root Vegetable Medley

 

Bring together traditional root vegetables in this new way for an exciting and delicious festive dish.

 

Ingredients:

•2 red onions, diced

•2 cloves of garlic, chopped

•2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

•1 lb carrots, cut into 1 inch pieces

•1 lb beets, peeled and cut into wedges

•1 lb celeriac, peeled and cubed

•Zest of 1 lemon

•Zest of 1 orange

•2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme

•2 tbsp chopped fresh savory

•1 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon

•Salt and pepper

•1/2 tsp ground coriander

•Cooking spray

 

1. Heat oven to 375 F and coat large casserole dish with cooking spray.

2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, spray with cooking spray then add onions and garlic. Sauté until soft and starting to brown, about 10 minutes.

3. Transfer this mixture to a large bowl then add sweet potatoes, carrots, beets, celeriac, lemon zest, orange zest, thyme, savory and tarragon. Season with salt and pepper and toss. Spoon into casserole dish.

4. Bake for 1 hour, or until vegetables are tender. 1/2 cup serving is one side.

 

Lemon Mousse

 

Ingredients:

•One 4-serving size package of Jell-O sugar free vanilla pudding mix

•2 cups skim milk

•1 packet Crystal Light Lemonade powdered drink mix (the size that makes 1 pitcher)

•One 12 oz container of low fat Cool Whip

 

1. Add pudding mix and milk into a medium bowl and beat until smooth and thick.

2. Beat in lemonade mix until combined.

3. Fold in Cool Whip.

4. Chill before serving. 1/2 cup serving is one dessert/snack.

 

CAN I HAVE MATZAH?

Yes!

Try 1/2 sheet original Matzah with 1 tbsp peanut butter (or sun nut butter if you cannot have peanuts) with or without 1 piece or 1 cup of fruit as a meal.

 

Matzah is only once a day and remember never eat just to eat. If you don’t need it, don’t eat it. You don’t want to end the night feeling bloated and sick. Like you over did it and you regret it. Instead, you want to end the holiday feeling amazing and in control. You will enjoy the food, but also what is really important – the company and the celebration.

 

You can also check out our previous blogs for some more recipes here and here.

 

Have a Happy Passover and Safe Travels to everyone going away!

~Love to Live Healthy with Josephine Fitzpatrick

 

Innovation Weight Loss and Fitness

8031 Jericho Tpke Woodbury, NY 11797

211 E 43rd Street Manhattan, NY 10019

FitnessHealthy TipsLifestyle

St. Patrick’s Day Recipes

HERE IS A DELICIOUS
ST. PATRICK’S DAY
 DINNER AND DESSERT THAT WILL KEEP YOU ON PROGRAM

 

Meal

 

Spinach Burgers

 

Ingredients:
-1 bag of thawed and well drained, chopped spinach
-2 egg whites
-1 whole egg
-1/4 cup diced onion
-1/2 cup low fat shredded cheese
-1/2 cup unprocessed bran
-1 tsp red pepper flakes
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp garlic powder

 

Directions:
-Mix all ingredients into a bowl.
-Shape into 6 oz patties and cook over medium high heat in a non stick skillet sprayed with Pam.
-Patties are done when they are golden and firm, about 4-6 minutes.

 

 

Dessert:

 

Jello Jigglers

 

Ingredients:
-1 6 oz box of Green Jello Gelatin
-1 1/4 cup boiling water

 

Directions:
-Place gelatin in a glass bowl. Add boiling water and stir for 3 minutes. Place water gelatin mixture into pyrex glass baking dish.
-Refrigerate for 3 hours. Place bottom of dish into warm water for 15 seconds.
-Cut jello into shamrock shapes with a cookie cutter.

 

 

Enjoy! And Have a Happy and Healthy St. Patrick’s Day!

 

~Love to Live Healthy with Josephine Fitzpatrick

 

Innovation Weight Loss and Fitness
8031 Jericho Tpke Woodbury, NY 11797
211 E 43rd Street Manhattan, NY 10019
Uncategorized

Innovation Recipes

HERE ARE SOME RECIPES TO TRY THIS WEEKEND.   
 
 

 1) BANANA PEANUT BUTTER ICE CREAM

 

1/2 medium frozen banana
1/4 cup of non fat greek yogurt
1 tsp peanut butter
1/2 cup blackberries, raspberries, or strawberries
 
Place banana in blender and blend until smooth.  Mix banana, peanut butter and yogurt.  Place in a parfait glass.  Top with Berries. 
2) LEAN AND GREEN SMOOTHIE
 
8 oz water
1/2 avocado
1/2 banana
1/2 cup of berries or cherries
1 cup of leafy greens (fresh spinach)
1 tsp fresh tumeric powder
1 tsp chia or flaxseed
 
Blend until smooth.
 
 
3) CHERRY ALMOND SMOOTHIE 
 
1 cup of non fat greek yogurt
1/2 cup frozen cherries
1 tbsp of almond butter
Blend until smooth.
 
 
4)  CHICK PEA AVACADO SALAD
 
1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil 
3 Tbsp of Lemon Juice
1 cup of Arugula
1/2 sliced zucchini
1/2 can rinsed chick peas
1/2 cup artichoke hearts
1/2 sliced avocado 
2 tbsp of parmesan cheese
1 tbsp roasted pumpkin seeds
 
In large bowl combine olive oil and lemon juice and add arugula and zucchini.  Add in chick peas, artichoke hearts.  Gently Toss.  Place sliced avocado on top and sprinkle pumpkin seeds and parmesan cheese.  
Enjoy!
~Love to Live Healthy with Josephine Fitzpatrick
Innovation Weight Loss and Fitness
8031 Jericho Tpke Woodbury, NY 11797
211 E 43rd Street Manhattan, NY 10019