Rickaroons: A love story

Rickaroons: A love story

A clean cookie made with love and whole food ingredients

Rickaroons are made with love…by Rick. These nutrient packed treats taste like dessert, so you know they are made with lots of love. What you wouldn’t know is that each Rickaroon only has 4-5 ingredients. The ingredients list is as beautiful and healthy as it is tasty!

Inspired by love.

The love of being healthy and the love for a special woman. Rick set out to simply create a healthy comforting treat for a loved one during her battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Over time he perfected his recipe to make an on-the-go snack that is as simple as it is sweet. Designed to fuel workouts and satisfy cravings, the combination of coconut, nut butters, and chocolate does both perfectly!

The Rickaroon line now has 5 delicious flavors so you can have one for every occasion.

  • Chocolate Blonde
  • Peanut Butter Protein
  • Mint to be – Mint Double Chocolate
  • Mocha – Double Chocolate Espresso
  • Megaroon – Superfood filled = Chia Seeds + Cocoa Nibs                                                                  Today Rickaroons is a family run business and it’s a special team effort to bring these beautifully crafted treats to you.

Beautiful Ingredients for a beautiful life.

Only 6-8 ingredients. I bet your wondering “What can they be and why beautiful?”

All Rickaroons flavors are built around coconut. Every flavor includes 3 forms of coconut – Shredded Coconut, Coconut Palm Nectar, and Coconut Oil. Combine the coconut with Almond Butter or Peanut Butter, a hint of Vanilla, and sustainably sourced dark chocolate and you get perfection. Some of the key ingredients you will see here are high in antioxidants, and combined they make for an anti-aging friendly treat. Antioxidants primarily serve to fight damage to your cells (the oxidation process) whether caused by stress or imbalances. So relax and enjoy a Rickaroon in your August Fit Snack box. Warning: Rickaroons may cause big smiles, happy taste buds, and a healthy body.

Rickaroons are Certified:

 

We’re kicking off the New Year right with snacks that will make your mouth water and energize your hardest workouts. Every box is 80% Gluten Free, low in sugar, high in protein and did we mention filled with super delicious snacks. Did we mention they’re healthy too! We just want you to feel spoiled this New Years and YOU deserve It ALL. Treat yourself to the highest quality snacks out there, each hand picked by a Nutritionist. Your Sneak Peek into this beautiful box starts with pure gourmet goodness.

You are what you eat! So take a peek at this box and then take a peek at yourself because you’re about to make some serious strides in becoming your best this year!

Start by using the highest quality product to increase your energy levels throughout the day. . .

Honey. If you guessed it then honey, you’re on to something as sweet as the success of completing your news years resolution. Also as simple. Remember when you keep things simple like snacking and eating whole food you will succeed every time.

If you know Fit Snack, then you know we love convenient, healthy and delicious snacks. No bs, no junk ever. This Honey is extra special.
Don’t take our word for it. Here’s the breakdown straight from Weeks Honey Farm. . . .

Weeks honey farm honey is sustainably sourced. 

No better all natural energy snack is available! Weeks Honey Straws are always the perfect way to level up in your workout, increase your mental awareness, and get past that afternoon slump! Excellent source for pre and post workout energy. Made in USA. Product is Kosher and Gluten Free.Raw honey has been called “the perfect running fuel.” It provides an easily absorbed supply of energy in the form of liver glycogen, making it ideal for energetic morning starts and as a pre- and post-exercise energy source. Studies have shown honey to be one of the best choices of carbohydrate to consume right before exercising. Additionally, studies have revealed that as a sporting fuel, honey performs on a par with glucose, which is the sugar used in most commercial energy gels.

  • Proven Success as The Perfect Running Fuel
  • Energize Your Workouts and Recovery Naturally
  • No ‘Sugar’ Crash After Consuming
  • Three Versions Available: Clover, Orange Blossom, and Wildflower
  • Easy Carry No Mess Straws Make Snacking Easy

So whether you workout, work 9-5, or just play as a kid- Weeks Honey Farm Honey Straws make a delightful snack and energy boost without the processed sugars and artificial sweeteners you don’t want.

Why Bars: Superfood Snack Bar

Why Bars start with simple and wholesome ingredients that satisfy the body, the mind and the spirit. We combine them to create a bar that’s packed with nutrition and full of flavor — truly the best tasting and most fulfilling energy bar on Earth!

Nairn’s Chocolate Oat Grahams: 

Nairn’s gluten-free chocolate chip oat grahams are made with whole grain oats, contain no artificial colors or flavors and come in handy pouch packs.

Sweet Cheat | Hot Chocolate: It’s Dairy FREE!

Sweet Cheat Hot Chocolate is rich and velvety, all natural, sugar & dairy free, and won’t impact blood sugar levels.

Backpackers Pantry | Mountain Standard Seasonings:

A beautiful combination of flavors and healthy ingredients all perfectly combined to make the most of any simple dish. Add your seasonings to a breakfast omelet or a simple steamed veggie tray.

Plant Fusion | Chocolate: Plant Based Protein

Plant fusion packed with 21g of plant-based proteins, fortified with digestive enzymes and free of major allergens. Certified Non-GMO, Gluten Free & Vegan. As part of our Purity Promise™ we are also committed to being free of dairy, soy, rice, eggs, nuts, fish, tree nuts, shellfish, artificial flavors and colors.

Hippeas | Chickpea Puffs: Cheese and Protein Please !

HIPPEAS® are USDA Organic, Vegan, and Gluten-free. These puffs are righteously cheezy, totally vegan. Snack with PEAS of mind.

Sin Fit | Birthday Cake Cookie: 20g protein !!!

Each cookie is gluten free and packed with 20g of protein per serving. Close your eyes, make a wish, and blow out the candles and enjoy our delicious Birthday Cake Protein Cookie.

Bada Bean Bada Boom: Sweet Cinnamon

Bada Bean Bada Boom is roasted broad beans in bold flavors with a delicious crunch. Vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO!

Recipe’s

Recipes and Healthy Treats: 
1. Weeks Honey Farm – use the best quality honey and the spread filled with health benefits and flavor. Taking Honey to the next level, because of where their honey is sourced from you are not only getting all of the benefits, but none of the junk that can be easily added to honey. This is the taste of TRUE honey straight from the original source.

Add honey to Nairn’s Oatgrahams, a bowl of fruit or enjoy a stick before a run.
2. Fit Snacking done right can be as simple as dip your Chocolate Nairn’s Oat Grahams into a cup of Sweet Cheat Hot Cocoa

3. Nairn’s recipe (see recipe below pic)

KEY LIME PIE: Nairn’s have brought out a gluten free new product and it is perfect for tart/pie bases. @nairnsoatcakes new Oaties have a lovely buttery taste and crumbly texture. The sharpness of the limes in this recipe go perfectly with the new Oaties. Recipe below:
Ingredients (and options for substitutions which our Nutritionist added):
1 1/2 packs of Nairn’s Oaties
120g of butter 
3 medium egg yolks
1 tin of condensed milk / sub coconut milk
finely grated zest and juice of 4 limes
200ml double cream / sub coconut milk
1 tbsp icing sugar / sub monkfruit
extra lime zest, to decorate

Method:
1)Smash the biscuits in a plastic bags until fine and add 120g of melted butter, press into a tart tin and bake in the oven – gas mark 3 for 15 mins.
2)Put 3 medium egg yolks in a large bowl and whisk for a minute with electric beaters.
3)Add a can of condensed milk and whisk for 3 minutes, then add the finely grated zest and juice of 4 limes and whisk again for 3 minutes.
4)Pour the filling into the cooled base then put back in the oven for 18 minutes. Cool then chill for at least 3 hours or overnight.
5)To decorate, softly whip together 300ml double cream and 1 tbsp icing sugar.
#keylimepie#nairns#glutenfreekeylimepie

Fit Life Hacks

Fit Life Hacks

Does the thought of a “healthy” or “healthier” lifestyle overwhelm you? Do you ever consider changing your life then suddenly change your mind. Well I’m here to help change it back.

You were on the right track you just have to start small with some reliable advice -today in the form of Fit Life Hacks. The media tells us to do the latest fancy diet. Next thing you know all of your fancy money is gone, you’ve lost 5 lbs just to gain 10lbs, not exactly what you signed up for. It’s true. FACT: 95% of people who lose weight by dieting will regain it in 1-5 years. (PsychologyToday.com)

Diets may work for some people. 

Of course they do. Diets may work for the people who invented them, simply because they created THIER perfect diet for THEIR body and needs. A fun fact is, some of these DIETS people create have made those same people sick. Many diets are unrealistic because they don’t contain what you need and are not sustainable. Every individual has a specific lifestyle surrounding their eating habits. Their diet is not a food plan, but the food they naturally eat, which fits their lifestyle. Fit Life Hack: You need a permanent change, not a temporary fix.

Time for change.

First, find a qualified pro. A Nutritionist and a Personal Trainer who will guide you through your lifestyle changes and create the ideal program to fit you. Perform a credentials check. Find a Nationally Certified Trainer and a Nutritionist with an education you can count on (a degree from an accredited university). Our Fit Snack Nutritionist has a B.S. in Human Nutrition and over 10 training certifications NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) is at the top of the list. Fit Life Hack: Work with a pro who can help you be the best you! Ready to get started?

Let’s take the focus off of the DIET and put it on our HABITS.

If you want to change your habits the best way to do so is…one by one. Fit Life Hack: Change certain behaviors without focusing on food, but focusing on what is surrounding your eating habits. Let’s start with:

Three tips for your eating habits make over!
  1. Client: “I don’t like to eat breakfast.”                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Nutritionist/Trainer: “No problem, start your day with a light 20 min fasting cardio session. Within 30 min drink a green smoothie (5 almonds, 2c. kale & Purely Inspired vegan Protein). Hearty Snack Tip: Get this, lunch time is the best time to indulge. Indulge smart. Eat a high protein snack like a Snickerdoodle Cookie from Buff Bake -gluten free & NonGMO- with fruit. An apple boosts metabolism and the fiber will keep you full. If you have a sweet tooth add a spoonful of Nutiva Hazelnut Spread to half and eat the other half plain. You’re probably thinking, “Did my Nutritionist just tell me to eat a cookie and chocolate as a snack?” The answer is yes, but the point is you enjoy a high quality cookie that is a high protein snack. Indulge smart. Regular cookie NO, Buff Bake cookie YES~! If you crave sugar this can be a good time to get that out of the way for the day. It’s about changing your habits and moderation is key.”
  2. Client: “I graze and eat junk, no time for meals.”                                                                                                                                                                                                     Nutritionist/Trainer: “You can graze, just graze on the right things and let’s talk about small, convenient meals. Spend a little time buying the right foods, your reward is a lot more energy. Something as simple as chips and a salad can be perfect for grazing. Rise Buddy chips has all of the best flavors and are baked, NOT fried and made with rice. Make your salad using Spinach or Kale, Chicken and/or Nuts for protein and Dried fruits from Made In Nature – free of all of the junk (sugar and sulfur) that is usually added. No time to add meat to your salad? Just choose a meat bar as a snack. Bricks Bars has delicious flavors made with veggies in their ingredients.”
  3. Client: “I eat most of my food at night and am eating late every night.”                                                                                                                                     Nutritionist/Trainer: “Make your dinner plate with half veggies. Green veggies can really fill you up, then you eat less of the stuff you don’t need as much. Second, plan a few snacks that will satisfy those salty cravings we get in front of the T.V. or after a long day. Edamame is great, instead of salt get it frozen or fresh and just make an awesome sauce for flavor. Awesome sauce: Aminos Coconut flavor and Siracha. Have some fun with sauces, this will make your night time snacking so tasty you won’t crave junk. Then if you’re eating late, brush your teeth around 8pm and you won’t want to eat after that.”

Nutritionist/Trainer: “Take everything I’ve said with a grain of salt. Change your lifestyle to fit your personal style. Add your small touch to each tip. Here’s an example. Say you don’t like breakfast, apples or chocolate. That’s fine, what DO you like?”

Client: Peanut butter and banana

Nutritionist/Trainer: Great, add those to a plain Rice Cake and you’re good to go! Keep it simple and have fun.

It’s time we change our thinking. Switch out eating junk food for whole foods and snacks that are made with real foods. The Real Food Bar from Complete Nutrition is the perfect example and the snacks in your Fit Snack box. Think real food equals simple ingredients. Happy Snacking! Looking forward to our next chat.

Your Fit Snack Nutritionist & Personal Trainer

Dandies: A Marshmallow Make Over

They’re Vegan and better than ever!

In 2008 Dandies Marshmallows arrived on the scene. It all started with a Dad who had wanted his son to enjoy Marshmallows around the campfire. The only issue was all Marshmallows contain this ingredient called gelatin – collagen obtained from various animal raw materials. His son being a Vegan could not eat them. This is when Ryan Howard a Food Process Engineer went to work on creating the first vegan marshmallow. Dandies Marshmallows are 100% vegan – made with no gelatin, but that’s just the beginning of this marshmallow make over.

 

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They are Gluten free, Non GMO Project Verified, free of Corn Syrup (HFCS) and of the most common allergens (peanuts, tree nuts, milk, egg, wheat etc.) soy aside. In other words starting with removing gelatin, these marshies are raising the bar one real ingredient at a time.

Check out this ingredients list!

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If you’re a kid at heart and you enjoy S’mores around the campfire or simply seeing your kiddos happily snack on them, then you’re going to love this.

Dandies Marshmallows has an in house chef and delicious mouth-watering recipes on their website. Enjoy your first batch of:

Dandies Classic Crispy Treats

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Click here for recipe.

Caramel Coffee Pistachio S’mores

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Click here for recipe.

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Check out Dandies and try their vegan marshmallows you’ll never want to turn back! Also, share them with your friends, vegan or not these little treats are changing the campfire game.

 

The Sticky Situation with Marshmallows

The truth is Marshmallows we enjoyed as kids are not as innocent an indulgence as our parents might have thought. We can always count on a little marshmallow to satisfy a sweet tooth. No guilt right? I mean it’s a marshmallow what’s there to feel guilty about? The answer might surprise you.

If you take the time to read and see what makes up a Marshmallow, you will surely think twice before reaching for the next bag. After enjoying them in hot cocoa, desserts, s’mores and so much more one starts to wonder, “What am I really putting in to my body?” The answer: Some serious empty calories and something that one would dare to call food. As a Nutritionist I give it an F and that’s not for food.

We turned to the Nutrition Facts label and what we learned next was less than appetizing. 

You can always count on the ingredients so start there. We first read High Fructose Corn Syrup, Sugar, Dextrose, Modified Corn Startch…

The issue.. the most natural sounding ingredient, or at least the one we could easily understand was ‘sugar’ or technically Dextrose the most naturally occurring form of sugar, yet still just another way of saying more sugar.

Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, TPPS (Whipping Aid)

  • Other than a Food Additive it is used as a Water Softener and Detergent Builder. TPPS has been shown to be toxic to Humans in small amounts. Specifically it is alkaline and irritating. Here’s a tip: if you have stress, skin issues or inflammation probably good to eliminate this from your diet.

Artificial Color, Artificial flavor, Gelatin (animal based ingredient, or the reason our vegan friends have never tried Marshmallows).

Once we discovered all of this, our only hope was to find a healthy marshmallow. Anyone with a sweet tooth and a love of camping would understand our struggle.

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Then we found them, Dandies Marshmallows. Dandies made their debut in 2009 at Expo West as the first Vegan Marshmallow! This little vegan marshmallow has come a long way since and Dandies only continues to improve it. Check out their awesome timeline for details and see how Marshmallows became an actual guilt free food alas. Also, check out our next blog, the full Dandies story to come!

Portable Protein: FN Harvest Sticks

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Attention meat lovers: Fortified Nutrition’s Harvest Sticks are about to be your go-to protein snack. Your July Fit Snack box included their Grass-fed Beef with Uncured Bacon and Organic Apple.

These ain’t your momma’s beef “jerky” old–these beef sticks are tasty and good for you, too.

Fortified Nutrition created their Artisan meat snacks with the idea that we need more grab-and-go organic, whole food snacks. Each Harvest Stick has a list of easy to read ingredients, and are hand crafted in small batches for the best flavor. This company aims to Bridge the Nutritional Gap, where diet meets lifestyle and nutrition meets flavor.

Perfect for after a solid workout or for keeping you tied over till dinner, these sticks are also 100% grass-fed beef, have no added nitrates, and are a great source of Omega-3’s – 5x more than the competition. Even better, the beef is from free roaming, pasture raised cattle. Oh, and it’s also gluten/GMO/ hormone/dairy/soy free.

Talk about a snack you can feel great about!

Craving more? Check out their website.