Summer can be a challenging time to put healthy food on the table for yourself or your family. Schedules are hectic and preparation time is minimal as a result. The easy solution is to grab something quick on the way home from the pool or park.
But by planning ahead, you can put a healthy meal on the table and still not have to spend all afternoon in the kitchen. Below are two tips on food choices for the summer.
1. Take advantage of fresh, in-season fruits and vegetables at the grocery store. There is a growing amount of research to indicate that consuming fruits and vegetables is essential in promoting good health. According to the Center for Disease Control, fruits and vegetables contain essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that may help protect you from chronic diseases, help you manage your weight and give you energy while you’re on the go.
Summertime In-Season Fruits and Vegetables:
Fruits Veggies
Blueberries Summer squash
Cantaloupe Zucchini
Strawberries Avocado
Kiwi Eggplant
Plums Sweet peppers
2. Use low-fat meats in your meals.
Low fat meats don’t just include chicken and turkey. Several cuts of beef and pork are also lean. Lean meat reduces your saturated fat intake, which can help keep your cholesterol levels in their target range.
Low Fat Beef Low Fat Pork
Eye of round roast or steak Tenderloin
Sirloin tip side steak Boneless top loin chop
Top round roast and steak Center loin chop
Bottom round roast and steak Sirloin Roast
Top sirloin steak Rib Chop
Below are some healthy recipes that take less than an hour to prepare and include lean meats and some of the fresh and healthy vegetables listed above.
Try out some of these recipes with fresh meats and produce from Kroger, King Sooper’s or Fry’s and stop in to say hello to The Little Clinic staff as well.
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