Great Tasting Meal Plans for a Healthier You

As we enter the season of New Year resolutions it is easy to find health near the top of everyone’s lists. However, before the Super Bowl has come and gone, health usually drifts away from being a priority overshadowed by work, bills, inclement weather, vacation getaways and fatigue.

We at BlackWomensHealth.com are taking a new direction this year, with more practical tips to enable you to make a personal commitment to your health in 2008. We would like to have your feedback and your questions as we take this journey together. In return, we will provide personal stories, recipes and challenges from our viewership.

One of the most common questions we get is how can I eat more healthy without resorting to typical diet components such as protein bars, energy drinks, celery sticks, tofu and rice cakes.

Here are some samples of easy and healhty meal suggestions to get you started:

Sample Breakfast Meals

Breakfast Option 1

Vegetable omelets using Egg Beaters Original
Turkey Bacon
Slice of Wheat toast

Breakfast Option 2

Oatmeal with Raisins
Banana

Breakfast Option 3

Yogurt with Fresh fruit
Glass of Orange Juice

Sample Lunch Meals

Lunch Option 1

Tuna fish sandwich with Lettuce and tomato
Cottage cheese with Peaches
Bottle of fresh water

Lunch Option 2

Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Fresh fruit cup
Cup of vegetable soup

Lunch Option 3

Grilled Chicken Salad with Balsamic Vinagrette Dressing
Cup of Rice and Beans
Glass of Orange Juice

Sample Dinner Meals

Dinner Option 1

Turkey Meatloaf
Lightly Sautéed Spinach Salad
Corn on the Cob
Baked beans

Dinner Option 2

Shrimp Cocktail
Baked salmon
Steamed Asparagus
Mashed Potatoes

Dinner Option 3

Baked Chicken Cutlet
Ready Mixed Tossed Salad
Steamed Broccoli
Baked red potatoes

One key ingredient that should be part of any commitment to health is motivation. As time passes it is easy to lose focus. However, healthy eating and living is part of a lifestyle change. Therefore, many people use their children or grandchildren as motivators. Carry their pictures in your wallet or on your cell phone. Alternatively, you can place their photographs on your refrigerator to serve as a visual reminder of the importance of your goals.

Author: Moshe Lewis, MD, MPH, MBA