Los Angeles Personal Trainer

Ok so...I have to admit, I have a sweet tooth, but...who doesn't? How to stay in shape while you indulge on your favorite dessert once in a while? I really have no rules, but I know some people love them..so here they are:

Rule #1
Don't make that dessert a meal.
Your body only needs the flavor, so don't have the whole pint of ice cream. Get together with friends at your favorite dessert place, order one with enough spoons for the group and enjoy while exchanging the latest. Tea, dessert and good conversation...sounds good?

Rule #2
If you can make it, or if the name contains less than 4 words...don't eat it!
Having a dessert its almost like a ritual, from the way its been prepared to the presentation. So if you are going to put calories in your body it better be well worth it. I tell my clients that they can indulge once in a while but I don't want to hear they had a doughnut, chocolate chip cookie or some of those pastries that they sell at the local supermarket. If you have the cravings, go high end. Most of the time, those desserts are so rich that you'll be satisfied with just a spoon or two.

Rule #3
Don't buy fat free desserts
The flavor has to come from somewhere. It's either full of fat, sugar, calories or some artificial ingredient you don't want to eat. Whenever you have the cravings go for the real deal. Remember, a small spoon of it will do the job. If you like chocolate ice cream, do a little research and find the best one in the market.

Remember, balance is the key.
Enjoy responsibly!

Lalo Fuentes
Personal Trainer, Los Angeles

The picture above is an example of the kind of dessert I'm talking about, created by Tony Sansalone of the Cafe at Four Seasons. A cross-section reveals a chocolate glaze outer shell, mocha java chocolate mousse, raspberry Bavarian cream, vanilla bean crème brûlée, Swiss raspberry jam and coconut macaroon cake on bottom. To finish it off, it's topped with raspberries, a candy spiral and a gold-dusted white chocolate fan.