Body Love – by Kelly LeVeque
I was introduced to Kelly LeVeque’s first cookbook Body Love through a Pilates site called The Balanced Life. I checked out the audio version and when I finished listening, went out and bought the hardcover book immediately because I needed to have these recipes. I love the science of this book which is based on the chemistry of controlling and maintaining optimal blood sugar balance so that your body uses (1) protein, fats and carbohydrates; (2) vitamins and minerals; (3) antioxidants in ways that allow you to eat to satisfaction naturally, turn off your “hunger” hormones, and still lose and maintain weight. I always come back to Kelly when I am feeling unhealthy or want to shed a few pounds.
Kelly is the real deal. She has actually worked in the medical field for 8 years, ending her career in personalized medicine where she worked with tumor gene mapping and molecular sub-typing for oncologists. According to her book, she found herself offering free food and nutrition advice to friends and family on the side and finally decided to follow her passion and start her own consulting business. She has been wildly successful and has received lots of media coverage and exposure because her clients include many famous people including actors, models, and professional athletes and her approach delivers results.
Her philosophy includes what she calls “The FAB FOUR: Protein, Fat, Fiber and Greens.” Her suggestion is to add them into your diet in every meal possible. Her formula is simple, straightforward, travels well, and allows you to get back on track if you fall off the rails.
One of my favorite things about Kelly is her belief that the best way to start your day is with a FAB FOUR smoothie. She has THE BEST smoothie recipes all of which incorporate the FAB FOUR. I LOVE her smoothie recipes!! And I am sharing my favorites with you. First on my list is the Almond Butter and Raspberry Jam which main ingredients include fresh raspberries, almond butter (I use Nathan’s Honey Almond Butter for a little extra sweetness), flaxseeds and your favorite nut milk ( I like a mix of both almond and coconut). The Peanut Butter and Jelly is a variation of that all-time favorite sandwich from childhood omitting the bread and adding nut milk for a healthy twist. The Chunky Monkey is a combination of chocolate protein powder, peanut or almond butter and a handful of spinach which gives added nutrients and you won’t even taste it.
If these smoothies sound like something you would like to start your day with, this is just the tip of the iceberg my friends. I encourage you to check out Body Love or Kelly’s newest book Body Love Every Day for incredible clean and healthy smoothies, salads, dinners and more.
