Sunday, August 09, 2009

Health Tips for August 9

Health Tip: Eating Right While You're Pregnant

While a healthy diet is always important, it becomes even more crucial during pregnancy, when you're eating for two.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says your diet during pregnancy should include the following daily amounts:

  • Six ounces of grains. One slice of whole-grain bread, a cup of ready-to-eat cereal, or a 1/2 cup of cooked rice is equal to about one ounce from this group.
  • Two-and-a-half cups of vegetables.
  • One-and-a-half to two cups of fruit, which could include 100 percent fruit juice or dried fruit.
  • Five to 5 1/2 ounces of meat or beans. An egg, two tablespoons of peanut butter, or 1/2 cup of seeds or nuts is equal to about one ounce from this group.
  • Three cups of milk. A cup of yogurt or 1 1/2 to two ounces of cheese can be considered one cup from this group.

Health Tip: Making Better Choices for Fast Food

Fast food may be inexpensive and convenient, but it is often high in calories, fat, sugar and salt.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine offers these suggestions for choosing healthier options at fast food restaurants:

  • Choose smaller portions, or only eat half of your meal.
  • Skip the fries and choose fresh fruit, a salad or vegetables, yogurt or other healthy option as your side item.
  • Order sandwiches without mayonnaise, cheese, bacon or fattening sauces.
  • Ask for extra veggies on your sandwich, which may include lettuce, onions or tomatoes.
  • Choose lean, grilled meats such as chicken or turkey instead of a burger.
  • Skip breaded and fried meats, whether on your sandwich or salad.

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