Healthy Lives - FMOLHS

Think your diet is suffering from your persistent “sweet tooth”? Think again. Our brains are designed to prompt us to seek out natural sources of sweet carbohydrates and foods containing fat. These naturally higher calorie foods were necessary for survival in times when food was scarce. Now we have 24/7 access to foods manufactured to be highly desirable and loaded with sugar and fat. Food manufacturers continuously come up with new combinations of sugar and fat that are cheap and easily accessible. The more we eat, the more we crave. Most people who think they have a “sweet tooth” often desire cookies, cake, ice-cream, donuts or chocolate that contains more fat than sugar. These cravings add up to more calories and 12-14 more grams of fat per day compared to people who avoid these sweets. Take control of your “fat tooth” by cutting back on sugar and processed fats. If you get a craving, grab a fat-free sweet, like hard candy and ride your “crave wave” for 15 minutes

Do you know when you've reached your physical limit during exercise? Your body will show signs of overexertion. If you are short of breath, in pain or can't workout as long as you had planned, you have probably reached your limit. Listen to your body and choose the right workout intensity level for you.

Get the most out of seasonal vegetables! Try these crispy, nutrient-rich fries made from butternut squash. Makes 4 servings, about 1 cup each. INGREDIENTS 1 large butternut squash 1/2 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon homemade Cajun Spice blend (see recipe below) CAJUN SPICE BLEND 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon onion powder 1/2 tablespoon smoked paprika 1/2 tablespoon black pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Combine all ingredients in a jar. Shake well. Store in an air tight container for up to one year. PREPARATION Preheat oven to 450°F. Cut the squash in half lengthwise. Use a large spoon to remove all of the seeds. Peel the squash with a sharp knife or vegetable peeler. Slice into french fry shapes. Try to keep the fries all the same size for even cooking. In a large bowl, toss the fries with the olive oil and Cajun seasoning. Place fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure the fries are i