Eating Right in your 20's!

This is information collected from fitness magazine.

The challenge in your 20's is your pressed for time.
Your diet to do list

1) Bone up on calcium and vitamin D

This is the last decade to build up bone mass without bone loss. Aim for 1,000 milligrams of calcium. One serving of yogurt or 1 1/2 oz. of cheese provides roughly 300-400 milligrams and up to 1,000 IU of vitamin D daily. Its tough to get enough vitamin D from food alone your best bet is a combination of foods, such as SALMON and canned tuna in oil, and supplements.

2) Fish for Happiness

Hours at the office and a fully booked social calendar can result in chronic stress, which can raise blood pressure, promote weight gaon and cause mood swings. 500 to 1,000 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids daily can lessen the damage. Good for you fats, found in FISH, NUTS, and SEEDS, reduce inflammation and improve the health of your brain cells, helping to elevate your mood and protect against depression. A study at the Univesity of Pittsburgh said people with the highest levels of omega 3's were significantly happier than those with lower levels.

3) Go for the Right Grains

Eating too many refined carbohydrates causes drawstic swings in blood sugar, which can sap your energy and leave you feeling cranky. Choose WHOLE GRAINS, PASTA, CEREAL, and RICE. Aim for three to six servings daily for a steady supply of fuel as well as the recommended 25 to 30 grams of fiber you need each day.

Recipes for Success

Breakfast

Veggie fritata: Cook 2 eggs scrambled with 1/4 cup thawed brocoli, 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms and 1 sliced green onion in 1 tablespoon canola oil until set 8-10 minutes. Top with 2 taqblespoons grated parmesan cheese.
2 slices whole grain toast and 8 oz. calcium & vitamin D fortified OJ

Lunch

Salmon burger on a whole wheat bun with chive mayo (mix 1 tablesppon canola mayo with 1 tsp. chives) and cucumber and tomato slices
1 cup grapes

Snack

Whole grain energy bar and a nonfat latte

Dinner

Spicy pasta: saute 1 chopped garlic clove, 1 chopped tomato, 1 tsp. capers and a pinch red pepper in 1 tablesppon olive oil. Serve over 1 1/2 cups cooked whole wheat pasta with 2 tablespoon feta cheese.
1/2 cup vanilla pudding topped with 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips