I’m just a New York girl living in a Miami world. When I go back home to New York, I want it ALL. The pizza, the lox bagels, even the Chinese takeout that leaves me with the most vivid dreams of my life. I want it all and I don’t hold back. As a mixed race women, my mom’s side of the family is Italian and Ashkenazi Jewish and my father’s side is predominantly African American. The foods we consumed growing up were VERY different from my husbands midwestern fare. He was more of a Velveta and jalapeño guy whereas I came from an antipasto and Sunday Sauce kind of home.
Food is memories and food is a cultural celebration, but often times that impact can lend itself to feeling shame and guilt from diet culture, but what in the actual F would life be like without your favorite family staples? Really, think about your favorite family dish. The culture, the memories and the history behind it. Would you really want to leave it behind forever simply because it doesn’t align with the latest diet trend?
March is National Nutrition Month and this year the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is encouraging Americans to “Personalize Your Plate.” I love that Baptist Health South Florida is encouraging the South Florida community to embrace their colorful heritage and providing tips and tricks to help remain health conscious.
This article encourages you to continue to enjoy the foods and flavors that you love, but make tiny changes that can yield a major impact on your health like:
Focus on healthy swaps
Reach for lower salt, fat and sugar options when possible. Especially when cooking at home.
Choose baking over frying
Include fiber filled grains or swap white rice dishes with cauliflower rice. Now, I know this one could be a stretch, but it is absolutely delish!
Portion Control:
Growing up with an Italian Grandmother, I know this one can be hard. Especially while eating with family, but the truth is. You can try your best to control your portions and still enjoy all of your favorite foods.
Including fiber filled veggies
I love the tip they give in the article. If there is an option to have a salad or veggies, load up and make that the star of your plate. If there isn’t an option, ask for a side of avocado and tomato. Usually, this is a deliciously satisfying add-on you can find ripe and delish in So Flo, all year long.
Make your own
Seasonings can be loaded with salt and fillers. By making your own, you control the amount of sodium and other “junk” added. Also, if you like one herb or spice over another feel free to customize it for your taste buds!
For the full recipe for Sazon Completo click here! Remember, nutrition is not a one size fits all methodology. Let’s kick the restriction to the curb and focus on making a few tiny changes above in honor of your health.
Happy nutrition month!