It’s well known that eating healthy includes increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free/low-fat dairy products. However, even though we know we should eat better Americans still don’t do it. The American Dietetics Association provided a quick breakdown of the basic food groups, what you should eat within those groups, how many servings you should eat, and what counts as a serving.
Whole grains
It’s recommended to consume 3 servings a day.
What counts as a serving?
A one ounce serving equals one slice whole-wheat bread, 1/2 cup brown rice, 5 whole-wheat crackers, 1/2 cup oatmeal.
I say it often and I know you’ve heard others say it, but nutrient rich foods are key for your health and for weight loss (or weight maintenance). I recently received some information about the Nutrient Rich Foods Coalition (NRF) and decided to check out their website. In doing so, I found some great information about incorporating nutrient rich/dense foods into your diet.
What is the NRF?
The Nutrient Rich Foods Coalition website describes this group as “a partnership that brings together leading scientific researchers, communications experts and agricultural commodities. Our members are composed of 12 food commodity associations that represent the five basic MyPyramid food groups.” Meaning, this group consists of experts in each of the five food groups (milk, grains, vegetables, oil, fruits). The website offers several tools that the public can understand and incorporate into their lives with the focus being on making calories count by choosing nutrient rich foods.
Diet, Diet, Diet!! Losing weight is no fun and can be very defeating. But staying motivated and dedicated will help you persevere in the end. Your diet is the most important factor in weight loss. I recommend eating smaller portions, but eating more often. Focus on variation as well as low fat and low carbohydrate foods, as in the MyPyramid.
Exercising or staying physically active should be your second main focus. If you are sitting for more than thirty minutes at any one setting, you are doing something wrong. I understand that your everyday life makes it difficult to do so, but do the best you can and go from there.
No more 20s!! Are you 30 or older and trying to find helpful ways to lose or maintain weight? The 30s are tough due to the fact that your kids probably rule your life and it is hard to find time for yourself, let alone time to exercise. Below is a list of tips that may help you with this goal.
- Gym membership: Most gyms have remarkable nurseries or youth programs for your kids. I know it is costly, but it is definitely worth the investment.
- Find a partner: Having a partner with the same goals and fitness level is tough, but the motivation aspect of it is outstanding.
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