Fresh Start 2012

A Fresh Start.  This has so many meanings to us as we have entered into another new year.  By "Fresh" start I am referring to fresh fruits and veggies, whole foods and not processed.    As you look at all of the things you want to do for 2012, I challenge you to take a good look at your diet.  Instead of declaring yourself on a diet this year, why not make a commitment to yourself and your family to make a eating lifestyle change?  Incorporate as many fresh foods as you can.    I know this can seem overwhelming with the vast amount of information out there.   Just start small.  One small step leads to a bigger step and before you know it, you are eating healthy.  You start to feel better, you have more energy, and your overall quality of life is better.  I know this because this is what me and my family try to do.  Sure, we do not always make the best choices but I can tell you that our body feels it when we don't.  They key is constantly striving to improve.  So, are you ready to join me for a "Fresh" start to 2012?

Here are a few simple tips to help get you started:

• Add one fruit or vegetable to each meal.  If you have toast for breakfast, add a sliced apple or maybe an orange or how about some berries.  If you are having a sandwich and chips for lunch, replace your chips with carrot sticks.  Or try wrapping your turkey in a romaine lettuce leaf instead of bread.  See how easy that was?  Before you know it, you'll be including lots of fruits and veggies in your diet.
• Eat a salad each night with dinner. Be sure to use Romaine or other leafy lettuce instead of iceberg. Iceberg offers no nutritional value. Skip the ranch or other dressings and opt for a vinaigrette or olive oil with garlic.
• If you are a soda drinker, begin to replace soda with water and added lemon slices or other fruit.  Or try green or other herbal teas.
• Begin to remove "white" from your diet.  This includes white sugar, white bread, white pasta, white flour.  Replace with whole grains for bread, pasta, and flour.  Or if you are baking add half whole wheat to your recipe.  

These small steps will be a great start to your new "fresh" lifestyle.   I'll be featuring some of my favorite veggies and herbs in the weeks to come along with some of my favorite recipes.  Stay tuned and let me know how it goes.  I'd love to hear your progress or ways that you and your family are taking steps.