Dietitian, Ann Menzies, provided an informative program on nutritional trends and making healthy choices at the Lunch & Learn (February 12, 2008). Here are some of the ideas I came away with:
*Check labels carefully! Look for the words, "whole grain" to make sure you are getting the most nutritional value from breads and cereals.
*Sprinkle walnuts on your cereal.
*To meet the nutritional requirements for fruits and vegetables, eat a fruit with every meal and a vegetable at lunch and dinner. If there is a vegetable you really like, eat more servings of that particular vegetable.
*Eat salmon instead of tuna to get healthy Omega 3s!
*Only two servings of red meat a week and try to eat one meatless main meal. Ann suggests "Meatless Mondays."
*Eat beans instead of starch and dairy. Garbanzo beans are great in salads and hummus is a wonderful spread instead of cheese. I recommend Atheno's Brand.
*Use sharp cheddar if you must add cheese. The flavor goes a long way without consuming too much.
Participants had many questions for Ann. I was very impressed with her knowledge and understanding of people's lifestyles and limitations. I would not hesitate to contact Ann Menzies with dietary questions!