Health Buzz: Anywhere Workouts and Morning Motivation

Health news from around the web for January 19, 2012.

This week on Health Buzz, we're tackling two big workout problems. The first is what to do when you just can't make it to the gym and the second is how to get yourself up and moving in the morning. Plus, we're also talking about how kid-friendly recipes with sneaky veggies may not be sending the best message, and another round of Ask Mary.

Anywhere Workout

Here at DietsInReview, we love workouts that don't require any equipment. This full-body workout was created by celebrity trainer Jay Cardiello, and can be done in a space that's just four-by-four feet. We like the X-jump, which is a variation on a plank that works the shoulders, triceps, chest, abs and thighs.

Source: Self Magazine

Sneaky Chef is Sending the Wrong Message to Kids

Recipes that hide healthy ingredients in otherwise unhealthy dishes have gained a lot of popularity recently. Books like The Sneaky Chef are full of recipes that use vegetable puree in dishes like ravioli and brownies. Although this can somewhat improve the nutritional value of these dishes, the big problem is that kids aren't learning to like fresh fruits and vegetables for their own merits. In this story, we talk about alternative ways to help get kids to like fresh produce.

Source: DietsInReview.com

Morning Workout Motivation

Studies show that morning is the best time to workout, but for many of us, it's hard to get up early. This article tackles how to get yourself motivated in the morning. One tip is to get a workout buddy, who you'll look forward to sweating it out with. Another tip is pack your workout bag the night before and lay out everything you need. That way, it's like you're making a commitment to working out before you go to bed and you'll need less time to get ready in the morning.

Source: Women's Health

Ask Mary: Are Sweet Potatoes Good for You?

In this week's Ask Mary segment, registered dietitian Mary Hartley answers a reader's question about sweet potatoes. Although sweet potatoes are easy to load up with unhealthy toppings like butter and brown sugar, on their own they are very rich in vitamins and fiber.

Recipe: Salad with Chunky Almond Vinaigrette

This delicious salad is topped with all kinds of flavorful ingredients. Make the dressing with whole almonds, sesame oil, olive oil, white wine vinegar and lemon juice. You can use a half-head of lettuce for your greens, or any other salad mix you like. Add on a little prosciutto, goat cheese and raspberries and enjoy.

Source: Feast on the Cheap