Tech Free Vacation

In this day and age we are connected to the world everywhere we go. Its good. Its handy. Its beneficial. It is also a distraction and an intrusion. Dave and I are embarking on an anniversary vacation to beautiful Jamaica. We feel so fortunate and grateful to be able to do this and wouldn't be possible without our wonderful grandparents.

We want to make the most of this trip and use this as a time to relax, rejuvenate and reconnect with one another. The last time we had a big trip like this was our honeymoon...11 years ago.

Talk about how times have changed. I still remember our hotel room phone ringing with a colleague from Dave's work with a computer question. This was before common cell phone use and although we had left no contact number, this co worker had somehow managed to track us down in Maui, Hawaii with a question that really was all that important.

Its easy to get a hold of people now and in dozen of different forms. Of course cell phones are coming along on our trip (we feel its a necessity with kids), but the phones aren't going to dinner with us. Nor or they going to be on the beach or "something we just check "real fast" while the other is in the shower. These phones will miss out on the island's beauty as they reside in our suitcases.

Dave needs the mental break from it all. I need the unscheduled and unstructured time. Its good to be unplugged and I don't think it will be difficult in the least. People and relationships are truly
what is important. Its time to act like that. No problem, mon!

Day 8 Master Cleanse Detox

Day 8:

Today is the last day. We are out of maple syrup. I know excuses, excuses, but you would be amazed at how fast two people go through it. We went through 3 bottles of it at $15 a bottle so it was a little investment. In light, we did save a some on groceries! The kids enjoyed the week with nothing "new or different" being served. Talk about kid friendly meals for them all week with macaroni, ravioli, hot dogs, nuggets....they were in heaven!

With several social and fun things coming up, Dave and I felt like it was time to wind down this detox. I am so glad to we did it. I feel like its purpose has been served will never regret doing it. It was awesome going through it together. I do feel more energetic, have been sleeping fabulously and would like to think I am not so food obsessed. I will have to post a follow up on Dave with the caffeine addiction and let you know what happens. I for one will still definitely indulge in sweets (life is short!), but would like to be more appreciative. It is all about slowing down and enjoying what we have!

Master Cleanse intro
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7

$1.50 Cheesecake at Cheesecake Factory

Click on the “Like” button on the The Cheesecake Factory Facebook Page and then go to the “Fan Exclusive” tab and you’ll be able to print a coupon to get a piece of cheesecake for only $1.50 on Thursday, July 29, 2010. I went last year (it being packed last year wasn't the hardest part...it was the decision on what kind to get!)

Day 7 of Master Cleanse Detox

Day 7:

Ugh, another day of making shakes. I have gotten pretty fast at it, but I am ready to be done. I miss chewing. I miss sitting down to eat as a family. I miss all of the social aspects of food. I feel really good, but feel like I have completed this process. I did this for many reasons. with weight loss not being among them. I honestly do feel like I have rested and cleaned my digestive system and have gotten better control of food addictions. I want to be done, but am not saying anything because Dave is still at it (although growing weary with it).

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6

12 Secrets for Staying Young

We all know how fast time goes, but we don't need to look it. What I love these stay young and energetic tips is that they are simple, easy and practically free. We all know we should be doing them anyway, right?! Its always good to hear it again...!

Day 6 of Master Cleanse Detox

Day 6:

Everyone was worn out today from our late night at the drive in movie and all of the storms the night before. Dave and I went for a nice fifteen 15 bike ride and took the kids to the pool and bookstore. It was a very relaxed day, but I was amazed at the amount of energy Dave has had. He biked, played hard with the kids in the pool and then went to the driving range for a few hours. I have seen a big change in him and really see the detox working through him. I feel good too, but did have pangs of regret after my 5 pm yoga night. Sunday night is usually our huge dinner meal where we grill quite a bit (and enjoy leftovers for part of the week) and I always look forward to that time as a family and winding down our weekend.

Instead, the kids made their own mini pizzas, which were extremely tempting. Dave and I let the kids eat inside on their own and enjoyed our lemonades on the deck. One thing we both are liking is the Sienna tea we drink at night. Almost feel like a little old couple sipping tea together in our rocking chairs.

Day 5 of Master Cleanse Detox

Day 5:

Much better day! Happy Saturday! It helped because we had plenty of distractions planned with it being Yes, Day! at our house. I also felt stronger with Dave there and knew we could get through it together. I went for a half hour swim, did some yoga in the steam room (to flush out even more toxins) and overall felt good. I have gotten into the habit during this cleanse to lay down for a half hour while Max is napping. I take a cat nap every time. Crazy! I am not a napper, but am out almost instantly and have been having the strangest dreams. Then 20-30 min. I wake up, refreshed and ready to go for the rest of the day.

Overall I just have been sleeping so much better. I am so excited not to be dependent on melatonin or any other sleeping aid after 6 months of using them. I did notice in church that my ankles are definitely swollen so I am going to do some research on that. I am guessing its from the Salt Water Flush. I continue to be so proud of Dave. I have never have seem him go this long without his beloved Diet Mountain Dew. He has also been sleeping so well and not snoring. Hmmmmm! Another benefit!

Day 4 of Master Cleanse Detox

Day 4:

4 days without solid food. Today has been my hardest day yet. I think because its the end of the week and we have a l o n g weekend ahead of us. I am grumpy, antsy and hungry. I do better when I am on the go and busy, but kids and I are worn out from VBS so have been laying low this afternoon. Right now we are all outside and they have started water world with the pool, squirt guns and water snake. I am tired and lethargic and thinking of chucking this lemonade off the deck.

See Master Cleanse intro

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 3 of Master Cleanse Detox

Click here for Master Cleanse Introduction

Day 3:

Last night was a little more restless. For the first time I really felt hunger. I told Dave (who was feeling a lot more positive) that one thing that keeps from tossing the towel in, is that there will need to be a major grocery shopping trip happening whenever we are finished. I am not in the mood to do that so sticking with it for that…and many other reasons!

I tossed and turned, but went to sleep with waking up twice and finally up for good at 5:30. Not really hungry upon waking, but had a stitch in my side. I hoped that my Bosu workout class would distract me from that. I have been doing just little exercise classes during this cleanse because I know that working out is part of my morning routine (what else to do at 5:30?!) but also because I want to keep muscle tone. I have been doing nothing that strenuous and just plan on the instructor telling me what to do.

Overall I, felt pretty good all day. I cleaned out the refrigerator and freezer while the kids ate macaroni for lunch. Nothing in there sounded even good. I did have a split second hesitation when I found a Hershey’s Special Dark chocolate mini candy bar in the side door. It was all crumpled and tossed it away. Old Sara would have unwrapped it and popped it in without thinking.

I am really becoming aware of how much I did that—pop in food without thinking. I wouldn't hesitate to finish off the kids lunches (gross I know), but you would think I grew up in the depression era or something with my desire not to waste food.

Tonite is a chamber networking thing and then Dave and I are off to Sahar’s for our couples massage. That has kept me going through today…any kind of distraction and something to look forward to!

View Day 1

View Day 2

Day 2 of Master Cleanse Detox

click here for Master Detox intro and here for Day 1

Day 2: Slept good last night. Took 15 minutes to fall asleep, but it was without melatonin or any other sleep aid. I just woke up once and then again at 5:30 to head to yoga! I am so excited about giving my body a break from working out and from all the toxins and strain I have been putting it through constant eating. My body’s only job right now is to cleanse itself and make my cells like new.

Still so surprised about the lack of hunger. I know I am not shutting off my metabolism (something I initially worried about) because I am consuming calories and nutrients. Right now I am sitting in Panera borrowing their wifi and surround by food I normally enjoy. I am in such a zone with my writing that its not even getting to me. I don’t want to sound super hero-ish as the SWF was a little more challenging today. I also had to bulk order more organic B maple syrup from Amazon because our little bottle is almost gone! I’m in this for the long haul. Dave had a lunch mtg today and I am curious what he will do.

Right now I am so excited about “tackling the bear” and getting lots of things done. I do see my mind is clearer because I am not constantly thinking about what I am preparing next for food and meals.

Day 1 of Master Cleanse Detox

click here for Master Cleanse Detox Diary Introduction

Day 1 of Master Cleanse

I am detoxing! I am detoxing! I am so excited about starting this! Its not that I think my body is overly toxic, but I just want to break my food obsession. I am tired of being so fixated on what I’m eating, meal planning and when I am going grocery shopping. There are so many other things I want to do with my life and am hoping to gain much more clarity and be more appreciative.

I took the kids last night to Hy-vee to gather up supplies. I am so happy that Dave is doing this with me, but want him to be an informed participant. He kind of jumped on board at the 11th hour without doing without reading the book or doing any research. He says the less he knows the better, and I can see his point on that. For me though, the knowledge of what I am doing and why will help get me through the tough times. I do think Dave is a great candidate to go through a detox period. The salt water flush really affected him this AM and he felt a little light headed from the detox tea last night. It is going to be so interesting to listen to his responses on this and am excited to see a great change!

We had a busy day with VBS at our church and meetings in the afternoon. Hopefully being busy will keep my mind off of it. I am worried about losing muscle mass so will have to look online about that today. Most importantly I need to give my liver, stomach and overall body a break from this constant toll I put on it. I just randomly put food in my mouth. Its not like I think I am immune from gaining weight, but more I just don’t even think or care. That thought process needs to go.

Overall Day 1 was definitely easier then I thought it would be. I had a couple of instances with stomach cramping, but that went away as I drank more water. Then for the rest of the afternoon/evening Dave had a tougher time and had headaches (from caffeine withdrawal) and a few other experiences, that he would not be pleased with me sharing online. I feel almost a little bloated tonite, which is surprising because I haven't had solid food. Salt, perhaps?

I really believe I had more energy though! We didn’t get home from WDM “family fun night” by the until after 8. We walked, canoed and played baseball with Max. Maybe the trick is just to be busy!

I am really proud of Dave. They had pizza for his team mtg tonight and he went into his office and shut the door. He doesn’t like the taste of the lemonade and I feel bad about that because it really doesn’t bother me.

9 days left. I really think I can do this. I like to think of all that I will accomplish since I won’t have to spend as much time agonizing over food and menu planning. I do feel bad about not sitting down with the kids today as they were eating, but it was just kind of a rushed busy day anyway. I am hoping Dave feels better tomorrow and I feel more of a detox occurring….Oh I really hope I don’t regret saying that!

The Cell Phone Intrusion

My husband knew it was coming. He predicted ten years ago that cell phones would be able connect you to all aspects of the world. Internet, navigation, shopping, e-mail and the bazillion apps that are out there allow you to be connected at all times everywhere. I am sure my children will someday find great humor in the thought of a cell phone not being able to get online. The absurd thought! I already think back to my college roommate with her plug in car phone being the most amazing thing!

When I first got my “connect me to the world” phone, I was ecstatic! The time had come that I absolutely did need it for business. Previously when I would be out an about on meeting and appointments, I would have to stop at the library to check my e-mail or use the Internet to verify a few things.

I did make myself a promise with the purchase of my new phone. I would not be a parent at the park with their kids and checking face book the whole time. Yes, I'm not perfect and I might check it quickly for messages, but this is my children's life happening right in front of me. If I am going to be with the kids, then I am going to be with the kids.

Yes, I may still pull out my phone…but its often to take a picture. ;-)

Master Cleanse Detox Diary: Introduction

Tomorrow I am embarking on something that I have never done before and am super excited about. I have wanted to try a detox for quite awhile, but timing was never quite right. I am using the Master Cleanse detox plan. What I like about it is that its main goal is not to lose weight, its more about ridding your body of toxins that we continually put into our body. It also gives our digestive system a break from the constant toll.

For me, I needed several reasons on why I am detoxing to look back at because I know this is going to be extremely challenging for me.

Why Detox?

1)To detox
2)Break food cravings/addictions
3)To persevere
4)To overcome my obsession with food
5) Achieve clarity, purpose and healing of my mind and body

The supplies are purchased and my husband at the last minute decided to jump in too. So here we go! Tomorrow will be a whole different kind of adventure!

View Day 1

2010 Des Moines Restaurant Week

Good News! Restaurant Week is back for the 3rd straight year in Des Moines. Sara Says has followed this great idea closely for the past two years here and here. Here are the details...

Restaurant Week 2010

When: Augusts 20-29, 2010

Why: August is notoriously slow for restaurants and this helps boost their biz

Where: Your choice of restaurants is increasing every day so check by frequently to see what might wet your whistle.

I love how this year's list includes so many downtown restaurants. Des Moinesians (pardon the new word) don't you remember not too long ago when there was nothing to be found downtown to eat after 5? We have come a long way!

I know our choices will definitely include locally owned places and this list includes a lot of great ones. We love supporting local businesses and their dreams.

Make this healthy snack — spicy roasted chickpeas

If you love crunchy snacks with a little kick then you got to try these spicy roasted chickpeas! I discovered garbanzo beans a couple of years ago and the health benefits are amazing! I have a few recipe variations depending on what I am in the mood for. I have been totally into spicy food lately (ignites my taste buds!) and you can control the amount of spiciness you want, I have also made them with cinnamon and nutmeg for a sweeter snack.

Fight cancer, weight gain and colds with Superfoods

I am not a big "going to the doctor fan." There I said it. Its out.

I believe much more in preventative care. Preventative is easy, natural and costs less. I do believe in the medical field to cure many things, but when it comes down to basic living--just take care of yourself and the body you were given.

Check out the handy list here of these amazing foods that will help keep your bodyhealthy. What I like about this list is that it tells exactly what the food is doing for your body.

Exercise. Eat well. Get Rest. Enjoy life!

Yes Day Recap!

We proclaimed Saturday as our designated, Yes Day! for the summer. Click here to read why we chose to give the day to the kids.

The kids knew it was Saturday and they were ready for it. Never ever once this summer have they woken on their own before 8, but this morning they were up with the birds and ready for their breakfast in bed.

Next Max had the great idea of making a giant train track on our dining room table. Yes, Max you can!

Megan has been asking for weeks to rearrange her room. She took advantage of Yes Day to make this a reality.


Lucy has been on a hermit crab frenzy and really wants to get on as a pet. She chose today to go to Petco, with notebook on hand, to research the cost and care of hermit crabs. Only Lucy would think to put so much research into a purchase like this. I think we all were a little surprised to learn the cost of them with the cage, sand, heating lamp, food etc...It didn't deter her though from wanting one.

Next up was Barnes and Noble so the kids could pick out their free books. The day was flying by and everyone was ready for some R&R. We headed home, Max and I took naps, the girls played Hogwarts down the basement, and Daddy found the couch.

The kids were fresh off the momentum from VBS this week and were all about heading to church at 5. I think what they were most looking forward to was something the parents did plan for Yes Day....a drive in movie theater!

After a quick stop at Quick Trip for a corn dog supper (!!!) I know, not my usual purchase, but I had free coupons for these and thought the kids would enjoy them. We packed up in the car, headed to the Newton Valle Drive.

We got there early (which I guess is the norm for drive ins. Evidently people like to tailgate before). We had a volleyball and football to toss around and popcorn and juice boxes to munch on. Then it was dark and time for the new Disney movie that just came out, The Sorcerer's Apprentice, which they loved because of the similar Harry Potter magic. Made it home at 10:45 PM, kids already asleep and a Dave and I immediately to follow. It was a memorable day!

(Free) Real Fruit Smoothies at McDonalds!

Word on the street st that in the Sunday edition of USA Weekend and Parade magazine, there’s a coupon for a free 12-oz. Smoothie or Frappe from McDonald’s.

If you don't find the coupon of you just love them so much, print off a coupon here for $1 off any Frappe or Real Fruit Smoothie at McDonald’s. This coupon is good through August 15, 2010.

Yes Day

Read here to begin this post.

To get out of our "automatic no response" with our children we needed to do something drastic. Something that would get us out of the rut and really let kids be kids.

Our solution was to have a “Yes Day”! Why not? Summer was flying by in a blink and as much free downtime I try to give the kids, I still felt like they were at the mercy of our schedule on the weekends. Megan, Lucy and Max are great about not complaining about their plans often being made for them, but I wanted to do this for them and I was awfully curious on what would would develop.

Yes, having a Yes Day would be perfect! The date is set for tomorrow, a Saturday! The kids know its happening, but a few guidelines will need to be set, just to ensure the expectations for all.

*Parents will say “yes” for every request within reason.

*Requests couldn’t cost additional money (we told them to save that for Daughter Date Day)

*Everyone needs to be safe.

That's it for the guidelines. I have no idea what will happen. Will they be eating ice cream for breakfast? Slumber partying in the living room? I don't know and I love it! I'm not giving them a single idea, the day is theirs.

Here's what happened!

Get Toned with Yoga

I love love love Yoga! All that stretching and holding builds toned muscles without using weights. Click here to read about some easy Yoga exercises you can do on your own. I could blog for days about all of the different poses, techniques and benefits, but I am currently on a different Yoga campaign...

I am on a mission for our gym to offer Kids Yoga or a Parent/Child classes. I am totally pumped about it and would love to teach it. My kids ask me all the time when they can go to Yoga with me and I see pretty much no start up cost for the gym, but I do see so much benefit for kids!

It helps build confidence, works their muscles, increases flexibility and helps control stress or anxiety. Its perfect for kids that are active in sports and those that aren't. Not to mention its fun! I'll keep you posted on the news...

No means no! Or does it?

It is amazing how easy it is to fall into the trap of telling your kids no. Think about it, I am sure you don’t even realize how often you do it. Until I became more aware of this, I know that I wasn't even aware of how often my husband and I gave the kids a “no answer” without even thinking.

"Can I use Daddy's suit coat for my Harry Potter robes?" asks Lucy last week.

Why was the natural voice inside my head saying no immediately? Well, why not let her?! Lucy was creatively playing with her sister. I knew she would be careful with it and not be out rolling around in the mud while wearing it. It came down to the point that it wasn't really what the question was, but more of the fact that I was just ready with a "no" response and that bothered me.

Don't get me wrong, kids need to have limits and I am not one that just indulges my kids for the sake of doing it. I am directly reflecting on the fact that often they are off playing and being creative, and why can't I let them construct book houses that overrun our basement floor or use all of our plastic cups to make potions? What is really the harm?

I wanted to do something drastic and different and was a bit curious on what would exactly happen. The solution is here.

Return to the Simple Times

For awhile now I have been a big promoter of doing things more simply, and last week I took a little getaway with my parents my kids. Ever heard of beautiful Nauvoo, Illinois? My aunt and uncle live there and its a historic town filled with time period shops, museums and sites.

My kids love the pioneer time period and for a few days we experienced a different ways to live. Thank you to Grandma for the beautiful homemade pioneer dresses!

8 Energy Boosting tips

Who couldn't use more energy?!

One of my current favorite books, The Happiness Project, by Gretchen Rubin, gives us 8 natural ways to feel more energetic without all the excess caffeine or sugar rush. Click here to read her tips and here to see at what times a day our bodies are just naturally more energetic.

Great Magazine Deals

What does $7.88 get you? 2 year long subscriptions! I chose Inc, which is perfect for small business and all things related to marketing and entrepreneurialism. There are tons of ideas and am excited because I am currently working over a few business ideas of my own. I'll share the magazine with Dave too.

I am also trying out Nautural Health. It has information on naturally-oriented food and nutrition, alternative health practices, exercise and self care.

Find these and others in the $4.69 specials box at Best Deal Magazines and then use coupon code RENEW16 at checkout which saves an additional 16%.

The Great Granola Discovery

What have I been missing out on?! Why haven't I tried this before? Granola Has It All!

Granola has all the makings for a complete perfect breakfast! Carbs, proteins, healthy fats! Plus fruit, calcium and tons of vitamins and minerals. I am so pumped because there are tons of options here to customize it, make it more healthy and make it kid friendly.

I just pulled this from the oven. mmmmmm.....Warm, chewy and super easy! I hope it lasts until the kids get up!

Easy Granola Recipe

3/4 c. brown sugar
1/3 c. vegetable oil
1/3 c. honey
5 c. oatmeal
1/2 c. raisins (add after cooking)
1/2 c. dry milk
3/4 tsp cinnamon
handful of almonds
*any other fun optional items

Mix brown sugar, oil and honey in saucepan. Heat until sugar is dissolved. Combine dry ingredients into large cake pan. Pour sugar mixture over dry mixture and mix well. Bake @375 for 10 minutes. Let cool in pan.

*nuts, flax seed, wheat germ, coconut, dates, cranberries, etc.

How to Get More Energy!

Ever wonder why at times throughout the day you feel like you could accomplish anything, but at others you can barely find the motivation to find your shoes? I am a morning person tried and true and often times I have crossed many items off the ol "to do" list before my kids are even up at 8.

Afternoons are definitely a bit more unstructured and it can be difficult to keep focus. I am trying to do better with that and have been following my motto of "tackle the bear" (meaning do what you don't really want to do first). I love how Gretchen Rubin, author of Happiness Project, refers to this as "putting herself in jail." Once she is done with that nagging task, she is free to move on to more pleasant matters.

Turns out there is a whole science behind this! Understanding they rhythms of your body clock can help in maximizing your days.

The Uprising of Animals

Remember the book Animal Farm? In this somewhat disturbing, but memorable book, the animals get rid of their master, invade the farmhouse and try to live like humans. I am usually an animal lover, but have been viewing them a bit differently after several instances this summer.

In the last few weeks, I have had my head pecked by a crow (he wanted the apple I was eating while out walking with my family), chased around a lake by hissing geese and completely cornered by a pitbull that crossed the street to try to attack me during my 5k race with my daughter.

What is going on here? What kind of upraising is this? Aren't animals supposed to be somewhat wary of humans? I have rabbits in my bike path that barely glance up as I narrowly try to dart them and ground squirrels that won't stay out of my garden no matter how I fill their tunnels with sand (and more recently the turned on hose).

The pitbull instance really left me wondering and a bit unsettled. I have no idea how I didn't get bitten. He crossed his lawn and the street in a flash and stood beside me with low throttled growls. I didn't move, I was rooted to that spot. It was terrifying.

Family Fitness

Over the 4th of July weekend my daughter, Megan, and I ran our first 5k together. This is not an easy endeavor for most adults let alone an 8 year old girl. One of her summer goals was to "run a race with Mommy" and our trip back to see Grandma and Papa for the holiday provided the perfect opportunity. They live in a small town, but this town goes all out for the 4th festivities including an annual fun run.

Megan did great and finished in 31 minutes including blazing past Mommy at the end to beat her. ;-) She wants to do another race and I am all for it.

I try being efficient and purposeful with my time. Now that my kids are getting older, we have been doing a lot more combining of family and fitness.

We do the usual hiking, biking and soccer, but its also fun to incorporate some different fun ideas like letterboxing, Chalk the Corners and our Weis Family Olympics (where we each picked a different game like Capture the Flag or Jump the River. We then packed the necessary supplies and played them all in an afternoon at the park.

Its all fun and good for our bodies too.

Chalk the Corners

I love introducing my children to fun things I did as a kid. We played this game once last summer, but it was readily remembered by them and added to our Big Summer To-Do this year.

All you need are two supplies: chalk and a prize!

Here's how to play: The trailblazer (me) set out around our neighborhood making a path with arrows every 8-10 feet. You use chalk and just draw them on the the sidewalks and streets. All of these arrows lead to a fabulous prize hidden at the end.The trail seekers then set off to follow the arrows and claim the prize!

This can get as in depth and creative as you want it to be. Since we live near a trail and park, I had the kids winding around the basketball court and off on different tangents on the path. Its also fun to do with a group of older kids making trails for one another and then following each others.

hoping on and off walls


following arrows on the court

5 minute peanut butter granola bars

In the summer we love to be out and about and I am always searching for new snacks that are easy to take along on our adventures. I try to steer from the overly processed pre-packaged snacks and usually make up some peanut butter whole wheat crackers, homemade trail mix, or have a cooler with string cheese, fresh fruit or turkey jerkey.

I came across this recipe for no bake peanut butter granola bars and can't wait to give it a whirl. The recipe would be easy to make changes and am already thinking dried cranberries or mini chocolate chips. Usually when I make something like this, I end up grazing on the whole pan myself, but will try to do better!

Free food for 4th and 5th of July

If you don't get your fill of burgers and dogs this 4th of July weekend. Check out Arby's for their free junior deluxe sandwich deal. This is good on July 5, 2010, when you purchase any drink (excludes Value drinks and coffee).

If Mexican is more your thing, kids under 12 can get a free kid’s meal from Qdoba Mexican Grill this weekend (July 3-5, 2010) with the purchase of an adult entree.

20 Superfoods You Must Have! Eat More to Weigh Less

How about that for a new mantra? Eat more to weigh less!

I love to graze throughout the day and will avoid these 20 worst foods, but what about the foods that we definitely want to include in our diets?

Here they are; the 20 Best Superfoods for losing weight and staying healthy. I thought the list looked pretty reasonable and we do pretty well with most of them. There was one item on the list that I will not eat; no matter how healthy and wonderful it claims to be. Never. Ever. Can you guess which one?