Pick the Foods Just Right for You!

Written by Amy Milstead
Part of National Nutrition Month 2013

We all know that there are no two people who are exactly the same. Well, this also applies to our own health and diet when it comes to our food choices that we make on a daily basis. We all have our unique food preferences, traditions, and possibly restrictions. It is time to enhance our personal way of eating to make it healthier and nutritionally dense!

The food we eat really does affect the way we feel and function on a daily basis. Try to be conscious of the foods you consume. “You are what you eat” is in fact a true statement. Strive to make half of your plate fruits and vegetables, while the other half consists of whole grains and a protein source. Whether you are “spicing up your place” or “green-ing up your plate” we can all make some informed adjustments to our diets to better our own well being. Aim for simple meals consisting of fresh whole foods and less processed food items. Challenge yourself to try two new vegetables every week! Better yet, why not try a new vegetable tonight for dinner?

Picture by Amy Milstead

Quick tips to incorporate more whole foods in to your diet:

-Use quinoa as a base of a vegetable stir-fry or chili

-Keep sliced raw vegetables and hummus in the fridge to have on hand

-Roast chickpeas in a little coconut oil with spices for a crunchy and healthful snack

-Toss frozen spinach or kale in your banana/berry smoothie

-Choose almond butter in place of peanut butter (to boost vitamin E)

-Add 2-3 servings of green leafy vegetables to your diet this week

References

Hansdottir, L. (Photographer). (2013). Nutritional assessment [Image]. Retrieved from: http://www.faqs.org/nutrition/Met-Obe/Nutritional-Assessment.html

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