After a cold winter packed with comfort food, it’s time to
de-clutter your diet. Ditch processed pantry items in favor of fresh farmer’s
market produce, lean protein and whole grain happiness. What’s that we spy? Ah
yes—a spring in your step!
Cut out refined sugar
Instead of munching on snack cakes and candy, opt for
all-natural sweet stuff. Swap out boxed cookies and the like for fresh fruit.
We’re loving tote-able apples, oranges, bananas and berries. Pack ‘em in your
lunch box for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Add some color to your plate
Taste the rainbow! Produce comes in a plethora of colors,
and it’s not just to make your plate look pretty. Each colored item packs a
different nutrient punch, so grab a painter’s palette-full for a balanced mix
of essential vitamins and minerals.
Mix up your proteins
Energy-loaded protein can come your way from many different
sources. Challenge your three-meals-a-day creativity by varying your go-tos.
Eggs, Greek yogurt, beans, nuts
and lean meats, poultry and fish are excellent options.
Love your whole grains
Give up carbs? Never! Instead of making do with the
dime-a-dozen variety, though, turn of the quality by choosing whole grains and
fresher products. Head to the bakery section of your grocery store and pluck a
hot-from-the-oven whole-wheat loaf. Want a taste sensation? Try freshly made
wheat pasta when spaghetti night rolls around. Not only are whole grains less
processed and easier on your digestive system, they’re tastier, too!
BY AMANDA POOLE ON 4/25/2012 3:39:00 PM
POSTED IN healthy eating 101, nutrition, produce