I’m on News 4 Jacksonville’s River City Live with simple ways to spring clean your diet!
First, replace your breakfast cereal with chia pudding
Chia seeds may be small in size, but they are packed with filling fiber which helps you feel fuller longer. Simply combine 3 tbsp of chia seeds, 2 teaspoons of maple syrup and ¾ cup milk. Whisk together with a fork and let it sit for 10 min to thicken. Add seasonal fresh fruit in the morning. In-season produce typically tastes the best, is at its nutritional peak and is often more affordable. I love to get my produce from Sprouts because they keep seasonality top of mind and work with local farmers to offer a wide selection of fresh local and organic produce including limited-time varieties.
My next tip is to turn your favorite meals into salads.
For my taco salad jar, I use salsa for the dressing. Next, add lean ground beef which is an excellent source of protein with 25 grams per 3-ounce serving along with 10 essential nutrients including iron, zinc, and B vitamins. I get ground beef from sprouts because it’s a quick, easy and versatile cut but you can find a range of affordable fresh and frozen natural and organic meat and seafood options as well as plant-based, gluten-free and dairy-free. Next, add diced bell peppers, red onion, cheese and salad greens. Pour it out onto a plate before enjoying.
My last tip is to cook more meals at home.
Meals prepared at home are almost always lower in calories, fat and sodium. Build a balanced meal by combining a protein, carbohydrate and veggie source like this pasta skillet. I find my legume pastas at Sprouts, they have the best healthy alternatives and better for you products – it’s like a fun treasure hunt! Start by cooking your protein like beef, then had your veggies, pasta, seasonings and broth, bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook until the pasta is done.
