Community Corner
Ten Small, Healthy Changes That Promise a Big Difference
Find out what those alluring phrases like "fat free" or "natural" really mean.
- Skip the food products that read "fat free" at the grocery store. Although the fat is gone, the replacement of artificial thickeners and sweeteners is much worse. Plus, since there are not any real nutrients, you will be hungry a lot more often. Eat the real deal, just do it in moderation.
- Products that say "added fiber" use isolated fiber, which isn't what our body likes to use as a  source of fiber. There's barely any evidence that suggests foods like these will help with your diet plan.
- Obesity's number one cause is due to liquid calories. The next time you grab a soda or an iced tea from the convenient store, browse the calorie count. It is a lot more than any one person should consume. H20 is the healthiest form of thirst quenching.
- Don't be afraid to eat meat. If you stick to the suggested 3 oz. serving, you'll be good to go. In retrospect, a 12 oz. steak is four servings. Stock up on veggies to replace those empty fillers.
- Carbs are not the enemy. Pastas, grains and breads are not the problem at hand, the toppings are. Lay off the butter or sour cream and remember that less is more.
- High processed foods have a lot more calories than meat or carbs. Stick to fresh food rather than the preserved goods in the frozen section. They are full of sodium and empty calories.
- Keep your sweet tooth in check. It doesn't matter if it's agave, raw or natural- sugar is sugar is sugar. Try to make six teaspoons per day your limit, regardless if it's "natural" or not.
- Make time for dinner. This doesn't mean behind the wheel of your car with a McDonald's bag riding shotgun. Take the time to form a regular dinner schedule so that you will be less likely to eat out and therefore be able to recognize your body's needs when it comes to real food.
- Research your options on what help is available to you. You will be a lot more likely to eat and cook healthy if it isn't such an ordeal to get the ingredients. Think about having your groceries delivered, for instance.
- Calories can be your friend. Don't worry about counting them, but instead try to enjoy your portion controlled plates. If you eat a freshly balanced diet within moderation, you can have whatever you please.
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