#Healthy Low-Calorie Dessert Recipes

[chefsara]

7 Delicious Healthy Dessert Recipes

Avocado Chocolate Mousse

Banana Ice Cream

Chia Seed Pudding with Berries

Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices

Greek Yogurt Parfait with Honey and Almonds

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites

Coconut Macaroons.

[vmantras]

Easy Mango Basil Recipe for Summer

Preparation Time: 20 minutesCooking Time: 10 minutesServings: 4Skill Level: Easy Introduction Food is an art, and creating something unique is like painting with flavors. This recipe combines tropical mango, aromatic basil, and unexpected spices to form a refreshing yet complex dish that can be a starter, snack, or even a light dessert. Ingredients For the Base: 2 ripe mangoes (peeled and…

[ariel-seagull-wings]

@spengnitzed

PB&J fruity watermelon pizza

[thetockablog]

Peanut Butter Stuffed Dates

Peanut Butter Stuffed Dates Ingredients6 medjool dates60 g creamy peanut butter60 g dark or milk chocolate, melted1 tablespoon of chopped nuts for garnishFlakey sea salt MethodSlice the dates halfway lengthwise.Fill the center of each date with a spoonful of peanut butter.Dip each of the stuffed dates into the melted chocolate. Once coated set aside on baking paper.Sprinkle with chopped nuts…

[starb0n3]

TEEN IN A TIM BURTON MOVIE DIET 🦴🌫️

(inspired by @honeysugarfree)

.˚⊹.🎃₊˚𖦹⋆

You wake up with one thing on your mind: going out for a walk in the woods. But you can’t. You’re a teenager who has school, and your parents would kill you if you skipped school.

It’s too early to eat anything. Pass the time playing with your cat or simply reading by the window as the sun rises.

School is so boring when all you’re craving is a nice cup of warm soup or hot chocolate prepared by your mum. Whatever, you’ll suffer in silence and snack on whatever fruits you threw into your bag this morning.✧˖°.☾

For lunch, you’ll have leftovers from yesterday. roasted/baked/boiled veggies accompanied by rice or wheat. you don’t eat it all; it’s cold, and not that nice at all… Maybe your parents packed you a sandwich instead? make sure you don’t eat the crusts, though. they’re the worst part.

If you’re lucky, you might’ve even added one of your bakes as dessert (low cal pastry/cookie), or a small yoghurt. if you didn’t, don’t fret. your parent didn’t forget to include a fruit or veggie for health.

(¬ ´ཀ` )¬

Back home at last — not before you went on a small walk, though. your parents were worried about where you’d gone off too again, and you’re greeted by a warm broth/soup, or some more baked veggies.

you don’t finish your plate unless your walk was very tiring. you’re too eager to finish that book you started!

Once in a while, you might be allowed a piece of cake or some hot chocolate. not everyday, though. that would be bad for your teeth!

End the day with a cup of tea, reading under a warm blanket with a piece of your favourite chocolate or sweet. 🍂☕️🐈‍⬛

MEAL IDEAS I LOVE:

Chickpeas in tomato sauce with rice

Whole bread sandwich without the crust: tomato, cheese and cucumber (ham if you want, i’m vegetarian c:)

Ratatouille or Shakshuka with wheat/bulgur

Apple sauce cookies (i can share a good recipe if you want)

Pasta/zucchini gratin

Lasagna (spinach or veggies with tomato sauce - or mince, once again, i’m vegetarian)

potatoes (sweet is even better) with broccoli

Mushrooms with bread

Tomato salad (vinegar, herbs, olive oil)

Lentil/corn cakes with cream cheese

Pumpkin pie

Vegetable broth (or chicken) with vegetable dices

Potato soup

Tomato orzo soup

Mashed potatoes with lentils

Lentil soup

Beetroot (it’s so good even on it own)

REMEMBER!

You always prefer ‘halloween’ themed pastries — involving apples, pumpkin, carrots…

Eating isn’t a bother, you’re just a slow eater. don’t hesitate to share your love for sweets, while keeping consummation low.

You get tired of veggies so much! never finish a meal you don’t like.

Your favourite candy is liquorice, and most halloween themed ones like acorn or hard candy

Keep the chocolate low. it’s too heavy and nauseating!

If you must, have a piece of nutella/peanut butter and jelly toast, oats, or milk with fruits in the morning. i promise it’s much better than those ‘healthy’ alternatives (makes you satisfies and low calorie if you only have one)

No crisps — they’re too oily and dirty your books. Pop corn is so much better (and lower in cols) — caramel or pumpkin spice is a staple!

Cinnamon on apples… the best treat!

If you ever eat out with family, eat only a third of the meal and get the rest to pack. it’s so good you want to make it last!!

Bake and cook as much as you can! This will make your parents understand what you like, and not push to make you eat those gross overly fat foods.

Try to stay under 1,000 kcals, but don’t count calories obsessively. keep portions small and always leave a third of your plate.

Have fun!

(i’ll make a moodboard with meals etc, i hope you enjoy!)

[justwater4meeeeeeeeee]

Going through some wieads about people that their family knows about their ed so they make them eat more “to be normal” is crazy.

My mom would only care about dinner. Breakfast and lunch was like an ‘option’ but dinner we had to eat at least some times together. Which it was fair because she would always cook healthy, removing oil (or barely using oil all natural or light) and same thing with dessert.

Hence my obsession with low calorie recipes <3

[openmindcrimecook]

Recipe tutorials

Quick meals

Healthy recipes

Vegan cooking

Vegetarian dishes

Meal planning

Budget meals

Family dinners

Breakfast ideas

Lunch recipes

Dinner options

Snacks

Appetizers

Soups

Salads

Desserts

Baking basics

Bread making

Pasta dishes

Seafood recipes

Meat meals

Poultry recipes

Barbecue tips

Grilling techniques

Slow cooker recipes

Instant Pot meals

Food prep hacks

Cooking tips

Chef secrets

Culinary skills

Knife skills

Food safety

Gluten-free

Keto recipes

Paleo diet

Low-carb options

Dairy-free

Nut-free cooking

Sugar-free desserts

Comfort food

Gourmet dishes

International cuisine

Asian recipes

Italian cooking

Mexican dishes

French cuisine

Indian recipes

Middle Eastern food

Vegan desserts

Vegetarian breakfast

Festive meals

Thanksgiving recipes

Christmas dinner

Easter treats

Halloween snacks

Valentine’s Day dishes

Cooking shows

Food challenges

Kitchen gadgets

Cookware reviews

Ingredient guides

Spices and herbs

Organic ingredients

Farm-to-table

Sustainable eating

Leftovers ideas

Kids' meals

Baby food

Cooking for seniors

Student recipes

Batch cooking

One-pot meals

Charcuterie boards

Cheese pairing

Wine pairing

Cocktail recipes

Smoothies

Juices

Coffee concoctions

Tea recipes

Plant-based nutrition

Superfoods

Anti-inflammatory meals

Probiotic-rich foods

High-protein snacks

Energy-boosting meals

Low-calorie snacks

Heart-healthy diets

Diabetic-friendly meals

Allergy-aware cooking

Culinary trends

Food vlogging

Cooking classes online

Food photography tips

Food festival tours

Culinary competitions

Chef interviews

Seasonal ingredients

Food market tours

Culinary travel adventures

[tr0ubledberry]

Hi friends. I’m 21F and have been struggling with my body image since 2009 which led me to develop anorexia around 2014. I’ve been struggling ever since and have tried every trick and diet out there but have finally settled on my own so I thought I’d share it. First of all, recovery is a lie. There was a point in my life where I fully recovered but made me fat… it was nice not to worry about calories and all that but the pros outweigh the cons of an ED if done correctly. So think of your ED as a lifelong friend. In order to have an ED successfully for a long period of time you must go about it healthily. I know this is somewhat contradictory. I’m gonna include just some general tips, advice, and food alternatives. In a separate post I’ll be listing my favorite low kcal recipes so stay tuned.

~

GENERAL TIPS

•Drink water before, during, and after meals. This is absolutely crucial.

•During this period it’s important to spend extra time and effort on maintaining your vaginal health, immune system, fertility, and skincare !! Really important not to neglect these things especially vaginal care >.<

•Calories matter but make sure to eat nutritious foods. Must have a good judgment on when to splurge on kcals or when to go for an alternative. For ex: splurging on healthy foods that are a lot of kcals vs unhealthy processed foods that are low kcal.

•It’s good to strive for 1200 kcals or less. If it’s a cheat day or you’re feeling lenient then aim for around 1600 kcals. Never ever go over 2000 kcals.

•if you’re a foodie like me then you *have* to find creative and unique ways to curb your cravings. Otherwise your mental health will plummet. If you’re not satisfied then you’re either gonna keep eating or be miserable

•Remember your brain needs at least 330 kcals to function properly so if you’re feeling slow or disoriented then definitely have a snack or meal.

•Best drinks to have are water, sparkling water, tea, and coffee.

•If you eat over your calorie limit don’t fret, it’s not the end of the world. Just either work out or purge. Keep purging to a limit and don’t do it more than once a day. Ideally less purging is better so keep it for emergencies.

•Using apps such as my fitness pal are great for seeing what nutrients you’re deficient in or going overboard in. However I’ve found I lose more weight when I’m not using the app because I’m thinking about food less. However everybody is different and I would recommend at least checking out the application if you haven’t already.

•Vitamins are your bestie too!! I take a couple supplements to make sure I’m getting the vitamins I need for longevity.

•Cut down on silly calories like sauces and drinks by using alternatives. Also you can pretty much find a low kcal version of anything these days if you look hard enough.

•If you love flavor then these simple things will help like ~ seasoning, low kcal hot sauce such as Tabasco or sriracha, soy sauce, etc.

~

CRAVING ALTERNATIVES

•Juice or sugary drinks ~ low sugar Gatorade, fruit flavored teas iced with extra tea bags to give it extra flavor

•Soda ~ flavored sparkling water with powder or liquid drink mix such as crystal light strawberry lemonade drink mix

•Starbucks ~ just making my own mixed coffee drinks and sweet tea drinks saves so many calories

•Dessert ~ Gerber biscuits arrowroot (taste like shortbread), Gerber lil biscuits, cottage cheese, chocolate covered fruit or nuts

•Chips ~ Gerber’s Lil Crunchies Mild Chedder (basically cheese/ cheeto puffs), quest chips, or half a serving size of normal chips

•Ice cream ~ strawberry halo top

•Chocolate ~ alter eco or dark chocolate coconut fudge

•Mayo ~ miracle whip or vegan mayo

•Rice ~ cauliflower or broccoli rice

•Pasta ~ Chickpea pasta

[rachellaurengray]

Explore the Best Food and Recipe Boards on Pinterest here!

Are you looking for mouthwatering recipes, culinary inspiration, and cooking tips? Joining these top-rated food and recipe boards on Pinterest is quick and easy. Check out the list below to discover a world of delicious and creative ideas:

1. High Protein, Low Sugar Recipes: Your destination for healthy and satisfying recipes with high protein and low sugar content.

2. Interesting Recipes: Explore a wide variety of unique and innovative recipes to spice up your meal rotation.

3. Drink Menu: Find refreshing drink recipes, from energizing smoothies to soothing teas, perfect for any occasion.

4. Coffee Lovers: Dive into the world of coffee with mouthwatering recipes, brewing techniques, and latte art inspiration.

5. All Things Keto and Weight Loss: Discover keto-friendly recipes and weight loss tips to support your health and wellness goals.

6. Keto Recipes: Indulge in delicious low-carb recipes designed to keep you satisfied and on track with your ketogenic lifestyle.

7. Skinny Mixes: Enjoy guilt-free treats and low-calorie recipes for snacks, desserts, and beverages.

8. 5 Ingredients or Less: Quick and easy recipes made with just 5 ingredients or less, perfect for busy days.

9. Food Art: Get inspired by stunning food presentations and creative culinary creations to elevate your cooking.

10. Cocktails: Raise a glass to good times with a collection of cocktail recipes and mixology tips.

Joining these boards will connect you with a community of like-minded food enthusiasts and provide you with endless inspiration for your culinary adventures. Start exploring, engaging, and sharing your own ideas today!

[that-hippy-dippy-christian]

🌻10 Low cal vegetarian snacks!!🌻

1. This mug cake recipe (not mine)

100 calories

2. 30 grams of frozen blueberries

17 calories

3. 4 Cherry tomatoes and 20 grams of cottage cheese on two low-fat kruskits

74 calories

4. 1/2 a small carrot with two teaspoons of hummus

32 calories

5. 2 fried egg whites

34 calories

6. 30 grams of sweetened Greek yogurt

30 calories

7. 12 green grapes

41 calories

8. 1 poached egg on 20 grams of spinach

76 calories

9. 1/2 cup celery with two teaspoons of peanut butter

68 calories

10. 1 Tom & Luke Chocolate Coated Salted Caramel Low Carb Snackaball

67 calories

Enjoy!! :)

[balcalnutrefy]

LOW CALORIE SHRIKHAND | GUDI PADWA SPECIAL DESSERT

Shrikhand is one of the most delicious and must-try Indian desserts. It is made with thick yoghurt, sugar, cardamom, and saffron. Shrikhand is the easiest handmade Indian dessert that requires no cooking. Typically, in Maharashtrian families, it is prepared during the Gudi Padwa Festival and eaten with Puri. Here, we’re creating shrikhand without sugar but with stevia. Stevia is a natural sweetener made from the Stevia leaves. Stevia is a highly sweet-tasting, zero-calorie plant extract that may be used to substitute sugar. Curd is good for digestion since it includes a natural probiotic that promotes digestion and reduces bloating. So let’s see how we can create one!

Ingredients:

Hung Curd – 1 Bowl

Stevia Powder – 1-2 Teaspoon (depending on personal preference for sweetness)

Saffron – a few strands

Cardamom Powder – ¼ Teaspoon

Pistachio Flakes – As Requires

Milk – 2 Tablespoon

Method:

Soak the saffron in heated milk until milk starts turning yellowish-orange.

Add the stevia to the hung curd and mix properly until it dissolves. (You can use a hand mixer)

Mix saffron milk into that mixture and add cardamom powder.

Mix thoroughly and cover the bowl securely with cling film.

Refrigerate for 4-6 hours.

Garnish some pistachio flakes & serve cold.

Click here for more Tasty & Healthy Recipes

[technoseoo]

Discovering the Marvels of Sea Moss from St. Lucia: A Nutrient-Rich Seaweed Revolution

Introduction:

In the heart of the Caribbean, the picturesque island of St. Lucia is not just a haven for sun-seekers and nature enthusiasts but also home to a hidden gem that has been making waves in the health and wellness community – Sea Moss. Known scientifically as Chondrus crispus, this nutrient-packed seaweed has been harvested off the shores of St. Lucia for centuries, and its popularity has surged in recent years due to its myriad of health benefits.

The Origins of Sea Moss in St. Lucia:

St. Lucia boasts pristine waters and a unique climate that create the perfect conditions for the growth of Sea Moss. The nutrient-rich Caribbean Sea, combined with the warm temperatures and ample sunlight, fosters the optimal environment for this seaweed to thrive. Harvested by local divers, the Sea Moss from St. Lucia is renowned for its purity and quality.

The Health Benefits of Sea Moss:

1. Rich in Essential Nutrients:

   Sea Moss is a nutritional powerhouse packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It is a rich source of iodine, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A, E, and K. These nutrients support various bodily functions, from immune system health to maintaining healthy skin and hair.

2. Digestive Health:

   The high fibre content in Sea Moss makes it a valuable ally in promoting digestive health. It acts as a prebiotic, supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and aiding in proper digestion. Regular consumption of Sea Moss may contribute to a healthier gut microbiome.

3. Thyroid Support:

   Iodine, a vital component for thyroid function, is abundant in Sea Moss. Including Sea Moss in your diet may help regulate thyroid hormones, promoting a healthy and balanced metabolism.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:

   Sea Moss contains bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds may help reduce inflammation in the body, making Sea Moss a potential asset in managing inflammatory conditions.

5. Weight Management:

   Sea Moss can be a valuable addition to a weight management plan with its low-calorie content and high nutrient density. It provides essential nutrients without the excess calories, making it a nutrient-dense and satisfying food choice.

Harvesting and Sustainable Practices:

The sustainable harvesting of Sea Moss in St. Lucia is a delicate process that involves skilled divers hand-harvesting the seaweed from the ocean floor. This method ensures minimal impact on the marine ecosystem, allowing for Sea Moss beds' continued growth and regeneration. The commitment to sustainable practices preserves the natural habitat and ensures the high quality and purity of the Sea Moss harvested from St. Lucia.

The Sea Moss St. Lucia Difference:

The Sea Moss from St. Lucia stands out for its exceptional quality and commitment to organic and sustainable farming practices. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, Sea Moss from St. Lucia is free from pesticides, herbicides, and other harmful chemicals. This commitment to purity ensures that consumers receive a product that is nutritionally dense and free from potentially harmful contaminants.

Incorporating Sea Moss into Your Routine:

Adding Sea Moss to your daily routine is easy and versatile. It can be consumed in various forms, including gel, capsules, or as an ingredient in smoothies, soups, and desserts. The Sea Moss gel, made by blending soaked Sea Moss with water, is a popular choice for those looking to seamlessly incorporate this nutrient-rich seaweed into their diet.

Recipes to Try:

1. Sea Moss Smoothie:

   Blend fresh Sea Moss gel with your favourite fruits, leafy greens, and a splash of almond milk for a delicious and nutritious smoothie

2. *Sea Moss Pudding:

   Create a healthy dessert by combining Sea Moss gel with coconut milk, vanilla extract, and a natural sweetener.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Sea Moss from St. Lucia is a true superfood, offering many health benefits in a natural and sustainable package. From supporting digestive health to providing essential nutrients, Sea Moss has become a popular choice for those seeking a holistic approach to wellness. By embracing the rich traditions of harvesting Sea Moss in St. Lucia and incorporating it into our daily lives, we can unlock the potential of this nutrient-dense seaweed and embark on a journey towards improved health and vitality.

[justinterestingrecipes]

Low-Calorie Strawberry Cool Whip Cookies

Looking for a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without compromising your calorie goals? This Low-Calorie Strawberry Cool Whip Cookies recipe is the perfect solution! Packed with the delightful taste of strawberries, these cookies are not only easy to make but also incorporate skinnymixes strawberry sugar-free syrup for that extra burst of sweetness. Plus, I’ve swapped traditional eggs for liquid egg whites to keep things light. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just looking for a healthier dessert option, these cookies are sure to become your new favorite. Let’s dive into the simple and delicious recipe!

Ingredients:

1 box of vanilla cake mix

1 cup of light or fat-free Cool Whip

1/4 cup of Skinnymixes Sugarfree Strawberry Syrup

1/2 cup Liquid Egg Whites

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box.

In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, Cool Whip, Skinnymixes Sugarfree Strawberry Syrup, and Liquid Egg Whites.

Mix the ingredients until well combined. The dough will be thick and sticky.

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake in the preheated oven for the time recommended on the cake mix box or until the edges are lightly golden.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Indulge in these Low-Calorie Strawberry Cool Whip Cookies guilt-free and treat yourself to a delightful dessert that won’t break your calorie bank. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and healthiness! 

[chickenfriedrecipe1]

How to make the delicious ‘Banana Bread’ at home? - Chicken Fried Receipe

November 23, 2022

How to make the delicious ‘Banana Bread’ at home?

Make the finest banana bread recipe ever with those luscious bananas. It can be made quickly in one bowl without a mixer and is delicious and moist.

Banana bread recipe made easy

The best thing about this banana bread recipe is that a fancy mixer is not required! You only need a mixing bowl, a fork to whisk the eggs, and a sturdy spoon to stir the batter. The amount of sugar is also flexible.

Prep time : 10 mins

Cook time : 60 mins

Total time : 70 mins

https://i0.wp.com/chickenfriedrecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/download-19-3-1-2-2.png

Ingredients:

2 to 3 medium (7″ to 7-7/8″ long) very ripe bananas, peeled (about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups mashed)

1/3 cup (76g) butter, unsalted or salted, melted

1/2 teaspoon baking soda (not baking powder)

1 pinch salt, 3/4 cup (150g) sugar (1/2 cup if you would like it less sweet, 1 cup if more sweet)

1 large egg, beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups (205g) all-purpose flour

Directions :

Prepare the pan and preheat the oven: Drizzle an 8 × 4-inch loaf pan with butter and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mash the bananas with a fork in a mixing bowl before being combined with butter. The mashed bananas should be combined with the melted butter.

Mix in the baking soda and salt. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix in the flour.

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan.

Bake for 55 to 65 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Streaks of wet batter are unacceptable, while a few dry crumbs are acceptable. Loosely tent the loaf with foil and continue baking it until it’s fully done if the exterior of the loaf is browned but the middle is still damp.

Remove from oven, then allow to cool in the pan for a while. After that, take the banana bread out of the pan and allow it to cool completely before cutting. Slice and present. (A bread knife is useful for cutting slices that won’t crumble.)

The banana bread will remain fresh at room temperature for 4 days if properly wrapped. You can freeze or refrigerate the bread for longer storage for up to 5 days.

Is Banana Bread Healthy?

Banana bread is popular with both children and adults due to its sweet flavor and soft texture. This baked product is frequently seen as a healthy dessert option because it is loaded with bananas; in fact, it may be healthier than other baked goods.

Nutritional content

Calories: 421

Fat: 15.8 grams

Carbs: 68.4 grams

Protein: 5.3 grams

Fiber: 1.8 grams

Sugar: 42.1 grams

Sodium: 298 mg

You can see that this classic banana bread is low in protein and fiber and rich in calories, carbohydrates, and added sugar but overall, most varieties are a healthy source of important vitamins and minerals. For example, bananas are rich in potassium and vitamin B6. Additionally, if you use enriched flour to bake your banana bread, it will contain iron as well as B vitamins like riboflavin, niacin, and folic acid.

Health tip to follow

There are numerous banana bread recipes available for you to browse, regardless of the dietary regimen you adhere to. By utilizing low-carb flours like almond and coconut and lowering the quantity of added sugar in the recipe, you can bake banana bread with fewer carbs.

More links: banana bread recipe

finest banana bread recipe

[cleverhottubmiracle]

Nutrition Joy Bauer’s health tips make eating well fun and easy—discover her best advice for feeling great! Ben Hider/Getty Images Joy Bauer, one of the country’s top nutrition experts, has a passion for making healthy eating enjoyable and accessible. As a regular contributor to FIRST for Women, Joy shares her wealth of knowledge on how to use simple, delicious foods to improve overall health and vitality. Known for her approachable, friendly style, Joy has a way of breaking down complex nutrition science into easy-to-understand tips that inspire readers to make small but impactful changes. Through her expert advice, Joy empowers women to take control of their health with tips that fit seamlessly into everyday life—from boosting energy and supporting brain health to slimming down and feeling great. Her suggestions are not only backed by science but also made fun, with creative recipes and food swaps that make eating well a treat rather than a chore. Whether it’s the best snacks to curb cravings or ways to enhance immunity with kitchen staples, Joy’s insights are a trusted guide for women who want to look and feel their best. Here, we’ve rounded up some of Joy Bauer’s top tips to inspire you on your wellness journey. Q: If I’m only able to make one food change, what should that be?   Here’s a simple change with huge health benefits: Add a produce item to every meal! Fruits and vegetables are high in volume but low in calories, so they keep you full without weighing you down. Plus, they’re loaded with nutrients that nourish your body. It’s a manageable change that can support weight loss and reduce your risk of conditions like cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Some delicious ideas: At breakfast, top yogurt with berries or add spinach and onions to scrambled eggs. For lunch, try a colorful salad or pile your sandwich with lettuce, tomato, cucumber and roasted peppers. At dinner, the sky’s the limit: Try starting with veggie soup or salad, eat roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, cauliflower and squash with your entrée or top a pizza with mushrooms and broccoli. Bonus: Have a refreshing fruit salad for dessert! Q: What are your best tips for not overdoing it during the holidays? The most wonderful time of the year can also feel like the most stressful. But there are easy tricks you can use to stay on track. Try my rule of 1: At parties, enjoy one of each tempting hors d’oeuvre, one plate of food, one alcoholic drink and one dessert (or a sliver of two, if you can’t decide). Bring a healthy dish to gatherings: It’s a win-win—the host will appreciate the gesture, and you’ll know there’s something nutritious to dig into! Squeeze in activity:  Look for ways to be active: Do extra laps while shopping, go for a long walk to view the festive holiday lights, dance to your favorite tunes while cooking. Be selective with splurges: We have to remind ourselves it’s a holiday…not a holi-month. Pick a few special events and plan to indulge at just those celebrations. Q: How much protein should I be eating each day? Protein helps support the growth and maintenance of our body’s tissues and muscles, and it plays a role in managing appetite by keeping us feeling full. An easy way to calculate your needs: Divide your weight in pounds in half. That’s the amount of daily protein grams you should aim to eat. This isn’t an exact science, but it provides a terrific reference. So if you weigh 160 pounds, you’d aim for 80 grams of protein a day. Note that populations like pregnant and breastfeeding women and serious athletes need more, and folks with certain kidney conditions often need less. Lean beef, eggs, poultry, Greek yogurt, cheese, cow’s milk, beans, lentils, nuts, seeds and soy are great protein sources. Q: What are the best foods to fight an afternoon slump? Before you snag a snack from the vending machine or raid the cookie jar to clear up a case of afternoon brain fog, make sure you’re not dehydrated first. Sipping water is a smart strategy for fighting fatigue. If you’re still hungry after you hydrate, opt for energy-boosting eats, ideally something that includes a mix of fiber and protein. This duo can help steady blood sugar which, in turn, sustains energy. Some examples: apple slices topped with peanut butter; rice cakes with cottage cheese; turkey slices wrapped around crunchy bell pepper sticks; edamame in the pod; a nutrition bar; trail mix with nuts and seeds; Greek yogurt with berries; and almonds paired with string cheese. Q: If I’m not hungry in the morning, should I still eat breakfast? A healthy breakfast helps fuel your brain and rev your system for the day ahead. And many studies have shown that people who regularly eat breakfast have an easier time managing their weight, as a morning meal can help regulate your appetite and prevent over-snacking or nighttime bingeing. That said, plenty of people simply have no appetite in the a.m.—and that’s totally understandable. If your current eating pattern keeps you energized and doesn’t set you up for overeating later in the day, then it’s A-OK to skip breakfast. Try to have a midmorning snack (like Greek yogurt with berries) when you do get the urge to eat. Q: How do I curb nighttime cravings? Try this simple strategy to prevent overindulging in the evening: Create a list of light and healthy snacks that you enjoy (for example, 4 cups of light popcorn, a rice cake with tomato and cheese, a cup of frozen grapes or a frozen yogurt pop). Each night, plan to enjoy one of these snacks at least 1 hour after finishing your dinner, but ideally, try to push it off as late as possible. Once you finish your snack, put closure on your eating by brushing your teeth and flossing. You’ll be able to drift off peacefully knowing you mindfully savored a single nutritious treat rather than overdoing it all evening long. Q: Is it okay to replace fresh fruit and vegetables with frozen ones? Absolutely! In fact, unless you’re growing your own or buying it at a farmers market, the “fresh” produce you buy at the grocery store can be less nutritious than frozen. Nutritional value starts decreasing as soon as produce is picked, so fresh fruit and veggies can be depleted of nutrients by the time they’re transported to stores and your table. Frozen produce is flash-frozen within hours of being harvested, locking in nutrients before they begin to decline. Of course, nothing beats the texture and flavor of fresh, seasonal (and local) produce, and it’s still highly nutritious. I suggest mixing it up to enjoy the best of both worlds! Use left and right arrow keys to navigate between menu items. Use right arrow key to move into submenus. Use escape to exit the menu. Use up and down arrow keys to explore. Use left arrow key to move back to the parent list. Source link