I have my own “staples” and the reasons why I eat them. Below is a list of what is always in the fridge or the pantry.

Eggs and egg whites: Eggs are a great source of protein, I splurge on weekend and have eggs over easy with a small english muffin. Weekend are days where I don’t usually have to rush out of the house, so I can enjoy 2 eggs, over easy, watch my favorite morning News show and start the day off slowly.

Chile Peppers and Cayenne Pepper: Spicy foods heat up your body and add fire to your metabolism, increasing your calorie burning!

Almond Butter: I have a mild allergy to peanuts, although not enough to make me ill, but I prefer the taste of Almond Butter over peanut butter. Almonds are also a healthy fat, but don’t over-do it, as they are high in calories. If I’m running out the door and need a quick snack, a tablespoon of almond butter will satisfy that need. I also keep nuts, either almonds or pistachios in a baggie and usually carry them with me in case I get stuck somewhere and it’s been too long between meals.

Quinoa: It’s a grain that also has protein. I don’t know of any other grain that does. You can use it in any meal, breakfast, lunch dinner and even dessert!

Salmon and Sardines: Both contain Omega-3 fatty acids, which are necessary for a healthy body and hair, skin and nails! Anchovies are also high in Omega-3, although I don’t keep them in my food closet, but will eat them on occasion when dining out.

Spinach: Leafy greens like spinach have an extensive list of benefits and that tiny little leaf is filled with so many nutrients. It’s one of the so-called “super foods” that is filled with so many vitamins. Do a web search for spinach and see just how wonderful this little green leaf is.

Olive Oil: Not all fats are bad, this one is good for you, in moderation of course. It aides in digestion and is supposed to be good for your hair, skin and bones.

Lean Meat: Has Amino Acids that help to maintain muscle and also helps recover after a work-out. Muscle burns fat in the body, the more muscle you have, the more fat your burn.

Blackberries, Blueberries and Strawberries: Berries are one of the top sources of antioxidants, they can help prevent cancer and heart disease. They help with memory retention, are high in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Manganese and fiber

Green Tea and Ginger Tea: Green tea is filled with antioxidants that help your metabolism and burn fat and Ginger Tea aides digestion.