FOR BREAKING NEWS VISIT WWW.QNS.COM JULY 15, 2021 • HEALTH • THE QUEENS COURIER 23
health
Registered dietitian shares four
foods to fuel any fi tness routine
As the country is opening back up, maintaining
health and wellness is top of mind
for many. Getting up and moving your
body regularly is an important aspect of
healthy living, but it can be challenging to
muster up the energy to kick off a new exercise
plan. Fortunately, there are a variety of
wholesome, nutritious foods that provide
essential vitamins and nutrients to fuel any
fi tness routine, no matter the skill level.
Registered Dietitian, Nutritionist and
Founder of MPM Nutrition Marissa
Meshulam provides her expert recommendation
on which foods to work into
your meal plan to support a healthier,
more active lifestyle:
“Many pantry and refrigerator staples
provide ample nutrition while giving your
body what it craves,” says Meshulam.
“Before restocking your pantry with the
latest wellness trend, consider turning to
wholesome ingredients you likely already
have in your kitchen.”
Beans
Dried or canned beans are found stowed
away in cupboards across the country but
may not be the fi rst item you reach for
when you’re hungry. Consider making
them a regular part of your meal planning,
because this underrated food is
packed with a variety of nutrients to
support health and wellness. In addition
to being an excellent source of plantbased
protein, they are loaded with fi ber
- helping you feel full longer so you can
make it through your workout without
any pesky hunger pangs. When buying
canned beans, keep in mind purchasing
a low-sodium option and rinsing to manage
salt intake. From dips and spreads to
soups and stews, beans are versatile and
great for snacks and meals.
Eggs
Eggs are known as a good source of protein,
but they off er so much more than
that. However, it’s important to recognize
that not all eggs are equal. Eggland’s Best
eggs are the only egg with superior taste
and nutrition such as 25 percent less saturated
fat, more than double the Omega-
3s and Vitamin B12 and more compared
to ordinary eggs. Omega-3s along with
protein can help reduce soreness and aid
in recovery aft er a strenuous exercise and
Vitamin B12 provides a natural energy
boost, making Eggland’s Best eggs a perfect,
versatile food to enjoy before or aft er
a workout.
Potatoes
Potatoes are a bit of a misunderstood
vegetable. While French fries and chips
are not the healthiest choice due to how
they’re processed, fresh potato options are
nutrient-packed, tasty and easy to make.
In fact, one medium 5.3-ounce potato
with skin-on provides 26 grams of carbohydrates,
which can help boost energy.
Th ey’re also an excellent source of vitamin
C, which is an antioxidant that supports
the immune system, and fi ber, which prevents
blood sugar highs and lows for consistent
energy throughout the day.
Leafy greens
Fresh leafy greens are a must-have to
keep in your fridge or even grow in your
own garden. Some of the most nutrientdense
options include spinach, kale, collard
and chard. Don’t worry if you’re not
a salad person; there are so many ways
you can still enjoy leafy greens and reap
the nutritional benefi ts. Add greens to
a wrap or sandwich or top your soup
or pizza with a handful of greens for a
crunchy twist. You can also blend into
smoothies or juices or add to an egg frittata
or omelet. Get creative and you’ll be
surprised how many ways you can enjoy
your greens.
— Courtesy of BPT
/WWW.QNS.COM
