Wednesday, June 16, 2010

HIGH-FIBER DIETS.

Either your brain just envisioned a bag of prunes and a bowl flavorless, cardboard cereal OR, you just had a flashback to fiber-induced stomach cramps and gastrointestinal distress (ugh!).  The ugly truth is we've ALL been there.  
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If you are on a track to slim down over the summer months, however, you might want to consider a revision in this thinking.  Not only does fiber help you drop pounds quickly, but it also keeps you feeling full longer!  This summer, say no to the "cookie belly" and "muffin top" simply by making small choices that make a BIG difference (because let's face it..... passing on a cowboy cookie or homemade muffin isn't as easy as we'd like to think).
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The following are some flavorful, high-fiber options for your diet--ones which might just change your perspective on counting your calories with increased-fiber meal plans.
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Pears
Most people are unaware of the fact that pears contain more fiber than prunes.  An average-sized pear packs nearly double the fiber of one prune!
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Whole-Grain Cereals
Whole-grain cereals are a great opportunity to get a TON of fiber early in the morning.  A one-half cup serving of Fiber One provides you with 14 grams of fiber--14 times more than the amount of fiber in a bowl of Special K.  Top a bowl of your favorite fiber cereal with berries and skim milk and keep your belly happy until well-past the noon hour!
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Pistachios
Pistachios have the least amount of calories and fat of all nuts, and a one-ounce serving has three grams of fiber. Toss pistachios into your cereal or yogurt, on top of salads or eat them on their own as a fiber and protein-packed snack.
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Berries

All berries are a great source of fiber! One cup of antioxidant-rich raspberries has eight grams of fiber and only 60 calories.
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Artichokes
An entire artichoke has six grams of fiber and only 60 calories. Next time you have company, whip up your favorite low-fat spinach and artichoke dip for a great boost of fiber. You can also steam an artichoke for a great low-calorie, high-fiber snack.
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Lentil Beans

Ever have soup "indecision" at the deli counter?  Remember this: One cup of lentils contains 16 grams of fiber--16 times the amount of fiber in a cup of chicken noodle soup! Try a lentil-based soup to get your fiber and protein fix.
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Edamame

Unsure about which appetizer to order at sushi? With eight grams of fiber in just one cup, edamame is a great choice that will fill you up so you don't overeat during the main meal.
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Whole-Grain Bread Products

One-hundred percent whole-wheat breads, tortillas, English muffins and pitas contain twice the fiber and almost half the calories of their all-white counterparts! At lunch, make sure to order sandwiches on any of these high-fiber breads to help keep you feeling satisfied all afternoon.

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