Inspiration from The Biggest Loser

Over the past few years, I've always heard about how inspirational the show The Bigger Loser is, but it wasn't until this last year that I truly understood why.

If you live on planet Earth, you know that America has an obesity problem. According to the CDC, 33% of adults and 17% of children in the United States are obese. It is my firm belief (and my platform as Miss Collegiate Area) that it is our job, as Americans, to fix this ongoing problem! We need to inspire the United States to adapt to healthy lifestyles, and I believe The Biggest Loser does such a wonderful job in motivating people across the country to get moving. Each contestant is a perfect example of the fact that it IS possible to turn your life around! With dedication and hard work, each contestant is making the switch and becoming healthy. It is INCREDIBLE to watch their transformations each week, and it makes me so happy to see them accomplish their weekly goals. Their hard work motivates me to work hard each week, and I highly recommend watching The Biggest Loser if you don't already  :)

Olivia, Season 11's Winner. HOW INSPIRING!

So incredible. YOU CAN DO IT TOO!!!

The cherry on top is seeing their confidence grow throughout the season. Part of my platform, Fit For Success, is motivating kids to develop healthy lifestyles in order to be more confident about themselves! I firmly believe that more confidence leads to more self-esteem, which ultimately leads to more success! The Biggest Loser contestants are perfect examples of this. Nutritious lifestyles can truly lead to more happiness, so my goal for you is to experience this same feeling!!

Here is a "Biggest Loser" recipe I've been dying to try!

Biggest Loser Southwest Chicken Pileup

Ingredients

• 1 tsp. salt-free Mexican or Southwest seasoning
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 small (1/4-pound) boneless, skinless chicken breast, trimmed of visible fat
• 1 whole-wheat pita (6 1/2" diameter)
• 2 Tbsp. hummus, preferably red-pepper flavor
• 2 Tbsp. no-salt-added canned black beans, drained
• Several red onion strips
• Several red bell pepper strips
• 2 Tbsp. chopped tomato
• 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro leaves
• 2 Tbsp. finely shredded Cabot 75% Light Cheddar Cheese
• 4 tsp. guacamole or fat-free sour cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F. Preheat a grill to high heat.
2. Sprinkle the seasoning and garlic powder evenly over the chicken. Place the chicken on the grill rack. Reduce the heat to medium. (If it is not possible to reduce the heat, cook the chicken away from direct heat.) Grill for 3 to 5 minutes per side, or until no longer pink and the juices run clear. Transfer to a cutting board and let stand for 5 minutes. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
3. Meanwhile, place the pita on the grill rack. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until lightly toasted. Place the pita on a nonstick baking sheet. Spread evenly with the hummus. Top evenly in layers with the beans, the reserved chicken, onion, red pepper, tomato, cilantro, and cheese.
4. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Let stand for 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving plate. Slice into 4 wedges. Top each wedge with a teaspoon of guacamole or sour cream, if desired.

Source: Devin Alexander from the Biggest Loser Cookbook
356 Calories, 38g Protein, 38g Carbohydrates, 6g Fat (1g saturated), 68mg Cholesterol, 8g Fiber, 489mg Sodium

Best part of The Biggest Loser: Bob.

Update me on your workout journeys, I love hearing everyone's stories and forms of inspiration!

Morgan