This is an interview that The Fashionable Bambino had with nutritionist Keri Glassman, who is creator of the O2 Diet. Her bio is at the end of the interview.
Overview
1. I have to admit that I do not know much about the O2 Diet or your book, so perhaps give us an overview first before you answer my questions.
The O2 Diet is a high antioxidant based diet. (Antioxidants prevent heart disease, cancer, neuronal degeneration and aging…) It is an easy to follow plan that takes into account calories, proportions of nutrients (fat, carbs, protein) so you don’t have to! Simply follow the plan or do the do-it-yourself version by choosing foods at each meal from the lists provided. The plan is based on whole foods! No artificial this or that.
I created the plan to help people feel empowered by eating the right foods. When you eat the right foods you feel good, when you feel good you are more motivated to eat well, when you continue to eat well you lose weight and look and feel good!
For Expectant Moms
2. Would you recommend the O2 Diet for expectant mothers or would it be better to wait until after baby is born?
Absolutely! The O2 diet is high in antioxidants, which is great for anyone, but as an expectant mom you want to also make sure you’re getting adequate calories for you and your baby. If you look at the phases of the O2 diet, go straight to the Maintenance phase and be sure to add a starch or a fruit. If you need a little extra fuel – listen to your body!
3. Can you offer some tips on eating healthier during pregnancy?
When you’re pregnant it is the best time to think about what you’re putting into your body, and focusing on nutrient dense foods – not counting calories and dieting. Empower yourself to eat right. I like to say, “flipping the switch” in your mind about eating. It is not about NOT having the french fries or NOT having more calories it is about eating MORE, more of the RIGHT foods. Focus on whole foods and be careful of sodium since you easily retain, while pregnant.
Another tip is to eat consistently throughout the day to stave off hunger so you can make better choices at meals.
4. What about cravings, how should moms tackle those late night cravings or cravings for really weird unhealthy foods?
If you have a craving for something “unhealthy,†it’s not that you can’t indulge, it’s just that you need to pair your indulges with nutrient dense foods. For example, if you want a cookie, have a bit of milk first so that you get the calcium and nutrients from milk and then enjoy the cookie. Having the milk first will also cause you not to eat that second cookie! If you’re craving ice cream, have (it offers calcium!) but then top it with walnuts for healthy fats including omega-3s.
So first fill up on the nutrients that are best for baby and then enjoy!
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Postpartum Diet
5. And what about those struggling with losing the weight they gained during pregnancy?
Post-baby, you want to make sure you’re patient and consistent. Don’t go on a strict diet immediately following, especially if you’re nursing since you need calories for your baby. And if you’re too strict you’ll end up binging later. Focus on reducing sugar intake and eating starches that are whole grains and high in fiber, like Thomas’ Bagel Thins. Of the four varieties, the 100% Whole Wheat would be the best option for this, and it tastes good, too. Also, load up on veggies and fruit, lean protein and eat controlled amounts of high fiber carbohydrates and healthy fats, like avocado and olive oil.
6. Or moms are struggling with eating healthy after baby is born, any tips or perhaps a recipe or two to help them get back on track?
Time is limited, so you want to have quick, easy and fast solutions. I’d suggest a “must-have†grocery list of items that you can pick up fast – or someone else can if you can’t get to the store – the items to include should combine to make healthy breakfasts, lunches and dinners. A little bit of prep time can go a whole long way.
Babies and Kids
7. If families are just beginning their healthy eating journey, where would you tell them to start first? What would be the most important area of nutrition to focus on for kids?
Oh geez, there’s so much! The big thing is to try to have your kids eat real food. Food shouldn’t be “kid food,†instead incorporate them into your healthy meals so everyone enjoys a healthy diet together.
8. I know this past winter our family has been sleeping in more than we ever have before. Not sure if it’s because of the children getting older, the cold or what it is. But do you have any quick healthy breakfast ideas to share for families trying to get out the door in the morning for school, appointments etc?
Look for tips and recipes later today.
We at Thomas’® know you want to begin the New Year with a happier, healthier you. That’s why we’ve teamed up with Keri Glassman, MS, RD, CDN, to create delicious ideas to help you eat better with fewer calories and drop those pesky pounds. Keri is a registered dietitian and creator of the Nutritious Life program. She’s a nationally recognized nutrition expert and leader in advancing a “whole person†approach to health and wellness. We are pleased to announce she has created exclusive recipes for Thomas® Bagel Thins™ Bagels, perfect for you and your family. Keri also has some great tips on staying happy and healthy all year long. Click the buttons on the right to learn more. Discover more about Keri at NutritiousLife.com.
