Stay Healthy While Enjoying Your Summer!
JUL 19, 2024Keep yourself energized with healthy foods so you can feel your best all summer long.
Read MoreCarbs have gotten a really bad reputation in recent years. Everywhere you turn there is a new low-carb diet promising amazing results. Although low carbohydrate diets can be helpful for weight loss, carbohydrates from natural sources are actually GOOD for you and can be helpful for long term weight management.
Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, low fat dairy products and beans are carbohydrate-rich foods that also contain vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants and phytochemicals that have been shown to reduce inflammation, fight disease, improve gut health and aid in weight loss.
The other “not-so-healthy” carbs coming from sugary beverages, candy, fast food, desserts, chips, crackers and highly processed grains (think white bread/buns, white rice/pasta) are often overeaten, which can lead to weight gain. The key is to incorporate the healthier carbohydrates more often and limit the less healthy ones to 1-2 servings per week.
Simple ways to increase your intake of healthy carbs:
Greek Yogurt Ranch Dressing
1 32 oz tub low fat plain Greek yogurt (can use non-Greek versions)
1 packet of Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix
Splash of milk (optional to achieve desired texture)
Mix together and add a squirt of lemon juice if desired
Greek Yogurt Fruit Dip
1 32 oz tub low fat plain OR vanilla Greek yogurt (can use non-Greek versions)
¼ cup honey (or agave nectar)
¼ cup creamy peanut butter (or almond/cashew butter)
Blend ingredients using a hand mixer add more honey and peanut butter to taste if desired
Keep yourself energized with healthy foods so you can feel your best all summer long.
Read MoreForgetfulness is a common concern, especially as we age. However, it's important to distinguish between normal age-related memory changes and potential signs of dementia.
Read MoreAs a primary care provider, I’ve noticed that many men are under-concerned about what I call the big three – blood pressure, cholesterol and type 2 diabetes.
Read MoreWhen you need local health information from a trusted source, turn to the CHI Health Better You eNewsletter.