THESE DAYGLOW MEXICAN HATS are actually glued to the ceiling of the bar at El Chavo, one of our favorite Mexican eateries in Silverlake. My other faves in no real order, are: Mexico City (where we usually go to contemplate, then celebrate with mom a.k.a., Conny). There’s El Coyote in Hollywood, where the “Scratch” margaritas and elaborate costumes overrule the food, which is consistent but by no means fancy. The best fajitas are at Marix Tex Mex (also the best Tex/Mex in Los Angeles) but watch out: their “Kick Ass” margaritas will put a Texas sized dent in your wallet. Pinches Tacos on Sunset Boulevard is all the rage. Across the street from Chateau Marmont and right underneath the hunky CK billboard (pictured at right), it’s definitely “location, location, location” and super tasty.

Originally published May 30, 2006

I’m trying to get one of those coveted “6-packs” before I hit the beach. Can you tell me the fastest way to get a washboard? -Eufe, Los Angeles

Remember, if it were easy, everyone would do it.

Let me be as clear as possible: exercise isn’t enough. To get a washboard in the shortest time possible, you need to really focus on your diet. And when I say focus, I mean with “laser-like” intention. If you really want a washboard, that means absolutely NO cheating and little, if any, room for error.

You’ll need to consume less high glycemic carbs, and follow something similar to the South Beach Diet. This is a great, doctor-approved diet which will help you shift your fat loss into high gear. Depending on your condition and level of dedication, you may want to stay in Phase 1 (the strictest portion) of the South Beach Diet for several weeks. From my experience, the South Beach Diet and similar ketogenic diets are far superior in rapid fat loss. The South Beach diet will get you rolling, but you should also follow these eight tips:

Originally published Nov. 8, 2007

Sam, I’m writing this letter because I’m scared. After a meal last week, I just felt gross. I went to the bathroom at work after lunch because I just felt so full so I put my finger down my throat and forced myself to vomit. I felt a big rush afterward, and I knew I got control back. I’m normally not a purge personality (I know a couple friends who are routinely bulimic and it’s no big deal). I was wondering if their behavior is rubbing off on me? The worst part is that while I was doing this I know a co-worker heard me in the bathroom and knocked to ask if I was okay. I don’t want anyone to know. I’m scared they will judge me. You know, rumors. —Becky, Hollywood

As featured on Livestrong.com | Reuters

Today a client shared with me a few ideas he’s adapting to control his appetite. He discovered them in the September issue of Bon Appetit.

as featured on Livestrong

I know I’m supposed to consume protein during the day, and following a workout. My question is: how much protein is optimal before the body begins to store it as fat? Someone told me to consume up to 50 grams of protein after a workout, but others say that the body can only digest about 28 grams at a time. Who’s right? -Michael

Actual assimilation of protein is from 18-25 grams, depending on your age, sex, basal metabolic rate (BMR) and physical condition. During training camp for the Olympics, they actually time protein delivery for each athlete and check assimilation rates. For the “average” person, it’s 18-25 grams every 1.5-3 hours. You might be able to take in a little more than this, because there is never 100% assimilation of the protein consumed due to heat and chemical processes in the body as well as the combination of nutrients. -Sam Page