Chocolate chess pie diet

You know you’re on a diet when you dream about food. But what does it mean when you dream of being on The Chocolate Chess Pie Diet?   Well, that was my dream last night and oddly enough I was losing weight on it!

I’m sure the dream has deep psychological meaning but it was rooted in my trip to The Angus Barn Saturday night. While my wife Cindy and daughter Lauren ordered dessert after a delicious meal I refrained from participating in the final course. Okay, in all honesty I did steal a few bites from Lauren’s plate. I don’t think anyone in his right mind could resist the restaurant’s chocolate chess pie. It is heaven on a fork. It was a wonderful meal and we enjoyed so much spending some time with The Angus Barn owner Van Eure who epitomizes Southern grace and charm.

With another Wednesday weigh-in day looming on my Ten Pounds Down weight loss challenge I am planning another trip to the gym today. I will probably run into registered dietitian Avril Young who along with Tara Wind is helping us navigate the treacherous waters of weight loss. Please keep those questions coming. Here is one of the latest and Avril’s answer:

(Blogger’s question) I have hypothyroidism which means my metabolism is slow. Are there any foods that I could eat that would help to speed up my metabolism? Are there any foods I should avoid as well? I know exercise helps to some extent, and I get almost 2 miles of walking in a day, but I need additional help.

(Avril’s answer) In general, a healthy, balanced diet high in antioxidants and whole foods and low in refined foods and saturated fat as well as a consistent exercise program are recommended for someone with hypothyroidism. The best way to speed up metabolism is to exercise and eat the right amount of calories for your body's needs. As far as foods to avoid, I would limit foods that may interfere with thyroid function such as broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, kale, mustard greens, spinach, radishes and turnips. I would also recommend a high quality, gender specific multivitamin. 2 miles of walking a day is great! However, if you have been doing that for a while, it may be time to increase the intensity a bit. For more specific recommendations based on your needs, I recommend contacting your Registered Dietitian.