by Stefanie Plum, Gather Partner Team
Member since:
February 19, 2008

Healthy Living Chat, TRANSCRIPT. Learn How to Live Healthy! Win 250 Gather Points and a Prize!

February 12, 2009 12:02 PM EST (Updated: March 04, 2009 12:12 PM EST)
views: 242 | comments: 259

Join us for a live chat today at 3:00pm ET to discuss live healthier! We’ll be joined by Brett Blumenthal, a certified fitness instructor, CEO of Sheer Balance, and an overall healthy living lover! Learn firsthand from Brett how you can live a healthier life!

The chat will take place in this article’s comment field between 3:00-4:00PM ET. You'll need to refresh your browser to see new comments. Two Gather member will be randomly selected to receive 250 Gather Points and a healthy living gift!

Here are some great topics to discuss!

  • What are you doing to live healthy?
  • Are you helping your family live healthy? How?
  • Do you eat a proper diet, exercise and get enough sleep?
  • What tips do you have for others looking to live healthier?

Share more healthy living tips and advice in the Healthy Living Group. Click to join.>>

Living a healthy life? It's easier than you think! And there are some small things you can add to your life to make it healthier! Read weekly articles in Healthy Living about eating better, and share your own tips for healthy living. Click here to join the group to stay updated and to publishyour own content.

 

 

 

More about Brett: My passion for health and wellness began as a freshman in college, where I quickly realized that exercise and good nutrition were vital to releasing stress and maintaining balance. I became an AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America) certified group fitness instructor and has taught for Gold’s Gym and Bally’s Total Fitness in New York. I taught all types of fitness classes, but especially enjoyed helping students understand fundamentals of nutrition, fitness and overall wellness.

I founded www.sheerbalance.com, a company dedicated to health and wellness, when I realized that many of my friends and colleagues constantly struggled with finding balance in their every day hectic lives. Further, I realized that many of these women were frustrated by the overwhelming amount of information that was contradicting, unclear and misleading when it came to healthy living. As a result, I saw a need to provide women with the right tools and information to make living healthy, easy and fun.

 

Stay up-to-date with Brett's articles from now on - add her as a friend!

 
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Comments: 259

Jenn P. Feb 12, 2009, 12:04pm EST
I will be here :)
Ariel Storm Feb 12, 2009, 12:05pm EST
I have to miss it. I have a field of vision test at the same time :(
tonya brown Feb 12, 2009, 1:13pm EST
i'll be here.
Barb (Gather Site Ferret) Carlson Feb 12, 2009, 1:18pm EST
I'll give it a shot.
Cecilia Lyne Feb 12, 2009, 1:20pm EST
I am going to try and be here ;)
Nettie R. Feb 12, 2009, 1:39pm EST
I plan on joining the chat. I'm on the west coast so for me the chat starts at noon..right?
Ashley M. Feb 12, 2009, 2:02pm EST
This will be an engaging conversation...can't wait to start!
Ginny W. Feb 12, 2009, 2:06pm EST
I should be here

A 10!
ELLEN B. Feb 12, 2009, 2:09pm EST
My nice comment did not post, so here I am trying to do it again.. I will try to be here, and say what I said then. Ellen B
Cecilia Lyne Feb 12, 2009, 2:56pm EST
I am here :)
Hello everyone!
What are you doing to live healthy? - Making better food choices for myself & my family. Plus getting out & exercising when the weather is nice~
Stacey *Mamasaid* D. Feb 12, 2009, 2:59pm EST
Hello everyone :)
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:00pm EST
Making healthy choices is very important to me as a mom. I want my kids to grow up happy and healthy! They are so active and also in sports. I think it's important to teach them that lifestyle at a very early age!
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:00pm EST
Hello everyone!
Jennifer O. Feb 12, 2009, 3:00pm EST
I'm here!
Stacey *Mamasaid* D. Feb 12, 2009, 3:00pm EST
I joined Shedding Light to live healthy this year. It's really helping me. I drink more water now, which is a good thing. I can't believe how much my body craves it. I was doing myself wrong with all that coffee.
Brett Blumenthal Feb 12, 2009, 3:00pm EST
Ok folks...I'm here!
Let's get started...
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:01pm EST
I am focused and determined to lose atleast 6 more pounds before my 10th anniversary, which is coming up on March 20th. Not only is that our anniversary, it's also the very first day of Spring.

Last month, I made the commitment to myself to lose atleast 10 pounds before my anniversary. So far, I have lost 4 pounds. I am very proud of those 4 pounds. Those 4 pounds are gone and I never want to see them again.
How is everyone?
Ashley M. Feb 12, 2009, 3:01pm EST
I've recently really started to incorporate more vegetables into my diet. I'm especially into the Green Giant steamers here lately. Fresh vegetables cost a little bit more than I want to spend for my husband and I, especially if I buy enough of them to make a good recipe. With a steamer pack I can have several vegetables at once for a decent price, especially considering there are Green Giant coupons in the paper at least once a month.
Stacey *Mamasaid* D. Feb 12, 2009, 3:01pm EST
My daughter is joining me as she needs to lose weight, too. I lost 5 pounds and she lost 4. We're so happy to be healthier. My son is great, he always makes healthy choices. We're all working with my husband who needs to make better choices to fight serious health issues.
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:01pm EST
Stacey

shedding Light is a fantastic group, so motivating!
Jennifer O. Feb 12, 2009, 3:01pm EST
I've been walking for transportation but I am trying to also look at it as a way to be healthier. One problem though is that I am starving all the time because of it!
Are you helping your family live healthy? How?
I'm trying to incorporate more vegetarian options into our weekly menu
Cecilia Lyne Feb 12, 2009, 3:02pm EST
I am trying to have us eat our less and have the kids help with cooking the food.
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:02pm EST
I lost 30 pounds in 2007, looking to lost 25 pounds this year!
Stacey *Mamasaid* D. Feb 12, 2009, 3:02pm EST
Hello Brett.
Stefanie Plum, Gather Partner Team Feb 12, 2009, 3:02pm EST
Hi everyone! Welcome!

Welcome Brett to the chat!
I also walk to work everyday - so I am getting a bit more exercise & saving gas too!
Jennifer O. Feb 12, 2009, 3:02pm EST
Happy anniversary, Bridget. My 10th anniversary is on New Year's Eve!
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:02pm EST
Stacey,

It's great that you have a weight loss partner! My sister and i are doing the same thing together. although we live in different states!
Mary G. Feb 12, 2009, 3:02pm EST
I joined the Shedding Light Group on Gather. The biggest change in my life was giving up soda, as was drinking a lot of it.
Brett Blumenthal Feb 12, 2009, 3:02pm EST
All...congrats on trying to lose weight...especially extra weight. Fiber is really important in your goals
Jennifer O. Feb 12, 2009, 3:02pm EST
Welcome Brett!
Cecilia Lyne Feb 12, 2009, 3:03pm EST
we are going to the gym more often. They have kiddy care so that is nice but we are trying to make time with the kids too so they can swim or rollerskate.....
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:03pm EST
Thanks Jennifer! Happy belated 10th to you!
Shawnee G. Feb 12, 2009, 3:03pm EST
Living healthy for me has always been difficult. My biggest downfall is junk food. I cook healthier for my kids, but honestly have not developed a like for veggies or most fruits. I sitll eat them because I figure I have to in front of the kids, but I am a closet carb freak who will eat a full bag of chips in one sitting if I do not watch it.
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:03pm EST
I am drinking so much water that I might be transforming into a fish. I can't ever remember drinking so much water in my life. But I can really see and feel the difference it has made.

Fresh fruits and veggies have always been a favorite in this house. Bananas are my latest "fix" and I'm buying them in bulk. :) I just can't seem to get enough bananas, I'm eating atleast two a day.
Mary G. Feb 12, 2009, 3:04pm EST
I am drinking a lot more water and not skipping breakfast anymore.
Stacey *Mamasaid* D. Feb 12, 2009, 3:04pm EST
What are the best types of fiber, Brett?
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:04pm EST
My elliptical machine and weighted hula hoop are my new best friends, we have been spending lots of quality time with each other on a daily basis.
Brett Blumenthal Feb 12, 2009, 3:04pm EST
Shawnee...stop eating chips. Seriously...the more youeat carbs that are bad for you and refined...the more you will want them! Try looking for high fiber carbs that actually fill youup!
Stacey *Mamasaid* D. Feb 12, 2009, 3:04pm EST
Way to go, Bridget. Having a partner and the Sistahs Shed does help ;)
Ashley M. Feb 12, 2009, 3:04pm EST
My husband and I are both working together at being in optimal shape by the time summer rolls around. We both lift weights and are hoping to add muscle. There are a lot of activities to participate in during the summer around here, and I looking forward to being able to do some races, as they are something I could never have considered a few short years.
Jennifer O. Feb 12, 2009, 3:04pm EST
Thanks. It is the upcoming New Years Eve. We marries 12/31/99
Shawnee G. Feb 12, 2009, 3:05pm EST
I help my children be healthier by offering good foods, mostly homecooked with fresh foods.
I also kick them outside alot with bikes and things to do physically.

My goal for this summer is to buy a jungle gym or some outside play structure for climbing and extra stuff to do for them to burn off energy.
Brett Blumenthal Feb 12, 2009, 3:05pm EST
Stacey...good question! Hopefully you read my Fiber...your new BFF article! The reality is, there are two types...anyone?
do you know? Let's make this interactive!
Jennifer O. Feb 12, 2009, 3:05pm EST
I have to eat breakfast or my blood sugar is off all day.
Hollie ~TNR Works~ Feb 12, 2009, 3:05pm EST
Someone suggested to me to take a multi-vitamin while I'm trying to lose weight, but there seem to be so many choices. Can you suggest a specific kind?
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:05pm EST
Oh, sorry Jennifer! LOL! I'm just a few months EARLY! :)
Ginny W. Feb 12, 2009, 3:05pm EST
I am still here and ready to learn!
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:06pm EST
I'm not sure whether my focus is so crisp because I want to lose 10 pounds before my anniversary or it's because I really want to beat my sister in our challenge: $5 for every pound lost! Either way, I'm on a mission and I'm not going to let anything stop me or get in my way.
Ashley M. Feb 12, 2009, 3:06pm EST
I am really happy to see Fiber popping up in more and more products...like yogurt. I am going to eat yogurt anyway....to have fiber added to it is a plus, every little bit helps!
Mary G. Feb 12, 2009, 3:06pm EST
I love fruit and eats lots of it. Its great to juice it and have in a dish.
Ginny W. Feb 12, 2009, 3:06pm EST
Brett!

soluble and insoluble
Stacey *Mamasaid* D. Feb 12, 2009, 3:06pm EST
I'm with you Brett and must check out your posts and connect after this chat.
Ashley M. Feb 12, 2009, 3:07pm EST
oo, I believe the two types of fiber are soluble and insoluble. :)
Jennifer O. Feb 12, 2009, 3:07pm EST
Go for the $$ Bridget....LOL A challenge like that always helps!
Brett Blumenthal Feb 12, 2009, 3:07pm EST
Yay Ginny! Excellent...So, do we know the difference between?
Cecilia Lyne Feb 12, 2009, 3:08pm EST
Once fruits are back in season it makes it so much easier and affordable to eat healthy. Even when they are on sale they are expensive
Ashley M. Feb 12, 2009, 3:08pm EST
Jennifer O., Feb 12, 2009, 3:05pm EST

Breakfast definitely sets the tone for my whole day as well. :)
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:08pm EST
Fresh fruits and veggies are a staple in this house!
Cecilia Lyne Feb 12, 2009, 3:08pm EST
No clue about the difference in Fibers
Shawnee G. Feb 12, 2009, 3:08pm EST
"Shawnee...stop eating chips. Seriously...the more youeat carbs that are bad for you and refined...the more you will want them! Try looking for high fiber carbs that actually fill youup!
Brett Blumenthal, Feb 12, 2009, 3:04pm EST "

Any suggestions to substitue here? I have always struggled with potato chips and a few other junk foods, chips are the worst for me, though.
Jennifer O. Feb 12, 2009, 3:08pm EST
How they break down?
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:08pm EST
Jennifer,

I'm all about the money! LOL! My sister is coming home to visit on March 20th, that's our deadline!
David S. Feb 12, 2009, 3:09pm EST
For me it is all about riding my bike or walking to work whenever the weather permits it, this allows me to get sufficient exercise five days a week most weeks, and that allows me a little leeway on being lenient on snacking at times.
Lisa B. Feb 12, 2009, 3:09pm EST
I just saw this. YAY i didnt miss it. Hi everyone
Ashley M. Feb 12, 2009, 3:09pm EST
The difference in the fibers lies in how they are utilized by your body and broken down. One works more as a "sweeper," and the other is more of filler, i.e. expands in your stomach....I think. I could be confused and wrong!
Brett Blumenthal Feb 12, 2009, 3:09pm EST
Ok...if everyone can focus...we can learn. I know a lot of people want to chat, but I want to make sure you get something out of this. Insoluble and soluble. Insoluble increases the movement of food through your digestive system and increases stool bulk, helping to eliminate constipation and regulate the digestive tract. Any ideas of what foods give you that?
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:10pm EST
I'm really focusing on my water intake. I'm keeping a journal of everything that goes into my body, both good and bad. When I see it on paper, I am more focused and tuned in. I also find it's easier to make changes this way.

I'm taking small steps towards BIG changes!
Lisa B. Feb 12, 2009, 3:11pm EST
i'm living healthier by no longer smoking. Its been 6 weeks and 2 days.
Ginny W. Feb 12, 2009, 3:11pm EST
Oats for soluable
Jennifer O. Feb 12, 2009, 3:11pm EST
Veggies?
Ginny W. Feb 12, 2009, 3:11pm EST
Will either cause diarrhea more than another?
Trish A. Feb 12, 2009, 3:12pm EST
I'm joining in late. In answer to your question Brett I think most things with bulk like fruits, vegetables, etc. make for a healthier and happier digestive system.
Stacey *Mamasaid* D. Feb 12, 2009, 3:12pm EST
Insoluble - would that be leafy green veggies, apples and foods like that?
Brett Blumenthal Feb 12, 2009, 3:12pm EST
Shawnee...it seems that you are crazing insoluble type of fiber. The more starchy type...this would be found in grains. Whole grains. Try eating sun-chips. They are tasty and have fiber and whole grains. Also, try a slice of multigrain bread instead...with a little smart balance. Or, you could try a great fiber bar...like South beach Living Fiber Fit bars.
Shawnee G. Feb 12, 2009, 3:12pm EST
Oatmeal?
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:12pm EST
Lisa,

Good for you!
Mary G. Feb 12, 2009, 3:12pm EST
I think its how they break down.
♥ Adair ♥ K. Feb 12, 2009, 3:12pm EST
I have been incorporating more excercise into my day, eating more healthly foods, drinking more water and also trying to quit smoking. Taking it one day at a time here.

We just bought the Wii Fit and I love it. My youngest daughter is on Wii for an hour a day.
Cecilia Lyne Feb 12, 2009, 3:12pm EST
I like Bridget's philosophy :
I'm taking small steps towards BIG changes!
If I try and do too much all at once I do not stick with it ;)
Hollie ~TNR Works~ Feb 12, 2009, 3:12pm EST
Oats, grains, wheat
Ginny W. Feb 12, 2009, 3:12pm EST
Veggies for insoluble?
Ashley M. Feb 12, 2009, 3:12pm EST
I think fruits are a main source of insoluble fiber...I also believe I've seen it advertised on some whole wheat/grain pasta boxes.
Brett Blumenthal Feb 12, 2009, 3:12pm EST
So...insoluble is actually found in Whole-wheat flour, Wheat bran, Nuts and most Vegetables.
anthony f. Feb 12, 2009, 3:13pm EST
Well, soluble fiber is soluble, and goes into solution in the gut. insoluble just sits there. Not sure what the difference in effect is.
Brett Blumenthal Feb 12, 2009, 3:13pm EST
And to all of you saying oats...sorry...you're wrong. If you can believe it, oats are soluble! They are a bit strange that way.
♥ Adair ♥ K. Feb 12, 2009, 3:13pm EST
Sunchips are my favorite snack. I have to hide them from my daughters.
I do get enough sleep, thankfully!
Mary G. Feb 12, 2009, 3:14pm EST
I think oatmeal is a good one to eat.
Trish A. Feb 12, 2009, 3:14pm EST
I eat whole wheat bread that doesn't have alot of the extra junk like additives and preservatives. It just doesn't seem like those artificial things are good for any part of the body including the digestive system.
Lisa B. Feb 12, 2009, 3:14pm EST
We so want a Wii Fit. My husband just bought a bike yesterday and next month were going to buy one for me so we can go on bikerides. I would love to get into shape without losing any of the weight I have.
Bridget ♥ Feb 12, 2009, 3:14pm EST
cecilia,

It's all about baby steps! Trust me!
Brett Blumenthal Feb 12, 2009, 3:14pm EST
Soluble dissolves in water to form a gel-like material. It can help lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Have you ever had oats? They sort of melt in your mouth...also that is why oats are so great for lowering cholesterol!
Stacey *Mamasaid* D. Feb 12, 2009, 3:15pm EST
What does it mean that oats are soluble when it comes to your weight?
Christina L. Feb 12, 2009, 3:15pm EST
I am trying to eat more fruits and veggies.
Brett Blumenthal Feb 12, 2009, 3:16pm EST
Now most soluble fiber foods include fruits. Although, some are veggies:
Apples, Barley, Beans, Citrus Fruits, Carrots, Oats, Peas and Psyllium