Carly Metcalf
It’s never too late for a fresh start — especially when it comes to what we eat. If you want to get a little healthier, try cleaning up both your diet and your refrigerator — a few changes can go a long way.
Throw away those empty-calorie foods that are full of sugars, fats and oils. Say goodbye to sodas, chips, cookies and candy and replace them with healthier alternatives with more whole grains and less fat. Stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water.
Keep healthy basics on hand. Stock your pantry with things like canned tomatoes, oatmeal and brown rice.
Watch your salt intake. Look for products that are reduced or low sodium. Herbs are also a great way to add flavor while keeping salt out of your diet.
Reduce trans fats by getting rid of anything that lists “hydrogenated” or “partially hydrogenated” oils or shortening in the ingredients.
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Choose lean proteins like chicken, turkey or seafood. When you do get beef, select the leanest cuts you can find, and buy ground beef that’s 90 percent lean or greater.
Keep your food safe by making sure it’s stored at the right temperature. Keep your refrigerator at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or less and your freezer at 0 degrees Fahrenheit or less. If you doubt how fresh your food is, throw it out. Food-borne illness is nothing to take lightly.
Super foodsThese foods are packed with important vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can help keep you healthy and fight disease.
- Blueberries: Blueberries can help protect cells from damage and inflammation, as well as boost your immune system.
- Dark green vegetables: Dark green veggies (broccoli, spinach and kale) are high in vitamins C, E and A, as well as magnesium, potassium and calcium. They’re also full of antioxidants.
- Nuts: They’re one of the most balanced foods around, offering healthy fats along with protein and carbohydrates.
- Tea: It’s full of antioxidants which help fight inflammation and stop cell damage. Green tea is particularly packed with antioxidants.
- Whole grains: Studies show that at least one serving a day of whole grains, including whole grain bread or brown rice, can lower your risk of heart disease or stroke.
Carly Metcalf is a registered dietitian and health coach at Blue Cross of Idaho. She completed her undergraduate degree in Nutrition and Dietetics at Oregon State University. Her goal is to help members feel empowered to reach their nutrition goals with support and education. In Carly’s free time, she enjoys skiing, hiking, cooking and spending time with her family.
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