Saturday, March 01, 2008

Health Tips for March 1

Health Tip: Get More Whole Grains

Whole grains are an important part of a healthy diet. They help maintain a healthy body weight and a healthy heart.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture suggests how to include more whole grains in your diet:

* Replace refined foods, such as white bread and white rice, with whole wheat bread and brown rice.
* Use whole wheat pasta in casseroles, macaroni and cheese, and other pasta dishes.
* Snack on whole grain, low-fat chips or popcorn (without salt or butter).
* Cook with whole grain flour.
* Use whole grain cracker crumbs or bread crumbs as a breading in meatloaf.

Health Tip: Pack a Healthier Lunch

Packing a lunch made at home may seem like a good way to save money and calories, but even homemade sandwiches can contribute to a bulging waistline.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions to limit calories when making sandwiches:

* Choose low-fat or fat-free lunch meats and cheeses, or stick to lean meats such as chicken or turkey. Try using veggie patties or veggie hot dogs.
* Make a sandwich or a pita stuffed with fresh vegetables, low-fat cheese, and a fat-free condiment such as mustard.
* Try using all-natural or reduced-fat peanut butter.
* Instead of chips, pack carrot sticks, celery or other crunchy veggies to go with your sandwich.
* Use low-fat or fat-free mayonnaise when making chicken or tuna salad sandwiches.

No comments: