Every once and a while, it's nice to go out and grab a bite to eat with a friend. But for those of us watching what we eat, this could be a major set back in our new diet. However, it doesn't have to be, here are seven healthy lunch ideas for when you're dinning out, according to CNN.com.
1. Pizza
Choose 2 slices of Domino's medium hand tossed Philly Steak Pizza:
400 calories, 14 grams fat (6g sat), 840mg sodium.
2. Asian
P.F. Chang's Asian Grilled Salmon Lunch Bowl:
320 calories, 5 grams of fat (1g sat) and only 570 milligrams of sodium per serving.
Round out the meal with a side of garlic snap peas:
64 calories, 2g fat, 107mg sodium.
3. Burger
Surprisingly, go for a McDonald's Hamburger:
250 calories, 9 grams of fat (3.5g sat) and 520 milligrams of sodium.
At such low numbers, this burger leaves room for a 20-calorie side salad (add a serving of Newman's Own Low Fat Balsamic Vinaigrette for only 40 calories if you prefer) and small fry (230 calories, 11 grams fat (1.5g sat) and 160mg sodium).
4. Salad
Our top salad pick is Atlanta Bread Company's Salsa Fresca Salmon Salad. This corn and black bean salad adds fiber (6 grams) to this 560 calorie main dish salad with an appetite quenching 38 grams of protein, just 4.5 grams of saturated fat and 590 milligrams of sodium.
5. Chicken
Wendy's Grilled Chicken Go Wrap:
260 calories, with 10 grams of fat (3.5 g sat) and 750mg sodium.
Add a garden side salad (25 calories, 30mg sodium)
and a Mandarin Orange Cup (90 calories, 10 grams of sodium).
6. Sandwich
Ask for 9-grain wheat bread, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and green peppers and your tab for a Subway 6-inch Oven Roasted Chicken Sandwich:
320 calories, 4.5 grams fat (1g sat) and 750mg sodium.
7. Seafood
P.F. Chang's Mahi Mahi:
420 calories, 17 grams of fat (8g sat) and 605mg sodium
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Revising the MCAT
As an aspiring doctor, once I make it through my first four years as a biology major, I'll have to start studying for the most important test of my life, the MCAT. The MCAT is basically the "wanna be doctor's SAT" and as a wanna be doctor, I'm going to have to take it. Now, it's not like this will be my first big standardized test; I mean, ever since high school started I've been bombarded with PSSA's, finals, PSAT's, SAT's, AP tests, and just regular everyday exams. Even though I do not agree, it really seems like testing is the preferred way to asses if a person knows the material or not. However, if that doesn't cause enough stress, the creators of the MCAT are going to revise it, according to The New York Times.
The first MCAT, then referred to as the Scholastic Aptitude Test for Medical Schools, was administered in 1928 and represented an effort to address the significant medical school dropout rates of the time. Over the years, the MCAT has gone through four major revisions and has only strengthened its ability to predict success in medical school, particularly when evaluated in combination with grades. But the MCAT has had one major failing in its otherwise brilliant performance: It has been unable to consistently predict personal and professional characteristics. As early as 1946, medical educators were trying to design the MCAT in a way that might tease out such information, but they, and those who followed, were unable to succeed.
Now the MCAT is about to undergo its fifth revision, the first in nearly 25 years. Last month, the Association of American Medical Colleges, the national organization that administers the MCAT, recommend, among other things, lengthening the four-and-a-half hour exam by 90 minutes and adding questions on disciplines like sociology and psychology. The new exam would also test analytical and reasoning skills in areas like ethics, philosophy and cross-cultural studies, which could include questions about how someone living in a particular demographic situation, for example, might perceive and interact with others.
Lengthening an already four-and-a-half hour exam, they have to be kidding. I've taken the five hour SAT's and it was awful. Sitting there and trying to concentrate for that long was almost impossible and the SAT's tests you on easy topics like math and reading, not on the functions of different enzymes in your body and the dreaded organic chemistry. Maybe if the creators feel this part of the test needs to be added it could be a separate test, taken on another day coupled with maybe an interview to find out if you have strong people skills.
Despite what some view as a long overdue re-examination of this linchpin of medical school admissions, many medical educators, including members of the advisory committee, remain cautious about tampering with a test that has proved successful so far.
The science of personality testing has advanced tremendously over the last 25 years, but the committee felt it was still unclear how accurately a test could predict traits like integrity, altruism and the ability to collaborate. Some members were uncomfortable, too, with the long-term implications. “Will we end up labeling someone forever with a 9.2 for their personality?” Dr. Franks asked.
Only time will tell whether this newest version succeeds where earlier ones have not. But one thing is certain: Taking the MCAT is likely to remain a rite of passage for doctors-to-be for years to come. The new exam will be administered beginning in 2015.
And to top it all off, this new revised version of the MCAT will be administered for the first time, the year I graduate from my four year college. Looks like I'm going to be one of the many guinea pigs for this new revised version. I better start practicing my sitting and concentrating skills.
The first MCAT, then referred to as the Scholastic Aptitude Test for Medical Schools, was administered in 1928 and represented an effort to address the significant medical school dropout rates of the time. Over the years, the MCAT has gone through four major revisions and has only strengthened its ability to predict success in medical school, particularly when evaluated in combination with grades. But the MCAT has had one major failing in its otherwise brilliant performance: It has been unable to consistently predict personal and professional characteristics. As early as 1946, medical educators were trying to design the MCAT in a way that might tease out such information, but they, and those who followed, were unable to succeed.
Now the MCAT is about to undergo its fifth revision, the first in nearly 25 years. Last month, the Association of American Medical Colleges, the national organization that administers the MCAT, recommend, among other things, lengthening the four-and-a-half hour exam by 90 minutes and adding questions on disciplines like sociology and psychology. The new exam would also test analytical and reasoning skills in areas like ethics, philosophy and cross-cultural studies, which could include questions about how someone living in a particular demographic situation, for example, might perceive and interact with others.
Lengthening an already four-and-a-half hour exam, they have to be kidding. I've taken the five hour SAT's and it was awful. Sitting there and trying to concentrate for that long was almost impossible and the SAT's tests you on easy topics like math and reading, not on the functions of different enzymes in your body and the dreaded organic chemistry. Maybe if the creators feel this part of the test needs to be added it could be a separate test, taken on another day coupled with maybe an interview to find out if you have strong people skills.
Despite what some view as a long overdue re-examination of this linchpin of medical school admissions, many medical educators, including members of the advisory committee, remain cautious about tampering with a test that has proved successful so far.
The science of personality testing has advanced tremendously over the last 25 years, but the committee felt it was still unclear how accurately a test could predict traits like integrity, altruism and the ability to collaborate. Some members were uncomfortable, too, with the long-term implications. “Will we end up labeling someone forever with a 9.2 for their personality?” Dr. Franks asked.
Only time will tell whether this newest version succeeds where earlier ones have not. But one thing is certain: Taking the MCAT is likely to remain a rite of passage for doctors-to-be for years to come. The new exam will be administered beginning in 2015.
And to top it all off, this new revised version of the MCAT will be administered for the first time, the year I graduate from my four year college. Looks like I'm going to be one of the many guinea pigs for this new revised version. I better start practicing my sitting and concentrating skills.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
High School Competition Squad of the Week
Mount Saint Charles High School 2011 Competition Squad
This Coed Varsity squad performed this routine at the New England Finals and received third in their division. Even though this squad did not finish first, they had a very nice routine, which is actually why I choose them this week. This is one of my favorite routines. And even though they finished third, this squad has a lot of talent; they just need to clean up their timing and tumbling skills. But the number one reason I'm in love with this routine is their dance.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Did You Decide Yet?
May 1st, to many people this will just be another day, but for high school seniors it's the day that they must decide on where they will be continuing their education. Even though I procrastinated on visiting and applying to colleges, I actually chose my college early and have already sent in my deposit. But for all you procrastinators out there, here are 5 tips, according to The Washington Post, to help you get rid of some of that stress that might overwhelm you this week.
1. Those rejections aren’t your problem.
Even though you may not have been accepted to your top pick, there are plenty other colleges that you did get in to; so stop fretting about being rejected and look on the bright side, you got accepted somewhere else.
2. If you don’t like the college you chose, it’s easy to get another one.
About 20 percent of students who start at one four-year college graduate from another four-year college. Many more start at two-year colleges, then move to four-year schools.
3. Your future success has no bearing on whether your grandmother has heard of your college.
Students accepted by selective colleges but who decided to attend non-selective ones were making just as much money 20 years later as those who attended the selective, brand-name schools. Those prestigious colleges were good at recruiting students who had the character traits, such as persistence, humor and charm, that produced success in life. But students with those qualities who went to colleges rarely mentioned in the rankings did just as well.
4. Your college will have many Ivy League-quality students and professors.
Admissions officers at colleges that reject 80 or 90 percent of applicants readily admit that there is no difference between applicants they accept and large numbers of the applicants they reject. Some of those disappointed but brilliant people, like you, will go to your school and give it the intellectual fizz and take-charge energy you find at the Ivies.
5. Whatever your mood now, you will be happy once you ditch your parents.
For the first time, you get to decide what you do every day. In just four months, you will be making friends and sampling new experiences in what are likely to be the most unsettling, strenuous and exciting years of your life.
1. Those rejections aren’t your problem.
Even though you may not have been accepted to your top pick, there are plenty other colleges that you did get in to; so stop fretting about being rejected and look on the bright side, you got accepted somewhere else.
2. If you don’t like the college you chose, it’s easy to get another one.
About 20 percent of students who start at one four-year college graduate from another four-year college. Many more start at two-year colleges, then move to four-year schools.
3. Your future success has no bearing on whether your grandmother has heard of your college.
Students accepted by selective colleges but who decided to attend non-selective ones were making just as much money 20 years later as those who attended the selective, brand-name schools. Those prestigious colleges were good at recruiting students who had the character traits, such as persistence, humor and charm, that produced success in life. But students with those qualities who went to colleges rarely mentioned in the rankings did just as well.
4. Your college will have many Ivy League-quality students and professors.
Admissions officers at colleges that reject 80 or 90 percent of applicants readily admit that there is no difference between applicants they accept and large numbers of the applicants they reject. Some of those disappointed but brilliant people, like you, will go to your school and give it the intellectual fizz and take-charge energy you find at the Ivies.
5. Whatever your mood now, you will be happy once you ditch your parents.
For the first time, you get to decide what you do every day. In just four months, you will be making friends and sampling new experiences in what are likely to be the most unsettling, strenuous and exciting years of your life.
UCA, Making A Difference
This year, UCA is teaming up with St. Jude to support its life saving mission of finding cures for children fighting cancer and other catastrophic illnesses. We want to help St. Jude kids have victory over pediatric cancer, and we need your team to help make it happen. We're asking each team member to help spread the word about this great cause by sending five letters to friends and family and asking them to make a donation - that's it! If you've already signed up for a UCA camp, here's what your team can do to join in this effort:
- Visit UCA's Registration Tracker. Login and look for the Team Up for St. Jude spirited by Varsity logo and click on it to find out more details and to participate in this program.
- Complete the fundraising letters and Team Up curriculum at a pre-camp practice or meeting.
- Cheerleaders and coaches who turn in at least five letters at camp will be awarded a special
Team Up for St. Jude pin.In Varsity’s partnership with St. Jude the theme is Hope. During this year’s camp season, we hope your team joins us in making a difference in the lives of St. Jude children. We hope more awareness is raised about this cause. And we hope a cure is found!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
High School Competition Squad of the Week
2007 Pinelands Regional Varsity Competition Squad
What I really found interesting about this squad was that they used front tumbling passes like front handsprings and front tucks, which are usualy more gymnastic moves than a cheerleading ones. I also thought it was very unique how they used blow-up letters as signs. Witht his performance this squad was the 2007 New Jersey State Champions.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Prom Is Creeping Closer
It's that time of year again, high school proms and graduations are just around the corner. Which means your mom is going to want to take a million and three pictures of you at each event. Here are some tips from CNN.com to help you get photo ready for the occasions.
Consider a spray tan
It gives you a nice glow and evens out your skin tone. Plus it's infinitely better than damaging skin cells by lying out in the sun or baking in a tanning bed. DHA, the active ingredient in modern day tanning solutions, works with the proteins in the top layer of your skin to turn it golden brown. Since your upper epidermis is made up of dead cells, they aren't harmed in the process and the chemicals won't be absorbed into your body because they will eventually shed off with the dead skin. Most spray tans fade away in seven days. Get it done two days before your event if you're wearing a light-colored dress; one day before is fine if it's a darker color.
Whiten your teeth
A ton of teeth whitening products are on the market and almost any of them will produce results with some time. The American Dental Association says whitening products work in one of two ways, either bleaching the tooth to change its color or by using physical reactions to remove surface stains.
Whitening strips work well in just a few days by bleaching surface and set-in stains similar to a professional service.
Clear up your skin
Use a salicylic acid body wash and you should see things clear up in a couple of weeks. If you get a zit three or four days before the party, you have a good chance of getting rid of it with a daily salicylic acid face wash and a benzoyl peroxide topical cream.
Lose the bloating
The best ways to get rid of that extra water weight before a party don't involve skipping meals, taking laxatives or eating grapefruit for a week. Eat foods high in water content such as fruits and vegetables and low in sodium, like lean meats. Avoid processed foods, and snack every three to four hours. Follow this "diet" and you'll have the energy required to deal with mom's shutterbug tendencies AND dance the night away.
Consider a spray tan
It gives you a nice glow and evens out your skin tone. Plus it's infinitely better than damaging skin cells by lying out in the sun or baking in a tanning bed. DHA, the active ingredient in modern day tanning solutions, works with the proteins in the top layer of your skin to turn it golden brown. Since your upper epidermis is made up of dead cells, they aren't harmed in the process and the chemicals won't be absorbed into your body because they will eventually shed off with the dead skin. Most spray tans fade away in seven days. Get it done two days before your event if you're wearing a light-colored dress; one day before is fine if it's a darker color.
Whiten your teeth
A ton of teeth whitening products are on the market and almost any of them will produce results with some time. The American Dental Association says whitening products work in one of two ways, either bleaching the tooth to change its color or by using physical reactions to remove surface stains.
Whitening strips work well in just a few days by bleaching surface and set-in stains similar to a professional service.
Clear up your skin
Use a salicylic acid body wash and you should see things clear up in a couple of weeks. If you get a zit three or four days before the party, you have a good chance of getting rid of it with a daily salicylic acid face wash and a benzoyl peroxide topical cream.
Lose the bloating
The best ways to get rid of that extra water weight before a party don't involve skipping meals, taking laxatives or eating grapefruit for a week. Eat foods high in water content such as fruits and vegetables and low in sodium, like lean meats. Avoid processed foods, and snack every three to four hours. Follow this "diet" and you'll have the energy required to deal with mom's shutterbug tendencies AND dance the night away.
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