THE DANGER OF CONVENIENCE // It's close, it's quick and it's (relatively) cheap. With all the breakfast options out there, it may seem like a healthy choice and be somewhat delicious, but you need to give your morning trip to Einstein Bagel a closer look.

You walk in to Einstein, you wait in line, you order, you wait for your bagel to toast, you hand them your hard-earned cash and rush out the door. Is that really so quick? Cooking some egg whites and whole grain toast takes about the same amount of time, if not less. Not to mention, a loaf of bread and a carton of eggs will cost you about $4.50, or about 75¢ a meal. A bagel with cream cheese and a coffee from Einstein will run you $5.01. That buys you 6 grams of fat and 61 grams of refined carbohydrates with only 9 grams of protein. If you are heading to work and in a hurry, why not microwave some oatmeal there? It takes one minute and provides you with B vitamins, calcium, iron, and Vitamin A (all great for your heart), plus high levels of fiber and very low levels of fat.

If you just finished working out, your body is craving protein and the amount in a whole wheat bagel and reduced fat cream cheese is just not enough. In addition, eating refined carbohydrates spike your blood sugar (which guarantees an energy crash in your future) and make you hungrier sooner. Thinking of the 3.81 ounces that a bagel weighs and the importance of portion control, where is the benefit of this breakfast? A pricey 6-inch inner tube that will make you hungry and sleepy in about 2 hours. Now is your bagel really that delicious?

Did you know that with your membership you are entitled to a free nutrition consultation with our in-house sports nutritionist, Sara Porat? To set-up your free nutrition consultation, email Sara@PowerhouseGymDenver.com. Click here for more information on the nutrition services currently offered at Powerhouse Gym.

WATER IS IMPORTANT DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS //
You are at a higher risk for dehydration when the weather is hot and you are exercising outside. Did you know that water makes up around 60% of your body weight? Among many other functions, water flushes out toxins, transports nutrients to cells and replenishes skin. The Institute of Medicine recommends men drink about 3 liters per day and women drink 2.2 liters per day. Plus, water energizes you! Before you grab another cup of coffee or energy drink, try drinking a glass of water. Remember that once you feel thirsty, there is a good chance you are already dehydrated. Try drinking a bottle of water first thing every morning to start the day properly hydrated.