By Danielle Miller, GalTime.com
Even when it comes to what we eat, compromising is an essential element of any healthy relationship and (as many people in relationships will attest) is often no easy feat. This is especially true on this romantic day of days when the joy you feel as a result of being in a good relationship is, in large part, represented by food. So, how can we keep the romance alive on Valentine's Day and in the days that follow without compromising our waistlines or the health of our relationships?
Marissa Vicario, Certified Holistic Health Coach and author, suggests some subtle but sure-fire ways to incorporate healthier eating habits into the diet of your significant other (as well as your own!). "When my clients undertake a healthy lifestyle, they often feel challenged to cook for their significant others," explains Vicario. "By far, the best way to get your man eating healthier is to lead by example. I've seen this with my clients and experienced it in my own life. When you eat well, feel good and look good and he sees it and experiences your happiness, he will want the same for himself."
Related: 8 Heart-Healthy Valentine's Treats
Vicario goes on to explain the role another key element of any successful relationship plays in healthy eating: communication. Yes, that old, reliable cornerstone keeps proving its usefulness in all aspects of our relationships, including our diets.
"Chat with your significant other about your desire to eat more healthfully, why it's important to you and ask for his support. Again, don't make it all about him. Instead, explain that it's something you'd like to do as a couple. He'll be much more willing to hop on board if he feels like it's a team effort. Be as loving as possible with your comments. And by all means, when he's with the guys, turn the other cheek and let him have those wings and beer!" she suggests.
Since Valentine's Day is the day to show your partner how much he or she means to you, what better day to introduce a healthier but still super tasty spin on a favorite meal? Vicario offers a new twist on a tried and true romantic breakfast idea from her book MAN vs. HEALTHY - 25 Boyfriend-approved, Healthy, Hearty Recipes :
Healthier French Toast
My guy loves to go out to breakfast on the weekends for eggs, pancakes and all the indulgent breakfast fare. Fine once in awhile but where does it end? Why not recreate the yummy treats at home with healthier ingredients. One of our favorites is this healthier version of French Toast.
Related: Your Guy's V-Day Gift, Decoded!
3 organic, free-range eggs
2 Tbsp. almond milk
vanilla extract
cinnamon
sea salt
4-6 slices of organic bread (Marissa recommends Organic Early Bird Multi Seed from Whole Foods)
maple syrup to taste
Beat eggs with the almond milk. Add a splash of vanilla extract, a dash of cinnamon and a pinch of sea salt. Soak your bread of choice in the egg mixture and place on a griddle or in a pan, cooking evenly on both sides. Serve with a dusting of cinnamon and a drizzle of pure maple syrup.
Tip: This recipe is great for kids, too! Cut the toast into strips to make fun finger food of French Toast sticks.
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