Chelsie Hightower, the Emmy-nominated professional dancer from the hit show “Dancing With the Stars,” has put together these healthy lifestyle tips.
1. Make healthy meal choices. “I personally love sushi. Fish and vegetables are essential for my weekly protein, and it's even healthier with brown rice,” Hightower said.
2. Hop in a steam bath. After working out, steam helps relax sore muscles and boost your immune system.
3. Use summer as a reason to try new activities. Take hikes, go swimming or learn yoga.
4. Keep a food journal. Once you see everything you eat written down, it's easier to make more realistic goals and changes.
5. Dance to your own beat. Realize that no two body types are the same, and what works for others won't necessary work for you. You need to understand your own body's rhythm and set realistic goals.
6. Make healthy food more interesting with unique and delicious recipes. “I enjoy finding recipes online and then trying them at home. Old London has some great recipes on their Facebook page,” Hightower said.
One of Hightower's favorite recipes combines the tropical flavors of Hawaii for the perfect, healthy summer treat packed with whole grain and fiber: — ARA
Coconut Pudding of Oahu
2 boxes of whole grain Melba toast
2 cups of sweetened shredded coconut
2 cups of canned cream of coconut. Once you open the can, stir the contents well.
2 cups of light coconut milk
1/2 cup of sugar
1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
6 large eggs
Vanilla bean ice cream (optional)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Arrange one box of Melba toast in a 13-by-9-by-2-inch glass baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the coconut, top with remaining box of Melba toast and remaining cup of coconut. In a separate bowl, combine cream of coconut, coconut milk, sugar and vanilla in heavy large saucepan. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves and mixture is just warm; remove from heat.
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs to blend, then add to warm milk mixture. Pour mixture over toast in baking dish using back of spoon to push bread gently into milk mixture. Let stand 15 minutes then bake about 50 to 60 minutes until pudding is set and golden brown. Top with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream (optional).
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