So, this week marks the least prolific week on IPMPI. I extended my mommy vaca by taking a brief blogging break, but I will return with gusto next week debuting 3 new giveaways.

As promised, the Wilton Armetale Viceroy collection giveaway will go live (with a skinny spinach dip recipe) next week. Also, I will be reviewing and giving away two NEW books…one talks about SEX. And SEX sells so I’m going to keep typing SEX until you come to visit the site next week. SEX. (for good measure). The book is called Pulling Back the Shades; it discusses the overwhelming phenomenon of the Fifty Shades of Grey Trilogy and tackles the bigger issues of erotica, intimacy, and the longings of a woman’s heart…and yes, women long for SEX. You knew I had to throw in one last SEX, didn’t you?

Last, I will try my hand at reviewing the Romantic Rationalist, a collection of essays honoring the great Clive Staples Lewis edited by John Piper. I am not kidding when I tell you that I am beyond thrilled to have the opportunity to even type those names. Excuse me while I fan-girl all over myself.

This week has been pretty heavy in the media. I prefer not to discuss my stance on Brittany Maynard, and I can’t get through a full sentence without a lump in my throat when talking about the Bucket List baby. I would be lying if I told you that many tears weren’t shed for the families of both Brittany and Shane. So, here’s my humble attempt at ending the week on a lighter note.

Let’s talk about food, shall we? Southerners love their food; I am not immune to this particular stereotype. My vice is sugar. I recently stumbled upon a recipe for a microwaveable brownie…which is bad news for my diet. I’m pretty sure the glycemic index on a microwavable brownie is off the charts. Also, I have a hunch that much sugar can affect your decision making abilities. Yesterday, I “ran” 4.5 miles in Birmingham. I use the word “ran” lightly as it was more of a sprint…and stop…and sprint…and stop…as I ducked and dodged cars on a busy Rocky Ridge Road; pun TOTALLY intended. There was no shoulder, and I was worried about losing my own. I managed to make it back to my in-laws in one piece and at 11:30 minute miles. It was painfully slow, but I was so thrilled I was alive, I didn’t care.

A few weeks back, I asked Kelly five questions about diet and wellness…here is here response. (I was SERIOUSLY thinking about the cookie diet).

1. Should I try any of these diets? Please tell me I can lose weight on the cookie diet.

The only diets listed in this article I recommend trying are the Alkaline Diet as well as the Blood Type diet. And honestly, both of these are more “lifestyle changes” versus “diets”. The Alkaline Diet suggests that you eliminate meat, dairy, alcohol, sweets, caffeine, and artificial & processed foods; while consuming more fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts & seeds. All of the above mentioned foods are acidic and will cause the body to be off its pH balance; which can cause issues as your body needs to be balanced. The Blood Type Diet suggests that you consume foods that react chemically with your blood type. “Eat Right for Your Blood Type” by Dr. Peter D’Adamo explains what each blood type’s “diet” should consist of and what each type should eliminate.

In regards to the Cookie Diet: This diet suggests that you consume 500-600 calories a day from high –protein and high –fiber weight-loss cookies. I have honestly never heard of such a diet and it sounds ridiculous. You’re supposed to eat “cookies” for breakfast and lunch and then consume a normal dinner; and by sticking to this diet you’re supposed to lose weight. Of course you will lose weight by barely eating all day; but you’re at risk of binge eating for dinner. I do not recommend.

2. I’ve heard a lot about the Paleo diet; can you tell me more about foods with high glycemic indexes and why they’re harmful to wellness?

Foods with high glycemic indexes are carbohydrate-containing foods. High GI foods can contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, depression, and cancers. The Paleo diet focuses on consuming whole, natural food low in GI value: lean animal proteins, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds.

3. Dang. I guess I should cut down on my sugar intake if I really want to drop some time on my runs. Can a diet really make a difference in your recovery from a tough workout?

Absolutely. If you are not consuming enough (healthy) calories, you may become fatigued during a workout and especially can crash after a tough workout. You need to make sure you’re consuming an adequate amount of whole foods throughout the day as well as staying hydrated with water.

4. Can I outrun my diet?

Yes you can outrun a diet, if it’s not what your body needs. However, if you try out a particular “fad diet” and it does appear to work for you—meaning your body & energy levels feel good overall—then you should continue with this and it will become a lifestyle change. But if your body is not responding the way you’re expecting it to, you should cease further participation with that diet and learn what your body really needs. By eating a diet rich in whole foods, your body will let you know what it needs for you to thrive and feel your best.

5. How can I avoid sacrificing flavor when reducing my caloric intake?

Many people use condiments to flavor their food; whether it’s ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, ranch dressing, blue cheese, Alfredo sauce, etc. A majority of these condiments are composed of more than 5 ingredients, and correct me if I’m wrong, but typically there are ingredients that you either a) do not know how to pronounce or b) do not know what they are. These are chemicals/processed ingredients; items you do not want to be consuming. I live by the rule: “5 ingredients or less pass the test.” You can add flavor by adding spices/herbs to your dishes: oregano, pepper, basil, coriander, cumin, turmeric, thyme, onion or garlic powder, cayenne pepper, paprika or fresh herbs: mint, basil, thyme, etc. You can also make your own creamy dressings/sauces by using Organic Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.

Furthermore, once you change your eating habits, your palate will change as well, and you will not feel the need to consume high calorie foods.