For more tips on taking charge of your health go to at ReidHospital.org

Discover the many benefits of adding vegetables and fruits to your meals. They are low in fat and calories while providing fiber and other nutrients. They also add color, flavor, variety and texture. Veggies that are rich in color - red, orange or dark green, are full of vitamins and minerals. Try acorn squash, cherry tomatoes, sweet potatoes or collard greens.

Liven up your meals with fruits and vegetables

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1 Expand the flavor of your casseroles. Mix vegetables such as sautéed onions, peas, pinto beans or tomatoes into your

favorite dish to energize an old favorite.

2 Planning something Italian? Add extra vegetables to your pasta dish. Slip some peppers, spinach, red beans,

onions or cherry tomatoes into your traditional tomato sauce. Vegetables provide texture and low-calorie bulk that satisfies.

3 Get creative with your salad. Toss in shredded carrots, strawberries, blueber-ries, spinach, watercress, dried cranber-

ries or sweet peas for a fun and flavorful green salad. Add raspberries to your pasta salad.

4 Liven up an omelet. Boost the color and flavor of your morning omelet with vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers,

mushrooms or spinach. Simply chop, sautée and add them to the eggs as it cooks.

5 Sweeten up your oatmeal naturally with your favorite berries, chopped apples or bananas.

6 Get in on the stir frying fun. Cook healthier by stir frying your veggies - like broccoli, carrots, sugar snap peas,

cauliflower, mushrooms, onions and green beans - in a 1/4 cup of low sodium chicken or beef broth.

7 Buy vegetables and fruits in season for best flavor, or frozen and canned versions. Stock up when they’re on sale.

Nourish Yourself! Reid Hospital & Health Services offers NOURISH YOU, an adult weight management program running in 16-week sessions. Each session includes both dietary coaching as well as an hour of fitness exercises. Morning, noon and evening sessions are available. To join in these small group sessions, call 765-983-3423.

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