Archive for the 'advice' Tag

Cutting Back

So, I’ve been changing my eating habits lately, mostly in the hopes of getting a little healthier. I think my strategy has been working– I’ve lost 10 lbs since Thanksgiving. Moreover, I have more energy and feel better. My secret? Five little changes (motivated by many sources, but especially the works of Michael Pollan):

• Meat only once or twice a week, and that only 1/4 lb portions. I split a macadamia crusted mahi mahi fillet a few days ago– when you haven’t had meat in a week, even a few bites tastes AMAZING.
• Eat mostly salads / veggie stews / veggie stirfrys. Cook most food from fresh vegetables.
• Try to not eat anything with: high fructose corn syrup, modified food starch, corn syrup, modified corn product, partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, hydrogenates vegetable shortening, etc. This cuts out most junk food, as well as almost any processed food from the grocery store… there’s a few things in the organic isle at Albertson’s or in Whole Foods, but even there you have to watch for them.
• Avoid “hidden” calories from beverages. I mostly drink water or herbal tea (no milk, no sugar). When you feel hungry, drink a glass of water/tea and wait 15 minutes. If you still feel hungry, then eat food. Otherwise, you were just thirsty.
• (something I’m still getting used to) Order smaller portions at restaurants, and split when possible. Don’t get appetizers. Order from the healthy / reduced calorie menu when possible.

Those 5 guidelines, and I feel healthier than I have in years!

Santa Barbara is Burning

Since I’ve gotten some inquiries, I thought I’d throw up a post about the recent Jesusita Fire in Santa Barbara. First off, I’m nowhere near the fire, although this one is coming closer than any previous fires. My concern is with the ~30,000 evacuees, and my hope that they don’t close down the airport right before our upcoming trip!

Here’s several good maps (one and two) of the situation. And the all important fact check, Is California on Fire?

Deflation!

Just wanted to share Mint.com’s Visual Guide to Deflation, which is quite explanatory.

To Japan: Part 2 (of 2)

Paradoxdruid and I are going to Japan for our honeymoon — specifically, we’re going to Tokyo and Kyoto for about a week each in May. Earlier we posted our list of “must-see” places in Tokyo and now we thought we’d post our list for Kyoto. We’d love recommendations from people! Part 2: Kyoto.
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To Japan: Part 1 (of 2)!

So Paradoxdruid and I are going to Japan for our honeymoon, exploring a new country as a newly wedded couple, and while we’ve come up with a list of “must-see” places, we were wondering if any Paradoxdruid’s Rants’ readers have recommendations. Part 1: Tokyo.
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