Let's Do It Healthy

October 13, 2004

Think avocados are too lush and buttery to be good for you? Think again. Yes, avocados are high in fat, but it's the heart-healthy kind. Even "good" fat is highly caloric, so you have to keep portions under control, but in moderation as part of a diet low in saturated fat, avocados can help reduce bad cholesterol. To determine ripeness, press gently on the avocado's skin. If the flesh yields slightly, the avocado is ready to eat that day. Store avocados at room temperature, never in the refrigerator.

Dancing raises your pulse -- a key to a healthy heart. Running and biking will do the same. Regular physical activity has many other disease-fighting benefits. It reduces your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, lowers your risk of developing cancer, and helps you prevent bone loss (osteoporosis), and maintain mobility and independence in later years.

Keep your eye on the total fat -- it should be no more than 3 grams. Some canned cream soups pack a whopping 25 grams. Others pour almost an entire day's worth of sodium in one can; if a can has more than 500mg of sodium, put it back. Try to choose soups that don't skimp on vitamin A (with its cancer-fighting phytochemicals); look for at least 30% of the Daily Value for vitamin A. Also try to find at least 3g of fiber. Broth- and vegetable-based choices are generally best bets.