FEATURED ARTICLES

• winter foods
• fattening foods
• winter weight gain
• avoid fattening foods

Details

Written by Lisa Jillanza

Studies have shown that during the months of December and January, many people gain at least one pound , every year. Why? One main reason is that besides being less active during the winter months, we also turn to comfort foods to get us through those dark, dreary winter days.

In order to prevent that one pound per year weight gain that can be so hard to come off, the following foods should be avoided or at least eaten in extreme moderation:

Macaroni and cheese Cream based soups and bisques Cream and cheese based casseroles Cheesecake Pies with whipped cream and/or ice cream Cookies French fries, chili cheese fries, onion rings Creamy pot pies (with pastry top and bottom)

Just by making some slight alterations and by avoiding these fattening foods you will see that you will not only feel better but you can prevent packing on those unwanted pounds, too.

• healthy new year
• new year's resolution
• maintain health
• grocery list
• eat better in 2012

Details

Written by Lisa Jillanza

Once again we are about to welcome in a New Year. If your New Year's Resolution is to maintain your health and eat better in 2012, then these foods (and drinks) should be high on your grocery list!

Grains: Dieticians suggest that you increase your intake of oats, barley and rye in 2012. For years, doctors have been telling patients that eating oats can bring down your cholesterol and recent studies show that rye can, too. The American Diabetes Association has also noted that eating a diet high in fiber and grains, like rye, can help prevent the development of type 2 diabetes. Adding barley to your diet, whether it is as a side dish or inside a soup or casserole, can also lower your cholesterol and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Salmon and other oily fish: If the diagnosis is to get more vitamin D this year, then get your fill with salmon and other oily fish : such as, mackerel, sardines, herring, fresh tuna, trout and anchovies. Oily fish are some of the only food sources of vitamin D. These fish are also good for curbing cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association recommends eating two servings of oily fish per week, but warns against eating too much more than that because some oily fish contain mercury, which can affect your brain and nervous system.

Soy: If 2012 is your year to help reduce your risk of cancer, then soy may be your answer. Research has shown that soy can ward off certain cancers as well as have an impact on your heart. The Food and Drug Administration states that 25 grams of soy protein a day can reduce heart problems by helping to lower cholesterol levels. To add soy to your diet, you can find it in soy burgers, tofu and soy milk.

Red Wine: While you will rarely hear any doctor advising that you drink any alcohol, red wine may just be the exception. Research shows that antioxidants in red wine, polyphenols, aid in protecting the lining of blood vessels in the heart. These antioxidants come in the form of flavonoids and nonflavonoids, which red wine has more than any other food or drink. Experts advise that you should stick to red over white wine because red grapes have 10 times more benefit to your health than white grapes. But, as with any alcohol, red wine should be enjoyed in moderation : approximately 5 ounces a day for women and 10 ounces a day for men.

• cranberry recipe
• holiday cranberries
• cranberry craze
• source of fiber

Details

Written by Lisa Jillanza

Few people realize that the winter fruit that they typically see amongst their holiday spread is actually one of the most popular of the season: cranberries.

Cranberries are an excellent source of vitamin C and also an excellent source of fiber.

Cranberries alone can be particularly tart, but in a sauce, juice, or as an ingredient in cakes, stuffing or casseroles, this fruit becomes tastier.

When shopping for cranberries, choose cranberries that are shiny and not shriveled. A deep red or almost brown color actually signals freshness. A good cranberry should be hard.

Cranberries will keep up to two weeks in a refrigerator.

• winter weight gain
• holiday baking
• overeat
• raw cookie dough
• healthy tidbit

Details

Written by Lisa Jillanza

Want to avoid packing on the pounds this holiday season when you are doing all of your holiday baking? Then follow these tips so you won't fall into the high-fat trap while baking:

Open the window : so the smell won't entice you to overeat!

Clean as you go along : put the beaters and spoons in soapy water right away so you won't want to lick them!

Avoid being sick : don't forget that Salmonella can be contracted through raw cookie dough!

• diet and exercise
• holiday season fitness
• fit it fitness
• holiday fitness

Details

Written by Lisa Jillanza

The months of November and December can be two of the busiest months for many people. From holiday entertaining to shopping, it is very easy to get off track when it comes to your diet and exercise. Use the following tips from Prevention to help keep on track when it comes to fitness this year:

Instead of taking that leisurely stroll through the mall when you do your Christmas shopping turn that stroll into a power walk.

Take the stairs while you are at the mall instead of using the elevator or escalator.

Park in the lower lot of the mall and get that extra exercise by walking a little further to the mall.

Try working out in the morning before your busy days get underway.

Invite your house guests to work out with you so you can spend time with them and still get your exercise in.

If you are traveling, check to see if your gym shares their membership with other gyms and try to get in a work out there. If not visit the local YMCA or get a one-time pass to the local gym.