By Melanie Polk, M.M.Sc., R.D., F.A.D.A.
Here's a powerful reason to take your lunch to work: You get to be head chef.
You decide what to pack. That means you can include foods you enjoy — while watching the calories, fat, salt and sugar. And, when your favorite flavors are packed with nutrients, you'll be energized to tackle the rest of your workday.
Another nice bonus: Brown-bagging may help you put away some extra cash. Let's say you save $2 a day by eating in. In a year, you could be more than $500 ahead. Ka-ching!
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By Melanie Polk, M.M.Sc., R.D., F.A.D.A.
What's not to love about pasta? It's fast, simple fare that's budget-friendly, too. It's also deliciously versatile — the perfect partner for vibrant vegetables, fresh herbs and savory spices.
But, your favorite linguine, macaroni or ziti isn't so healthful when it's swimming in high-fat extras. Next time you put noodles on the menu, make these nutrition-smart moves:
1. Switch to whole grain
Whole-grain pastas are richer in vitamins and other nutrients. In fact, they can have almost three times the fiber of refined pasta.
But, they may take a little getting used to. Some varieties tend to have a nuttier, bolder flavor than traditional pasta.
You might sample different pasta shapes and brands until you find options you like. Or, try mixing whole-grain and refined varieties until you get used to the taste. And, you may just discover that you find whole-grain noodles tastier!
Here's a tip: Keep an eye on the cooking time — it can greatly affect the pasta's texture. And, serve whole-grain pasta al dente, or slightly firm. It can get gummy quickly when overcooked.
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