Grazin' in the Grass & other healthy food choices

Hopefully by now we have all established somewhat of a decent exercise regimen (if not, we certainly know we should be getting on that!) But exercise is only half the battle. For some it could be the easy part. We also need to focus on our eating habits. It is important to make healthy food choices that will compliment our weight loss program.

Here are some important truths I've learned along the way . . .

• Drinking plenty of water is so important! We've all heard that our bodies are made up of, well a big percentage of water. It is important to keep ourselves lubed up. "If we wait til the water runs dry, it would be the biggest mistake of our lives!" - a group of very wise men once said that!
• Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. You've heard it a million times. This is key to an active metabolism! You want your metabolism working long and hard for you throughout the day. You MUST wake it up in the morning with some food!
• Snack,Snack,Snack - speaking of metabolism, a sure way to keep it working is to feed it often. Eating A LITTLE SOMETHING every two hours is the best way to keep it working for you and this also should help you maintain a high energy level throughout the day. Snack on things like grapes, almonds, celery sticks, yogurt, low-fat cheese. This should also help keep your main meals (breakfast/lunch/dinner) smaller.

Lisa Sasson, of New York University's Department of Nutrition, Food Studies, and Public Health, says.......... The key to weight loss is a balanced approach. Eat when you're hungry and vary what you eat so you don't get bored. Make sure you include foods from all the major food groups. Have three healthy meals and a few planned snacks, and watch your portions. Choose foods that are easy to find and prepare. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will fill you up with fewer calories. Eat slowly and stop when you start to feel full. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and with meals. And finally, allow yourself an occasional treat.

Some of my favorites;

Salad Bar - Add bacon bits, olives, artichokes, baby corn, beets, pecans anything I can find. Green Beans - Cook up some chicken breast, chopped pecans, bacon bits and Parmesan cheese in w/ green beans. Tomatoes are good in it too. Breyers - Carb Conscious Rocky Road - this curves my ice cream craving! Tuna fish w/ lite mayo and artichokes in a celery stick.

What are some of your healthy food faves?