Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/918132
DURING SPRING AND summer, when fresh fruits and vegetables fill the local farmers market or your backyard garden, it's much easier to be excited about including them in your diet. During winter, however, our appetites can turn toward heavy, warm comfort foods that aren't always nutritionally sound — especially when it comes time for holiday celebrations. Fortunately, you can eat your comfort foods and have the nutrients you need as well. A little recipe research and prep work will have you eating healthy and happy all winter long. MAKE IT COUNT Most of the hearty, filling winter foods we love are high in calories, fat or carbohydrates. We can fix that. A quick internet search will reveal a treasure trove of "remade" comfort food recipes, with healthier takes on classics like beef stew, lasagna, macaroni and cheese, and more. You can even find fresh fruit-based dessert options to satisfy your sweet tooth. Who doesn't love a good bowl of soup during winter? Soup provides a great opportunity to eat your vegetables, whether you have fresh, frozen or canned. If you do use canned vegetables, though, choose low-sodium options. If cold weather saps your motivation to cook, consider using a slow cooker. It does most of the work for you, and healthy slow cooker recipes are easy to find. Whether you're a chili fan or want to make a healthier roast surrounded by your favorite vegetables, there's something for everyone. Concerned about whether you're fueling your body properly? Your doctor can help. Don't have one? Visit www.mercycenterville.org/ find-a-provider. Winter Fuel Up Are you getting the nutrition you need? for Don't Hibernate, Activate When temperatures drop, so can your motivation to be active. These tips can help you keep up your workouts throughout the winter. � Pick something fun. It's harder to stay motivated when it's cold outside, so find an activity you enjoy like dance classes or indoor water aerobics. � Exercise at home. Workout DVDs or a regimen like high-intensity interval training can be easily done at home with little equipment. � Set goals and reward yourself. A treat like the purchase of new workout gear or running shoes can provide an incentive to work out during winter. It's all about your attitude. Shift from thinking about exercise as something you should do to something you're excited to do, and you'll find it's easier to adopt it as part of your daily routine. MERCY MEDICAL CENTER-CENTERVILLE /// www.mercycenterville.org 6