Now that school has started and things are getting busier it is a good idea to plan ahead. Here is a list of tips to help make things healthier. There are lots of things that can be cut out or cut in half to make things a lot better for you.  

·     Cut juice or other drinks in half with club soda or water

·     Make your own “soda” with sparkling water (or club soda) and fresh fruits.  Mix up the fruits to add interesting flavors.

·     Use unsweetened apple sauce in place of oil in baking recipes

·     Brush your teeth in the middle of the afternoon to help curb snacking

·     Drink cup of broth (bullion cubes–chicken, beef?) 1/2 hour before meals to curb appetite

·     When you feel hungry, drink two glasses of water first; sometimes the feeling of hunger is really dehydration

·     Dip carrots or celery in hummus instead of pita chips OR bake your own pita chips instead of buying prepackaged (take a whole grain pita pocket, open and cut in to triangles–bake for a few minutes or broil for a few seconds to get crispy.  Can brush with lite olive oil or canola oil and sprinkle with salt if desired but also great plain.)

·     Eat low-fat ricotta cheese in place of cream cheese on your bagel (can also mix with sugar substitute for added sweetness)

·     Add spices (not hi-calorie fats) to foods to add flavor — experiment!  Try cinnamon, red pepper, cumin, curry–see what your taste buds respond to.