The British love their Marmite, Australians their Vegemite, South Africans their fish paste and Americans? Peanut Butter of course! From children through seniors, Peanut Butter is a staple in all households in the US. Peanut butter is rich and creamy and provides non meat eaters with a good source of protein. If however you are following a calorie reduced diet plan, you will quickly see that Peanut Butter is super high in calories which leaves one wondering what to do! In comes Wonder Natural Foods Corporation to save the day! They created Better ‘n Butter a Peanut Butter with 85% less fat and 40% less calories. With only 100 calories per serving (2 Tbs) and just 2 g of fat you can easily fit it into your eating plan. In addition, it is free of saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol and preservatives. It comes in 3 flavors: Original, Low Sodium and Chocolate! Jiffy fans will rejoice, since Better ‘n Peanut Butter is similar in taste. Pure peanut butter fans (Marantha etc) may find Better ‘n Butter to be sweeter than they are used to.

We received several jars of Better ‘n Peanut Butter to taste test. The peanut butter spreads easily and mixes effortlessly into liquids. Our testers enjoyed spreading it on waffles for an extra special lower cal treat in the morning. The chocolate flavor was the hands down favorite of the panel. This decadent spread is a wonderful alternative to chocolate spreads and fudge toppings. The chocolate flavored peanut butter makes a delicious, decadent topping on ice-cream and worked beautifully as an alternative to frosting on a German chocolate cake. The peanut taste is very subtle in this flavor which lends itself to endless dessert possibilities. All the flavors work well in smoothies, added to yogurt, paired with fruit or used in desserts. For recipe ideas, click here.

Find Better ‘n Peanut Butter at a store near you or purchase directly from the online store.

Dante Pauwels is the founder of Dante Beatrix, a Manhattan based company which offers a variety of top quality bags for moms and kids. Dante has an impressive resume which includes designing products for Martha Stewart. We received two products to test: a stroller tote and a matching envelope.

The stroller tote is a stylish, durable and very well constructed messenger style diaper bag made from easy to clean canvas. It measures 18 x 12 x 5 inches which is ample size for holding essentials without being cumbersome. The stroller tote is available in both bright and neutral colors, all featuring a simple graphic on the front. Marcia Cross has been spotted with the Peace Design. Hip moms ala Gwen Stefani will love the luxe version which features metal studs. The stroller tote bag has an adjustable shoulder strap as well as special clips which allow the bag to fasten to stroller handles (be sure that your stroller can handle the extra weight!). The spacious interior of the bag is light colored, making it very easy to find things. An easy-to-clean, matching 14 x 20 inch changing pad is included and we like that it secures with velcro. Two small inner pockets can hold anti-bacterial wipes, tissues, or a snack. The most innovative feature of this bag are the dual drawstring pouches on either side of the main compartment, which adjust in size to hold a baby’s bottle, mom’s water bottle and even a wide sippy cup. We haven’t come across an adjustable bottle pouche that can accommodate such a variety of bottle or cup sizes before and think that it’s pure genius! The exterior of the bag features one large, deep pocket and a cell-phone pouch, which will make it very easy to retrieve your cellphone. The bag has a sturdy zip closure to keep the contents safe.

The matching envelope with removable strap is the perfect companion to the stroller tote. Perfect for when you need to run a quick errand and just need the bare basics. It measures 10.5 x 7.5 x 2.2 inches and will hold a pack of wipes and a few diapers. You can wear it over your shoulder or hang it over the stroller. Remove the straps and tada it doubles as a trendy clutch. A magnetic closure keeps the contents safely tucked inside.

Dante Beatrix hasn’t forgotten about the kids! Just in time for back to school, check out the adorable little kid backpacks, and big kid backpacks.

Find bags national wide or shop from their online store from the comfort of your home.

Experts in the field of Psychology say that it takes 3 weeks to form a new habit and I can certainly see how that is applicable to my weight loss journey. I have been following the Weight Watchers plan for 3 weeks now and it has now become a “new habit” and a new way of life for me. This week I had my MIL watch my kids for the afternoon and I headed straight to the grocery store, armed with my points calculator, ready to find new food items. No-one noticed me scanning the isles while typing nutritional information info my little calculator, which resembles a compact! I have a system where I first check out the nutritional information of a product and eliminate any products which are loaded with sugar, trans fat or saturated fact. I then look more closely at the nutritional information. I was really amazed when comparing breads, cereals, grains, etc and finding that for the same serving size, the points value can vary quite considerably from brand to brand. My advice is to compare as many product brands as you can and you will surely find lower point items by just doing a few comparisons. I was able to find new products to try which fit beautifully into my eating plan. I was able to continue exercising this week and am now able to work for 30 minutes at a time, which I am really pleased with.

Now for my stats!

Current weight: 143 lbs

Lost 2.5 lbs

I have now lost a total of 8 lbs and I am I really feeling terrific. My energy levels are up and my family have commented on how wonderful I look. I am really motivated by success thus far, which inspires me to keep going. Next week, I will be taking my kids to a birthday party where I know that plenty of tempting and high point foods will be on display! If anyone has any strategies for avoiding temptation, please share them with me!!! Have a great week and I will report back next week.

Posted by Mandy, Parent Panel member

The BabyBjörn Carrier was first launched in 1973 and is now in its 35th year of production. BabyBjörn products are synonymous with top quality and their line of Baby Carriers are no exception. The current range includes four baby carrier models: BABYBJORN Baby Carrier Original, BABYBJORN Baby Carrier Active, BABYBJORN Baby Carrier Air and the new BABYBJORN Baby Carrier Synergy.

Winner of the prestigious IF Product Design Award for 2008, the BABYBJORN Baby Carrier Synergy is the latest, airy and comfortable model which combines the lumbar support of the BabyBjorn Active carrier with a lightweight, breathable mesh fabric that allows greater airflow and keeps you and your baby cooler. With top quality buckles, snaps and stitching, this carrier is designed to safely hold your baby, provide him with close and intimate contact while allowing you to be hands free. The carrier is essentially 2 pieces which snap together and after a few practice tries, you will become competent in using it. The padded shoulder straps are comfortable, wide, and designed to distribute your baby’s weight evenly. The carrier includes a padded head support that can be folded down to give your older baby a comfortable forward-facing view. Suitable for 8 to 26 lbs. Measures 10.25″ x 3.25″ x 13.25″. The carrier is fully adjustable allowing parents of different heights to custom fit their carrier to their body, ensuring a perfect fit. As baby grows, you can adjust the buckles to the optimal height. To see a demo of the features, please click here. This unisex carrier is made from Oeko-Tex certified material which means that the fabric does not contain any harmful chemicals or toxins, putting parents at ease.

BABYBJÖRN offers additional accessories for your baby carrier. Extend the life of your carrier with the terry-cloth bib, which attaches easily. By attaching the bib, parents won’t have to wash the entire carrier which each time drools or spits up. Instead, just detach the bib and wash! The fleece cover attaches quickly and easily and offers protection against the elements. Fits all BabyBjorn models.

Where the BabyBjorn carrier truly excels is in relation to reducing colic or reflux. According to Bryan Vartabedian, M.D. the author of the book “Colic Solved,” the BabyBjorn carrier allows a baby to remain in a vertical position with minimal bending at the hips which together with additional strategies outlined in his book, help to reduce colic and reflux. This stylish carrier will make a terrific baby shower gift. Find out where to purchase BABYBJÖRN products here.

My 2nd week on the program flew by. This week, I focused on eating 5 small meals per day, with an emphasis on colorful veggies, fruits and legumes. I can honestly say that I have not been hungry between meals which is a great bonus. This is not a starvation diet but a lifestyle! I was able to take regular walks this week and both my kids and I enjoyed the fresh air and Vitamin D! I am now able to walk for 25 minutes which is an improvement over last week. I used to put off exercising because I was always so tired, but the truth is that exercise boosts your energy! Sometimes I don’t feel like going out for a walk, but I really love how I feel afterwards, which motivates me to continue my exercise program. My husband is very supportive of my weight loss efforts and has decided to start eating healthier and has reduced his consumption of treats. I have found that if my pantry is stocked with healthy snacks, then the temptation to eat treats has been removed. Upon the suggestion of my new online pals that I have met on the message boards, I cook just twice a week in bulk and freeze portions for the week. This is the perfect strategy for busy moms like myself and having healthy food that is prepared in advance enables me to continue eating healthy foods throughout the week. The eTools on the Weight Watchers website are so useful. I tested out the recipe builder feature this week, where I type in any recipe and the software program calculates the points value! Now I can make good use of my vegetarian recipe books, which do not have the nutritional info listed for each recipe.

Now for my stats!

Current weight: 145.5 lbs

Lost 2.5 lbs

I have now lost of a total of 5.5 lbs and I am really motivated to continue this journey. I know that it works and I am really looking forward to continuing my path towards health and wellness.

Posted by Mandy, Parent Panel member

My first week on Weight Watchers has been a real eye-opener. After reviewing the plan and materials, I soon become aware that up until now, I had no clue about serving sizes! Although I had been eating healthy foods, my portions were out of control, hence the excess calorie intake and weight. I am now recording everything that goes into my mouth and this is really helping me see what I eat during the course of the day. The Weight Watchers website has fantastic online tools that allow subscribers to track their daily food intake, look up the points value of any food quickly and easily and find healthy recipes. I have also been active on the Vegetarian Message Board, as well as the Weight Watchers Online message board and have received lots of help and useful tips from experienced members.

I am learning that Weight Watchers is NOT a diet but a way of life. No foods are off limits and everything is allowed in moderation. I really love that I don’t have to buy expensive foods or special diet foods. I was able to easily stay within point range and was pleasantly surprised that I am able to still include treat such as ice-cream or dark chocolate during the week and still stay within my points range. I am focusing on eating smaller portions, including plenty of plant based proteins, veggies, fruits and healthy whole grains. I have substituted water for fruit juice and make sure to include a small amount of healthy fats in my diet. I dusted off our all terrain double stroller and started walking! I was only able to manage a 20 minute walk while pushing my kids, but I know that if I continue, I will be able to increase the time as the weeks go by.

Now for my stats!

Current weight: 148 lbs

I am really pleased to have lost 3 pounds during my first week on Weight Watchers and I am excited and motivated for the weeks ahead. Thank you for all your support. Wishing you all a great week.

Posted by Mandy, Parent Panel member

Coconut Bliss Ice-cream is free of diary, soy, or refined sugar (with the exception of a small amount of organic cane sugar in the Mint Galactica and the Cinnamon Chocolate Flake flavors) and is made from Coconut Milk and Agave Syrup. The coconut milk is imported directly from a family-owned organic farm in Thailand. Coconut milk is rich with lauric acid and has trace amounts of caprylic acid, both of which have antiviral and antifungal properties. Coconut milk is rich in MCTs (medium chain triglycerides), which boosts the metabolism and satisfies hunger. Agave syrup is a low glycemic sweetener which is sourced from the agave plant in Mexico. Coconut Bliss ice-cream comprises of organic ingredients and is certified USDA Organic.

Coconut Bliss Ice Cream is currently available in 10 Delicious Flavors. We received a box containing 4 flavors to taste test! Bliss Unlimited, LLC has hit a home run with their unique coconut and agave syrup based ice-creams. The texture of the ice-cream is ultra creamy (think double-churned), yet reminiscent of gelato at the same time. You will undoubtedly be transported into a state of “bliss”. The coconut base is surprisingly subtle and even those who aren’t typically drawn to coconut will fall in love with this ice-cream.

*Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge A panel favorite! Rich, creamy and decadent, this flavor will satisfy your chocolate cravings. The chocolate ice-cream, toasted organic hazelnuts and rich fudge sauce are essentially an ice-cream sundae in a pint. Go ahead and indulge!

*Strawberry Lemon Love
The lemon flavor is refreshing and reminds us of a lemon sorbet which is served in between meals to cleanse the palette. The strawberry flavor is mellow and soothing with subtle fruity notes. Scoop the 2 flavors out separately or pair together for a delicious and refreshing treat… perfect for a warm summers night.

*Mint Galactica
Mint paired with dark chocolate flakes…perfection. Creamy and satisfying, mint chocolate fans will rejoice. The perfect way to end your meal.

*Vanilla Island
Transport yourself to an island getaway with this flavor which can be enjoyed on its own or dressed up with all the works!

*Purchase Coconut Bliss Ice-Cream here.

For more information, please visit: www.CoconutBliss.com

After suffering a major heart attack at the age of 42, Barry Yellen needed to change his life and do so fast. Overhauling his diet was the first step, yet searching for healthy snacks on the market proved to be very difficult. Instead, Barry decided to develop his own line of tasty, heart healthy snacks and snack lovers nationwide rejoiced. Barry’s Bakery offers a range of low calorie snacks and treats including the wildly popular French Twist Range.

What are French Twists? They are layers of sweet puff pastry which are twisted into individual servings and baked to perfection. Each 13 g Twist has only 60 Calories and only 2 g of fat and 4 g of sugar. French Twists have NO Cholesterol, Butter, Eggs, Yeast or Dairy and are certified Kosher. The French Twists are currently available in 8 flavors.

Barry’s Bakery sent us a sample pack to taste test. The French Twists are DELICIOUS and are the perfect snack to satisfy your sweet and crunchy cravings. At only 60 calories per Twist, you can easily fit it into your eating plan. Most snacks on the market are loaded with sugar and fat and are super high in calories. The secret to the French Twists is that they are made from all natural ingredients and are baked instead of fried.

Our panel picked the Original, Maple French Toast and the Wild Raspberry as their favorites. These low calorie sweet and crunchy treats are delightful with a cup of tea. French Twists will appeal to everyone’s taste buds, including those following a Kosher Diet, those watching their cholesterol, vegans, and those who are trying to lose/maintain their weight.

If you are looking for a very sweet treat, without the extra calories and fat, try the Meringue line. The delicious meringues are available in several flavors including vanilla, chocolate, key lime and vanilla rainbow. These melt in your mouth treats will appeal to children and adults alike and are perfect for decorating your desserts and ice-creams this summer. Each mini meringue has just 1 calorie so everyone can afford to indulge.

*Find a store in your area by clicking here.

*For convenience, you can order via the online store here.

To learn more, please visit: www.BarrysBakery.com

Around the globe, New Balance is recognized as a leading manufacturer of high-performance athletic footwear and apparel. The company’s objective is straightforward — equip the elite and everyday athlete with footwear, apparel and accessories that provide the best performance, fit, quality and comfort. New Balance, headquartered in Boston, MA has the following mission: Demonstrating responsible leadership, we build global brands that athletes are proud to wear, associates are proud to create and communities are proud to host.

New Balance offers a full selection of fitness products for men, women and children. The focus of todays articles will be on New Balance walking shoes for women and the NEW Bamboo Clothing line for women.

WW844

Motion Control. The next generation of the 843, the 844 packs even more comfort with a full length of Abzorb FL advanced cushioning, and unsurpassed motion control with the ROLLBAR support system. The ultimate walking shoe featuring breathable, stretch upper and a Rollbar designed especially for walking. Motion Control. The next generation of the 843, the 844 packs even more comfort with a full length of Abzorb FL advanced cushioning and unsurpassed motion control with the ROLLBAR support system.This shoe runs short. Consider ordering ½ size larger than your regular athletic shoe size.

In 2008 New Balance will contribute 15% of wholesale sales from the Lace Up for the Cure® Apparel & Footwear Collection, with a guaranteed minimum donation of $500,000 up to a maximum of $1 million to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

WW926

A motion control shoe with the ROLLBAR® Support System – ideal for the walker seeking both maximum stability and exceptional cushioning. The ultimate stability walking shoe featuring Rollbar and rich full grain leather. The 926 features the ROLLBAR® for enhanced motion control, and advanced cushioning Abzorb® SBS in the heel for exceptional shock absorption.The 926 is Medicare/HCPCS approved. Most diabetics who received Medicare qualify for this diabetic shoe and other diabetic shoes from New Balance, as a result of the Medicare Shoe Bill. Ask your doctor/podiatrist for assistance in selecting the right shoe for your health needs.
Available in both velcro and lace options. This shoe runs true to size.

PURCHASING:

Consumers can find retailers that carry New Balance products by visiting www.newbalance.com or by calling 1-800-253-SHOE.

Our test panel had the opportunity to test 2 pairs of walking shoes and some bamboo apparel over a period of several months. Here are some comments from our testers:

“A visit to the doctor 6 months ago highlighted the fact that I have put on 10 pounds over the past year. My doctor encouraged me to start an exercise program and slowly reduce my food portions, so that I could lose the weight slowly and effectively. Although I have a gym membership, I find it quite a hassle to find the time to go, with 2 young kids at home. So, I dusted off the double all-terrain stroller, put on my New Balance WW844 Walking Shoes, strapped my kids in the stroller and off I went. I was really impressed with the support of the New Balance Walking Shoes 844. My old cheapo walking shoes were so uncomfortable and my feet started to ache and hurt after just a few minutes. I can honestly say that buying premium quality shoes make a HUGE difference and these shoes are by FAR the most comfortable walking shoes that I have ever owned. I feel wonderful knowing that this shoe is part of the Lace Up for the Cure®I collection, since a family member of ours recently passed away from Breast Cancer. I made walking into a daily ritual to walk for 30 minutes at a fast pace and I can proudly say that after 6 months I have lost the 10 pounds and am feeling wonderful. My stress levels have been lowered and I am generally a much happier person. We are all very busy and struggle to find the time to exercise. Try walking and you will soon be on the road to great health!”

“I am a diabetic and suffer from arthritis, mainly in my hands. I have very poor fine motor coordination which translates to difficulty with manipulating things like buttons, laces etc. I have had a very difficult time finding walking shoes that have velcro fastenings instead of laces and was really happy to have found the WW936 shoes from New Balance! Now I don’t have to struggle trying to tie my shoes laces and I can save my energy for my walks. My feet feel very well cushioned in this shoe and protect my diabetic feet very well. When I first began walking, I was only able to walk for 15 mins, but now, I can proudly say that I am up to 40 mins and feeling great. My health care team are very pleased with how well my walking program is lowering my blood sugars and I have even dropped 10 pounds to date. I attribute this to my WW926 walking shoes, which make walking fun, and something that I look forward to each day. Walking is something that we can all do, and now that summer is here, there is no excuse.”

Bamboo Apparel

Want to look stylish while you exercise, yet remain comfortable and cool at the same time? Check out the Bamboo Fitness Apparel from New Balance. Our test panel reported that they looked forward to working out while wearing pieces from the bamboo collection and commented that it was quite a strong motivator in encouraging them to continue their exercise program. The fabric kept them cool and comfortable throughout their workout, yet still allowed them freedom of movement.

These are our picks for Bamboo Fitness Apparel from New Balance which are hot off the press!

To learn more, please visit: www.NewBalance.com

Weight Watchers Online, a leading online weight loss plan, is built on the scientifically-proven approach to weight loss developed by the experts at Weight Watchers. Weight Watchers Online is a personalized subscription-based plan that is practical, liveable and sustainable. People can lose weight while still eating the foods they love. Some of the features include: an interactive tracker that helps record and analyze food habits, information on thousands of foods, more than 1,800 recipes, a recipe builder, a restaurant guide and tons of exercise demo videos. You can conveniently access Weight Watchers Online whether at home or in the office. With 24/7 access to interactive tools and tips housed all in one place, people can make better food and exercise choices that fit their schedule and lifestyle. Learn more about the Weight Watchers Online Program here.

A member of our parent panel, Mandy, has signed up for the Weight Watchers Online Plan and will be sharing her journey with us, over the next 3 months. Over to Mandy.

Hello, I am Mandy, a stay at home mom of 2 children aged 2 and 4 years of age. I have been a vegetarian for the past 10 years and when I decided to cut out animal products, I loaded up on carbs instead! At my recent physical exam, my doctor pointed out that I am need to lose 31 pounds to reach a healthy weight and suggested Weight Watchers Online, which is perfect for busy moms. I will be sharing my Weight Loss journey over the next 3 months.

I received the Weight Watchers Start Kit which is available from the Weight Watchers online store. The kit contains a Complete Food Companion Guide, a Dining Out Guide, 3 month Journal, a Motivational Book, a DVD, a recipe booklet, coupons and a Hand Held Points Calculator. The items fit neatly into a great bag which is ideal for travel.

As an online member, I have access to the Weight Watchers website which is packed with information, tools and helpful advice, to educate, inform and support me with my weight loss journey. I can connect with other members via the message boards.

I am on the Flex Plan, where I receive a certain number of points per day and additional Flex Points for the week. Every food is assigned a certain number of points and my goal is to keep within my points range for the day. In addition, I also receive additional points called “Activity Points” when I exercise.

STATS:

Height: 5″3
Age: 31
Build: Medium, muscular
Bra Size: 40D
Waist: 33 inches
Hips: 40 inches

Starting Weight: 151 pounds (68.6 kg)
BMI: 27
10% Goal: 135.9 pounds (61.7kg)
Goal Weight: 120 pounds (54.5kg)
BMI Goal: 20-24

Plan: Flex Plan
Weigh-in Day: Monday

Why I want to lose weight:

*To be healthy
*To have more energy
*To feel confident
*To feel sexy

Challenges to overcome:

*Carving out time to exercise daily
*Finding time to prepare nutritious and healthy meals
*Being around my children and husband’s snacks!
*Reducing stress which leads me to overeat

Wish me luck as I embark on my Weight Loss Journey!

Sincerely,
Mandy