Cereal Grains and Pasta

Tip 1 : Try different types of cheese: Cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or ricotta cheese. Look for low-fat versions.

Tip 2 : Dried fruit (raisins, dates, cranberries) and fresh fruit (chopped apples or pears) make a great combination. Add nuts for an extra crunch.

Tip 3 : Vary your veggies by munching on cucumbers, broccoli, or red and green peppers instead of chips when you have a sandwich at lunch.

Tip 4 : Support your health and community by buying locally-grown vegetables. Try visiting a farmers market near you.

Tip 5 : Don’t want to eliminate all sweets? Try a drizzle of chocolate fudge sauce on a pear, banana, or berries..

Tip 6 : Make half your grains whole! This includes rice, bread, crackers, cereal, popcorn--look for the word "whole" on the ingredients list!

Tip 7 : Make time for breakfast every day! Choose whole-wheat bread, oatmeal, or whole-grain waffles.

Tip 8 : Add fruit to your brunch for additional color and flavor: sliced fruit or berries make a great topping on low-fat yogurt.

Tip 9 : For less cholesterol-replace some egg yolks with egg whites. Two egg whites = 1 whole egg.

Tip 10 : Try an Asian-inspired stir-fry: Sauté mushrooms, bean sprouts, bell peppers, onions, minced garlic and ginger. Serve with rice or noodles.