Weekly Meeting Topic: 5 Servings a Day! (Con't)

My weekly blog topic was posted later than usual (on account of being unable to connect to the internet at the Richardson and blogging from home) and because of that, I feel like I overlooked a few things I should have included, so I wanted to do a follow up...

I actually photographed this avocado on Sunday night - before I even knew what Monday's topic was - just because I thought it was flawless. Look at this thing!

I want to expand on why people do not choose fruits and vegetables -

I mentioned they may not be as readily available or convenient. This is where *planning* comes in. If you know you are tempted by the packaged snacks at the gas station mini mart, or the corner bodega, or a sports game or any other situation, be prepared! Bring a snack in your bag or car. You can easily carry an apple, pear, orange or banana with you - even a box of raisins. You can also easily transport a small baggie of baby carrots, grape tomatoes, grapes, dried fruit, or cut up slices of pepper. If you know you are going to be somewhere that produce is not readily available and convenient, make it readily available and convenient by bringing your own.

This is good advice even when you are not on the go. Again, it's about planning and shopping - have your favorite items ready in the refrigerator for when you get home from work or need a snack. Think about what you like and think about how you can make it as convenient as possible so you do choose it (and not something less healthy).

Also, in Monday's blog, one reason I overlooked - because it's so mind blowing to me - is that some people claim to not like fruits and vegetables. There is a woman like this in my weekly meeting and it blows my mind. I find this unbelievable. What's not to like?! There are so many tastes and textures - how could anyone not enjoy them? If you are one of these people, I have a few things I'd like you to consider:

1- Your taste buds may be confused: You may not be accustomed to the taste of real food because you still consume a lot of artificial sweeteners and ingredients. Having eaten that way for the majority of my life, I know they make your taste buds crave that taste. Try to go a few days without them and then try produce again. I think it will taste different to you and your palette will appreciate it more.
2- Enjoy them naked: You may be used to smothering your produce - like broccoli with cheese, or mushrooms with ranch dressing. While there is nothing wrong with a reasonable topping, try the item without the topping. If you do not like it on its own, you're likely eating it *for* the condiment. Try to find produce you enjoy without condiments too.
3- Try new fruits and vegetables: For instance, if you have only had iceburg lettuce, you are really missing out. That's the most flavorless lettuce available, it's like chewing water. And as far as nutrients go, it barely has any. So why bother? I won't even waste my time eating it. Do yourself a favor and try red leaf lettuce, romaine, boston, spring mix - anything else. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. Same goes for apples. I personally have always hated Red Delicious and thought their name was a bit of a misnomer. However, I cannot get enough of Granny Smith - they are sweet and tart with a much more pleasing texture. I eat them alone, or in my salads, or with peanut butter. They're amazing! I also recently got into Braeburn apples and have been eating those in my salad. There are a ton of apple varieties. If you don't like one, try another!
4- Use different methods: You can eat them raw, steam them, stir fry them, sautee them, grill them, bake them - there are so many ways to enjoy fruits and vegetables. If you aren't sure what to do with a particular item, ask a friend, use the WW website or google the ingredient for some ideas.
5- Sautee with Garlic and Oil: This is virtually foolproof - I think you can sautee just about any vegetable on earth with a little garlic and olive oil and it's going to smell wonderful and taste fantastic. This makes a great side dish or can be the start of a meal (this is how most of my 'throw together meals' start).

After reading all of that, if you are still in the "I don't like vegetables" camp, I implore you to reconsider. Challenge yourself by trying a new item every few weeks. If you are a volume eater, produce helps to bulk up meals. It also adds color and texture, gives you nutrients you are likely not getting elsewhere and they really do taste fantastic. Just be open to trying different things. If you want to make progress, you have to change. And this is one change that will help you lose weight, get healthier and will likely open you to new recipes and cuisines.

I think I'll go enjoy a sweet summer plum now.

Good night! :)