Friday, July 31, 2009

Cutting Calories is Easy This Summer


Summer is a great time to enjoy a variety of healthy foods - including an abundance of fresh, tasty fruits and vegetables! Check out the produce aisle at your local market or find a farmers market nearby and grab some of your favorite fruits and veggies! A plate that includes colorful vegetables is not just appealing to the eye. A wide variety of produce also provides your body with a number of health promoting benefits, such as vitamins, minerals and fiber. It's important to eat a wide variety of colorful vegetables and fruits every day.

Most fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories, so substituting them for high-calorie foods can do wonders for your health and fitness. The abundance of Summer produce makes it easy to implement a calorie reduction strategy.

Compared to people who eat only small amounts of fruits and vegetables, those who eat more generous amounts — as part of a healthy diet — are likely to have a reduced risk of chronic diseases. These diseases include stroke, type 2 diabetes, some types of cancer, and perhaps heart disease and high blood pressure.

If weight loss is one of your goals - create lower-calorie versions of some of your favorite dishes by substituting low-calorie fruits and vegetables in place of higher-calorie ingredients. The water and fiber in fruits and vegetables will add volume to your dishes, so you can eat the same amount of food with fewer calories. Most fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories! Cutting calories is easier when you enjoy more fruits and vegetables every day!

There are many different ways to lose or maintain a healthy weight. Using more fruits and vegetables along with whole grains and lean meats, nuts, and beans is a safe and healthy strategy. The quickest way to lose weight - and keep it off is get plenty of exercise and keep eating healthy foods!

No comments: