by Cascade Ice on August 21, 2014

Even though Hayley focuses on creating extraordinary desserts with ordinary, everyday ingredients on her blog; she understands the importance of having a healthy and balanced diet. Today we are Kickin’ It with Hayley Parker, the blogger behind The Domestic Rebel. She shares her tips on how to live a healthy lifestyle while still being able to indulge.

Why is “Healthy Living” important to you?
Healthy Living is important to me because a healthy diet has so much to do with your life and a poor diet is connected directly to some diseases (including strokes, which run in my family) I try my best to eliminate poor food choices from my diet so I can live happier, healthier and longer.
Who are your “Healthy Living” role models and why?
My healthy living role model is myself! I am my own advocate for eating healthy and living a healthy, active life. Of course, I gain inspiration from exercise magazines, healthy recipes and other friends and family, but ultimately, I’m the one who makes the decisions about what goes into my body so it’s important for me to stand up for myself and eat what’s best for me.
What is your go-to healthy meal when you are short on time?
My go-to healthy meal would have to be taco salad! Californians love our Mexican food, but with the cheese, sour cream, guac and tortillas, it can be a little heavy on the calories. Throwing those traditional taco ingredients onto a bed of fresh, crisp lettuce tastes great. Instead of dressing, I use salsa — low-cal but tons of flavor. I’ll also use ground lean turkey in place of beef, light sour cream, avocado slices rather than prepared guacamole (which often has mayo in it) and add more flavor by throwing in fresh tomatoes, olives, or jalapenos.
Do you have any tips for families who want to make some healthy lifestyle changes?
My healthy-lifestyle tips for families would be to eat together as a family as often as possible. Studies have shown that families who eat dinner together are generally happier and healthier than those who don’t, or those families who eat in front of the TV. If you’re surrounded by people you love and chat about your day, you’re less likely to overeat than if you were alone or distracted by other things.
Are there any foods that you consider to be off-limits completely?
I don’t consider any foods to be off-limits completely because I don’t think depriving yourself is ever beneficial. While I generally eat very healthy and make conscious food choices, sometimes I’m craving a slice of pie or a big ice cream sundae. Or it will be a special occasion, like if I’m at a party or at a restaurant known for a particular dish. I’ll indulge, but do so as smartly as possible — I don’t engorge myself on the sundae; perhaps I’ll choose a smaller size or ask them to ease up on the hot fudge. I’m still enjoying it, just in a smaller portion. Or if I know I’m going to indulge later, I’ll try to eat lighter throughout the day.
In addition to eating right, do you have any other tips to share on overall wellness (i.e. sleep, relaxation techniques, fitness routines)?
I love switching up my exercise routines so I don’t get bored. I’ll try Zumba some days, yoga other days, or straight cardio. I also love walking and hiking, so I try to plan a date with friends or family where we can catch up and hike somewhere local for an afternoon. Keeping a variety in the mix prevents me from slacking off.
What is your favorite Cascade Ice flavor and why?
My favorite Cascade Ice flavor is Coconut! I love coconut flavored anything, and this drink is SO refreshing, light and satisfying. It tastes so rich; like it should be packed full of sugar and calories — but it isn’t, which rocks! Plus, it’s awesome to add fresh pineapple to, or use as the base for a lighter Sherbet Fizz!
To see more of Hayley’s tips, visit her blog The Domestic Rebel. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram!
by Cascade Ice on August 14, 2014

Looking to mix up your summer? Try one of these awesome recipes using Cascade Ice’s Organic Sparkling Waters. Our USDA Certified Organic waters will give you the perfect bit of refreshment to power through the day!

To start, make your mouth water with our refreshing Lemon Lime Spritzer. To mix this at home, grab your favorite bottle of white wine and pour into a pitcher. Add two cinnamon sticks, slices of lemons and limes and allow the ingredients to soak at least four hours or overnight. Next, remove the cinnamon sticks and add two to four bottles of Cascade Ice Organic Lemon Lime Sparkling Water to the mix. Slice some fresh lemon and lime wedges for garnish and serve!

To really make your taste buds go wild, try making our Mixed Berry Delight to perk up your day. Grab a handful of your favorite berries and crush them in the bottom of your serving glass. Add 5oz of Cascade Ice Organic Mixed Berry Sparkling Water and stir the ingredients together. For an extra kick, add a splash of your favorite vodka. Finally, garnish your drink with fresh mint and enjoy the tingling sensation on your lips!
The availability of our organic line is growing nationwide so check out our Where to Buy map to find a retailer near you! Make sure you follow us on Facebook as well so you can get the latest news on our availability.
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by Cascade Ice on August 7, 2014

As a working mom it may be hard to stick to a healthy lifestyle, but doing so is a great way to set an example for your kids. Luckily, we’re Kickin’ It with lifestyle blogger Cassie Freeman at Hi Sugarplum! She’s sharing some tips on how to balance food choices to achieve a healthy lifestyle for you and your family.

Why is “Healthy Living” important to you?
I want to teach my kids healthy habits and attitudes about themselves and food, and the best way is to live it myself.
What is your go-to healthy meal when you are short on time?
I’m a working mom, so time is short more often than not. I’m guilty of pulling out a frozen pizza or mac & cheese at least once a week, but I’ll serve it with a green smoothie. I figure the spinach and fruit, with Greek yogurt, balances out the junky part of the dinner. #Rationalization
Are there any foods that you consider to be off-limits completely?
No foods are off limits completely because then we’ll just crave them more, which will lead to over-eating. I’m big on moderation.
To see more of Cassie’s tips, visit her personal blog Hi Sugarplum. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest!
by Cascade Ice on July 31, 2014
The 2014 school year is just around the corner, which means it’s time to prepare by gathering the school supplies, buying back-to-school clothes and nourishing your kiddos! Thankfully, we’ve provided a few smoothie recipes that are sure to give you and your kids the boost they need. These refreshing smoothies are healthy and perfect for breakfast or a grab-and-go snack. What more could you ask for?

Visit the tropical islands with this Pineapple Coconut Smoothie that’s sure to make your taste buds go wild. First, place one cup of frozen pineapples in a blender. Add 1 cup of coconut milk, 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 6oz of Cascade Ice Coconut Pineapple. Blend all the ingredients to your preferred consistently and top your smoothie off with some fresh pineapples. You’ll be ready to conquer your day!

Start your day strong with our Strawberry Banana Smoothie, which will give you the energy you need to tackle your busy schedule. To start, add 1 cup of frozen strawberries and 1 ripe banana to a blender. Next, add ½ cup of low-fat yogurt and 6oz of Cascade Ice Strawberry Banana. Blend all the ingredients together and top your smoothie with some fresh strawberries and bananas. Enjoy!
Remember to keep your fridge stocked with Cascade Ice this school year so you can make more delicious smoothies for your family. Check out our Where to Buy map to find a retailer near you.
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