Getting Back on Track

Baby size at 29 weeks is a butternut squash.

And, like last week’s eggplant, butternut squash is technically a fruit. Since I wouldn’t care to eat it raw—although you can–I’m still going to think of it as a vegetable.

It’s a powerhouse of Vitamins A and C. The high antioxidant content may help decrease risk of health conditions, such as heart disease, lung cancer, and mental decline.

Butternut squash is low in calories and high in fiber, making it yet another good choice for anyone looking to eat foods that fill you up, taste great (recipe included), and help you look and feel amazing!

Substitute butternut squash in recipes calling for potatoes, pumpkin, or sweet potatoes.  

It adds a mildly sweet flavor when added to soups, stews, and vegetarian chili.

My favorite way to enjoy this winter squash is roasted as a side dish. I can often find peeled and cubed butternut squash in the produce section, which saves time and labor. It is a bit more costly and must be used within a few days.

Roasted Butternut Squash

Before you can roast the squash, you must first peel and dice it. You may soften it in the microwave (or oven, for a bit longer) for a few minutes to make it easier. Fork the squash all over. Microwave for about 3 ½ minutes. Let it cool, then remove the skin with the greatest of ease. I hope. It is also easier to remove the seeds and interior gunk, then cube.

Once cubed, toss the squash with a couple tablespoons of extra virgin olive or avocado oil, two cloves of minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Arrange coated squash in a single layer on a baking sheet or stoneware pan–my favorite for roasting all my veggies. Roast in a 400 degree F oven for about 25-30 minutes, until tender and lightly browned.

Roasted squash is an excellent topping for salad or alongside those morning eggs.

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Word on the “health beat street” is that some folks are out of their healthy eating/fitness routines and can’t seem to find their way back.

You know what to do.

It just feels too hard.

The circumstances are diverse:

• Recently retired couples who find it easier to pick up food and not cook
• Sabotaging husbands or wives
• Working parents with kids in after-school activities
• Moms who don’t have a career and simply can’t find the motivation for self-care
• Depression from social isolation

There’s more, but you get the idea. Life gets real and our intentions get lost in the day-to-day.

Begin with something simple. Find one step you can take that feels good and easy to do.

Like:

• Eat some protein for breakfast most days of the week
• Make sure you’re staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water    
• Go to bed 15 minutes earlier and get more sleep
• Take a 10-minute walk
• Add a new vegetable to your life, like today’s delicious recipe

You’ll be amazed at how taking ONE step begins to set you back on your path. Master that one, then add one more. Activity in a positive direction will get your mind thinking of the next thing. Momentum builds, and voila! You are soon a force to be reckoned with.

If it’s still more than you can manage due to your specific circumstances, or you’ve finally had enough, it’s time to call me. We’ll work through the tough stuff together.

Much love,
Carol

“The mind, when housed within a healthful body, possesses a glorious sense of power.”
— Joseph Pilates