A Healthy Valentine’s Day?
Q: My husband and I have recently lost 25 pounds each by changing our diet and exercising more frequently. How can Valentine’s Day fit into our new lifestyle while still celebrating with our family?
A: There are many ways you can indulge this Valentine’s Day while sticking to your diet and exercise goals.
First, if you’re in the mood for something sweet this Valentine’s Day, opt for a nutrient-rich snack like strawberry milk. It will fit right in with the theme of the holiday and offers the same nine essential nutrients as unflavored milk.
If you must have chocolate this Valentine’s Day, dark chocolate is a satisfying treat that can provide nutritional value when consumed in moderation. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids that come from extracts of the cocoa bean. Choosing dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa gives your body more of these healthy antioxidants. Some studies report small portions of dark chocolate can maintain heart health and the health of blood vessels. Remember, whatever your chocolate choice is, enjoy it in moderation.
From the Recipe Box
If you really want to get into the spirit of Valentine’s Day, try some of these fun, nutritious recipes that you can make with your kids. Getting your kids involved in the kitchen can make eating healthy foods fun for them.
Strawberry Frozen Yogurt Squares
Here are some other Valentine’s thoughts to keep your holiday healthy:
Instead of flowers how about an indoor herb garden? Herbs and spices not only add flavor to your food, but they provide some great health benefits. Click here to learn easy ways you can grow herbs at home.
We all are affected by music, especially children, who should not be forgotten during this holiday. Music has the power to inspire and change our moods. Consider a gift card to download music that will help get your children physically active for 60 minutes every day! Fuel Up to Play 60 is a new school program that’s about two simple things: eating well and being active for 60 minutes daily. The program is designed to combat childhood obesity and help youth develop life-long healthy eating and physical activity habits. More info here.
As a family, you can enter a walk or run on Valentine’s Day. Many events can be enjoyed by participants of all ages and abilities. Area families can refer to Track Shack’s website for more information. And before you set off, don’t forget to make nutrient-rich foods your focus so you can properly fuel up without worrying about adding pounds. On the day of your event, mix oatmeal with almonds, strawberries and low-fat yogurt for a powerful boost. Yogurt delivers protein, potassium, calcium and six other essential nutrients. Strawberries are high in vitamin C and almonds are a good source of vitamin E and monounsaturated fats.
Alyssa Greenstein is a registered dietitian with the Dairy Council of Florida. She can be reached at AlyssaG@floridamilk.com
