That's Fit

Losing weight comes down to one basic principle: You need to burn more calories than you consume. And we all know that some of our calorie burn comes from exercising, but did you know that the majority happens away from the gym, when you're sitting at your desk, reading a book, even sleeping? That's your metabolism at work.

Now, metabolism gets a bit of a bad rap -- We usually blame it for the gradual increase of the numbers on the scale. You know, the 'I'm gaining weight because my metabolism has slowed down' excuse. But I've got news for you: You can change your metabolism. In your favour. Yes, you can increase the amount of calories you burn doing everyday things, and it's not that difficult.

Our Friends at AOL Body recently talked about the High Metabolism Diet, which involves adopting habits that can increase your calorie burn. These are easy things, like drinking coffee or tea, snacking throughout the day and so on. So here's my challenge to you this week:

Each week, we'll be offering original recipes and unique ways to use those Super Foods that pack nutritional power. After all, you are what you eat -- make it count!

What do we want from our lunches? Well for me:

• I want to replenish the energy stores I have used all morning long.
• I'd like to get enough energy from my lunch to get through until my small afternoon snack.
• I need to feed the beast -- I am starving by lunchtime.
• My lunch should be something to look forward to because it is going to taste so good.

Mostly, besides my insatiable appetite and taste buds, it is all about energy!

So, let's take a closer look at what energy foods are and how we can make sure our lunches have 'em.

When it comes to healthy food choices there are getting to be lots of options out there, which is awesome! But it also leads some people to feel overwhelmed, especially those of us who are busy and don't always have the time for sifting through all the hype when shopping and looking for good products to try. As health-conscious and well-intentioned as we may be, there just aren't enough hours in the day.

So if that sounds like you, then this list compiled by Prevention.com of foods specifically full of Omega-3 's, either naturally or fortified, might be worth looking at. There's 5 suggestions ranging from breakfast fare to workout snacks to craving fixers.

According to this, my ideal diet plan is the Sonoma diet. I'm pretty up on the latest diet trends but I'll admit, I've never heard of this one before, so I decided to do a little research. Here's what I learned: The Sonoma Diet is an eating plan that emphasizes the fresh, nutrient-rich foods of the Sonoma Valley. The diet has a South Beach-esque beginning -- it starts in the first wave, where dieters toss out the refined sugar and flour and opt for veggies, lean protein and healthy fats. In the second wave, fruit is added to the menu, as well as whole grains and even wine, in moderate amounts. The diet also focuses on the "Power Foods": almonds, bell peppers, blueberries, broccoli, grapes, olive oil, spinach, strawberries, tomatoes and whole grains.

Maybe I really am destined for the Sonoma Diet, because honestly? this sounds like my current eating plan (Wave 2 does, at least.) The best part? You needn't cut out coffee -- it's allowed, as long as you don't pile on the cream and sugar.

Have you tried the Sonoma Diet?