6 healthy foods for your fridge

On the path to healthy eating, clear your refrigerator of unwanted foods and make room for nutritious substitutes.

Updated:: 2009-10-17 17:07

Published:: 2005-04-22 00:00

By: Cary Galloway

Pumpkin seed oil, juice, omega-3 eggs

4. Pumpkin seed oil vs. margarine
What can you put on your steamed veggies for some added flavour? Many dressings are full of preservatives and several margarines also contain many additives and extra salt. Why not switch to something that takes your health and your taste buds into consideration? Pumpkin seed oil adds a decadent flavour to any dish, whether it's a stir-fry, salads or plain steamed veggies. Pumpkin seed oil has to stay in the fridge to retain all of its beneficial properties, and could be poured on top of dishes after cooking as heat can also destroy its wonderful powers. Pumpkin seed oil is packed full of both omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids and delivers a good dose of zinc, vitamin E and vitamin A to any dish.

5. Juice vs. smoothies
Juice keeps us from becoming dehydrated, it provides us with vitamins and it gives us energy. All of these claims are true, however many juices on the market are very high in sugar and low in fibre. If you've been buying those that are made with 100 per cent real fruit juice, then you're on the right path, but you're still lacking the fibre that will improve your overall health. Next time you're in the produce aisle, fill your cart with frozen berries, fresh fruits, organic yoghurt and some clean water. Throw them all into a blender when you get home and you'll have a drink that's much higher in fibre, calcium, protein and nutrients to keep you going all day long.

6. Omega-3 eggs vs. regular eggs
They taste and look the same as the eggs you usually buy, but omega-3 eggs provide the body with far more health benefits. Since these eggs are fortified with omega-3 fatty acids, they also deliver the valuable properties of essential fatty acids such as heart disease prevention, inflammation reduction and healthier nails, skin and hair. Next time you wake up on a Sunday with brunch in mind, reach for the omega-3 branded carton.

With a refrigerator full of nutritious items, it's easy to fuel up on foods that contribute to your well-being. When you're ready for your next trip to the grocery store, remember to keep your kitchen stocked with items that'll keep your healthy-eating plans intact. Your body will thank you for it.

Cary Galloway is a registered nutritional consulting practitioner (RNCP) and a certified nutritional practitioner. She has been working in the health field since 2001 when she obtained a degree in kinesiology and health promotion from Acadia University. Cary uses her knowledge in health, wellness and nutrition to provide guidance to individuals who want to improve their health. To learn more about Cary's nutritional services, visit www.totalbalance.ca.

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