Each year Americans spend an estimated $46 billion on diet products and self-help books. We fill our shopping carts with the foods these plans claim will help us lose weight and keep it off. Unfortunately, many people do not realize how easy healthy eating can be.
Eating healthier foods means choosing the “right” foods, foods that are loaded with nutrients (such as vitamins, minerals and antioxidants). Start by selecting a variety of different healthy foods so you don’t get bored. Make your plate as colorful and appetizing as possible by combining different fruits and vegetables.
In honor of the “unofficial” start of summer, I have devised 3 different must-have food lists for you.
Must-haves for your pantry:
canned beans (no sugar added), instant brown rice, all-natural chicken or vegetable broth, raw seeds (pumpkin or sunflower), qunioa, raw nuts, extra virgin olive oil, agave nectar (or other all natural sweetener), tomato sauce, canned tomatoes, old-fashioned oatmeal, canned wild salmon, whole grain crackers, polenta, freeze dried fruit (no sugar added) and carob or cocoa powder
Must-haves for your freezer:
frozen berries, frozen spinach and broccoli, edamame (shelled), whole-grain bread, whole-grain or corn tortillas, whole-grain waffles, all-natural chicken, ground extra-lean turkey, veggie burgers, low-fat and low-sugar ice cream/ soy dessert and homemade healthy baked goodies
Must-haves for your refrigerator:
Greek yogurt, organic romaine lettuce or mixed greens, fresh herbs, organic eggs, salsa, sliced vegetables (celery, peppers, carrots, and cucumber), hummus, all-natural peanut, almond or cashew butter, Ezekiel bread, lemons and limes, homemade salad dressing, low-fat cottage cheese and fresh mozzarella cheese
We hope these must-haves will help GET YOU READY FOR SUMMER!!!!