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For World Vegetarian Month: Vegetarian Recipe Roundup

FitSugar — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 03:30:00 -0700

There are many reasons to start eating lower on the food chain. My top three are my health, my finances, and the environment. I think there are many other reasons to start choosing tofu over a hamburger, at least once a week. October is World Vegetarian Month so I thought I would round up some of my favorite meatless recipes. Eating colorful meals full of veggies, means you're eating a wide variety of antioxidants, plus you're probably getting more vitamins and minerals too.

Creamy Stuffed Zucchini Boats	Spicy Mexican Stuffed Peppers	Soba Stir Fry With Peanut Sauce
Lentil Tomato Soup	Hummus	Veggie Shepherd's Pie

What is your favorite meatless recipe? I invite you to share it in the Lite'n it Up — Healthy Recipe Group. I, for one, am always looking for new recipes to try.

Do You Salt Your Food?

FitSugar — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 03:30:00 -0700

I love salt, almost as much as I love sweets. For many of my meals, I like to sprinkle a little on my food to add just a hint of flavor. I know it's not healthy to use a lot of salt, especially because high blood pressure runs in my family, but everything's fine in moderation, right? So tell me . . .Source

Do You Salt Your Food?

Always, I'm obsessed with salt.

Sometimes, if my food needs it.

Rarely, since I know it's bad for me.

Never, I'm not a salt lover.

The Healthy Runner's Diet

FitSugar — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 12:00:00 -0700

We all strive to eat healthy, but if you're a runner or you do other intense exercise regularly, it's important to make sure you're obtaining enough energy and consuming enough calories so that you can increase your endurance and build muscle. I'm not talking about downing energy bars and protein drinks. I'm talking about real nutrition so here are some tips for a healthy diet from Runner's World.

Eat seeds or foods made from seeds. This includes whole grains, seeds, beans, and nuts. Since they contain the crucial mix of nutrients to grow a new plant, they are packed with protein, essential healthy fats, and antioxidants. These foods will help maintain a healthy body weight and normal levels of cholesterol. Plus, they'll give you energy to work out.
Eat five different colored fruits and vegetables daily. Produce is packed with vitamins and minerals, but fruits and veggies also contain carbs to fuel your runs. These fresh foods are perfect for athletes because they're low in calories and fat, but the fiber in them fills you up. That means you need to eat less throughout your day, which enables you to maintain your body weight. Choose a variety of produce that's rich in color.

For more great eating tips

Luna Sport Moons: For Long Workouts

FitSugar — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 10:00:00 -0700

If any of you are training for a marathon, or you just love running long distances for fun, you're going to need more than your trusty sneakers and your tunes to keep you going. To move you need energy and fuel, and if you're on the move for over an hour you'll start to run out of juice. Carrying around food will just weigh you down, and you most likely won't have the appetite for it anyway. So Luna, the makers of those energy bars we all love, has created the first organic energy electrolyte chew designed for women, called Luna Sport Moons. These chews were designed for female endurance athletes: cyclists, runners, skiers, mountain bikers, triathletes, and hikers.

To hear more about Luna Sport Moons,

Healthy Eating Tip: Choose Cereals With Fiber

FitSugar — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 08:00:00 -0700

I think the easiest breakfast option in the world is a bowl of cereal. But just because it is an easy option, doesn't mean it has to be unhealthy. I like starting my day off with a cereal that is high in fiber; it helps keep me full and helps me reach the recommended 30 gram mark for daily intake of fiber. When shopping for cereal, go for ones made with whole grains that contain at least three grams of fiber per serving. Here are some great options:

Kashi Go Lean (10 g)
Kashi Go Lean Crunch (8 g)
Nature's Path Optimum Power (10 g)
Barbara's Shredded Oats (4 g)
Barbara's Puffins (6.7 g)
Barbara's Ultima (16 g)
Fiber One (28.8 g)
Bear Naked Peanut Butter Granola (3 g)
Bear Naked Apple Cinnamon Granola (3 g)
Bear Naked Fit Triple Berry Crunch Granola (3 g)
Kashi Mountain Medley Granola (3 g)
Kashi Orchard Spice Granola (3 g)

Fit Tip: Increase the fiber content of your cereal by adding nuts and fresh, frozen, or dried fruit.

Source

More or Less Cholesterol?

FitSugar — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 09:00:00 -0700

Since high cholesterol is linked to heart problems, it's so important for us to be conscious of how much is in the foods we eat. Last Spring I tested your cholesterol smarts and now here's another quiz to keep you on your toes.

Source

Fish Breakdown: Omegas and Mercury

FitSugar — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 03:00:00 -0700

Fish is a great source for lean protein. Fish is part of a healthy eating plan. Fish provides much lacking omega-3 fatty acids to our diets. OK, I get it. Message received. Eat fish.

The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least twice weekly to help reach the recommendation of consuming 1.1 grams of omega-3 fats a day. Although fish is a great source of these healthy fats, you have to be careful about ingesting too much mercury, especially if you're pregnant. Expecting moms should stick to types of fish that have mercury levels of 1 part per million (ppm) or lower. The rest of us can safely consume fish with mercury levels that average 5.5 ppm. So take a look at the chart below to see where the fish you eat falls on the spectrum.

	Mercury in parts per million (ppm)	Omega-3s in grams per 3 oz. serving
Canned Tuna	.12	.17 - .24
Shrimp	below the level of detection	.29
Polluck	.06	.45
Salmon	.01	1.1 - 1.9
Cod	.11	.15 - .24
Catfish	.05	.22 - .3
Clams	below the level of detection	.25
Flounder or Sole	.05	.48
Crabs	.06	.27 - .4
Scallops	.05	.18 - .34

If you don't see your favorite seafood on the list then

Diet Tip: Get Creative With Your Veggies

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 08:00:00 -0700

Variety is the spice of life and that is true when it comes to veggies too. Presentation is important and shredded carrots seem exotic and interesting compared to the commonplace sliced preparation. Here are some of my favorite kitchen gadgets for creating fun and enticing veggies.
Source

More on High Fructose Corn Syrup

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 03:00:00 -0700

The ads promoting high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) that are airing on TV irritate me to no end and I know they bother a few of you as well. The controversy surrounding the ad campaign, which is estimated to cost around $20 to $30 million, continues to grow. The basic premise of the ads is that HFCS is natural since it is made from corn (they don't mention how processed the syrup truly is) and that it is just like sugar. The ads aim to make you feel like a paranoid health freak for avoiding the corn sweetener, but CBS News decided to do a little research of their own on the scientific research behind the ads. What they found is unsurprising and not so sweet.

Six studies are cited on Sweet Surprise ads sponsored by the Corn Refiners Association. Three of the studies were funded by companies involved in the industry: Pepsi Co., the American Beverage Association, and a food, chemical and drug company lobbying group. Two of the studies were never published, so the funding is not public record. The last study was funded by a Dutch company with ties to the sugar industry. Children’s Hospital Boston researched the conclusions of nutrition studies and found that the outcomes of these studies were four to eight times more likely to be favorable towards that funding company. It seems that scientific conclusion can unfortunately be bought and sold.

To see a few facts about HFCS from independent research, just

Another Reason For Moderation: Overeating Affects Your Brain

FitSugar — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 16:00:00 -0700

Not only does overeating make you digestive system work overtime, but it also does a doozy on your brain.

American scientists recently found that overeating stimulates a usually dormant immune pathway in the brain. Once stimulated the brain then sounds the alarm for the immune system to battle invaders that aren't really there. The overactive immune system then creates an inflammation response all over the body. Chronic inflammation leads to chronic disease like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

The pathway between the hypothalamus, the brain center that regulates energy, and the immune system is usually inactive — a remnant of an immune system that we have evolved beyond needing. It seems that "overnutrition," a scientific term (or euphemism?) for overeating has stimulated this vestigial immune system and the consequences are making us ill.

While scientist hope this discovery can lead to a medical intervention for obesity and obesity-related illnesses, it is just another reminder that moderation is key to a healthy lifestyle.

Source

Are You Label Conscious?

FitSugar — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 09:00:00 -0700

We are visual creatures, and all these food labels or stamps have been created to help us recognize by sight healthy features of our food. Do you know what these labels mean when the words that accompany the image have been pixilated beyond recognition? Take this quiz and see.

Question 5

5 of 5

When this label appears on your food you know that it is ______________?

The Correct Answer:

Fair trade certified.

You will find this label on coffee, tea, chocolate and even quinoa. It means the product is Fair Trade Certified. While that might not make the food any more nutritious, it does ensure that the growers were paid fairly for their crops.

5 Snacking Tips to Help You Lose Weight

FitSugar — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 03:30:00 -0700

I know the idea of snacking may seem like a great way to gain weight, but if you have a few smart snacking tactics under your belt, you'll actually be able to slim down. Check out these snacking tips from MSNBC.

Stop constant cravings: Most snackers reach for something unhealthy to nosh on but the problem isn't necessarily the type of food, but rather how much they eat. You can still satiate your sweet tooth, but just enjoy so in moderation. Enjoy one small square of dark chocolate instead of the whole bar, or two spoonfuls of ice cream instead of half the pint.
Liquid calories: Other beverages besides water can really rack up the calories. I'm not saying you should eliminate coffee, tea, or juice, but just be mindful of your calorie intake. Opt for water most of the time, so you can consume your calories in a more satisfying way with actual foods you crunch or chew.

For other great snacking tips

The Skinny on: Vitamins vs. Minerals

FitSugar — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 14:30:00 -0700

We all know we should be consuming enough vitamins and minerals. We need them in order to stay healthy, but did you ever think about what the difference between the two is? Vitamins come from the plants and meat we eat. They are essential nutrients that fall into one of two categories: water soluble or fat soluble. Vitamin C and all eight B vitamins are water soluble, which means water is required for their absorption. These nine vitamins are found mostly in fruits, veggies, and grains. You need water-soluble vitamins every day, and the extra is flushed out when you go to the bathroom. Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat soluble, and are mostly found in fatty foods such as meat, dairy, vegetable oils, and oily fish. They require fat for absorption and are stored in fat tissue for later use. If you eat excessive amounts of fat-soluble vitamins, they can be harmful to your body so pay close attention to your diet.

To hear all about minerals and find out if taking supplements is necessary

Food For Thought: How to Eat For Your Brain

FitSugar — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 08:00:00 -0700

You need to feed your brain. Fuel it with the right foods and it will run smoothly and consistently. Although eating one single food will not make you a genius, here is some food for thought.
Source

Burger King Ditches Trans Fat

FitSugar — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 03:00:00 -0700

If you're a big fan of an occasional Whopper, you'll be happy to know that Burger King will be cooking with trans fat free cooking oil. By Nov. 1, in all of its restaurants nationwide, every item on the menu including baked goods will contain zero grams of artificial trans fat. This is big news for the nation's number two hamburger chain, and it's sure to make customers feel better about eating there.

Hydrogenated oils contain trans fat. The reason this fat is so bad for us is that it's proven to raise bad cholesterol levels in the body, lower good cholesterol, and can increase a person's risk for heart disease. Companies use this type of oil to increase the shelf life of products, to preserve flavor, and in the long run to save money.

Many customers enjoying foods made with the trans fat free oil are noticing no difference in taste, or they say the foods taste even better. Although it's been a slow process for Burger King to get on the trans fat free bandwagon (Taco Bell, KFC, and Wendy's have already made the switch), I say it's better late than never.

Back on Track: Cook Whole Grains for the Week

FitSugar — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 03:30:00 -0700

If you haven't gotten the memo: Whole grains are healthy. Millet, barley, and oats are considered good carbs since they offer a great combination of fiber, protein, and vitamins; they fill you up and help you sustain your energy. One down side to whole grains is that they can take around 30 minutes to prepare. When foods take a while to cook, then we're less likely to eat them.

Make your life easier by boiling a few batches of whole grains on Sunday night. I like to make two cups of three different grains; usually rice, quinoa, and oats. Store them in tupperware containers in the fridge, so they're ready for you to warm up for any meal. You can enjoy them on their own or use them in your favorite recipes.

Healthy Recipe: Vegetable Curry With Chef Shaikh's

FitSugar — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 03:30:00 -0700

I absolutely love curry, but when I try to mix the spices myself, it never really comes out the way it should. That's why I love to use a pre-made curry sauce like this one from Chef Shaikh's. The sauce itself is really healthy. Each serving contains 45 calories, 1g of fat, 120mg of sodium, 7g of carbs, 3g of fiber, 3g of sugar, and 2g of protein. And adding a variety of veggies makes it even healthier.

To see how I make my vegetable curry

Add Just the Right Amount of Dark Chocolate to Your Diet

FitSugar — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:30:00 -0700

It's no secret that I love dark chocolate. Not only is it super tasty and satisfying, it's actually a sweet treat that is good for you, too. Dark chocolate has been found to sooth a cough, increase blood flow, and lower your blood pressure. With benefits like that you may be tempted to trade in meals for chocolate bars, but there is an ideal amount to consume each day.

US News and World Report recently reported that research has found that only 6.7 grams of chocolate per day (or 0.23 ounces) represents the perfect amount of dark chocolate for your health. To have something to compare it to, a Hershey's Kiss is 4.5 grams and most bars of chocolate are about 40-41 grams. So enjoy, but enjoy in moderation.

Source

Whole Grain Flour Breakdown

FitSugar — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:00:00 -0700

Baking is always happening at my house, whether it be cookies, muffins, or bread. Not only do I love concocting delicious treats with my girls because it's a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon, but I love that I can make scrumptious foods and know they're made with actual ingredients.

I also think it's fun to try out recipes using different flour. Whole wheat or all purpose is the usual standard, but there are so many other flours out there made from whole grains. They add different flavors, textures, and colors to your recipes, and they can also offer added nutrition. To see how whole-grain flours compare

Diet Tip: Hang Mirrors Where You Eat

FitSugar — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 10:00:00 -0700

When it comes to losing weight, we all find different tricks that help motivate us to reach our goals. Some may seem a little bizarre, but it doesn't mean they don't work. Here's a weird one for you. Hang a mirror in your kitchen or dining room, on the wall opposite your chair. That way you can watch yourself during mealtimes, and studies show that it can reduce your desire to overeat. People in the study actually ended up eating one-third less food than those with no mirror.

This little tip isn't meant to make you obsessed about food or feel bad about yourself. Think of it instead as a friendly reminder of your weight-loss goals. A mirror will help heighten your awareness of what you look like, and what positive changes you're making in regards to food.

Speak Up: How Many Calories Do You Consume in a Day?

FitSugar — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 13:00:00 -0700

With so many people trying to lose weight, counting calories seems to be on everybody's mind. Some people keep food journals or measure out their portions to monitor their calorie intake. Others follow a dietitian's strict food plan, and some people just guesstimate the amount of calories they eat in daily. If you're trying to lose weight, you should never really dip below 1,200 calories in day, and most women need between 1,200 and 2000 calories a day. It depends on how active you are and how much you currently weigh. So I was wondering, how many calories do you consume in a day? Is it something you keep track of or do you eat what you want and not worry about calories?

Source

New Country of Origin Food Label Law

FitSugar — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 03:00:00 -0700

I like eating seasonally and locally, but I am a realist too. I know much of the food we all eat comes from outside the US. Remember the tomato and hot pepper salmonella scare? Food regulations vary from country to country and many are not as strict as ones in the US, which can pose some health risks. Now a new food label law comes into effect that will require companies to state where certain products such as meat, produce, and other products came from. Now you'll be able to tell if the foods you buy are imported or not, and from which countries they were produced.

The country of origin labeling requirement has been years in the making, and now that it's here, the law is a little confusing since not all foods are covered under the new regulations. Certain foods that are processed such as roasted peanuts, breaded chicken, and bacon are excluded from this law, as are bags of mixed lettuce. Retailers have six months from now to learn and implement the new labeling rules, so you should begin seeing labels in stores relatively soon. This mandatory labeling could help sell products since many people will appreciate knowing their apples came from a local farm. The food origin labels might also discourage people from buying products from unsafe sources, such as with the recent issues in China. The thing is though, consumers have a right to know where their food was grown or packaged. I'm in full support of this law and look forward to the day when the government requires all food retailers to state where their foods come from. What do you think? Are you happy about this new law or not really phased by it? Will these new labels affect how you shop?

Source

An Apple a Day?

FitSugar — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:00:00 -0700

We practically cut our milk teeth on the old adage, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." But have you ever wondered if there is any validity to it? Well no fruit can cure all your ills, but the apple seems to be a great piece of produce for preventive medicine.

Apples are a great source of fiber. A medium apple contains 3 grams of fiber, which is 10 percent of your daily recommended intake. Since apples contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, this fruit will help decrease your LDL cholesterol (the bad kind), as well as help keep you regular. Remember, that eating 30 grams of fiber can help prevent breast and ovarian cancer. The pectin found in apples also helps remove toxins, like the heavy metals lead and mercury, from your body.

An apple a day, also seems to keep the pounds at bay, at least if you eat one before lunch. A recent study found that folks who ate an apple 15 minutes prior to their midday generally ate, on average, 187 less calories less at lunch than study participants who did not eat an apple. Think of an apple as a healthful appetizer. Apples also give your teeth and gums a healthy workout; sometimes I like to enjoy one after lunch to cleanse my palate.

Apples are in season now and they are a relatively inexpensive fruit. Plus they don't lose much of the nutritional punch if they are stored for long periods of time, making them a perfect Winter fruit.

Have you eaten your apple today?

Source

Speak Up: What Do You Eat For Breakfast?

FitSugar — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 09:00:00 -0700

From Starbucks's Perfect Oatmeal to an easy way to prepare oatmeal at your desk, we have been talking about breakfast a lot recently. But I know oatmeal is not all you eat for breakfast; in fact, I'm sure some of you don't even like oatmeal. So speak up and tell us what you eat for breakfast. It doesn't even have to be healthy (but bravo if it is). I'd love to get a few new ideas, and I'm sure everyone else would too. Oh, and if you don't eat breakfast, share that too.

Source

Eat Whole Wheat for Clearer Skin

FitSugar — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 08:00:00 -0700

If you've tried every cleanser, cream, and gel, and your skin is still breaking out, it might be time to change your thinking. Instead of dabbing your pimples with anti-acne meds to make them disappear, try tackling the problem from the inside out before the spots appear on your face. Australian researchers have found that nourishing your body with wheat and other whole grains can reduce acne. That means you should ditch refined carbs such as breads, cookies, and crackers made with enriched white flour, and choose ones made with whole grain flour instead. Whole grains are considered low on the glycemic index, and they help maintain a steady balance of insulin. When you eat refined carbs, your insulin spikes, and this can cause a boost in certain hormones called androgens, which cause zits. In this study, after 12 weeks on low-glycemic diets, people noticed a 20 percent decrease in breakouts.

If it's clear skin you're after, include at least three servings of whole grains in your daily day. Some great options are brown rice, quinoa, barley, oats, and millet, or eat foods made out of these whole grain flours. Not only are they great for your skin, but they can prevent constipation and lower blood pressure too.

Source

Another Reason to Love Chai Tea

FitSugar — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 13:00:00 -0700

I love a spicy cup of chai tea on a foggy morning or chilly evening. Aside from its exquisite taste, chai offers other benefits further down the digestive line. This wonderful tea can reduce gas. Chai is made from a blend of spices — cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and cardamom — that individually combat flatulence, but mixed together seems greater than the sum of its parts.

Check your spice cabinet and chances are high you have all the ingredients to make your own chai tea with this recipe. If not, you can always opt for an energizing Chai Bumble Bar.

Source

After Dinner Sweet Treats Under 200 Calories

FitSugar — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:00:00 -0700

You know I have a major sweet tooth. I always need a bite of something sweet after dinner and it looks like you all feel the same. So here are some guilt-free options to satisfy your cravings. They're all under 200 calories.

Ben & Jerry's Breast Milk Ice Cream?

FitSugar — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 03:00:00 -0700

When I read the post on GiggleSugar about the obscure Craigslist ad requesting people to suggest flavors for their homemade breast milk ice cream, I thought it was a joke. Apparently not. PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) is also hopping on the breast milk ice cream boat and are now urging Ben & Jerry's to make the switch from cow's milk to breast milk.

Tracy Reiman, executive vice president of PETA, sent a letter directly to Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, saying PETA feels the transition away from cow's milk will reduce the suffering of cows and provide customers with healthier products (Um, since when is ice cream considered healthy?). The letter also said that dairy products have been linked to juvenile diabetes, allergies, and obesity. Another PETA representative said she knew this idea sounded crazy, but it's no more absurd than humans consuming milk from another species.

To find out if Ben & Jerry's is going to start a new line of bosom milk ice cream

Which Label Buzz Phrase Appeals to You the Most?

FitSugar — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 04:30:00 -0700

Is it me, or are packages becoming more and more like tiny billboards? Companies place popular buzz phrases, like "fat free" and "low in calories," all over their boxes to reel you in and convince you to buy their products. I hate to admit it, but I totally fall for their ploys. "Organic" and "trans fat free" are a few of my faves. So tell me . . .

Tofu vs. Sprouted Tofu

FitSugar — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 14:30:00 -0700

Even though I am not a vegetarian, I am still trying to eat less meat. So it makes me happy to see tofu becoming more popular. There is high blood pressure and high cholesterol in my family, this soy product is a great alternative to meat being that it's cholesterol free, low in sodium, and high in protein. Tofu is such a wonderful ingredient because it's so versatile. Since it naturally tastes very plain, you can add diced or crumbled up tofu to soups, tomato sauce, and casseroles for some added protein. You won't even know it's there because it takes on the flavor of whatever it's mixed with.

If you enjoy cooking this soy product at home, you may have noticed a new tofu on the scene — sprouted tofu. To find out how it compares with regular tofu

Healthy Eating Tip: Give in to Your Cravings, Just a Little

FitSugar — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 08:00:00 -0700

Cravings happen to the best of us and they're hard to ignore. One of the best ways to get rid of a craving is to give in to your craving, but just a little. Allow yourself to indulge in a food every once in a while, and don't go overboard. In fact, CNN even reported that people who occasionally give in are able to manage their weight most successfully in the long run. So be sure to practice portion control, which means if you're craving chocolate, have a piece instead of the whole bar. If you're craving french fries, order a small instead of a large. If you're craving soda, have only a few sips. You get the idea, right?

Source

Food Review: Starbucks Perfect Oatmeal

FitSugar — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 03:30:00 -0700

After packing lunch boxes for the girls this morning, I realized there was no time for me to eat breakfast at my kitchen table. I decided today was the morning to try an item from the Starbucks revamped breakfast menu. The morning was chilly, and being a big fan of hot cereals I decided to give the Perfect Oatmeal ($2.45) a try.

To see if I thought this oatmeal lived up to its name as well as nutritional information, just

Fruit or Veggies: Which Is Harder to Include in Your Diet?

FitSugar — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:30:00 -0700

Fruits and veggies are equally important. They're a great source of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and protein (well not, much but every little bit helps). They're low in calories, fat, cholesterol, and sodium, and they're perfect to snack on or include with your meals. You're supposed to eat five fruits and veggies a day, so I was wondering . . . Source

Fruit or Veggies: Which Is Harder to Include in Your Diet?

Fruits

Veggies

I need to work on eating both.

I don't have a problem eating either.

Free Sample Alert: Kashi Cookie

FitSugar — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 08:00:00 -0700

Kashi, one of my favorite brands, is giving away free samples — yay! And this time it's cookies! Its new TLC Tasty Little Cookie combines the seven whole grain blend Kashi is famous for with ingredients such as peanuts, raisins, sunflower seeds, cranberries, walnuts, shredded coconut, flax seeds, and dark chocolate. Get your free sample of a chewy cookie at Kashi.com, and when you do let me know what you think below. Testers beware: at 130 calories per cookie, these cookies are not low calorie. But if you're looking for a sweet fix, they do make for a healthier option than most cookies on the market.

Source

How Often Do You Eat Meat?

FitSugar — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 04:30:00 -0700

I am a carnivore working to eat lower on the food chain. The United Nations estimates that 18 percent of green house gasses come from the production of meat. Due to this, the UN is asking the citizens of the world to eat more vegetarian meals. In fact, they suggest eating vegetarian one day a week. Eating less meat means eating more veggies, which is good for your health. So for the health of the planet and the health of my family, I am thinking about bringing Meatless Mondays back to my weekly meal plan. But what I want to know is . . .Source

How Often Do You Eat Meat?

I eat meat about once a week.

I eat meat two to four times a week.

I eat meat about five to ten times a week.

I eat meat at least once a day.

I never eat meat.

Other – tell me below.

Are You Getting Enough Iron?

FitSugar — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 12:00:00 -0700

Have you been feeling sleepy, run down, dizzy, or low in energy? Are you feeling short of breath or having a hard time focusing at work? Have you noticed that your skin is pale, or you often have headaches? It may have something to do with how much iron you're getting in your diet. An adult woman should get 18 mg of iron a day and if you're not reaching this goal, you may have iron deficiency anemia. Our bodies need iron to make hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells that enables them to carry oxygen. If your cells aren't getting oxygen, then you'll experience the symptoms I mentioned above. You may also notice brittle nails and cold hands.

You may be at risk for low levels of iron if you tend to have heavy periods, are pregnant or just had a baby, if you are a long-distance runner, are a strict vegan, if you frequently donate blood, or if you have a gastrointestinal condition that makes it hard for you to absorb nutrients from your food. Meat, fortified cereals, dried beans, spinach, and potatoes with the skin are great sources of iron. To find how much iron they contain and see what other foods contain iron

Breakfast Ideas to Keep You Full Until Lunch

FitSugar — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 03:30:00 -0700

Breakfast truly is the most important meal of the day. Not only does it help you think, but studies show that eating breakfast can help you maintain a healthy weight. Eating a hearty breakfast will keep your energy levels up and your hunger at bay. Here are some quick ideas that combine filling whole grains with protein.

Source

Ya-ya for Yogurt

FitSugar — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 03:00:00 -0700

Yogurt, be it peach flavored or plain, be it the thick Greek style or the thin European style, is one of my favorite foods. This simple food offers so many health benefits that it is easy to see why I am ya-ya for yogurt. I have tried many types of yogurt and reviewed a few. I have also compared popular brands side by side. So if you need a little refresher course in yogurt, check out the posts below.

Strengthens Immune System	Good for Your Tummy	Creates Calm Energy
Review: Yo-Plus Digestive Health by Yoplait	Nutritional Comparison of Popular Brands	Review: Fiber One Creamy Nonfat Yogurt

Healthy Recipe: Corn and Black Bean Salad

FitSugar — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 03:30:00 -0700

Since fresh corn is still in season but won't be for much longer, why not use it to make this quick and simple dish. Honestly, it'll only take you about 15 minutes to make it. It makes a great side dish, a topping on burgers, or I like to scoop it onto my garden salad.

To see the recipe, just

Soymilk Taste Test

FitSugar — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 11:00:00 -0700

So you grew up drinking cow's milk. Why would you even think of switching? Well, for starters, soymilk is a healthy option because it's cholesterol free, plus it's low in saturated fat and high in protein. It also comes in different flavors, like carob or chocolate, and you can bake and cook with the unsweetened or vanilla flavors.

Due to soymilk's current popularity many companies make it, and the the brands all taste different: some soymilk is thicker like Edensoy, all vanilla flavors are sweeter, and some taste more like real milk such as Silk brand. My advice is to taste more than one brand and flavor. Why not buy a few at a time and have a soymilk taste test. Don't drink them directly from the grocery-store sheIf; stick the container in the fridge for at least an hour or two because soymilk tastes much better cold.

Aside from texture and taste, the soymilk brands differ nutritionally as well. To see how they compare, just

Six Salty Snacks for Under 200 Calories

FitSugar — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 08:00:00 -0700

I've been known to have a sweet tooth, but my salty cravings are just as powerful. In case you are an unhealthy snacker looking to change your ways, I have come up with six salty snacks ideas, all 200 calories or less.

Portion Control: It's All in Your Hands

FitSugar — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 16:00:00 -0700

We all know that portion control is the key to healthy eating as well as losing and maintaining weight. When you are about to bite into a nice chunk of cheese, it is hard to recall just exactly how big four dice actually are. Four dice is about the equivalent oh a portion of cheese, but who keeps dice in their pockets?

According to Jennifer Nelson, director of clinical dietetics at the Mayo Clinic, all you really need as a portion serving cheat sheet is your hands, fingers and thumbs.

To see how Nelson told Men's Health how hands can guide you through the jungle of portion control, just

Are You a Healthy or Unhealthy Snacker?

FitSugar — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 04:30:00 -0700

MSNBC recently reported on a new study that found when faced with the choice of eating a healthy or unhealthy snack, most people choose the unhealthy snack. The study highlighted the gap between our intentions and actions; it's one of the biggest problems with snacking. So while you may think you are above the fray, it would be wise to avoid the unhealthy temptations altogether by not keeping them in your home, car, or office and steering clear of places where you know you'll be tempted (fast food joints, bakeries, vending machines, etc.). I know that if I had to pick between homemade cookies or an energy bar, it'd be nearly impossible to go with the healthy item. What about you? Do you find that you're a healthy or unhealthy snacker?Source

Are You a Healthy or Unhealthy Snacker?

I usually pick healthy snacks.

I usually pick unhealthy snacks, I can't help myself.

Other — share below.

Diet Tip: Don't Wait Till You're Famished to Eat

FitSugar — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 16:00:00 -0700

We've all been there. You had to stay late at work for some meeting and by the time you make it home, you're beyond starving. You reach for anything quick you can eat, (which is usually not the healthiest thing), and you end up devouring way more calories faster than you would if you were just slightly hungry. In the future, you want to avoid getting to that famished point. Keep snacks at work, in your desk, in your purse, in your gym bag, or in your car. So when you know it'll be a while till mealtime, you can have a little something in your stomach to tide you over.

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Food Review: Yo-Plus Digestive Health by Yoplait

FitSugar — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:00:00 -0700

I love yogurt and am fascinated by functional foods. Now I know probiotics might be trendy, but this healthy bacteria seems to benefit many people with digestive issues.

I was curious to try Yo-Plus by Yoplait ($3.50 / 4 pack). No only does it contain Yoplait's Optibalance bacteria mixture, this yogurt has added fiber in the form of inulin as well as vitamins A and D. Yoplait claims that the added fiber helps keep the good bacteria happy, and don't we all really want plentiful and happy bacteria living in our guts.

To see how this yogurt tastes and how it compares with Acitiva by Dannon, just

Five Food-Craving Killers

FitSugar — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 11:00:00 -0700

Sometimes I get fixated on a food craving, and it's all I can think about. But a few hours later, my fixation feels silly. Most times, you can avoid giving into cravings by using simple strategies or healthy substitutes. Check out my slideshow for five ideas for killing food cravings.
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Nutrition Myths: True or False

FitSugar — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 09:00:00 -0700

When it comes to nutrition, do you know your facts from fiction? Take this quiz and see.

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Food Review: Kashi Moroccan Curry Whole Grain Pilaf

FitSugar — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 08:00:00 -0700

One of my go-to brands is certainly Kashi. I am a fan of almost everything they make and I appreciate their use of whole grains. Kashi breakfast cereals and granola bars are a staple in my house, but they've expanded beyond breakfast and snacks and now make frozen entrées and pizza. Now they're making side dishes like their 7 Whole Grain Pilaf. It's a little packet of food that you just pour into a bowl, microwave for a minute or so, and you have an instant side dish. To find out how it tastes

Learn to Love Olives

FitSugar — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 03:00:00 -0700

I am a big fan of the Mediterranean diet, and not just because I love hummus. The med diet has been found to fight chronic diseases, like cancer and heart disease, as well as stave off the effects of Alzheimer's.

Lucky for me, I love olives, central to this region's cuisine. Olives are technically fruits, making the oil technically olive juice, which is an oddly unappetizing thought to me so I will stick to calling it oil. This little fruit is healthy, just like the ~~juice~~ oil that comes from it. Due to their natural bitterness, olives, whether they are picked green and unripe or fully ripened and black, need to be fermented or cured to enhance their taste. Yep, olives are processed, but minimally. Soaked in salted brine, oil, or water mellows the olive, creating tasty and nutritious treats.

To see if olives are high in calories, just

Which Would You Choose: Salad Edition

FitSugar — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 09:00:00 -0700

Leafy greens are one of the best foods for you, but we often overload these nutritious leaves with tasty bits that are high in calories. When it comes to making a salad, what would you choose? Take this quiz and see if you know how to build a healthy salad.

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