Nutrition Questions-Meal Preparation-Processed Foods-Healthy Eating

Get the Real Deal on Your Meal

You know that eating healthy is good for you, but you may be feeling overwhelmed by all the information that is out there. What is true and what is false? Dietitians, the food and nutrition experts, want to help you find the right answers to your nutrition questions. They are ready to give you practical, healthy eating advice by clearing up some myths: Myth: Processed foods have no place in a healthy diet.  Truth: Many processed foods are healthy choices and can also speed up meal preparation.·         Choose whole grain pasta, canned fish, plain frozen vegetables and fruit, pre-made pizza crust, or even whole grain bread·         Pick items that have less added salt, fat and sugar·         Read the label and choose foods that are higher in nutrients you want more of, like fibre, calcium and B vitamins Myth: Healthy food costs too much. Truth: If you plan and make wise choices, you can make tasty, healthy and affordable meals. Choose foods that are high in nutrients but low on cost. ·         Buy dried goods in bulk, such as whole grain flour, dried peas, beans and lentils ·         Buy fresh fruits and vegetables in season. Like local strawberries in July and asparagus in early spring.  Stock-up your pantry and freezer with items when they go on sale.  Myth: If a food is low in fat or fat-free, it must be healthy. Truth: Just because a food is low in fat or fat-free doesn’t mean it’s healthy.  ·         Foods like candy, pop, low-fat cookies and fat-free frozen treats may have very little fat, but they are high in sugar and calories, with little or no health value ·         Foods like canned fish, nuts and nut butters like peanut butter contain healthy fats·         When reading food labels look at all the nutrient information, not just how much fat it contains. Look for the amount of calcium, vitamin D and fibre that are in the food. So if you are confused by too much information, remember to look at where it is coming from. You can always trust nutrition advice from a Registered Dietitian. For health and nutrition information call the Ottawa Public Health Information line at 613-580-6744 (TTY: 613-580-6744). For some quick and easy meal ideas, go to http://ottawa.ca/health_safety/living/nutrition/index_en.html For more information about these myths or to find the truth about many more nutrition questions, go to www.dietitians.ca. To speak to a Registered Dietitian call 1-877-510-5102 or go to www.eatrightontario.ca read more..

source:ottawa.ca