There's an app for that! Change your eating habits for the better with help from PGX and The Eatery app.

Empower yourself with the tools you need to achieve your weight loss goals!

Now a days, there's pretty much an app for everything. Whether it's for Facebook, Twitter, or that awesome app that tells you the name of the song that's playing on the radio, smart phones and their applications play a large part in how we socialize and spend our free time. So, why not start using one to help you lose weight!

Allow me to introduce (drum roll, please), The Eatery! Getting started is easy: Just take a picture of your food (don't forget to sprinkle your PGX on top or into the mix!), rate your meal on how healthy it is, and record how much of your meal you ate. Then invite your friends to follow you for support, encouragement, or to strive for the same goals along side you. As The Eatery says, "You never have to eat alone." Finally, The Eatery will provide you with feeback and stats on your eating habits, forcing you to see the facts on what you've been eating - this, maybe more than anything, will push you to eat healthier.

Why we like The Eatery:

It gives you a sense of community by allowing your friends to follow your progress, and vice versa. You can achieve your goals together, and have a buddy (or multiple!) to support and encourage you on your weight loss journey!

Have you used this app or something similar to help you achieve your weight loss goals? Let us know in the comments below.

Image source: https://eatery.massivehealth.com/

You loved the guilt-free dessert so much that we're excited to bring you another, crazy good low-cal. dessert!

We absolulely believe that just because you're watching what you eat, it doesn't mean you have to deprive yourself of the foods you love. Just love them in moderation.

At only 188 calories this recipe will have you saying rock 'n rollie, bring on the Strawberry Cannoli! 

Strawberry Cannoli

• 1 pint(s)  (12 oz) strawberries, rinsed, hulled and halved
• 2 tablespoon(s) granulated sugar
• 1 tub(s)  (15 oz) whole-milk ricotta cheese
• 4 ounce(s) cream cheese
• 1 cup(s) confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon(s) almond extract
• 1 box(es)  (4 or 5 1⁄4 oz) sugar cones (12 cones)
• 1/2 teaspoon of PGX
• Garnish: chocolate mini chips and sliced strawberries

Directions

1. At least 1 day before serving, proceed through Step 3. Line a colander and a medium-size strainer with a sturdy paper towel; set each in a bowl.
2. Pulse strawberries and granulated sugar in food processor until coarsely chopped. Scrape into colander, top with a paper towel and refrigerate overnight to drain well (this is important). Clean processor.
3. Put ricotta, cream cheese and confectioners' sugar in processor; pulse until smooth. Transfer to strainer, cover with a paper towel and refrigerate overnight.
4. Just before serving: Prop cones upright in tall glasses partially filled with granulated sugar to support cones. Fold drained berries, almond extract and PGX into ricotta mixture. Spoon into a gallon-size ziplock bag. Cut 1⁄2 in. off a corner; pipe filling into cones and garnish. The sugar cones replace the usual pastry shells, which can be hard to make or find in stores.

Enjoy!

Image and Recipe: Woman's Day 

5 Tips to Stay in Control when Dining Out!

The weekend is almost here and social gatherings plus dining out can present a challenge if you're on a weight loss plan. Some people just avoid these situations but we're here to tell you that losing weight doesn't mean you have to stop living! There is a world of healthy choices out there and you're in charge! 

Here are some handy tips to try this weekend:

1. Go online. Many restaurants post their menu online. Make a note of the healthiest options in advance!
2. Appetizer menu.  Save money and save calories! We call this a smart option! Just steer clear of fried foods and cream-based ones. 
3. Modifications.  Most restaurants will take dietary needs into account. To be on the safe side, call ahead and find out if you can make substitutes, you'll be a happier and healthier customer!
4. Forget the bread. Munching on bread can derail your good intentions. Drink some water, or ask for a small dinner salad while you’re waiting for your meal.
5. Slow down. Take your time to enjoy the meal and your social time. When you slow down you can register when you’re full and avoid getting overstuffed.

Image source: Wikipedia

5 Tips and Links to Keep You From Gaining Weight Over the Summer Weekends

It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and fun of the summer but with longer days and more socializing there's usually more BBQ's and dining with friends. Often these social events can lead to eating foods that you usually wouldn't even think about indulging in. Being caught up in the moment and not planning ahead can leave you with a couple extra pounds by the end of the summer.

Here are 5 helpful tips to keep you on track with your diet and some healthy recipes to bring with you to BBQ's and dinners. Not only will the host love you for bringing along a dish but it will also be your sneaky way of staying fit and healthy.

1. Don't Skip Meals: If you skip meals during the day it will only lead to you binge eating later. You will be grabbing anything and everything to gain some energy by the time you arrive at the event. Ensure that you have a protein packed breakfast to start your metabolism.
2. Drink Lots of Water: Not only is it summer and your body requires more water but it can control cravings and leave you feeling full. Try to drink a glass of water when you first arrive at the event to keep you stomach full.
3. PGX Travel Packs: Packing these small pill packs in your purse or bag and taking them before a meal can keep you feeling full and satisfied. This will help you avoid going back for seconds.
4. Eat Before Leaving Home: It's a good idea to have a small snack before you leave the house to control your cravings when you arrive at the event. Try having a small plate of veggies and hummus.
5. Choose Wisely: Don't rush when you are in line at the BBQ. Make smart choices about what you are eating. It may seem simple but choosing a green salad over mayo packed potato salad can make a huge difference by the end of the summer.

• A smooth Avocado Hummus Dip is great to take as a nutritious snack/appetizer
• 25 baked alternatives to potato chips and french fries. I recommend the beet chips! yummy and a bit sweet
• Are you in charge of the Salad? This Cucumber, Mango and Watermelon Salad is an amazingly fresh side dish.

How do you avoid the Summer Weekend Weight Gain? Share your tips here in the comments or join the chat on Facebook and Twitter.

Image source

Hey PGX'ers! Need a snack? Try one of these low calorie recipes!

Shape Magazine dishes up some tasty, weight wise treats!

Chicken salad peppers, banana milkshakes, raspberry smores, caprese salad... Yes! Those snacks can be less than 200 calories per serving! If you’re craving something sweet and fresh this summer, try one of these recipes from Shape Magazine’s 10 Summer Snacks Under 200 Calories. Enjoy!

Image: Shape Magazine