Healthy cooking
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Grocery store secret: Shop the perimeter
Picture your favorite grocery store. Chances are that the outer aisles are where you'll find fresh produce, low-fat dairy products and lean meats. This is where you should concentrate most of your shopping time. Why? Fresh foods are generally healthier than are ready-to-eat foods.
Don't grocery shop on an empty stomach
Don't shop for groceries when you're hungry. Eat before you go. While you're at it, why not jot down a grocery list. With a full stomach and list in hand, you'll be less likely to be tempted by unhealthy foods.
Snack attack? Try these 100-calorie snacks
Healthy snacks can satisfy your hunger and keep you from eating extra helpings at your next meal, which can lower total daily calories. Snacks can also supply afternoon energy and extra nutrients. If you're trying to lose weight, try these snacks that are 100 calories or less: 1 cup sliced bananas and fresh raspberries; 2 cups carrots; 2 cups air-popped popcorn; 5 rye or pumpernickel crackers; 2 tablespoons peanuts; 2 domino-sized slices of low-fat colby or cheddar cheese.
Eggs: Bad for cholesterol?
Chicken eggs are high in cholesterol, but the effect of egg consumption on blood cholesterol is minimal when compared with the effect of trans fats and saturated fats. Most healthy people can eat up to seven eggs a week with no increase in their risk of heart disease. But the story may be different for people who have diabetes. Study results have been conflicting, so more research is needed to prove the association between egg consumption and developing heart disease in people with diabetes. If you like eggs but don't want the extra cholesterol, use only the egg whites.
Keep your breakfast cereal healthy
Dry cereal can be a good option for breakfast, at home or on the go. If you make healthy choices, that is. Three key features to consider are fiber, calories and sugar. Choose cereal that has at least 3 grams of fiber a serving, but aim for 5 or more. Aim for cereal with less than 160 calories a serving if you're dieting. And because many cereals, even those for adults, can be high in added sugar, avoid those that list sugar among the first few ingredients.
Think outside the cereal box
Bored with breakfast? Ditch the sugary cereal. Go for something savory. Try a whole-wheat sandwich with lean meat and low-fat cheese or a whole-wheat pita stuffed with vegetables. With a little creativity, breakfast can be healthy, convenient and fun, especially if you think outside the box.
Fit more fruit into your diet
Getting in at least three servings of fruit a day is easier than you think. But if you're tired of the same old fruit options, try these two variations. 1. Blend it. In a blender, add 2 fresh or frozen bananas, 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, and 1 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt. Blend until smooth. 2. Grill it. Cut apples, pears or peaches into chunks, brush lightly with canola oil, and sprinkle with cinnamon. Place on skewers or wrap in foil. Grill on low heat for 3 to 5 minutes.
Flip your burger
Instead of grilling a hamburger, try grilling a hearty portobello mushroom. Marinate a large portobello mushroom in Italian dressing for 15 minutes. Grill over medium heat until tender, about 5 minutes on each side. Serve on a whole-grain bun with healthy condiments.
Too sick to exercise?
The common cold doesn't have to keep you on the sidelines. Mild to moderate exercise is usually OK if your symptoms are all above the neck, such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing or minor sore throat. However, if your symptoms are below the neck, such as chest congestion, a hacking cough or upset stomach, delay your workout. And don't exercise if you have a fever, fatigue, widespread muscle aches or a contagious illness.
No pain, no gain? No way!
When it comes to exercise, the "No pain, no gain" mantra is bad advice. Exercise shouldn't hurt. At most, you may feel a little muscle soreness when you do a new workout or activity. If you feel pain, dizziness, nausea or shortness of breath during exercise, stop. You may be pushing yourself too hard.
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