What tastes the best-and what's best for you.
- Jackie Newgent, RD, BettyConfidential.com
Dietitians are smart about food. Not only do they know which ones are healthy, they also know which of those healthy foods taste really good. BettyConfidential went to some of the country's top dietitians to find out their personal favorites.
See what they had to say...
Dark Chocolate
This sophisticated treat contains important nutrients known as flavonoids, and it's packed with antioxidants that may play a positive role in a number of crucial issues including anti-aging and heart health.
"Seventy-two percent cocoa is my favorite. Its bitter/sweet taste satisfies my dessert craving."
-Patricia Bannan, MS, RD, author of Eat Right When Time Is Tight (NorLightsPress, 2010)
Raw Cashews
They're loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants that fight damage to cells, and key minerals including copper, magnesium, and phosphorus.
Read Top Diet Tips From Top Dietitians
"I adore the clean taste and mildly crunchy (not rock hard) texture of raw cashews. They're a filling and satisfying source of plant protein, and I find them so easy to eat when I'm on the go--no cooking or fuss required!"
-Elisa Zied, MS, RD, CDN, author of Nutrition At Your Fingertips (Alpha, 2009)
Kale
This dark leafy green contains blood-builders, bone-builders and the antioxidant trio "ACE" (vitamins A, C, and E).
"Kale is my must-have whenever my body needs an energy boost. I love it finely shredded in a raw salad, baked into crisp kale chips, or lightly sautéed with sesame oil and garlic."
-Dawn Jackson Blatner, RD, LDN, author of The Flexitarian Diet (McGraw Hill, 2009) and Chicago Cubs Nutrition Consultant
Milk
Besides providing hydration, milk is high in protein, calcium, vitamin D and many other essential nutrients.
"Milk is my favorite food (beverage); 1% fat is my choice. Many of my clients love milk, too, but don't think about drinking it in the afternoon as a latte, or in the evening after dinner, especially after flossing."
-Maye Musk, MS, RD, international wellness speaker and New York City-based nutrition counselor
Oats
Oats are whole grains and are high in soluble fiber, which helps lower cholesterol, helps manage blood sugar, and aids in satiety.
"I can't wait to start my day with a bowl of oatmeal-I think that is why I am an early riser. I make it with nonfat milk and top it with cinnamon, ground flax, and low fat cottage cheese … Delish!"
-Keri Gans, MS, RD, CDN, spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association and author of the upcoming The Small Change Diet (Gallery, 2011)
Read What Food Labels Don't Say
Coming tomorrow: Part 2, with sweet snacks and more!
To eat like these dietitians, remember to pick proper serving sizes. Keep some portions petite (chocolate); for others (like kale), go big. For more information, click here.
Jackie Newgent, RD, is a New York City-based nutritionist, author of Big Green Cookbook and The All-Natural Diabetes Cookbook, and healthy cooking instructor at The Institute of Culinary Education. Follow her @jackienewgent.
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