Have I mentioned how much Mr. Mojito enjoys the New York Times? He is a voracious reader. Anyway, shortly after perusing the article about exercising rats, he brought another piece to my attention and it includes some really interesting information that is gender specific. What exercise science doesn't know about women.

It seems science typically relies on those "one-size-fits-all" studies to make determinations about diet and exercise. In most cases, the "one-size" is men. However, after much prodding by females who wished to be included as study subjects, Dr. David Rowlands, of the Institute of Food, Nutrition and Human Health at Massey University in New Zealand, repeated his study which intended to measure the effect of protein on recovery after hard exercise. The results obtained from the female subjects were radically different from the results obtained by research with men only. It is important to remember this is only one study and begs to be duplicated by other independent scientists for verification, but the research indicates that women benefit far less by consuming protein after workouts than man. This is in keeping with earlier research indicating women were less able to absorb carbs from carb-loading than their male counterparts. It may all be linked back to estrogen but again that has not been scientifically proven yet. But these studies should remind us that what's good for the goose isn't necessarily good for the gander and we must all take ownership of our own health and well-being. That may include consultation with your trainer, nutritionist and/or physician to determine what requirements best meet your individual needs.

Exercising at 2am inside an air-conditioned building like Mr. Mojito does is a surefire way to beat the heat.  And while most northerners look at Labor Day as the end of summer, we Floridians know it is really just "halftime" for us, albeit, without a marching band.  We still have a few months of really hot temperatures and very high humidity so exercise inside whenever possible.   If you must exercise outside just be sure you do it during the coolest part of the day, hydrating repeatedly, avoiding excessive consumption of alcohol, and wearing hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and cool clothing.  Taking these necessary precautions will keep you healthy and safe and keep the anxiety down for everyone.  And that truly is a "win-win". 

1 small shallot, peeled

1 5-ounce can water chestnuts, rinsed

1/2 cup reduced-fat cream cheese, (Neufchâtel)

1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese

1/4 cup nonfat plain yogurt

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon salt

Freshly ground pepper, to taste

6 ounces baby spinach

2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Pulse shallot and water chestnuts in a food processor until coarsely chopped. Add cream cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt, lemon juice, salt and pepper and pulse until just combined. Add spinach and chives and pulse until incorporated.

Make Ahead Tip: Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.