I mentioned in last week's blog that we should follow the food plate that nutrtionist have deemed the path to a healthy lifestyle for our brain and physical health, including exercise as well. As mentioned before, obesity is a huge problem in the U.S. This all ties into the blog on Alzheimer's, health and dementia. I did some research, and the new 'food plate' called 'My Plate' had 10 tips to a great plate. Some of these things we know, some are great reminders.
1. Balance calories: find out how many calories YOU need, along with your physical activity to maintain a healthy life. (not everyone will be the same)
2. Enjoy food: another words, take the time to truly enjoy it.
3. Portion size: need I say more? Does anyone really need a pound burger and large fries? (I know we want it, the ? is do we need it?)
4. Foods to eat more often: fruits, vegetables, whole grains and dairy products with less fat.
5. Our new 'plate' must be 1/2 fruits and veggies.
6. Dairy should be lower in fat content.
7. Eat whole grains-ie. whole wheat bread, pasta and rice. (now let me share with you I try to walk the walk that I share with you, but I just can't stomach whole wheat pasta! I won't be doing that.....nobody's perfect!)
8. Eat these foods less often: foods high in fat and sugars. That's not to say we can't enjoy cookies, ice cream or pizza, but instead of eating these foods daily we use these foods as an occasional/weekly treat.
9. Watch our sodium intake: we need to read labels.
10. Water vs soda/energy drinks etc. We've discussed before what these things do to our tummies.
Stop and think for a minute how the last few weeks' blogs have discussed cognitive, physical and obesity blasting! Have you made any changes or improvements so you'll live a longer and healthier life? Remember, we are all a work in progress!
