What your scale isn’t telling you

What your scale isn’t telling you

In this article you’ll discover what your scale isn’t telling you about your weight and health, plus you’ll learn about better ways to track weight loss & positive shifts in your health.

Are you feeling discouraged by the number on your scale?

Have you started a new exercise program and/or diet, but despite all your efforts your weight just doesn’t seem to budge in the right direction?

What’s up with that?!

Believe it or not, no changes in your weight can still mean your moving in the right direction with your health and fat loss.

What your scale fails to tell you is how much fat, muscle, bone and water mass you have (also known as body composition). This missing piece of information is key since body composition tells us more about a healthy body than just weight alone.

Now wrap your head around this…

Muscle weighs more than fat, which means that as you become leaner, and start losing fat, your weight may not shift much and … wait for it… your weight may go up!

This is a common story for someone who starts an exercise program or changes their diet to include more nutrient-dense foods that help burn fat and build lean mass.

So, contrary to popular belief, no changes or an increase in your weight when starting new healthy habits, may in fact be great news for you.

Now let’s be honest, how many times have you stressed out about this? …

Going up 1lb then coming down 1lb, then going up 2lbs, but then coming down 2lbs. Now I’m up 3lbs, but wait I’m back down 3lbs. Oh s#!%, now it’s back up 1lb, but if you give me a moment to pee I can get it down another pound. Now I ate a bag of potato chips and I’ve gained 2lbs, so maybe I’ll skip breakfast and look, I’m back down 2lbs …

Frustrating, right? Let me explain what’s going on here.

Small changes on the scale over a short period of time are usually an indication of fluctuations in water weight NOT fat weight. For example, if you consume extra salt in your diet, your body may respond by retaining more water which will increase the number on your scale. This increase in weight has nothing to do with fat, but instead is a reflection of an increase in water weight.

So, next time the number on your scale goes up and down and all around from morning to night, PLEASE sip on some calming herbal tea and stop stepping on the scale!

Now that you have a better understanding of the downside to using weight as a tracking tool, let’s chat about markers that are more accurate for tracking healthy weight loss and positive changes in health.

5 ways to track weight loss & positive shifts in your health

1. Body measurements

Track changes in your chest, waist and hip measurements since these numbers are a better indicator of fat loss. Also, pay attention to changes in how your clothing fits. Are your jeans feeling looser and more comfortable?

2. Energy levels

Track changes in your energy levels throughout the day. Are you experiencing more energy in the morning and/or sustained energy throughout the day with fewer afternoon crashes?

3. Digestive health

Track changes in your bowel movements and GI symptoms. Do your bowel movements look and feel healthier? Are you experiencing less bloating, gas, heartburn, stomach pain, etc.?

4. Sleep

Track changes in the quality of your sleep. Are you falling asleep faster, waking up less throughout the night and/or feeling more energetic upon waking?

5. Mood

Track changes in your emotional state. Are you feeling happier, less stressed, more connected with friends and family, etc.?

If you still want to use the scale as one of your tracking tools, here’s what I suggest …

Weigh yourself once a week, in the morning before any food or water is consumed.

For women – since weight tends to fluctuate more due to our monthly cycles, I recommend weighing yourself once a month (at the same period in your cycle) to avoid getting discouraged by large weight fluctuations that can happen during the course of a monthly cycle.

If you are having ANY negative thoughts and/or feelings around weighing yourself – I highly recommend getting rid of your scale since it will not contribute to your health and may hinder it (both mentally and physically).

At the end of the day, the number on the scale is just that – a number. It can tell you a small story about changes in your overall weight when looked at over longer periods of time, but it doesn’t tell you a whole lot about your body composition and overall health.

Are protein bars healthy fast food?

Are protein bars healthy fast food?

Are protein bars healthy fast food? In short, they can be, but not all protein bars are created equal and most bars on the market are full of low-quality ingredients. In this article, you’ll discover the main issues with most protein bars and what to look for in a high-quality bar.

Do you want to make healthy food choices, but feel it’s not always realistic due to time constraints?

A common question I get asked is – “Jen, what can I eat when I’m on-the-go and don’t have time to prepare healthy food?”

As always, I encourage you to eat whole foods as often as possible, but I understand there are moments where whole food eating isn’t an option and you need to rely on foods that come in a package, box or container.

When these moments arise it’s important to remember that food quality still matters even when eating on-the-go.   

In this article, I’ll provide you with some helpful information on sourcing out healthy protein bars.

Protein bars can serve as a dense snack (or meal replacement if need be) and are convenient to carry around in your purse or gym bag, store at the office or throw into a carry-on/suitcase when you travel.

A high-quality protein bar that contains healthy sources of protein, fat and fiber can leave you feeling satisfied and fueled, so you’re able to make it to your next meal without throwing a stapler at the copy machine or feeling the need to eat the sugar loaded chocolate bar whispering to you at the check-out counter.

BUT before you head out and load up on protein bars, it’s important to know that not all protein bars are created equal and most bars on the market are full of low-quality ingredients.

Here are the main issues with most protein bars

  • High in sugar. Most bars are loaded with sugars, syrups, dried fruit and/or filler carbs which can spike blood sugar levels.
  • Gut irritating and low-quality protein sources. Protein bars often contain low-quality whey or plant-based protein which can be difficult to breakdown, in particular if you’re dealing with gut issues already.
  • Inflammatory oils and fats. Most bars contain refined vegetable and/or seed oils that are not heat stable and can cause an inflammatory response your body.

Here’s what to look for in a high-quality protein bar

  • Gluten & grain free – important for individuals with a sensitive gut, gluten intolerance or an autoimmune condition.
  • Dairy/whey free – important for individuals with a sensitive gut, dairy intolerance or an autoimmune condition.
  • Soy & GMO free.
  • Free of refined vegetable and seed oils – like canola, sunflower, soybean, etc.
  • Low sugar – look for natural, low glycemic sweeteners like stevia, coconut palm sugar, sugar alcohols, some dried fruit and/or honey.
  • Soluble fiber – helps to support healthy gut bacteria and lowers the glycemic load of the bar.
  • Quality protein – grass-fed beef, collagen or bone broth (these are great low-allergen protein sources that are easy to breakdown). Some quality vegan protein sources are organic pea, rice or seed protein. Grass-fed dairy/whey is an option if you don’t have a dairy/whey intolerance or autoimmune condition.
  • Quality fats – like cocoa powder or butter, coconut oil, seed or nut butters.
  • Mostly organic and/or well sourced ingredients.

Pure PaleoBar Canada

My go-to protein bar for taste, texture and ingredients is Pure PaleoBar.

Not only does this bar meet all my standards for a healthy, high-quality protein bar, but it also leaves me feeling satisfied and energized after eating it.

I don’t experience gas, bloating or an upset stomach with this protein bar, which is HUGE for me considering most bars I’ve tried in the past triggered these symptoms.

I always carry Pure PaleoBar in my purse in case I’m in need of quick and healthy fuel. I also throw a few bars in my suitcase/carry-on bag when I travel since finding healthy food in airports, on the road or in unfamiliar territory can be tricky.

Learn more about Pure PaleoBar HERE.

If you’re searching for a vegan protein bar, check out ChocoMint DF bar.

Get Pure PaleoBar

Gluten + dairy free with anti-aging & gut friendly bone broth protein

Protein Powder Checklist: What to look for in a high-quality protein powder

Protein Powder Checklist: What to look for in a high-quality protein powder

This Protein Powder Checklist will help guide you in sourcing out a high-quality protein powder for weight loss, IBS and optimal health!

Not all protein powders are created equal and it’s important to use a protein powder that makes you feel good when you consume it. Protein powders should not cause symptoms like gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, lethargy, etc. – and if you’re using one that does, I highly recommend removing it from your diet.

You can find my top recommended proteins powders below. These protein powders are not only of the highest quality on the market (meeting all the criteria below), but they also taste delicious when blended into a smoothie!

If you’d like to find a different protein powder, I’ve put together a quick checklist to help guide you in sourcing out a good option. Do your best to find a powder that meets all of the following criteria.

protein powder for smoothies

Protein Powder Checklist: What to look for in a high-quality protein powder

✅ Processed in a way that allows for easy extraction, digestion & absorption of protein + nutrients. Keep in mind that it is difficult for our bodies to extract protein from plant-based sources like pea, rice, seed, hemp, etc.

✅ No added sugars or artificial sweeteners. A natural sweetener like stevia is a great alternative since it won’t spike blood sugar levels.

✅ No fillers, artificial flavours, colours or preservatives.

✅ No dairy, gluten, soy, or other ingredients that can irritate your gut and cause inflammation. If you tolerate dairy well, whey protein may be okay for you. That said, I do not recommend whey protein for people trying to lose weight, those with IBS or an autoimmune condition. If you have an intolerance or sensitivity to any other food, make sure the protein powder you select does not contain it.

✅ Free of hormones and antibiotics, plus pasture-raised for animal protein. Non-GMO and/or organic for plant protein.

✅ No other added ingredients that can compromise health. Research each ingredient on the label so you know what you are consuming.

Get PurePaleo Protein

The best protein powder for weight loss, IBS & anti-aging 

PurePaleo Protein is the protein powder I currently use and recommend. It’s one of the top protein powders recommended by Naturopaths and Functional Medical Doctors. PurePaleo Protein works well for people with IBS and those looking to lose weight. Available in chocolate, vanilla & unflavoured.

If you require a vegan protein powder, I recommend PurePea Protein (available in vanilla flavour).

 

Pumpkin Leek Soup (Plant-Based, Paleo)

Pumpkin Leek Soup (Plant-Based, Paleo)

Pumpkin Leek Soup is warming and delicious! It’s the perfect recipe for fall with simple ingredients like pumpkin, leeks & carrots.

It’s pumpkin season! Whether you enjoy roasting your own pumpkin or using canned pumpkin for all those great Autumn recipes, you can’t go wrong …

Pumpkin is super low in calories despite being packed with nutrients.

1 cup of pumpkin contains under 50 calories, as it’s 94% water. This makes pumpkin a weight-loss friendly food since you can consume more of it than other carb sources (like grains and potatoes) but still take in fewer calories.

In addition, pumpkin is a good source of fiber, which can keep you feeling fuller for longer and support good gut health.

Pumpkin is very versatile and easy to add to your diet in both sweet and savory dishes. Give this Pumpkin Leek Soup a try – or browse my blog for more great pumpkin recipes!

Pumpkin Leek Soup

Pumpkin Leek Soup

INGREDIENTS: (4-6 servings)
1 can pumpkin
1 whole leek
5 large carrots
5 celery stalks
1 pack mushrooms
1 lemon
2 tbsp ghee/butter or coconut oil
1 tsp cumin, ground (optional)
1 tsp coriander, ground (optional)
1 tsp rosemary
Sea salt and black pepper to taste
Filtered water

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Chop and place all vegetables into a slow cooker.

2. Add all spices.

3. Add filtered water (enough to cover 3/4 of the vegetables).

4. Cook for 4 hours at high setting or 6 hours at low setting.

5. Put cooked vegetables and liquid in a blender, add ghee/butter/coconut oil, and lemon juice (you will probably have to do this in two batches).

6. Blend until a thick and creamy purée is formed.

7. Jar any extra soup, store in the fridge and use within the week.

Sardines with Cilantro & Dill Chimichurri (AIP, Paleo, Keto)

Sardines with Cilantro & Dill Chimichurri (AIP, Paleo, Keto)

Sardines with Cilantro & Dill Chimichurri is the perfect go-to lunch recipe! It’s super quick to prepare and packed with nutrition and fresh flavour. This easy and nutrient-rich recipe is AIP, paleo, low-carb & keto friendly.

DID YOU KNOW? Supplemental calcium is not only ineffective for bone health, but is associated with some pretty serious health risks, including heart disease, cancer and kidneys stones.

A meta-analysis of studies involving more than 12,000 people published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) found that calcium supplementation increases the risk of:

  • Heart attack by 31 percent
  • Stroke by 20 percent
  • Death from all causes by 9 percent

In addition, daily supplementation of calcium at 1,000 mg is associated with increased prostate cancer risk and an increase in kidney stones.

Lastly, a Swedish study reported a 40 percent higher risk of death among women with high calcium intakes (1,400 mg and above), and a 157 percent higher risk of death if those women were taking a 500-mg calcium supplement daily.

Learn more about Why You Should Think Twice about Taking Calcium Supplements (an article written by Chris Kresser, a Functional Medicine Practitioner).

Consider getting your calcium from food sources like:

  • High-quality dairy products
  • Canned, bone-in fish (e.g., sardines, salmon, etc.)
  • Dark, leafy greens
  • Almonds and seeds (especially poppy and sesame)

Cilantro & Dill Chimichurri

What you need for Sardines with Cilantro & Dill Chimichurri:

Looking for more healthy canned fish recipes? You’ll love these …

Sardines with Cilantro & Dill Chimichurri

Sardines with Cilantro & Dill Chimichurri

Sardines with Cilantro & Dill Chimichurri is the perfect go-to lunch recipe! It’s super quick to prepare and packed with nutrition and fresh flavour. This easy and nutrient-rich recipe is AIP, paleo, low-carb & keto friendly. 
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: AIP, Keto, Low-Carb, Paleo
Servings: 1

Ingredients
 

  • 1 can wild sardines
  • 1/2 avocado, chopped
  • 1-2 tbsp Cilantro & Dill Chimichurri, recipe link in notes
  • 1/4 cup sprouts of choice

Instructions
 

  • Combine all ingredients in a bowl or container.
  • Enjoy on its own, in a healthy wrap or on top of a salad.
Keyword dairy free, fish recipe, gluten free, grain free, healthy lunch, herbs, quick meals, sardines
Beef & Black Bean Chili (Paleo, Low-Carb)

Beef & Black Bean Chili (Paleo, Low-Carb)

Does the cold weather have you searching for recipes that you and your family can warm up to in the comfort of your home? Search no further than this Beef & Black Bean Chili! It’s easy to make and will leave your home smelling of soul warming comfort food.

Here’s what makes this chili recipe the best …

  • It uses black beans which may be easier to digest when compared to other beans traditionally used in chili.
  • It can easily be modified to be paleo, dairy free, keto and low-carb (see recipe below for modifications).
  • There’s a variety of healthy and unique toppings that you can try.
  • It uses fire roasted tomatoes which adds extra flavour, but regular canned tomatoes works great too.
  • The end result is absolutely delicious and soul warming! Best part is, leftovers taste just as great–if not better!

Serve this dish on its own or on top of cauliflower “rice” for an even heartier meal.

Looking for more chili recipes?

Try my Pumpkin Chili! It’s a hearty, paleo friendly and low-carb chili with a unique combination of pumpkin, zucchini, warming spices and cocoa.

Beef & Black Bean Chili

What you need for Beef & Black Bean Chili …

  • Grass-fed ground beef
  • Black beans (see recipe for paleo version)
  • Onion
  • Red pepper
  • Jalapeño pepper
  • Canned tomatoes
  • Garlic
  • Chili powder
  • Cumin
  • Smoked paprika
  • Avocado oil
  • Optional Toppings: Lime, goat sour cream or coconut kefir, cilantro, plantain chips

Want more wholesome comfort food recipes? You’re going to love these …

Beef & Black Bean Chili

Beef & Black Bean Chili

Does the cold weather have you searching for recipes that you and your family can warm up to in the comfort of your home? Search no further than this Beef & Black Bean Chili! It's easy to make and will leave your home smelling of warming comfort food.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Keto, Low-Carb, Paleo
Servings: 4

Ingredients
 

  • 1 lb grass-fed ground beef
  • 400 ml can black beans, drained and rinsed, OR 1/2 lb extra ground beef*
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 red pepper, deseeded and chopped
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, deseeded and chopped
  • 796 ml can fire roasted tomatoes (or regular), diced
  • 2 cloves garlic , finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • Fresh ground pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 cup filtered water

Toppings (optional)

  • 4 wedges lime
  • 4 tbsp. goat sour cream, or coconut kefir (dairy free version)
  • 1 handful cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 small bag plantain chips

Instructions
 

  • Over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic in ghee or avocado oil (~2 minutes).
  • Add red peppers and jalapeño (~2 minutes).
  • Add all spices and sauté until aromas begin to surface.
  • Add ground beef and allow meat to brown (~2-4 minutes).
  • Add tomatoes, black beans and water then bring to a boil for 5 minutes.
  • Lower heat, cover and let simmer for ~1.5 hours OR throw everything into a slow-cooker and set at low for 8-hours or set at high for 4-hours.
  • Top each chili plate with a lime wedge, 1 tbsp. sour cream/coconut kefir, a sprinkle of cilantro and/or a few plantain chips.

Notes

*If you're following a paleo, low-carb or keto diet, you can modify this recipe by replacing black beans with 1/2 lb more ground beef. 
Keyword black beans, chili, comfort food, dairy free, gluten free, grain free, grass fed beef, soy free, winter recipes