We Made It!

I love all the rich, savory holiday foods.  Gravies, real mashed potatoes, ham, turkey, eggnog, pies and baked brie all make my mouth water and my tummy rumble.  I am addicted to most combinations of butter, sugar and flour, especially if they contain chocolate as well.  But enough is enough.  My level of moderation has been exceeded and sluggishness is threatening to set in.

I am fully ready to return to modest meals of soup and bread, rice and beans, stir fries, salads and sandwiches.  It is good that we feast occasionally, our bodies crave the extra fats and proteins, especially in the cold weather.  As a daily indulgence, though, it is bad not only for our bodies - extra fat, cholesterol and unstable blood sugar - but also our budget.

homemade whole wheat bread

Eating primarily fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains may seem expensive on the surface, but when you experience the higher energy levels, better health, and increased "regularity" this type of diet provides, you begin to see that the less expensive packaged foods aren't really that great of a deal after all.  I had an episode of very painful symptoms a couple of months ago, I won't list them here, but suffice it to say, that when I completely eliminated all additives, preservatives, umm...big macs and processed foods (other than those I processed myself) my health returned.  I am hearing more and more stories like this lately, so there must be something to it.

You don't need a lot of fancy footwork to make a satisfying meal of natural foods.  Raw, juiced or lightly cooked is good for most veggies and fruits.  Whole grains and beans can be done in large batches and frozen in portions.  Here are a couple of my favorite quickie meals:

homemade cheese curds

Lunch: salad greens, chopped onion and homemade cheese curds with a drop of balsamic vinegar and a splash of olive oil, accompanied by a thick slice of homemade bread with real butter.

Dinner: stir fried brown rice or noodles with onions, carrots and brocolli, seasoned with fresh ginger and garlic.

If you need inspiration for transitioning to a fresher, simpler diet try some of my favorite websites:  www.savingdinner.com, www.hillbillyhousewife.com, www.chefantonia.com and www.thefresh20.com.

Here's to a healthier New Year for all of us!!