It has been five years since the U.S. Department of Agriculture unveiled the Food Guide Pyramid and an analysis conducted by the National Eating Trends Service shows that more Americans are more familiar with the Pyramid and have a better understanding of key nutrition issues. There is a trend toward grains and a move away from notoriously high-fat foods.
If it=s pasta you prefer, top it off with lightly sauteed and seasoned vegetables. Choose cream-based toppings less often and tomato-based red sauces more often.
You can get three servings of grain by doing a triple decker. Add an extra slice of bread instead of piling on additional high-fat fillings for a sandwich that offers Dagwood-style fun. Bread is typically low in fat.
Is pizza a family favorite? Try a Middle Eastern version you make yourself. Take a slice of pita bread, add pizza sauce and fresh vegetables, then sprinkle with shredded, low-fat cheese. Place the pizza in the oven until cheese melts and the pita is crispy. Enjoy!
Bring on the bagels--and keep it light. Try a dollop of your favorite jam or jelly, a swirl of honey; or toast it and enjoy the flavor of the bagel without a topping.
For a pretzel dip that won=t stick to your hips, try blending plain, nonfat yogurt with your favorite chopped, fresh herbs.
Bread and other grain foods are naturally low in fat. Eating healthfully is not too time-consuming to manage. Move grain foods to the center of your plate and spend less time in the kitchen. When it comes to time, grain foods are quick and easy to enjoy, and best of all, they taste great and are good for you!
Faculty/Staff Bulletin--Submitted May 22, 1997.