Let's Do It Healthy

February 6, 2005

Some like it hot. With good reason -- chiles' heat may bring you significant health protection. Capsaicin, the compound that gives chile peppers their firey heat, contains an anticoagulant that might help prevent heart attacks and strokes caused by blood clots. Chile peppers also contain a mixture of cancer-fighting antioxidants. Remember, don't touch your eyes as you're working with chile peppers, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. As a general rule, the larger the pepper, the milder it is. To reduce a pepper's intensity, remove the core and seeds.

Shopping for snacks: Check the Nutrition Facts panel and look for these numbers: Less than 200 calories, and no more than 3g of total fat, 1g of saturated fat, 400mg sodium per serving. Bonus challenge: Choose snacks with no hydrogenated oils in the ingredient list. Don't expect to find much protein, vitamins or minerals in the snack aisle -- most of these foods don't offer a much nutrient bang for your bite. Above all, stick to the recommended serving size to keep from going overboard on calories.

Step into a pair of skates for a head-turning pair of legs and a killer derriere. In-line skating is a strength-training and cardio workout all in one. Studies find in-line skating to be more aerobic than cycling, easier on your joints than running, and a great way to shape and tone muscles. Get rolling and you can burn 570 - 900 calories an hour!

The best advice for air travel is to pack your lunch. Airport food is unreliable, and you may not be able to find food that fits into your plan. By bringing your own grab bag of goodies, you'll have a healthy and nutritious meal to tide you over until you get to your destination. Pack a sandwich for starters. Whole fruit and baggies of nuts also travel well.

Hugs,

Jacy

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