Happy Nutso-Sweet Friday and 3 days left for our MORSELICIOUS Peanut Butter Recipe Challenge Giveaway deadline! Refresh the guidelines by clicking here:
Good luck!
Happy Father’s Day to all you MORSELICIOUS dad’s out there, but especially to my
number one Papa, Mac, the man behind & in front of my MORSELICIOUS creation.
I’m so grateful you are still with us and wish you the happiest Father’s Day, yet! How will you honor YOUR dad? Here’s my post from last years Father’s Day: Life & Humor taught by Mac (my Dad) Now, onto your NUTSO SWEET question:
Q: I know Americans, in general, consume far too much sodium. Should I be concerned about my children’s intake?
A: Yes. Children are exposed to many factors that can lead to excess sodium in the diet. Fast foods are especially loaded with sodium and so our many of our readily convenient highly processed foods. Often cheaper, and immediate, fast foods and highly processed items can be tempting. While hypertension may not surface until later in life*, it is a good idea to get them accustomed to good healthy-eating habits. Because a bad habits are hard to break.
*Though it is important to note that we see more and more kids who are obese and diabetic, and these are two factors that can lead to hypertensive risk.
I suggest following DASH diet plan for the whole family. While originally developed as dietary approach to stop hypertension, research shows this heart-healthy plan is good for everyone. Follow these guidelines for you and your family:
- Be fruitful and veggie-licious! Fruits and veggies are low in sodium and naturally low in calories.
- Go nuts. Just a TBS or two is quite satisfying. Try replacing crackers and chips with a little heart-healthy fat and source of protein.
- Get the skinny on the cow. Low fat is the way to go to cut back on fats and calories. And know that fats are not all equal. You are better off with some heart-healthy fats from olive oil, avocados and coconut. As long as you don’t overdo it. (Animal fats aren’t so healthy – these are the fats found in your milk, cream and cheese.)
- Find your new low in sodium, fat and sat fats. Stay in top top shape by reducing your total fats – keep it to a heart-healthy minimal . Limit your sat fat intake. Keep your sodium to 2300 mg per day or less!
- Practice portion control. Eating responsibly can save you calories and unhealthy weight gain. Keep your meals and snacks within the suggested serving sizes. Check out myplate.com
For more information on DASH and how it can benefit you and your family, visit:dashdiet.org
http://nutrisavvysblog.wordpress.com/
http://mo-themorselist.healthcoach.integrativenutrition.com/
Note: In the article above (at the bottom), I meant to link to my.plate.gov, (not myplate.com). But I found an even better source, a great visual for portion sizing: http://www.fns.usda.gov/tn/resources/howmuch.pdf
Hope you all enjoy a great Father’s Day weekend!! Mo, Please send my Father’s Day wishes to your dad, Mac! : )
Thanks, Lauren!
Thanks so much, Karen!
🙂
Know you’ll enjoy time with your Dad this Father’s Day!