Still Life With Resveratrol, Fiber, Protein, and Antioxidants or "These are a Few of My Favorite Things"

I get tired of reading articles on all the foods we should avoid.   Last week I actually read one on celery, cucumbers, and iceberg lettuce - the problem with them being that, although they are decidedly low in calories, they are not particularly high in nutrients.  Before that, I read an article on the 13 most unhealthy "health-foods".  Included on the list were rice cakes, sushi, restaurant salads, dried fruit, and granola. 

As for the vegetables we should "avoid", I have a real problem with that.  The three the article targeted, although they are admittedly not vitamin-packed, are rich in fiber, among other things.  And for the fiber they contain alone, if you like them, I would leave them in your diet.  We tend to be seriously lacking in fiber in our diets.  As for the rice cakes, dried fruit, and granola, I have one word for you - "moderation", especially with the dried fruit and granola.  Watch the serving sizes because the calories and sugar do add up.  As for restaurant salads, read my post titled "I Was Good and Ordered a Salad".  I happen to agree with this one!

If you want to play it safe when you are craving a snack, check out the photo above.  O.K., so I would not recommend wine for an afternoon snack, but an occasional glass with your supper (provided you do not have mitigating health issues) can be a real plus.  The resveratrol in it has now been linked to actual weight loss, since it aids in metabolism, acting in your system much like a long walk or a jog.  Summer is the best time to shed extra pounds with the vast array of fruits available.  Our CSA has been providing us with yummy peaches and plums.  This is also a great time for blackberries, apricots, and melons.  A (non-fat) yogurt a day provides you with at least 20% of the daily recommended allowance of calcium, not to mention protein.  The same is true for a "serving" of a low-fat cheese.  Couple that with a handful of TLC crackers and you've got a healthy snack to carry you through until dinner. 

Remember, when it comes to weight loss and weight management, it is all about calories.  It is not about avoiding food groups or completely eliminating your favorite things.  Eat a balanced diet because it is what your body needs and what it craves.  But it doesn't have to be boring, bland, or tedious.   My wish for you all is healthy and "happy" eating.....

P.S.  The wine in this photo was outstanding.  It is from a Virginia winery called Barboursville and is their 2009 Merlot.  I highly recommend it!