Deanna Linz~TV Host and Pageant Coach

Sometimes life throws you a few curve balls. Ok, it does all the time but that is what makes it fun. Its really ironic that my newest passion is cooking. I grew up with an eating disorder and threw myself into various career choices and hobbies that judge me on what...weight! I started my career as on-air talent at HSN and we were weighed and measured every month and then it was broadcast on national TV! Talk about a self esteem crusher! I then decided to compete in my first Miss America local and again, I was judged on weight. I remember when I won I was given the great pep talk post pageant of that I needed to change my song, change my gown, get a tan and work on my walk. I remember thinking...how exactly again did I win?

This past year has made me realize a lot and my body basically gave me a good dose of , "hey, you need to make changes, serious changes. SNAP TO IT". We all can talk the talk, walk the walk (literally) but you also need to make really smart healthy choices in what you eat. As I was laying in the hospital last week on pain meds I just had to say enough. Medications and I do not get a long so you need to take control of your body. As a culinary student there are some challenges I do admit. There is not a culinary school that specializes in vegan or clean eating. So I have decided to take what I am learning and modify everything. I have also mastered the art of moderation. Spices are the true key. I tend to like everything a little bit on the spicy side so it works but you can also modify any recipe to the heat you prefer.

I am also becoming addicted to cook books! Yes, most of mine are from the American Heart Association or Rachel Ray but you can find some pretty awesome recipes that really do not take a lot of time to prepare in a very busy world.

I also look for the American Heart Associations health check labels on foods. Studies have shown that those who look for the labels tend to make smarter choices in their diets.

Here is a link to tools that I have found very useful in making those smart, heart healthy choices:

http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/GettingHealthy_UCM_001078_SubHomePage.jsp

My heart truth~