HealthyStyle. Van Roy

A native of Louisiana, Van Roy and I have worked together for years and are dear friends. Both of us share a fondness for morning run/walks and always have enlightening conversations about life and surviving in a tough and unpredictable business.
I've been toying with the idea of featuring real people, recipes and other stories as a tool for inspiration for others who may be struggling with something be it weight loss, or just getting by day to day.
Van sent me this note a couple days ago and I asked if I could share - especially for those that have a weakness for potatoes.
Van has committed to losing weight and despite the occasional and normal setbacks - has lost 27 lbs in the past year, with an eye on 50 more to go. He has found that sticking to a morning routine is helpful (meditation, a nutritious breakfast, robust walk, etc) is key to keeping him on target for his goal. If you, like Van, are looking for healthy options and have a weakness for mashed potatoes - this might be a wonderful replacement or option.
"I have recently become a huge fan of cauliflower! I've been steaming it slightly, then mashing it as one would do potatoes... I swear it tastes liked mashed potatoes - comforting without all the carbs and starch... just a little olive oil and salt and pepper..."
Learn more about nutritional and anti-oxidant benefits of cauliflower: Here

Nature's Beauty. Leeks

You might walk past leeks in the produce section, but I'd consider adding them to your list. Use them as you would onions, scallions, shallots or garlic. Slice thin, and soak in a bowl of water to remove any dirt or residue before cooking.
I enjoy roasting a whole chicken or tri-tip roast with lots of vegatables and leeks, as well as adding to homemade soups or stock. Try it.

Nature's Beauty. Pomegranate

Pomegranates are in your local produce section or farmer's market in abundance this time of year and in the juice section year round. It's another whole food or fruit full of natural anti-oxidants and full Vitamin C and B6. In addition, you can add pomegranates to the list of fruits that can be preventative against breast, prostate and lung cancer, cardiovascular disease and helpful in raising the good cholesterol.

Nature's Beauty. Salad Worthy

You really can't beat a fresh mixed green salad packed full of natural nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants on your daily menu.  One of my favorites to prepare includes a bit of arugula, tomatoes, avocado, beets and cilantro. I made my own balsamic vinagrette dressing and dashed a bit of cracked pepper on top.