Cold Weather Comfort Food...

It's cold, it's dark, it's dreary....I don't know about you but sometimes the only thing that makes me happy on those dark, cold nights is comfort food.  It doesn't have to be unhealthy comfort food though....
Try these yummy, but healthier versions of your favorite comfort foods....
Here's the first one:

Healthy French Fries Recipe

This healthy recipe for French fires leaves regular French fried potatoes in the dust.  

All it takes to make a delicious and healthy side dish are a few key ingredients you already have in your pantry, no extra trip to the store required.

PREPARATION TIME: 15 MINUTES

COOKING TIME: 30 MINUTES

Makes 4 Servings, about 6 ounces each

1 1/2 pounds potatoes3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.

2. Wash potatoes; cut lengthwise into thin strips.

3. Combine remaining ingredients in plastic bag.  Put potatoes in bag; seal; shake to coat potatoes.

4. Arrange potatoes in single layer on baking sheet.

5. Bake until crisp and golden, about 30 minutes.

PER SERVING:

Calories 255
Total fat 14 grams
Saturated fat 2 grams
Cholesterol 0
Sodium 156 milligrams 

Make this year a Heart-Healthy Valentines Day!

Click on this link for some great tips on how!
http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/NutritionCenter/HealthyDietGoals/Heart-Healthy-Valentines-Day-Tips_UCM_322023_Article.jsp

Impacts of the home environment on health....

The home environment is influential in children’s lives and can help determine body weight, physical activity levels, and types of food consumed. When children’s television and junk food is limited, and their fruit and vegetable intake is higher, their BMI tends to be lower.

Parents play an important role. Parents should model healthy behaviors by being active and placing importance on a healthy lifestyle for children. Modeling healthy behaviors for children can benefit the whole family and be a powerful factor in increasing an individual’s present and future wellness.

Article by Kelli Oligney, Associate Editor

Reference: Masse, L., et. Al. (December 13, 2012). Association Between Self-Reported Household Practices and Body Mass Index of US Children and Adolescents, 2005. Preventing Chronic Disease. Retrieved on January 9, 2013, from http://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2012/11_0149.htm