Salad... Healthy or Not?

I remember reading ages ago that most people should opt for a large piece of chocolate fudge cake instead of their salad.  They would consume less calories and fat.

Crazy, right?!

One thing to help curb salad calories is to always have the dressing on the side.  Load up your salad on the fork.  Dip prongs in the dressing and enjoy.  It takes a bit to get use to this method of eating salad, but the health benefits are worth it.

Another way to curb those unneeded calories is to measure out one serving of dressing.  Place your salad and the dressing in a large bowl and mix.  The only reason I prefer the above method to this one is simple.  The taste of the dressing is more intense when placed directly on the tongue before chewing.  Mixing the salad and dressing just means a lighter taste, but it does make it alot more convenient.

Remember when making a salad to include a variety of veggies in all colors and hues.  Avocado is a great source of good fat as are seeds and nuts.  Just remember these are high fat and calorie foods, so use sparingly.

Salad is not a meal without protein.  Read your labels or search the net for calorie counts and serving sizes.  One serving of protein is more than enough for a healthy salad.

Continue eating your favorite salads during the cold wintry months.  Just consider changing it a bit to make a healthier alternative.  Salad is a wonderful way to keep looking trim all year round.