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Food for Thought
By Ginger Hoffman, RD, LDN
Registered Dietitian for Fitness Unlimited
Healthclub for Women
Milton, Massachusetts 02186
Whether you are trying to eat better, slim down or lower your blood pressure, my advice to you is the same: have a plan.
Make a plan for your week. People tend to eat very similar foods for breakfast and lunch, so start with dinner. Sketch out a week's worth of meals, perhaps trying one new recipe, and make your shopping list accordingly.
Make a plan for your challenges. If you really like salty foods but need to follow a lower salt diet, find an alternative that works for you. Thinking you can stay away from all salty foods because you "should" won't keep you away from them for long. Read labels and try some lower salt alternatives. (By the way, 5% sodium on a label makes it a low sodium food. Check the portion size.)
Make a plan for your environment. Remember when a gas station just sold gas? We need to be savvy consumers in this new market. Can't resist the candy bars when you pick up your blood sugar pills at the pharmacy? Use the drive through pharmacy instead. Tempted by the offerings at the grocery store? Eat before you shop; make your grocery list and stick with it. Did you know you can make it through a two hour movie at the cinema without a snack? You may find an extra $20 in your pocket afterwards, too!
Certainly our food environment needs to change, but right now take control of what you are able to control. Be prepared.
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