CANNED SOUPS

Are you aware that most canned soups are high in sodium (salt)?  Even if you don't eat canned soups as a meal, you are probably using them in recipes.  Now I am not saying you can't use them, I use them myself at times.  But pay attention to the sodium content, use low-sodium options, or when using in recipes, omit any salt called for, etc.  Just be aware of the sodium content and adjust accordingly.  As an example, if you eat regular canned soup as a meal with crackers, use unsalted crackers, etc.

Note: This picture is not an endorsement of this particular product.  It is just a picture I was allowed to use.

WHAT DOES "EXTRA LIGHT" OLIVE OIL MEAN?

The words "light" and "extra light" when applied to olive oil, do not have anything to do with calories but everything to do with color and flavor.  Extra-virgin olive oil is darker in color and has a robust flavor.  Extra-light olive oil is usually blended with a lower quality olive oil and therefore is lighter in color and flavor.

No matter what olive oil you choose, whether extra-light or extra-virgin it will contain 120 calories and 14 g fat - 10 g of that the heart-healthy or good fats - per tablespoon.

MORE BENEFITS FOR EGGS

As previously discussed on this blog, eggs are no longer considered a 'bad' food.  In fact according to Food Chemistry a new study has shown that two egg yolks, that's right - yolks, have approximately the same antioxidant power as an apple.  And we know antioxidants help to prevent cancer and heart disease and have many healthy benefits.

As with all things, don't overindulge.  But relax and enjoy some eggs.

WHAT IS A SERVING SIZE OF FRENCH FRIES?

Many don't really understand what a serving is!  A plate full of french fries is not a serving!  A serving of french fries is basically 10 fries.  Of course french fries come in many different sizes.  Use your common sense when determining how many your serving should be.  If you are eating the very thin matchstick fries, obviously 10 is not a full serving.  However if you are eating those big ole steak fries, 10 may be more than a serving.  The ten french fries that make up a serving are obviously average-sized fries.  Why is this important?  If you are on a diet for any reason, especially if you are diabetic or have a similar health situation, it is important that you don't fool yourself! To say, "I only ate a serving of french fries.  I don't know why my blood sugar shot up," is fooling yourself if you ate a regular or large size serving at your favorite restaurant.  Be responsible and eat only 1 serving, that is one real serving!

FEEDING BABIES AND TODDLERS

In my opinion, one of the best things you can do for your baby/toddler is to teach them to eat healthy foods.  Are you aware that up to 85% of the brain's development takes place by the age of three?  Include fruits, vegetables, and grains in your young child's diet and he/she will continue to eat them for the rest of his/her life.  That is one of the best, longest-lasting gifts you can give your child.