September is Healthy Aging Month, and as we move closer to the fall season, now is the perfect time to pull out your favorite warm dish recipes.
Reviewing old recipes is a good opportunity to think through the nutritional goals you want to set this season. Eating healthier can improve your quality of life, reduce the risk of heart disease, and help you live longer, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Check out these tips to help support healthy choices this fall: Track what you eat. Keeping a daily log of what you eat can help identify patterns and reinforce healthy eating habits. Use this food log, and learn more about nutrition through Texercise Nourish.
Substitute ingredients. Substituting different ingredients in a dish can improve its nutritional content while keeping the flavor you love. Substitute lowfat options and use herbs and spices instead of adding more salt. Be mindful of the amount of sodium in canned goods like beans and vegetables.
Add vegetables. Include nutrient-rich vegetables like butternut squash, sweet potatoes, broccoli, spinach, carrots and romaine lettuce. It’s a simple and easy way to switch up your dish and increase your vegetable intake.
Try new recipes. The fall season is perfect for trying new soups, casseroles and salads. Visit the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) website for a list of seasonal dishes to try. Set new goals. What changes do you want to see in your eating habits? What foods give you more energy? Writing out your goals can help you understand what you are working toward and how to get there.
If you want to live a happier and healthier life, consider joining a free Texercise Nourish campaign near you. The free 12-week program can help you achieve nutritional goals and connect you with community members who are doing the same. Additional community resources can be found here.
Visit the Texercise homepage for more information.
