dr melina picks
Here are some of my favorite products and services.  

Good Earth Original Tea - I discovered this tea at the restaurant in Studio City, CA but you can buy it online for a wonderful treat at home anytime.  It really tastes like a dessert but is calorie free.  


Figamajig - Since I had my baby last month i've had a major craving for sweets and i've been trying to find a healthier option.  These fig and chocolate bars are the perfect treat - packed with 5 grams of fiber, they hit the spot when i'm craving less healthy candy alternatives.

Weight Watchers - In my opinion, this is one of the best weight loss programs out there because it teaches you to adopt a healthy lifestyle, not just adopt short term eating strategies.

Focus Fitness Personal Training - Ok, I may be biased as this business is run by my sister by she is much more qualified than the average trainer and has build an incredible gym.  If you are lucky enough to live in San Mateo California, check out her TRX class - guaranteed to give you a great workout.

Guayaki Yerba Mate Tea - I start every day with 2 cups of this South American, anti-oxidant rich, caffeinated tea.  It really gets me going and I love the fact that the company is committed to sustainable practices.
www.guayaki.com

Calorie King Food Journal - This is the food journal that I use in my office with my patients.  Its complete and convenient!  www.calorieking.com

popchips- I admit it.  I crave chips too sometimes and i'm addicted to these new chips that are popped instead of baked or fried.  The original flavor is my personal favorite but the BBQ is a close second! www.popchips.com

Nordic Naturals - I'm a big believer in omega-3 fatty acids and I don't eat enough salmon so I take their pro-omega fish oil capsules for optimal health every day.  www.nordicnaturals.com

Crunch Pick Your Spot Pilates - I never seem to have much time to workout but I love pilates so this video, which features 10 minute segments, works perfectly in my busy lifestyle. www.anchorbayentertainment.com/fitness

MY WEEKLY SHOPPING LIST:
People always ask me what I buy every week.  I have to admit, i'm a huge fan of Trader Joe's and shop there every week.  Here are some of my staples:

1.  Fage greek yogurt/Trader Joe's brand greek yogurt (plain, 0% fat)
2.  Trader Joe's spicy hummus (I go through at least 1-2 containers per week; amazing with broccoli/cauliflower or on sanwiches/wraps for added flavor without too many calories)
3.  Sonoma low carb tortillas (these are amazing for wraps and only 50 calories and 8 grams of fiber)
4.  Zen bakery blueberry bran muffins - only 220 calories for the entire muffin and 10 grams of fiber.  Perfect with greek yogurt for a very filling breakfast.
5.  Egg White Salad (Ranchero flavor) - only 100 calories per container, loaded with protein, and tastes terrific.  Perfect for wraps or eat it right out of the container.
6.  TJ's Frozen Eggplant Parmesan - perfect for a quick and healthy dinner, especially since i'm not a terrific cook!

My latest Trader Joe's addiction, almond butter with roasted flaxseeds.  It is amazingly healthy (good source of fiber, protein, monounsaturated fat, and ALA omega 3 fatty acids) and  is absolutely delicious.  A tablespoon on a slice of whole grain bread is part of my new favorite breakfast!