Archive for the ‘Famefit’ Category

The world witnessed the beginning of Kelly Osbourne’s weight loss transformation on the TV Series, Dancing With The Stars. Yet it wasn’t until New York Fashion Week that the extent of her weight loss was visible.

The daughter of famed Ozzy Osbourne dropped a whopping 20lbs on the hit show. Now she happily says that she has lost a total of 42lbs. Expecting to put some weight back on after the show it was a pleasant surprise when she continued to shrink.

At just 25, she credits pilates, ballet and eating well. Additionally, she goes against the cardinal rule of not eating before bed. In an interview with Life and Style Magazine she shared her trick, “I’ve learned to eat just a little bit of something that has no carbs and no sugar in it before you go to sleep because it keeps your metabolism going. They say you should never eat before you go to bed, but I’ve found just having a tiny little snack – like half an apple or something – before you go to sleep really helps.”

The former size 14 strutted her new figure throughout New York’s Fashion Week walking in Naomi Campbell’s “Relief for Haiti” fashion show as well as Betsey Johnson’s catwalk.

You just left the 7^th Store of the day. The shopping extravaganza is nearing an end and the only words you can manage to mumble between the yawns are simply, “Gosh shopping is such a workout.” Did you ever stop to think that maybe it really is exercise? Well fashion lovers, our dream has come true. Shopping is a valid workout, and a rigorous at that.

A Study by Debenhams in England has revealed facts that will make shopaholics rejoice.

On average, women are burning 5 calories per minute shuffling through the racks. That adds up to around 400 calories and almost 3 miles per spree. That’s about 48,000 calories a year. Who ever said, “shop till you drop” wasn’t joking around.

Also, it’s recommended that the average person take about 10,000 steps every day. Shopping consumes 75% of that in the typical 3-hour trip. With that, most women are briskly walk through the store with a set item in mind thus burning even more calories.

It was found that women make about 11 trips a month… seriously who needs a gym, when you have 5^th Ave right outside your door.

Kill two birds with one stone. Those days where you chose to go to the gym instead of Macy’s, are over. Save the membership money for that top you’ve been drooling over and work out while doing what you love. Shop-on fashionistas, shop-on!

After coming across Jessica Simpson’s hilarious video of her ear candling experience on twitter, the spies at Famespy were eager to try it out.

This Christmas Jessica Simpson received a gift of ear candles from her best friend, hair stylist Ken Paves. He told her how to use them, documented her experience and posted it online for the world to see. Intrigued and extremely curious about this ancient medicinal alternative, we decided to try it out. But not before proper research.

The Research:

Ear Candling has been said to date back to Ancient Tibet, China, Egypt, the pre-Columbian Americas, and even the mythical city of Atlantis. Also know and ear coning or thermal-auricular therapy the devices range from linen or cotton fabric soaked in wax or paraffin and allowed to harden into a cone shape to hand molded clay cones.

The healing advantages claimed by most ear candle manufacturers include: sinus pressure relief, ear wax removal, improved hearing and lymphatic circulation, mind purification, fortification of the central nervous system, sharpening of surrounding senses, the release of blocked energy, reduced stress and tension, opening of spiritual centers, purification of the mind and stabilized emotions.

It is believed that when lit, the hollow candle creates a vacuum that sucks out earwax, toxins and clears sinuses. In many cultures, ear candling is the remedy of choice for ear infections, Candida, fungus growth, and earaches.

Many users have raved about the process saying it was an exhilarating experience enhanced by being able to see the earwax residue after the burn. Skeptics along with scientists however, have proven the wax residue to be none other than the wax from the candle rather then toxins and earwax. Additionally, the external ear canal is not continuously connected with the middle ear, sinuses or nasal passages, therefore cleansing of these areas through this method is impossible. In some cases burns, discomfort and hearing loss have occurred.

Since we haven’t heard anything about Jessica Simpson going deaf or having negative effects from her trial, our fear factor meter did not out weigh our interest. So, fully aware of the risks and complications we decided to go ahead with the experiment.

The Process:

I sat with my head horizontally resting on the couch arm. After punching the candle through a plastic plate (which prevents burns from fallen ashes) the large end was lit while the narrow cone was positioned within my ear.

Holding it steady with my free hand I sat and listened to the crackling of the burning fabric. Five minutes later Chrissy cut the excess ash from the candle and the burning continued. Approximately 10 minutes later the flame hit the point where you’re supposed to take it out, and that was that. The process was repeated for the other ear.

The Results:

No pain, discomfort, burns or hearing loss…so far. The entire experience wasn’t spiritually releasing nor did it feel as if I was getting healed. Although, this could be partly due to the fact that I was entranced in viewing Bravo’s “Kell on Earth”.

My ears felt weird, as if I had earplugs in for a while. Nothing got hot and no wax dripped into my ears. The only noticeable result occurred immediately after removing the candles from my ears, when my hearing seemed particularly crisp.

Conclusion:

All in all, there was nothing spectacular about the experience. Definitely falls into the purely for entertainment purposes slogan many manufacturers print on their boxes. It wasn’t much more then a goofy experience. Who knows maybe its one of those things where immediate results don’t occur, and next week ill feel like a new person. Doubtful.

Depending on whom you talk to, coffee is either a beverage necessary to keep you…alive, or it is a tasty treat that just so happens to perk you up. Additionally, controversy over whether or not it’s healthy to drink the cup of Joe has stirred many minds.

Here are some things to bring up the next time someone nags on you for having too much coffee. Mind you, a double chocolate, caramel, frapp with a shot of vanilla and whip cream, is not what we’re speaking of.

For those of you who are determined to fulfill your 2010 resolutions, drink a cup of coffee before the grueling workout. This will help prevent the hurts-so-bad-can’t-get-out-of-bed soreness that arrives post workout.

Coffee is also a great tool for keeping you regular. Coffee is a stimulant that encourages muscle contractions in the digestive tract.

Some researchers have said that caffeine in coffee boosts memory and helps thought processing.

Antioxidants that come from coffee have been shown to decrease risks of heart disease, diabetes, some cancers, Parkinson’s and gallstones. In some cases, it even helps asthma and prevents cavities.

Just like your glass of wine keeps the doctor away, coffee can too. Don’t get too excited and get carried away with your coffee intake, your body and co-workers may not be so enthusiastic. A moderate 300 milligrams of caffeine a day is superb.

As plus size models make their way into the fashion industry, the idea of anorexic thin is increasingly becomes less accepted. “Regular” curvaceous women are filling top magazines, twisting our views on beauty, for the better.

Some designers and critics have not yet jumped on the plus size boat however. The controversy over the need for zero models continues.

But how far is too far? The star dubbed responsible for making anorexia fashionable, Rachel Zoe, has crossed the acceptable line. Photos of the stylist on the beach of St. Barts are raising eyebrows left and right.

Hunched and emaciated, Rachel is far from sexy. More like frightening. Her chest is shadowed from protruding bones and her cheeks sunken in.

At just 38 years old, Zoe has battled with tabloid scrutiny over her thin figure before. As one of the most demanded stylists, reportedly charging $6,000 a day for her expertise, has stood behind the claims that she is in great health.

‘Truthfully, I’ve never seen myself as being too thin. Sometimes I’ll look at photos and be like, ‘Oh, that’s not a good look. But generally speaking, I’m not too thin,” says Rachel.

Doctors have estimated that she weighs around 80 lbs. Nowhere near healthy.

Last April Rachel reveals a thin, but not severely underweight frame. Compared to these recent pics.

The influence behind the Rachel Zoe look, consisting of oversized glasses, vintage clothing, large bags and an abundance of accessories, Rachel has risen to stardom. She has transformed Nicole Richie, Cameron Diaz and numerous other celebrities.

It’s apparent now however, that this is one trend followers wont catch on to. As the fitness, health and diet craze sweeps the nation one thing can be certain, healthy is in…anorexic is not.

We’ve all seen the Taco Bell commercials promoting the Drive-Thru Diet, that leave you wide mouthed and in awe, is this a joke? Well, since fast-food demands will not be going out of style anytime soon, we’ve got some healthier options for those on-the-goers.

Fast, cheap and guiltily satisfying, fast food chains have learned how to attack the ever-strong trigger many Americans cannot resist. But with the suits over calories and claims of “McDonald’s made me obese!” these chains have had to tweak their menus to satisfy everyone. Remember the Salad McShakers? Although they have been since discontinued, other options have made their way onto the greasy menus.

Going to McDonald’s? Skip the dollar menu and consider the 260cal Premium Bacon Ranch Salad with Grilled Chicken. With only, 9g fat this salad and portion are perfect for a fast food meal. A little tip, use just half the dressing; they give you too much anyway.

Stopping at Wendy’s? Well forget the frosty and head on over to the Garden Sensations menu. The Chicken Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken Fillet is just 490 cal with 32g of fat. Get some great protein with the grilled chicken, and with just half the dressing, you get full flavor.

How about a BK fix? The King didn’t get his figure eating Whoppers all day. Ignore the cry of the Whopper Jr. and settle for a Tendergrill Chicken Garden Salad, at just 460cal with 29g of fat. Choose the light Italian dressing and you’ve got a satisfying meal.

At Arby’s resist the curly fries and try the Chopped Turkey Club Salad with the Balsamic Vinaigrette dressing. At a total of 390cal with 29g of fat, your thighs will appreciate it.

Clearly, these meals are not ideal, but we do not live in an ideal world. By choosing the less greasy semi-healthier options when you’re on the go, you can train your mind into choosing the healthier items on every menu. Here’s to resolutions coming true!

(Calorie amounts provided by online nutrition guides on Restaurant’s Homepage)

~famespy Alise

This morning I jumped out of bed bright eyed and bushy tailed, which is highly unusual for me since I am never that peppy in the morning, but I was actually excited to start the Blueprint Cleanse. What is wrong with me?

I quickly down a tall glass of lukewarm water like I do everyday and wait for my package to arrive. Next is a cup of hot water with lemon to invigorate my system. Considering I am a huge tea drinker, this is nothing out of the ordinary.

10 a.m. Yay, Blueprint Cleanse arrives on my doorstep in a makeshift cooler that kept the juice ice cold. Included in the package are carry-along bags, perfect for toting your juices to work.

I unpack my colorful juice bottles and quickly notice the graham crackers next to the stove. I rarely have food cravings this early in the morning, and typically nurse a few cups of coffee until afternoon, but as soon as you cannot have something you are certain to notice and want it. I decide to banish myself from the kitchen for the next three days other than quick trips to the fridge and the tea kettle.

11:30 a.m. Down the hatch!

Juice #1 contains romaine, celery, cucumber, green apple, spinach, kale, parsley and lemon. I forced myself not to smell it before I took my first sip because the thought of drinking a salad terrified me. To my surprise, Green Juice isn’t that bad. The strong leafy flavor, with a heavy hit of celery, is drinkable due to the lemon flavor.

12 p.m. I take it back.

Each gulp is very filling, but after 30 minutes I still have half the bottle to go. I am already sick of the green juice, so I am chasing each sip of juice with peppermint tea to rid that taste in my mouth. Finally after 50 minutes, I finish juice #1.

1:30 p.m. Juice #2 is a blessed mix of pineapple, apple, and mint.

Like a refreshing cocktail on a warm day, this fruity blend is much easier to consume with a hint of mint. I could drink this all day!

3 p.m. The thought of consuming Juice #3 (the same formula as Juice #1) makes me sick.

But I hold my nose tight and chug the liquid salad as fast as I can. Anything I said earlier about this juice being anything short of gross is completely untrue.

4 p.m. With ¼ of the Green juice left I want to throw up.

I can’t get this taste out of my mouth. YUCK! The good thing is I am not hungry nor am I craving food, but I find myself on edge. Either its the green juice making me sick or my body crashing under the pressure of no food. TBD…

4:45 p.m. I have never peed so much in my entire life.

I am not taking once an hour, I am going FOUR times an hour. I guess that’s a good sign – flushing away the toxins.

Still no hunger pains, but when I went to the kitchen to make another cup of herbal tea, I saw the dark chocolate covered caramels and cried. I quickly covered up everything on the countertops with towels and lit a calming candle.

5:30 p.m. Juice #4 gives my taste buds a wake up call: filtered water, lemon, agave nectar, and cayenne.

At first sip, a refreshing lemonade-like taste fills your body and you are grateful you don’t have to drink salad again. Then the cayenne hits you and BAM! Your body is jolted awake by the spicy sensation.

I still don’t have food cravings and I am still peeing like crazy. However, in the last hour I’ve developed a bit of a headache and cold-like symptoms so I am going to relax and read for a few hours.

6:15 p.m. I could kill my husband!

Sean has the nerve to cook a savory pizza in the kitchen. The scrumptious aroma  fills my office, where I am finishing my hearty lemon & cayenne juice. This could be the breaking point.

I can’t bear to walk downstairs, where the aroma will surely break me down, so I text Sean and ask him to stop. His response, “Didn’t you realize I’d still be eating during this time?” Point taken. But he takes pity on me and agrees to bring me the remaining juices so I can avoid the kitchen all-together.

8 p.m. Holy hell, what did I get myself into?

One sip of Juice #5 and I am ready to call it quits. The mixture of carrot, apple, beet and ginger is a tough one to drink and even tougher to hold down. I take a sip and gag. The only thing keeping me going right now is the thought of Juice #6, which is a tasty treat. So I plug my nose and down the juice in less than 4 minutes.

Afterwards, I go back to reading US Weekly’s Fitness Issue to see what I have to look forward to.

9:30 p.m. Finally, time for Juice #6 which I’ve been waiting for all day.

The cashew nut milk with vanilla bean, cinnamon and agave nectar is pure heaven. I drink the delicious dessert in record time, relieved that I have successfully completed my first day without breaking the cleanse.

Day 1 wasn’t brutal, but it wasn’t enjoyable either. Around dinner-time, I felt cold-like symptoms and was freezing, but a cup of hot tea and a warm blanket did the trick. The thing I am most surprised about is my lack of food cravings. Although food was on my mind all day, and appeared to be everywhere I looked, never did I feel the need to chew on something. The six juices were pretty filling, even if I didn’t like the taste of most of them, and constant hydration helped me stay alert. If I felt like I might fade, a cup of hot peppermint tea did the trick.

It’s rare that I tuck in before midnight, but tonight I am putting myself out of my misery and going to bed now. I’ll be dreaming of healthy skin, a lean body and waking up energetic.

To be continued…

My New Years resolutions often involves broken commitments, so I rarely bother making them. But taking better care of myself has been on my mind for some time, and ringing in a new decade gave me the swift kick in the ass I needed to commit to some sort of change.

Ushering in 2010, I studied my photo albums and reminisced over the past ten years. When Y2K arrived, I was on a boat off the Gulf of Mexico enjoying the sand and surf. Since then my life has been full of exciting adventures and fabulous times, however looking over the photos it’s clear that my girlish figure is not what it once was. I could stand to loose a few pounds, but my main priority is overall good health. I love yoga, long walks and meditation, and feeling strong is the most important thing to me. Determined to start 2010 on the right foot, I signed up for a 3-day BluePrint Cleanse, which will arrive on my doorstep Tuesday morning. This is where the fun begins.

Considering that I am half Italian and half Greek, it’s obvious that food is a major part of my life. I’ve never been one to turn down a cookie, pasta Bolognese, or steak, and nothing makes me happier than the enjoyment of a good meal with a fine bottle of wine. Part of my family life has been spent in the kitchen, where we’d gather in droves to chat while filling our bellies with Mom’s delicious delights. So the thought of not consuming an ounce of food for the next 72-hours is pure crazy for someone like me.

My friend Amy turned me on to juice cleanses last year after she tried BluePrint Cleanse to jump-start her fitness regimen. As a testament to her happiness with the product, she started her third BluePrint Cleanse on New Years Day (brave girl). I’d read about Blueprint in a number of my favorite magazines (Vogue, US Weekly, People, Star, Time Out NY, and W to name a few) and had always been impressed by their devoted celebrity clientele such as Sarah Jessica Parker and Gossip Girl’s Jessica Szohr. Amy’s enthusiasm and positive feedback was all I needed to ease my concerns as I forked over $85 per day to rid my body of toxins.

I selected a Level 1, three day Renovation Cleanse, referred to as “a gateway cleanse,” which is ideal for beginners like myself. I’ve heard plenty of horror stories about cleanses with such severe side effects that friends would be locked in a bathroom for days, but the Renovation Cleanse is supposed to have just enough fat and calories to curb your side effects, while providing you with more energy, stable moods, increased productivity; normalized weight, clearer skin and fewer “detox” symptoms.

The daily menu consists of six juices that must be taken in this order:

1)      Green Juice (Not excited about this)

2)      Pineapple, Apple, Mint (Interesting)

3)      Green Juice (Again?)

4)      Spicy Lemonade (Hmmm)

5)      Carrot, Apple, Lemon, Ginger, Beet (I HATE beets)

6)      Cashew Nut Milk (Yummy)

Blueprint featured in US Weekly

The only suggestion made regarding when to consume the juice is to wait at least one hour between drinks and to finish the last beverage at least two hours before you sleep. Also recommended is a cup of room temperature or lukewarm filtered water, with fresh squeezed lemon to hydrate the body. In addition, I can as drink as much herbal tea and water as I like.

On Monday night I prepared myself for the cleanse, which meant cutting down on the delicious indulgences and phasing out the naughty things I eat daily. Preparation for me meant 2 large cups of coffee instead of my 1 regular cup, a BLT for lunch and a bowl of shredded wheat for dinner. As I savored each bite, it felt like the last supper and I had to keep reminding myself that it’s only three days. Three-long-days…

With my kitchen stocked with healthy food, and anything considered indulgent either hidden or thrown out, I settled into bed with a cup of herbal tea and a bottle of hibiscus juice. Just in case, I’ve cleared my calendar for the week if some type of unforeseen side effects do result, but the weird thing is I am actually excited.

I’ve heard great stories about individuals who complete a juice cleanse with a greater sense of energy, so I am hoping the end results will make it all worth it. I am not looking forward to the beet juice, but I am willing to suck it up in the name of fitness.

Check back everyday as I report on my experience with the BluePrint Cleanse. Be prepared for the good, bad, and ugly.