We wake up each day with a purpose. Whether we’re preparing for a big presentation, studying for an exam, racing to get our kids off to school or training for a 5K, our eating habits directly impact the energy and focus needed to reach our everyday goals. Discovering and choosing the right food propels us forward, helps us succeed and keeps us healthy. Our goal is to share this message with as many people as possible so that they can unleash their potential.
We’re excited to share the stories of two of our employees who have committed to living their best life starting with choosing the rights foods and keeping active. We hope these stories inspire you and others.
Darren Gordon – Office Manager | Higher Education
“I have always struggled with my weight and working next to the kitchen at Harding University while smelling all the wonderful things our chef is creating has made it even more challenging. On November 28th 2016, I was blessed with a daughter, Emery Grace Gordon. With her arrival came a new awareness that I had to get in better shape if I wanted to be around for her wedding. The first week of January I joined a gym and have been going regularly. Along with exercise I have eliminated soda and asked our chef to help me choose wisely when eating at work. So far I have lost 45 pounds and feel amazing!”
Melissa Mercury – Director of Business Development | Business Dining
“As a person living with Multiple Sclerosis, I had the desire to affect change in the course of my disease through diet and exercise rather than traditional medicine. This decision began my journey towards a healthier lifestyle eight years ago when I set out to run my first marathon. After completing the marathon in 2009, I committed myself to learning more about how to live a healthier life through diet and exercise. Since 2009, I have lost 40 pounds, kept the symptoms of my disease at bay, and transformed the eating habits for my family and myself.
I am now an avid weight lifter, runner, and general fitness nut! I seek to eat a clean diet with a focus on whole foods eliminating anything processed or refined. I make the majority of my food from scratch and shop local farms whenever possible.
My favorite meal adaptation is cauliflower rice [recipe below] and my go to healthy snack is homemade almond butter right out of the jar!”
Cauliflower Rice
INGREDIENTS
- Cooking spray
- 1 head cauliflower
- ¼ tsp. salt
- ¼ tsp. black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped, fresh parsley or
- 2 tsp. dried parsley
DIRECTIONS
1. Cut cauliflower into florets. In batches, add cauliflower to
food processor (or blender) and gently pulse until cauliflower
becomes the texture of rice. Be careful not to over pulse.
2. Coat large skillet with cooking spray. Heat over medium
heat. Once the skillet is hot, add cauliflower, salt and pepper.
Sauté for 5 minutes or until cauliflower is tender, stirring
occasionally.
3. Top with chopped parsley.
Recipe copyright © 2016 American Heart Association
Note: Since everyone’s health history and nutritional needs are so different, please make sure that you talk with your doctor and a registered dietitian to get advice about the diet and exercise plan that‘s right for you
Note: Since everyone’s health history and nutritional needs are so different, please make sure that you talk with your doctor and a registered dietitian to get advice about the diet and exercise plan that‘s right for you.