The Book of Jinysis

This month marks when I challenged myself to go a whole year as a pescatarian. I started off in March of last year to challenge myself into cutting back certain foods, which led up to the ultimate test of will by going a whole year of just eating seafood, fruits, and vegetables in October. I can honestly say it was a challenge indeed, it was not easy changing my lifestyle around. I often "yo-yo'd" over the years bouncing back and forth between losing weight only to gain it all back and sometimes then some. Most people don't know that at my heaviest I was 250 pounds. At that moment, I felt in I was a need for a drastic change. However, this time around the focus shifted from wanting to lose weight, to wanting to be healthier. As we all know most diseases such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, etc. can be caused by poor eating habits and lack of physical activity. I made a vow to myself to not become another statistic. I was determined to make a change for the better and it has been one of the best decisions I've made in my life.

With being a person who is always on the go, I don't always have the time to prepare foods in advance nor did I want to eat salads all day. So I had to find an alternative that I can enjoy while on the go. One of the major "keys" behind my "success story" has came from a not so typical fast food place, Robeks Smoothies. I started going to Robeks back in 2013 and fell in love with it ever since. I've even gotten some of my friends and coworkers hooked on them, and I've also written research papers on them while in college. Robeks offers fresh, made-to-order smoothies that are loaded with nutrition that can cater to any lifestyle. You can check out their website and check out all of the delicious smoothies they have to offer http://www.robeks.com
I personally like getting either the Age Buster (pictured left) because it is the best way for me to get my balance of fruits and green vegetables along with some nutritional boosts that are already included, or the Acai Energizer (pictured right) as a replacement for energy drinks and coffee. The reason I made Robeks my go to spot is because I can get a decent meal replacement at a reasonable price. I found that drinking a smoothie at least once a day has made me fuller longer where I am not hungry as much. There have been times when I have started off my day with a smoothie and it was enough to keep me full for the majority of the day. Also, I like to grab wheat grass shots (I recommend eating first before taking this shot and chase it with some orange juice to take the bite out of the aftertaste), the lemon/ginger/cayenne pepper shots (pictured below) are great too! They are both great ways to aid in weight loss, detox/cleanse, and boost your immune system. Check out all of the benefits below!

Another "secret" is lemon water. I know this may sound boring in comparison to smoothies, on the other hand, it has been a powerful tool in weight loss too. Lemons have pectin fiber, which helps curb hunger cravings. The best way to drink it is first thing in the morning, preferably warm/room temperature. Lemon water helps with the digestive system, it aids the in the process of eliminating waste and toxins from the body. Lemon water is beneficial to the skin too, it prevents wrinkles and acne from forming. Lemons are also packed with a Vitamin C, which gives a boost to your immune system.

Apple Cider Vinegar is a great weapon to add in to your dietary regimen. I usually take two tablespoons first thing in the morning. If taking the vinegar is too strong for you take by the tablespoon, try adding it in to an 8 ounce glass of water with lemon, cinnamon, and honey. Make sure you purchase the vinegar that has the "mother" included. You can purchase this at any grocery or health food store.

Lastly, but not least, exercising. I know you were hoping that I wasn't going to say this, but there is no way around it. If you are serious about becoming healthier and losing weight, you must incorporate some type of physical activity in order for you to reach your goals effectively. Working out not only has an effect on you physically, it effects your mental and spirit as well. To me, working out is the best way to assist in maintaining weight loss. Once you lose the weight, you would want to keep up some type of physical regimen, even if it's walking outside for 30 minutes a day. Working out is a great way to improve your mood. Over the summer I had added boxing into my workout routine, it is the best way to release stress while burning calories, and it was fun too! Physical activity also assists in boosting energy levels and helps promote better and longer sleep (just don't work out too close to bedtime, or you have a hard time falling asleep).

Most people asked me what was my "secret" in losing weight. I hate to say that it really isn't a secret formula or a "magic pill" that I've taken in order to lose weight. It boils down to hard work, dedication, consistency, and most importantly, discipline. The bottom line is you have to want it and are willing to work for it. As they say, "once you start to see results, it becomes an addiction." Naturally I have a competitive spirit and I often compete against myself, that is how I stayed motivated.

I hope these tips were helpful to those who are looking to begin their journey into a more healthier and active lifestyle. Of course, consult with a doctor before beginning any type of physical activity or changes in your dietary lifestyle.

You can keep up with my progress by following me on Instagram @jinysisthegolden1 https://instagram.com/jinysisthegolden1/

The Book of Jinysis

Monday, October 12, 2015

"Over Now (O.V.A.)" x @estherfitz216

"Aphrodisiac/You're The One" x @darvon_

Thursday, October 8, 2015

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Friday, October 2, 2015

#GoldPacksTV x @rayjr216 "Road Trippin' Tour"

@bigheff receives Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2015 Ohio Hip Hop Awards

Monday, July 6, 2015

"Take Me As I Am" x @drohio330 ft. @victoriamonet_

Friday, May 8, 2015

"The Northsider EP" @executivedtown