5 Ingredients to Eat Healthy Each Day from the 5 Ingredients for Healthy Living Cookbook

Health is the foundation for you to live the life you want. Here are 5 easy ways to put health in your life every day while lowering your risk of disease.

1. Eat breakfast.

Mom was right. Breakfast is important and the key to energy and health. Without breakfast you don’t get fuel and won’t have energy. Breakfast also helps to maintain a healthy weight. People who lose weight and keep it off eat breakfast every day. Choose from whole grains, eggs, turkey, yogurt, cheese, fruits and vegetables. Eat at least 2 food groups. But limit sugar. It will zap your energy and raise your appetite later in the day.

2. Pack snacks.

Snacks are mini meals. They help control appetite and weight. The best snacks include protein and fat, which satisfy for a longer time. Portable snacks include celery with peanut butter or hummus, turkey rolled in lettuce leaves, oatmeal with walnuts, string cheese and whole grain crackers.

3. Drink water.

Water is an important nutrient. You need to drink water throughout the day. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water. Every sip is an ounce. Start your day with a glass of water before breakfast. Drink water to help you eat less. Keep water in your car, workout bag, desk and on your kitchen counter. If you are tired, drink more water. You are probably dehydrated.

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4. Eat colorful fruits and vegetables.

We need 5 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Include a fruit and/or vegetable at each meal and snack. Select from a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. Eat at least 3 colors a day.

5. Eat desserts that count.

We love desserts. But you can satisfy your sweet tooth with healthful foods. Try regular or frozen yogurt with fresh fruit. Bake or poach pears and apples. Try frozen grapes, raspberries or bananas.

See more in the cookbook!