Diet Secrets Exposed: My Interview with Carolyn Hunter

1. Name a few foods that people believe to be bad (or not so great) that are actually good for you.

Dark Meat – dark meat has more fat than white meat does, but the extra fat in dark meat raises your levels of cholecystokinin (CCK), a hormone that makes you feel fuller, longer, which means you’ll be less likely to overeat. An ounce of dark turkey meat has just 8 more calories than an ounce of white meat.

Celery – Studies have shown that this crunchy snack (which tastes great with peanut butter) is beneficial to persons with hypertension.  It contains compounds that relax muscle tissue in artery walls and increase blood flow, according to nutritionist Jonny Bowden, Ph.D., author of The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth. Celery also fills you up with almost no calories.

Sweet Potato – This sweet treat is high in fiber content, contains complex carbohydrates, protein, vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium, and is ranked highest in nutritional value compared to spinach and broccoli according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest (a non-profit independent organization). So, eating more sweet potatoes will give you a diet that is high in fiber, provides many nutrients, is rich in complex carbohydrates, and is low in fat. Bon Appétit!

2. Are there any foods that are good for shedding pounds?

I am not aware of any foods that are good for shedding pounds; however, lowering your daily caloric intake is necessary for shedding pounds. Eating small portions of low calorie foods without sacrificing your daily nutrition is important.  www.choosemyplate.gov is a great resource for learning about healthy, low fat, low calorie eating.  Also, a healthy diet can reduce your risk of illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, and boost your mood.  In order to lose excess body weight, exercise must accompany a healthy diet. So, find an activity you enjoy and add it to your day.

3. What advice would you give to someone who is trying to create a healthier diet?

As a fitness instructor, I would advise someone who is trying to create a healthier diet to consult his/her physician, seek a referral to a nutritionist, and visit www.choosemyplate.gov for basic information on good food choices.  It’s also good practice to drink plenty of water, add raw fruits and veggies to your meals; eat reasonable portions, lower your intake of sugary snacks and drinks, take time to chew your food and enjoy mealtimes. Eat breakfast (A healthy breakfast can jumpstart your metabolism).

As Carolyn mentioned, adding an enjoyable exercise to you day will speed up weight loss and help you maintain a healthy body. Zumba is a great way to incorporate exercise without the boring workout routine. Luckily, her Zumba class is starting soon at Continuing Education.

For more information call 706.507.8070 or register for Continuing Education classes online at ColumbusState.edu/CE.

-Kindra Hunter