Eating the right stuff

Dietitians say that a good meal is a balanced one. What does this mean? It means that you should eat everything: fruits, veggies, grains, meat and fats. The key is choosing the right healthiest item from each group.

Health Castle, a Web site dedicated to nutrition, recommends that a healthy meal should include the following elements:

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products.

Lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts.

Low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt, and added sugars.

DON’T GIVE IN WHEN YOU EAT OUT AND ARE ON THE GO

It’s important to make smart food choices and watch portion sizes wherever you are—at the grocery store, at work, in your favorite restaurant, or running errands.
Try these tips: • At the store, plan ahead by buying a variety of nutrient-rich foods for meals and snacks throughout the week. • When grabbing lunch, have a sandwich on whole-grain bread and choose low-fat/fat-free milk, water, or other drinks without added sugars. • In a restaurant, opt for steamed, grilled, or broiled dishes instead of those that are fried or sautéed. • On a long commute or shopping trip, pack some fresh fruit, cut-up vegetables, string cheese sticks, or a handful of unsalted nuts—to help you avoid impulsive, less healthful snack choices.*

Information taken from Healthcastle.com

Facts sheets on nutrition