My 5 favourite foods!

As a nutritionist, I am often asked a very common question:  “What do you eat?” It is no secret that nutritionists are food lovers! I… am no exception. Of course, I have some of my personal favourites, and as a mom of 3 very active boys I must always have certain foods on hand that I consider life savers! As a treat for the month of December, allow me to share with you my 5 favourite foods …

1- Pasta
This food is by far my life saver. I keep a wide variety of pasta from elbow pasta, to spaghetti, to penne…you name it, I have it! Whole grain is preferable, but before a game, or workout for that matter, simple white pasta cooked al dente is best. This starchy food is packed with vitamin B, and provides a great source of energy when served as a side dish. Make enough and use as leftovers throughout the week. Add a simple tomato sauce or some homemade pesto and you have a perfect side!

2- Chickpeas
Here is another time saver. I use well-rinsed canned chick peas to make homemade hummus, salads and soups. Any legume could work. Once again I always make bulk to allow for plenty of lunch leftovers.  Remember that legume soup freezes very well. Legumes are an excellent source of protein and a good source of fiber and are low in fat. They too contain important vitamins and minerals like vitamin B, and folic acid.

3- Eggs
Eggs have been getting a bad rap these past few years. There is no need to worry. Eggs are an excellent source of protein and other nutrients. Studies have shown that eggs do not have a negative impact on cholesterol. In fact, they have shown that the regular consumption of 1-2 eggs per day does not affect a person’s lipid profile and may, in fact, improve it!

With that said, this food is also a regular in my household. From egg salad, to scrambled, to sunny side up…eggs are quick and easy to prepare. Here is a quick lunch idea: 2 hard boiled eggs, celery and carrot sticks with a whole wheat pita bread, and a greek yoghurt.

4-Yoghurt
Greek yoghurt is my favourite! It contains 3 times as much protein as regular yoghurt, and so it is much more filling.  As a snack or dessert I dress it up with some berries, instant oatmeal, and a few walnuts. Once in a while I will add a few semi-sweet chocolate chips as an added bonus!

5-Flaxseed
There is always ground flaxseed in my refrigerator. There are many reasons why we should be eating flaxseed daily. This little seed contains omega-3, which is a good fat linked to many benefits, including lowering risk of certain cancers, heart disease, and even diabetes. 1 tablespoon a day is all it takes, but… I add it to spaghetti sauce, meatloaf, cereal, pancakes, yoghurt, cookies…you name it!

Happy Holidays!

By Christina Timotheatos

My 5 favourite foods! is a post from Nautilus Plus. The Nautilus Plus blog aims to help people in their journey to fitness through articles on training, nutrition, motivation, exercise and healthy recipes.
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