Fit Foods
December 13, 2004
WASHINGTON (Ivanhoe Broadcast News) –With so many fad diets out there, it’s difficult to know which one is the healthiest or which one will keep you in the best shape. Some experts say skip those fad diets altogether and create your own with the foods you like. But first, you need to know what foods are the “power players.” Here are the best foods to keep you fit.
Most of us are in here every week — some of us, every day. But do we really know what we’re doing? Food and nutrition expert Ellen Haas, of The FoodFit Company in Washington, says most of us need to get ourselves and our grocery carts in shape. “There’s a real connection between what you eat and how healthy you are,” she tells Ivanhoe.
On the top of the list of fit foods is blueberries. They’re rich in anti-oxidants, which means they’re cancer-fighters. Tomatoes, peppers and broccoli also fight cancer.
Next, grab the greens. “Leafy greens are essential to everyone’s diet,” Haas says. “They’re rich in vitamins, they’re high in fiber, and they’re really important in helping to fight against cancers and heart disease.”
Also, don’t forget the fish. Sardines, tuna and salmon are the A players. Keep in mind wild salmon has less chance of contamination. Next, you need nuts. Haas says walnuts and almonds are both the healthier nuts and protect against heart disease.
She says meat is also a key member of the fit food group — just be careful how you choose your beef. “Look for the select grade,” Haas says. “It means that it’s a lower fat grade that may be a little less expensive as well, but it has all the health benefits that you want.”
Other key foods include garlic, acorn squash, eggplant, zucchini, and sweet potatoes. Once you know what foods should be in your grocery cart, it will be easier to get cooking and get fit.
Under President Clinton, Haas was the chief nutrition official in the federal government. Her book, fit foods, highlights simple recipes that use the most powerful foods to get your body in the best shape.
If you would like more information, please contact:
Pat Kelly
The FoodFit Company
2213 M Street, NW, Suite 200
Washington, D.C. 20037
(202) 331-2140 EXT 224
[email protected]
