The Meat Conundrum

We all know we should eat less meat, right? It’s better for our health; it’s better for the planet, it’s better for the animals. We know that eating less meat is good for many reasons, but are we reducing our meat intake? For those that love meat but want to be mindful of their consumption, supermarkets and restaurants can be a tough place to navigate.

The conventional way of raising meat is burdensome to the environment and less than stellar for the animals. According to the CDC, pollutants from factory farms can have a negative impact on humans and animals. The animals that call these factory farms home are treated as commodities and often experience intense confinement and inadequate treatment. This method of raising animals is viewed as the solution to feeding our growing population but is this really the best way forward? If you’re omnivorous and want to embark on a more mindful way of eating, you don’t have to abandon your burger all together.

LESS MEAT, BETTER MEAT
To improve animal welfare, reduce our carbon footprint and improve our health, we as eaters must vote with our forks. We should all be eating less but higher quality meat. To do so, we need to seek out animal proteins that have a higher standard of welfare. Finding a local supplier that you can develop a relationship with is great but perhaps not possible for everyone. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with food labels. Look for labels with a defined set of publicly available animal care standards that are third-party verified. In the café, look for dishes that blend meat with other ingredients like a mushroom blended burger.

MOVE MEAT BEYOND THE CENTER OF THE PLATE
There’s no question better meat can be expensive. If we think of meat as an indulgence and reduce the quantity that we consume, we can feel better about putting our hard earned dollars towards the good stuff. In countries around the world where meat is a luxury, it’s typically a garnish to the main dish of rice or noodles and lots of produce. Incorporating more dishes into your diet where meat plays a supporting role can reduce your meat intake without the feeling of deprivation.

SKIP MEAT NOW AND THEN
Another way to reduce your meat intake is to take a break from it for a meal or two throughout the week. Customize this to fit your lifestyle. Pick a night of the week to make a meatless meal. Others might prefer to skip meat at breakfast and lunch and have a small amount of animal protein at dinner.

Reference:

1. http://www.fao.org/ag/againfo/themes/en/Environment.html
2. https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/other/agricultural/afo.html
3. https://awionline.org/content/consumers-guide-food-labels-and-animal-welfare

Written by Julia Jordan.
OCTOBER 2018
balanceittakesyou.com

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Drink Healthy

With assistance from Northeastern graduate student Crystal (Sopher) Richardson

You are what you… DRINK?
The Healthier Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010 included the addition of the USDA Smart Snacks in Schools which prescribed limitations on beverages offered for sale to students during the school day.1  These guidelines eliminated the sale of sodas, caffeinated beverages in some states, and restricted the size of non-caloric beverages, milk and juice for all grade levels.  Many would agree that this was a courageous and much needed step to ensure that children developed healthy eating and DRINKING habits. School systems across the United States must have portable water available, free of charge and available to all students. Many school districts encourage the consumption of plain water by allowing students to have water bottles in class. Great steps, great idea, only one problem… what about the adults?

In 2006, a group of researchers from Across the US gathered together to collaborate and develop beverage guidelines as the Beverage Guidance Council.2  Although, over a decade has passed since they were developed, their advice still rings true. The Panel developed a six-level pitcher (see below), much like the food pyramid of the time, offering recommendations for healthy beverage consumption.

Level 1: Water
Water provides everything that the body needs.  Although, individual needs for water will differ as to the amount needed each day based on diet, weather, and activity level- the Institute of Medicine (IOM) does recommend 125 ounces a day for women and 91 ounces per day for men.3

Level 2: Unsweetened Tea or Coffee
When consumed plain, they are calorie-free and contain antioxidants, flavonoids and other biologically active substances that are good for your health

Level 3: Low-Fat and Skim Milk and Soy Beverages
Adults should limit milk to 1-2 cups per day, less being fine due to calories, but be sure that you are choosing other calcium-rich foods or you may need to consider a supplement to meet your calcium needs.

Level 4: Non-calorically Sweetened Beverages
This level encompasses artificially sweetened sports drinks and diet sodas.  Remember, these are a reduced calorie alternative, but should be consumed as a “treat” and not a replacement for water.

Level 5: Calorically Sweetened Beverages
The Beverage Guidance Panel gives this level its “least recommended” designation.  They are not recommended as a daily beverages due to their high calorie content and the fact that they provide little to no nutritional value.

Level 6: Alcoholic Beverages
The Panel does not offer guidance regarding alcoholic beverages; however the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines recommends consuming alcohol in moderation and should be considered as part of your daily recommended calorie intake.4 The Guidelines also offer drink equivalents for all alcoholic beverages that should be considered as well (https://health.gov/dietaryguidelines/2015/guidelines/appendix-9/). And of course... only for those of the legal drinking age.

References:

1. Tools for Schools: Focusing on Smart Snacks.  USDA website. https://www.fns.usda.gov/school-meals/tools-schools-focusing-smart-snacks .  Accessed March 24, 2018.
2. Healthy Beverage Guidelines.  The Nutrition Source: Harvard School of Public Health. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-drinks-full-story/ . Published 2006. Accessed March 13, 2018.
3. Dietary Reference Intakes: Water, Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Sulfate. http://nationalacademies.org/hmd/reports/2004/dietary-reference-intakes-water-potassium-sodium-chloride-and-sulfate.aspx Accessed April 11, 2018
4. Appendix 9. Alcohol. Dietary Guidelines 2015-2020. Health.gov. https://health.gov/dietaryguidelines/2015/guidelines/appendix-9/. Published 2015.  Accessed March 12, 2018.

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Focus on Whole, Minimally Processed Foods

With assistance from Northeastern graduate student Crystal (Sopher) Richardson

What’s the WHOLE story on Processed Foods?
Nutritionists and dietitians are often asked why processed foods are bad.  It’s not an easy question to answer.  Many refer to the fact that the “Diseases of Civilization” – heart disease, hypertension, tooth decay, diabetes and some cancers did not exist before the increased popularity of processed foods. Whole and minimally processed foods are prepared without copious amounts of added fat, salt or sugar, therefore maximizing the consumption of cancer-fighting nutrients and phytochemicals, that protect your body’s cells from damage. A 2017 study of 249 adolescents showed that the consumption of minimally processed foods was inversely associated with excess weight.1 Another study in 2016, published by Anthony Fardet showed a link between minimally processed foods and satiety versus ultra-processed foods.2

While most people know that eating a whole apple is much healthier than drinking apple juice or snacking on a fruit snack with apple juice added, can we really answer the question of why?  Processed foods are higher in sodium in most cases, leading to issues such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.   However, although the science can sometimes be confusing, highly processed foods can also have other effects on the body.

What we do know is that a healthy diet concentrates on consuming more whole and minimally processed foods.  The best rule of thumb? The closer the food is to its form found in nature, the healthier it will be.  These whole foods contain less fat, oil, salt and sugar and more fiber.    When choosing foods, refer to the following tips:

• Don’t be fooled by your taste buds.  Although some processed foods may not taste salty, the majority of American’s daily sodium intake comes from grains and meat.  Beware of commercially made baked goods and breakfast cereals.
• Use alternative seasonings such as vinegar, lemon juice and fresh herbs.
• Avoid processed meat products such as ground beef, deli meats and sausages – as over-consumption has been linked to colon cancer.
• Read nutrition labels on packaged foods to compare sodium and sugar.
• Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables.  Although canned and frozen alternatives are not bad, look for those with no added salt or sugar.
• Limit your intake of fast food.
• Buy your bread from a local bakery.
• In addition to your bread choice, when selecting foods like pastas, cereals, rice, and crackers always go for the whole-grain option.
• Fresh produce is less expensive and easier to find if you “eat seasonally”.  Visit your local farmers markets to buy your fruits and vegetables.
• Remember, meats and dairy are processed to increase shelf life.  Find a store or vendor that offers fresh local meats and dairy.

References:

1. Melo ISV, Costa CACB, Santos JVLD, Santos AFD, Florêncio TMMT, Bueno NB. Consumption of minimally processed food is inversely associated with excess weight in adolescents living in an underdeveloped city. PLoS ONE. 2017;12(11):e0188401.
2. Fardet A. Minimally processed foods are more satiating and less hyperglycemic than ultra-processed foods: a preliminary study with 98 ready-to-eat foods. Food & Function. 2016;7(5):2338-2346. doi:10.1039/c6fo00107f.

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Go “good fat”

When you are thinking about fat consider healthy fats versus non-fat food items.  When it comes to healthy eating the type of fat is just as important if not more important than the amount of fat. 

With that in mind, you should consider eating less high fat foods containing saturated and trans fatty acids (which can be easily spotted on the food label under partially hydrogenated oils) that are know to raise LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol in the body.  LDL is considered the "bad cholesterol" while HDL (high-density lipoprotein) appears to actually clear the "bad" types of cholesterol from the blood. You can help raise your HDL by incorporating exercise into your daily routine and consuming healthy fats.

To decrease your saturated fat intake you should consider eating less animal products, especially fatty parts of beef, pork, lamb and chicken and incorporate more plant protein options (soy, hummus, nuts, and seeds).  You can also decrease (not take away completely) your intake of cheese and whole fat milk products, along with other fats like butter and cream. You can replace these whole fat milk products with low fat milk and yogurts.

Healthy fats include both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which have both been found to lower LDL cholesterol.  Include the following food items that contain healthy fats as part of your healthy lifestyle.

• Canola and olive oil (use to make salad dressing or for making a stir fry)
• Olives (add to salads, hummus, or just as a snack)
• Avocados (add to a sandwich, salad, or as guacamole)
• Tuna and salmon (for a meal along side vegetables and whole grains)
• Tofu (in a stir fry or on a salad)
• Eggs (for breakfast or added to a salad)
• Sunflower seeds (as a snack or added to a salad)
• Almonds, walnuts, etc. (as an on-the-go snack or with your cereal and/or oatmeal) 
• Nut butters (dip an apple, banana, or pretzels)
• Flax seeds and flax meal (added to oatmeal, yogurt, cereal or baked into muffins)

Always keep in mind that fats will add calories, but if you are conscious of your portions then this should not be a problem.  Healthy fats in moderation are the way to go!

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Reduce Added Sugar

Currently, there are no federal guidelines regarding the amount of sugar you should consume.  However, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that we consume less sugar overall as part of a healthy lifestyle- no more than 6 teaspoons (tsp.) or 100 calories a day of sugar for most women and no more than 9 teaspoons or 150 calories a day for most men.

Added sugar in foods such as desserts, candy, cookies, soda, and many cereals are providing empty calories.  Empty calories are calories that contain no nutritional value. Taking in these added/extra calories overtime can lead to unwanted weight gain and can also impact blood sugar levels for those diagnosed with diabetes or pre-diabetes.

Reducing your sugar intake may be easier than you think.  Here are some tips to get you started!

• Cut down on adding sugar (table sugar, syrup, honey) to foods (cereal, cookies, pancakes) and beverages like coffee or tea. Try decreasing the amount you typically add and cut it in half and then continue to decrease from there.  
• Instead of adding sugar to cereal or oatmeal, try fresh fruit (bananas, blueberries, raspberries or strawberries) or dried fruit (raisins, cranberries or apricots).
• Remove soda. Choose a seltzer that's naturally flavored or you can add a splash of 100% fruit juice (such as Pomegranate, orange, grape…) to flavor a plain seltzer or just choose plain water if you don’t like the bubbles. 
• Avoid fruit canned in syrup, especially heavy syrup. Choose fresh, frozen, dried or canned fruits that are in water or natural juice. 
• When baking your favorite cookies, brownies or cakes, decrease the amount of sugar called for in the recipe. You can cut it by ½ the amount or slightly less and you will likely not even notice. 

Note: You do not need to count the naturally occurring sugars found in fruits and milk toward your daily intake of added sugar.

Bottom line is that it is important to be aware of your sugar intake and reduce it if you find that you are taking in more added sugar than the AHA recommends.  Use the tips mentioned above and work toward consuming less sugar overall.
Resources:

• Tips for Cutting Down on Sugar. Accessed January 24, 2018 http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/HealthyLiving/HealthyEating/Nutrition/Tips-for-Cutting-Down-on-Sugar_UCM_461811_Article.jsp#.WmkQbyMrJok

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Substantially Reduce Sugary Beverages, Innovate Replacements

Sugar-sweetened beverages contain lots of extra calories and almost no nutrients.  If you are consuming high-sugar drinks (i.e., soda or juice) regularly, over time it can lead to weight gain, which in turn will increases your risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease as well as other medical issues. Therefore, it is important to limit your intake of beverages that contain lots of added sugar!

As of now, there are no federal guidelines regarding the amount of sugar you should consume.  However, the American Heart Association recommends that we consume less sugar- no more than 6 teaspoons (tsp.) or 100 calories a day of sugar for most women and no more than 9 teaspoons or 150 calories a day for most men.

Flavored coffee: Be aware that the calories from sugar or flavored syrups added to these beverages will add up quickly.

Flavored waters seem to be one of the latest trends. Always check the labels as these beverages often contain added sugars.

Alternatives:

• Add slices of fruit to your water- lemons, limes, oranges, cucumber, melons… or a combination of these or other fruits and veggies.
• Add chopped fruit into ice cube trays with a little water- freeze. Throw those into your water to add some flavor.

Green Tea is another great alternative.  It contains lots of antioxidants, which is great! Drink it hot or cold if you want to sweeten your green tea try adding a little honey!

Seltzer water is a great option choose ones that are naturally flavored or you can add a splash of 100% fruit juice (such as Pomegranate, orange, grape…) to flavor a plain seltzer or just choose plain water it you don’t like the bubbles!

Milk is a great nutrient dense option

• Low-fat milk (skim milk, 1% low-fat milk)
• Milk provides important nutrients: protein, calcium and vitamin D
• Choose a low-fat version to supply fewer calories and less fat
• Keep in mind that flavored milk will provide about 5-6 tsp. of added sugar (per 8 oz. serving)

Note: You do not need to count the naturally occurring sugars found in fruits and milk toward your daily intake of added sugar.

Thirsty? Try One of these 9 Refreshing Alternatives to soda.

Resources:

• Public Health Newsletter, Healthy Drinks https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-drinks Accessed November 3, 2017
• Water: How much should you drink every day?  http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256 Accessed November 3, 2017
• Sugar 101: http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/HealthyLiving/HealthyEating/Nutrition/Sugar-101_UCM_306024_Article.jsp#.WOY94CMrLUQ  Accessed November 2, 2017

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Move Legumes to the Center of the Plate

Legumes are a group of vegetables that includes peas, lentils and beans (black-eyed peas, garbanzo beans, black beans, cannellini beans, and kidney), which are nutrient dense and provide a variety of health benefits.  They are low in calories, high in protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber, and provide beneficial vitamins and minerals including folate, iron, vitamin A, vitamin K, potassium, magnesium, and manganese.

Research has indicated many health benefits associated with consuming legumes include- a reduced risk in cardiovascular disease, hypertension, type II diabetes, and high blood pressure. Since legumes are high in complex carbohydrates, they have a low glycemic index making them a great choice for people with diabetes. Legumes are high in both soluble and insoluble fiber, which is great because that means consuming them aids in binding to cholesterol, regulating blood sugar, preventing constipation, and increasing satiety- helping with weight management.

It is important to remember if using canned beans to choose the low sodium options. Draining and rinsing is also recommended which removes about 40% of the sodium as well as reduces flatulence.

The USDA recommends 2.5 to 3.5 cups of legumes per week- most Americans do not meet these guidelines. Here are some ways to incorporate legumes into your meals and snacks to help provides some essential nutrients for a delicious and healthful meal.

• Add beans to stews, casseroles and homemade or prepared soups
• Use pureed beans as the base for dips 
• Use hummus as a spread on sandwiches instead of mayonnaise
• Add chickpeas/garbanzo, lentils or black beans to salads
• Add cooked beans to chili, meatballs or burgers
• Grab a handful of soy nuts for a snack

Note: Make sure to include more water and incorporate exercise into your day to help your gastrointestinal system handle the increase in dietary fiber from legumes.

References

1. Azadbakht L, Haghighatdoost F, Esmaillzadeh A. Legumes: A component of a healthy diet. J Res Med Sci. 2011; 16(2):121-122.
2. Tufts University Health and Nutrition Letter. Add These Lesser-Known Legumes to Your Healthy Pantry. 2015; 32(11):6(1) http://www.nutritionletter.tufts.edu/issues/10_13/current-articles/Add-These-Lesser-Known-Legumes-to-Your-Healthy-Pantry_1621-1.html  Accessed October 26, 2017
3. Mudryj AN, Yu N, Aukema HM. Nutritional and health benefits of pulses. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2014; 39:1197-1204. doi: dx.doi.org/10.1139/apnm-2013-0557
4. Beans and other legumes: cooking tips. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/legumes/art-20044278?pg=1 Accessed October 26, 2017

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Mindful Eating: Be in the moment!

Mindfulness is about paying attention. Mindfulness promotes balance, choice, wisdom and acceptance.1 Mindful eating has benefits that will enhance health and well-being. Mindful eating also allows you to be more aware of physical hunger and fullness (satiety) cues to help determine when to begin and when to stop eating. 

Although the trend these days is to eat while working, watching TV, playing video games, or even texting. This type of behavior may result in eating carelessly and more often you may not be aware of feelings fullness, which could result in taking in extra calories that may contribute to future weight gain. Health and proper nutrition may be forgotten while this type of convenience is practiced. 

Some tips to help guide you to more mindful eating:

1. Prepare meals or at the very least think about meals ahead of time. Take time to think about and/or prepare the following day’s meals. When you are busy this can take extra time, but it is worth it.  
2. Allow 15-20 minutes or even longer for meal times.  Eat while sitting down and start to concentrate on the flavor, texture, chewing, and finally swallowing of foods. This might sound like a lot to do, but it will help you become more aware and result in enjoying your food- as food should be enjoyed! 
3. Avoid reading, watching T.V., or driving while eating. These activities while eating will distract you from being mindful at a meal or snack.
4. Try taking a deep breath before and after meals, this can help you to focus on the meal in front of you.
5. Choose portions/serving sizes adequate for your individual needs. Wait about 10-20 minutes for food to begin to digest and the feeling of fullness to set in, before going for seconds or reaching for something else.

Mindfulness begins with focusing on one task at a time such as eating a meal. The best way to stay mindful is to focus on the current task (eating a meal).  Mindfulness can have a direct positive effect on your overall health and well-being!

Check out this handout from the Center of Mindfulness to learn other strategies. http://thecenterformindfuleating.org/resources/Documents/FFTHandout2017Winter_Starting.pdf 

Resources:

1. Principles of Mindful Eating. Retrieved March 7, 2017 from: http://thecenterformindfuleating.org/Principles-Mindful-Eating

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Serving Less Red Meat, Less Often

Red meat—beef, pork, and lamb—can be enjoyed occasionally, in small portions. The serving recommendation for red meat is two, 3-ounce servings per week. Keep in mind that a 3 oz. portion is the size of a deck of cards.

When replacing red meat in a meal, add poultry or fish (3-6 oz./day) and/or beans and nuts whenever possible. Another great strategy is to think of meat as a side dish verses the main dish or try having meatless meals a few times a week. This can not only offer health benefits, but it can also help save you money!

A plant-based diet that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes and nuts provides a great source of fiber as well as lots of vitamins and minerals. Individuals who eat only plant-based foods, such as vegetarians tend to eat less calories and fat overall, which in turn will likely result in a lower body weight. Another benefit of a vegetarian diet is a decreased risk of heart disease.

If you enjoy meat you do not need to become a vegetarian to gain health benefits. You can still enjoy meat, but just less often. Those who eat mostly plant-based foods, but still includes meat, poultry and fish occasionally are considered "flexible-vegetarians" or "flexitarians." This type of healthy eating is similar to the Mediterranean diet, which has been shown to reduce your risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions.

When your meals do include meat, choose lean cuts and watch your portions! Remember that a serving of meat should be no more than 3 ounces/meal. Your protein/meat source should take up a ¼ of your plate. Vegetables and fruits should cover ½ of your plate and whole grains should make up the rest.

Resources:

1. Meatless Meals Once or Twice a Week. http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/meatless-meals/art-20048193?pg=2 Accessed on December 5, 2016.
2. The flexitarian Diet. http://www.webmd.com/diet/a-z/flexitarian_diet Accessed on December 5, 2016.

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Implementing Menus of Change this December

with campus executive chef Tom Barton

As you may have already seen or heard, Northeastern is actively participating in something called Menus of Change. This initiative is a collaboration between the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the Culinary Institute of America.

Menus of Change is built on twenty-four principles that revolve around sustainable eating and education about making healthier food and drink choices. Northeastern Dining has been involved with Menus of Change – and its companion educational initiative, the Menus of Change Research Collaborative – for well over a year. We typically focus on two principles a month. This month we are focusing on "Leverage globally inspired, plant-based culinary strategies" as well as "Serve less red meat, less often."

One of the exciting and unique things about all of the principles is that the schools participating in the initiative each interpret them slightly differently. A dish that we have on our menus that I think exemplifies these globally inspired plant-based culinary strategies is a turnip osso bucco. Osso bucco is traditionally a meat dish made with either veal or lamb shanks and slowly braised with wine, tomato, vegetables and stock. We have taken this same technique and applied it to certain vegetables, namely turnips and carrots. We like to use purple top turnips and leave the skin on for flavor and nutritional benefit. The turnips are first seared to give a nice golden brown color and, like the more traditional dish, slowly braised with vegetables, tomatoes, and vegetable stock until tender. We also do this dish with carrots and I have to say the results are stunning. Even those who don't like turnips (me included) have gone back for seconds!

Another example on the menus of actually both principles we are featuring is some of our "blended" dishes. Our version of blending involves reducing the amount of meat in something and replacing it with ground mushrooms. For instance, our meatloaf is a blend of 60% beef and 40% ground mushrooms. We are currently using this blending technique in many other dishes as well, including chili and meatballs.

More information on Menus of Change can be found on our website at www.nudining.com/menusofchange and www.menusofchange.org.

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Local Apple Sauce and Transparency in Sourcing

with campus executive chef Tom Barton

As you may have seen – or already tasted! – we are now featuring an awesome, delicious, and locally sourced apple sauce. The sauce is made with apples grown in local Massachusetts orchards. And if that wasn't enough, there is only one ingredient: apples. That's right, just apples. No sweeteners or additives, just 100% locally sourced apples. Currently, it is being made with Macintosh apples but changes with the seasonal offerings.

The sauce is made by Karl Dias – commonly referred to in our kitchens as "the apple sauce guy." Karl reports that he has a steady supply of various varieties of apples and will continue to make sauce throughout the winter. Karl sent me a note over the weekend letting me know that he just finished a batch using macoun apples and thought it just might top his current batch of Macintosh sauce!

Because of the outstanding flavor, clean label, and local regionality of the product, we wanted to feature it as quickly as possible. However, not knowing how well it would be received we started with just a few cases and within a day had to order more. I think the first week Karl delivered to us three times just to make sure we had enough!

The apple sauce is currently being featured in a few different places around campus. It is available in both Stetson East and International Village at the yogurt stations for lunch and dinner. Additionally, we are making "apple sauce parfaits" with apple sauce and either raisins or dried cranberries. These grab-and-go items are available at On The Go, Outtakes, and café716.

Karl also stopped by to talk with and educate students about his product at our recent "Culinary Chat" table at International Village last week (photo above).

These are the types of local, seasonal items we at Northeastern Dining continue to search for and serve on a year round basis.

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Produce First!

Choosing vegetables and fruits at each meal, will help add color and texture to your plate! If you include all different fruits and vegetables as a part of a healthy eating plan you will end up taking in lots of important nutrients (potassium, fiber, folic acid, and vitamins A, E, and C). Keep in mind the more colorful, the more nutrients!

Pick your vegetables and fruits first
Then add on your protein (beans, chicken, beef, etc.) and grains/starch (whole wheat pasta, brown rice, whole grain breads, etc.).

Make half of your plate vegetables
Lots of the produce offered in the Northeastern dining halls is from local farmers, which is really great! Be sure to check out the apple sauce in the dining halls made by a local company with just whole apples (no additives or preservatives). Fruits and vegetables are also:

• A great source of fiber that helps fill you up and keeps your digestive 
system regular.
• Naturally a low calorie/low fat food.
• A great on-the-go snack. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables may also help reduce the risk of many diseases, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and digestive problems.

Resources:

1. Top 10 Reasons to Eat more Fruits and Vegetables. http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/ Accessed on November 20, 2016
2. The Nutrition Source: Vegetable and Fruits. http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/vegetables-and-fruits/ Accessed on November 20, 2016

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Moving Legumes to the Center of the Plate

With assistance from Northeastern graduate student Jennifer Chisam

What Are Legumes?
Legumes, specifically black-eyed peas, garbanzo beans, black beans, cannellini beans, kidney beans, and lentils, are nutrient dense foods with many health benefits. These legumes are high in protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber, as well as many vitamins and minerals. According to the USDA MyPlate dietary guidelines, legumes are even part of two food groups, the meat group and the vegetable group. While current legume consumption is low, garbanzo beans – in the form of hummus – are on the rise.

Are Legumes Healthy?
Research has indicated many health benefits associated with consuming legumes including a reduced risk in cardiovascular disease, hypertension, type II diabetes, and high blood pressure. Since legumes are high in complex carbohydrates, they have a low glycemic index making them a great choice for people with diabetes. Being high in both soluble and insoluble fiber, legumes provide a feeling of fullness known as satiety, which also aids in weight management. Black eyed peas are higher in soluble fiber which binds to cholesterol and aids in blood sugar regulation. Garbanzo beans are higher in insoluble fiber which helps with digestion, prevents constipation, and increases satiety. It is important to remember if using canned beans to reach for the low sodium options. Draining and rinsing is also recommended which removes about 41% of the sodium as well as reduces flatulence. Kidney beans are high in protein, low in carbohydrates, low in fat and calories, and are nutrient dense. Cannellini beans, or white kidney beans, are high in protein, high in soluble fiber, and nutrient dense. Legumes also contain beneficial vitamins and minerals including folate, vitamin A, vitamin K, potassium, magnesium, and manganese.

Making Legumes a Staple Choice
With the USDA recommends 2.5 to 3.5 cups of legumes per week, less than 13% of Americans actually meet these guidelines. Adding garbanzo beans or lentils to a salad will help provides some essential nutrients for a delicious and healthful meal. Also try using hummus as a spread instead of mayonnaise for a healthier more nutrient-dense option. Cannellini beans are a great addition to many soups including the traditional Italian minestrone. All can help you feel full while giving your body nutrients it needs to help reduce health risks and maintain a healthy weight.

References

1. Azadbakht L, Haghighatdoost F, Esmaillzadeh A. Legumes: A component of a healthy diet. J Res Med Sci. 2011; 16(2):121-122.
2. Tufts University Health and Nutrition Letter. Add These Lesser-Known Legumes to Your Healthy Pantry. 2015; 32(11):6(1) http://www.nutritionletter.tufts.edu/issues/10_13/current-articles/Add-These-Lesser-Known-Legumes-to-Your-Healthy-Pantry_1621-1.html.
3. Mudryj AN, Yu N, Aukema HM. Nutritional and health benefits of pulses. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2014; 39:1197-1204. doi: dx.doi.org/10.1139/apnm-2013-0557.
4. SELFNutrition Data. Know what you eat. http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/2324/2.

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Embracing "Menus of Change" In Our Kitchens

with campus executive chef Tom Barton

As you may know by now, the Northeastern dining team has been heavily engaged in Menus of Change. Our latest initiatives include finding ways to move vegetables and legumes to the center of the plate as well as including more globally inspired plant based recipes.

Legumes are packed full of flavor, contain plant protein and fiber and, from an environmental perspective, produce an impressive amount of protein per acre. Some examples of current menu offerings include lentil bolognese, a healthier take on the classic dish made with traditional meat sauce, a delicious Cajun lentil stew, and a refreshing lentil couscous that is perfect for spring time. Many grains and legumes can also be found on the salad and vegetarian stations. Try "hacking" your meal by adding any of them to just about any soup to create a heartier version or try infusing them into some of the brown rice dishes!

We have also been applying some techniques and recipes that have traditionally been used with meat and applying them to vegetables such as slow braising turnips "osso bucco" and Vindaloo of sweet potatoes and spinach. Other plant-based strategies include offering a burger that is blended with mushrooms for added flavor and juiciness and our "Plantiful" grain and vegetable-based bowls. Growing plants for food generally have less of a negative impact on the environment.

We continue to embrace the principles of Menus of Change with the health and nutrition of our students, faculty and staff in the front of our minds as we continue our menu development.

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Enjoying Traditional Foods on Special Occasions

Many of you may have gotten some chocolates or yummy desserts for Valentine's Day. You might have a birthday coming up or a friend's or family's birthday celebration to attend, what about the cake? How about St. Patrick's Day around the corner with corned beef and hash?

With special occasions, come special treats and, sometimes, less healthy meal options. Consider this: most special occasions are not all that frequent and only come around but once a year. When celebrating friend and family birthdays this comes about more often so what to do!? Think moderation!

Making healthier choices, choosing smaller portions of less healthy food options and choosing desserts that are lower in fat and calories- that is a good idea. When you start to restrict and depriving yourself of foods that you want and enjoy you tend to want them even more. Again, think moderation when it comes to desserts in a healthy diet!

There is nothing wrong with occasionally enjoying a calorie dense piece of cake, pie, or cookie as part of a special occasion. It's a good idea to avoid keeping these types of desserts on hand regularly. Try to save these treats for special occasions or once in awhile.

Things to think about:

• Consider the portion of the dessert or piece of cake – try to avoid overindulging.
• Same goes for those less healthy special occasion dishes
• If you got dark chocolates for Valentine's Day then you can take in some good antioxidants. Just don't forget all chocolate contains fat in calories. Choose portions wisely!
• If you are making a dessert for a special occasion, use fruit as a base or add some to a treat to add sweetness instead sugar.

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Celebrating Cultural Diversity

All of us belong to a cultural group and one’s culture most often influences daily food choices. Unfortunately, sometimes our favorite cultural dishes contain a great deal of fat and calories. One way to reduce fat and calories in these dishes is to swap out ingredients for ones that are lower in fat in calories. For example, if a recipe calls for cream or whole milk, choose low fat or skim milk instead. You can always use a little less of ingredients such as shredded cheese to cut back on calories and fat.

Foods from various cultures can be healthy or unhealthy. To balance things out, some cultures choose their large meal early in the day and have a light meal at night. Other cultures may include foods that are high in calories but were brought up practicing portion control and not overindulging on these foods. There are many cultural cuisines that contain lots of healthy foods including fiber-rich grains, protein-rich legumes along with a variety of vegetables.

When you make your favorite recipes at home, here are some ingredients you can choose instead to make them a little healthier:

Instead of this ingredient	Try this ingredient
Shortening or butter to coat pans	Vegetable spray
Butter or Margarine	Low/fat free margarine, canola, safflower, or olive oil
Whole milk	Skim milk or plain non-fat yogurt
Full fat cheese	Part-skim milk cheeses
Sour cream	Low-fat or fat-free sour cream
Baking chocolate	3 Tbsp. cocoa powder plus 2 tsp. of water for each ounce of chocolate
1 whole egg	2 egg whites
Meat with skin on it	Remove skin prior to cooking
Dark poultry meat	White meat
Frying food	Bake or broil them
Fatty ground meat	Lean ground meat (90-95% lean)
Stews and casseroles that are heavy on meat and light on vegetables	Increase vegetables and decrease meats
Regular Mayo and/or salad dressing	Low-fat mayo and/or salad dressing
Full portion of traditional food	Half portions
Canned foods	Fresh or frozen as an alternative
Red meats (bacon, sausage, luncheon meats)	Turkey, chicken, or fish

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