Monday, December 10, 2012

Eat in to keep from spreading out

In an era of deficits, we Americans have one surplus: calories. In the U.S., there's enough food in the supply chain to provide every person with 3,800 calories a day — but we need only about two-thirds of that (2,350 calories a day). Unfortunately, we chow down those extra calories, especially when we eat out. Guys who eat fast food or at full-service restaurants munch 500 more calories a day than those who eat at home. Young kids take in about 130 additional calories; teens and adult women, 250-300 extra. If you eat out four or five times a week, that could boost your weight 12 to 24 pounds a year!

So our recommendation to control your weight, protect your heart, keep your brain sharp, skin wrinkle-free and sex life revved? Put on an apron (always a turn-on) and cook at home. 

1. Steam assorted veggies: Toss with a dash of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon and a grind of pepper. Add spices (rosemary, garlic, or peppers) for flavor and health! 

2. Broil fish: Salmon and trout are loaded with heart-saving omega-3s — using a marinade of balsamic vinegar, olive oil and lime juice. Or brush on a mustard coating or a crust of walnuts. 

3. Stir up Grandma's chicken soup: Saute a mixture of chopped celery, carrots and onions. Add chicken parts (no skin!) and water; boil for 30 or more minutes. Remove chicken and dice; add back to liquid with 100 percent whole-grain pasta and a quarter-cup frozen peas. Cook until done. Yum!

REVERSING THE TELLTALE SIGNS OF HEART DISEASE

Telltale signs of hard living are unmistakable: Think of 26-year-old Lindsay Lohan's once-unlined face. But those of you with less raucous lives also can display physical signs that you're older than your chronological age — and are at risk for heart disease. 

A new study identifies a receding hairline at the temples, baldness on the top of the head, horizontal earlobe creases and yellow, fatty deposits around the eyes as markers of aging associated with heart disease. Got any three? Your chance of a heart attack goes up 57 percent.

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