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Eating Right = Energy

Now during the holiday rush swinging into a fast food restaurant for a quick meal has become a convenient, although unhealthy, habit of many women. Considering the demands made on our time juggling parenting, working, running errands, and driving kids to sporting, dancing or school outings, who would blame us?

Eating fast food on a regular basis does not give a woman's body the nutrients she needs to feel fit and healthy. Eating right does more than give your body the energy to keep going. It helps prevent disease and improve your quality of life.

During the different stages of your life - from pregnancy to menopause - the nutrients your body needs will change. Women need more calcium, iron and folic acid than men. The risks of osteoporosis (bone loss) and iron deficiency (anemia) are greater for women than men. How you eat can greatly reduce your risk for these conditions.

Healthy Living Tips

• For snacking, stock up on healthy foods like fruit, ready-to-eat veggies, dairy and whole-grain cereals and crackers.
• Cut back on the use of sugar and salt.
• If you drink alcohol, limit yourself to no more than 1 to 2 drinks a day.
• Learn to read nutrition labels and make choices that are high in nutrients.
• If you smoke, take steps to quit.
• Don't confuse hunger with thirst. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Don't skip meals, especially breakfast.
• Exercise at least 3 times a week.