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

Last weekend of summer!

Time to celebrate the last days of soaking up some rays with friends and family. Here are some quick tips to help you make the most of your weekend without feeling that unhealthy sluggishness on Tuesday morning.

Stay Active!

Spend some time getting active if you plan to indulge a little. Bring a friend so you can get caught up while burning some calories.

• Get outdoors.
• Go swimming.
• Walk the dog.
• Ride your bike.

Add Some Veggies:

Forget the high calorie chips and dip, instead load up on healthy veggies. Going to a barbeque this weekend? Take some PGX before you go and bring along a bag of healthy snacks!

Stay Hydrated:

Don’t forget to drink plenty of water especially if you’re outdoors and in the sun. When you’re not drinking enough water, you can mistake thirst for hunger. A good check before reaching for a snack is to gauge how much water you’ve had that day. On a hot day, drink a bit more than usual.

What are your Labor Day weekend plans? Tell us in the comments!

Image source: Modern Mom

Save reminders of your special day.

I don’t know about you but I love weddings. A lot of work goes into making it a very special day, from diet and excerise to fit into the perfect dress to flower arrangements and choosing the right location.

But whether the wedding is an impromptu run down to city hall or a big elaborate affair, you’ll want to have some keepsakes to remember the big day. Chances are most of it will be a bit of a blur anyway!

Here are some things you can do to save your mementos:

• Photos: Call your photographer and find out how long it’ll take to process your photos. If you have disposable cameras get them developed and have a few laughs at the candid snaps. Digital photos make great photo books and gifts for family that may not have been able to attend.

• Videos: If you have some video of the wedding, work out how you want it edited and make some extra copies. Sometimes you’ll find some fun stuff going on in the background that you might have missed!

• Memory Box: Save the special memories of the day such as, your guestbook, cards, invitations, favors, menu, and dried flowers from your bouquet. Once a year, on your anniversary, you’ll be able to relive the special moments of the day together.

• The Dress: Make sure you have your dress dry-cleaned after the wedding. Your drycleaner should store it for you in a tissue-lined box. Now it’s yours to keep or give to someone to cherish.

Did you or someone you know get married this summer? Or are you celebrating an anniversary? Let me know in the comments below!

Image source: ImgFave

Hey PGX'ers! It's the weekend!

Scroll on for interesting articles and tidbits from around the web!

It's so hot today! I'm thinking I should start this weekend right with a seriously refreshing Chilled Cucumber Avocado Soup and Cauliflower Prosciutto Flatbread from Tartalette!

I don't know if I've trimmed down to my goal yet (I'm working on it; it's going to happen), but here's an article you might find useful! Weight Watchers share their 10 Tips Toning Up Ater Trimming Down. Remember, the real goal we should all have is better health!

It's so good for you to get outdoors and enjoy the greenery and get some clean, fresh air. But sometimes life and unpredictable weather get in the way and you're stuck indoors. Bring some nature inside and green your walls with Woolly Pocket Living Wall Planters!

Bed Bugs. Unfortunately for those little pests, nobody likes them. They won't bring you mysterious diseases but their bites are not pleasant surprise in the morning! If you are travelling, BC Living shares a helpful article on How to Avoid These Nasty Hitchhikers.

Looking for some cool content? Check out the PGX Pinterest page! We've got great photos of delicious recipes, fitness trends, inspiring quotes to get you moving, and much more!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Image source: Au pays des Cactus

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.

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