/> Clean Convenient Cuisine: "I Don't Like Healthy Food!"

Clean Convenient Cuisine

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Thursday, July 29, 2010

"I Don't Like Healthy Food!"

I hear this complaint all the time. I will give clients a list of the tried and true healthy foods that breed success, and I get the same complaint: "I don't like those foods." So, what happens if you truly don't like something healthy and you aren't willing to compromise?

There are always substitutes. Below are some of the most common complaints, and the next best food in line to keep you on the road to success. Don't be afraid to try something new, or return to something old and just revisit it in a new way (if you stir-fry veggies, try steaming them or even eating them raw for that extra crunch). Just like anyone who likes wine or coffee, I guarantee you that on their very first sip, they weren't instantly in love. It takes an acquired taste - just like it takes acquired habits - to like specific foods and achieve health. Take it a single step at a time, one day at a time, and you will get there!


"I HATE OATMEAL!"
TRY: KASHI CEREAL

If you really don't like oatmeal (even slightly dressed up with nuts, berries, and a bit of agave nectar or greek yogurt), there are other options. Though cereal gets a bad rap, there are healthier brands than others. Look for a cereal low in sugar (no more than 6 grams per serving) and top it with fresh berries, nuts and skim or soy milk. WHOLE WHEAT ENGLISH MUFFINS, topped with natural peanut butter and a sliced banana are another option.

"I HATE EGG WHITES!"
TRY: COCONUT WATER

Eggs are one of the most perfect foods around. However, the yolks carry too much fat to eat every single day in larger quantities, which is why egg whites are so healthy. So, how can you get 6 grams of fiber, no fat and no carbs in the morning? Though coconut water probably won't fill you up the way eggs do, it's a quick, easy way to get some protein and minerals, and it's considered a "natural" energy drink. Low in carbs, fat and in naturally occurring sugars, coconut water maintains the body's natural fluid levels while helping promote elimination and regulate the body.

"I HATE FISH!"
TRY: BISON

Unless you have an allergy to fish, it really would be worth the effort to try tuna or salmon for the numerous health benefits. Still a no go? Bison, or buffalo, is a healthier alternative to beef. Make sure and look for grass-fed bison, which is exceptionally low in fat, calories and cholesterol. For just over 3 oz. of bison, you are looking at a mere 143 calories and 2.4 fat grams. In addition, bison is high in B vitamins, potassium, iron, selenium, and low in sodium. Try making burgers or bison steaks.


"I HATE VEGETABLES!"
TRY: BLACK BEANS

Quite simply, LEARN TO LIKE THEM. Vegetables are super foods. While fruit is great, vegetables are better. They are low in sugar, carbs and calories and pack a vitamin punch in every bite. One of the easiest ways to get them if you absolutely hate them is to JUICE them or find PURE VEGETABLE JUICES. Also, purchase soups full of veggies but low in sodium. Sneak them in salads or  throw tomatoes and spinach into a morning omelet for an A.M. boost.

Still refusing to go for the green? While beans cannot replace veggies in any way, they are packed with protein, fiber and iron, and are a great source for vegetarians or people who lack fiber in their diet. The best bet is to buy them dry. Don't have time to cook dry beans? Buy the canned variety, but pour them in a strainer and rinse them with cold water until they are not full of bubbles (as all canned varieties are packed in a salty mixture). Heat them up or add them cold to salads, soups, stirfries, burritos, etc.

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