Nutrient-Rich Foods for the New Year
Get back to basics and ring in the new year by choosing more nutrient-rich foods & beverages! After the overindulgence of the recent holidays, parents are resolved to get their families back on track. But healthier eating doesn’t have to mean a major overhaul. These simple swaps and recipes can still bring big benefits:
Serve milk with meals- In a new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, those who drank more sweetened beverages, such as soda and sports drinks (but not milk or fruit juice), at the age of “5” were more likely to be overweight over the following 10 years.
Choose more nutrient-rich foods- A new study published in Public Health Nutrition reinforces recent reports that suggest low consumption of nutrient-rich foods, specifically low-fat and fat-free dairy foods, fruits, vegetables and whole grains, can contribute to obesity among young adults. What are nutrient-rich roods? Nurtient-rich foods include: brightly colored fruits and 100% fruit juices; vibrantly colored vegetables and potatoes; whole, fortified and fiber-rich grain foods; low-fat and fat-free milk, cheese and yogurt; lean meat, skinless poultry, fish, eggs, beans and nuts.
Be active- Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. Fuel Up To Play 60 is an example of how kids, schools, families and communities can get involved in the new year at school to help increase physical activity. For more information www.fueluptoplay60.com.
For more information on the Birch and Moore studies, click here.
Try these nutrient-rich recipes:
Slow-Cooker Creamy Vegetable Barley Soup (Pair with grilled cheese & tomato served on light whole grain bread)
Lightened-Up Warm Artichoke & Spinach Dip
Garlicky Cabot Greek Yogurt Dip
