Trading Up Downtown

Grocery shopping at 7:00 AM this morning was awesome. I didn’t have to battle any crowds, there were no lines, and I could focus on finding the best deals and using my coupons to save money. I ended up saving a whopping $17 off my bill! Sweet!

Here’s this week’s cart:

• Bananas (NuVal score: 91)
• Broccoli (NuVal score: 100)
• Tomatoes (NuVal score: 96)
• Stonyfield Fat Free French Vanilla Yogurt (NuVal score: 39)
• Peaches (NuVal score: 99)
• Vans Organic Flax Frozen Waffles (NuVal score: 34)
• Eggland’s Best eggs (NuVal score: 44)
• Arugula (NuVal score: 82)

• Onion (NuVal score: 93)
• Green bell pepper (NuVal score: 94)
• Non-fat milk (NuVal score: 91)
• Canned chickpeas (NuVal score: 88)
• Strawberries (NuVal score: 100)
• Mushrooms (NuVal score: 96)
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (NuVal score: 12)
• Teddie Super Chunky (NuVal score: 38)
• Arnold Natural Flax & Fiber Bread (NuVal score: 48)

I need to brag a little bit. Over the weekend, I had the opportunity to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida. I’m not typically a fan of theme parks, but this one was different. It was SO cool!

I walked around the park a with a big, goofy smile on my face all afternoon long. The day definitely brought out the kid in me!

One of the reasons that I don’t typically like theme parks is because they are overpriced and crowded. I don’t like spending my hard earned money on overpriced entertainment and food, and I’m impatient so long lines really annoy me.

But, did you know that there is a time of year when it’s less crowded and often cheaper to go to a theme park? Well, it turns out that in September theme parks are practically abandoned when kids return to school, so the parks and surrounding hotels practically give things away. Even better, the weather is still nice and there are very few lines. Sweet!

We all know that eating out, especially at fast food restaurants, is not usually the healthiest option. Eating just one fast food meal can pack enough calories, sodium, and saturated fat for an entire day, but, of course, the fast-and-easy temptation is tough to resist. However, as an informed customer, you can make healthier and more nutritious choices and still enjoy the convenience of fast food restaurants. Here are a few of my tips for enjoying fast food in a “healthy” way.

Drink water with your meal. If you’re going to indulge in fast food, skip the soda all together. There is nothing nutritious about soda!

Watch portion size. Order a small to help reduce unneeded calories and fat. If the “small” is not really small in size, share it with someone or take part of it home for later.

Make careful selections. Pay attention to menu descriptions and ask employees for clarification about particular menu items. Seemingly healthy items can be deep-fried, batter-dipped or breaded, which adds extra calories, sodium, and unhealthy fats to your meal. Similarly, if nutritional information is available on-site or online, consult it before making your meal decision.

Nix the extras. For example, if you order a burger, nix the cheese and/or “special” sauce, and eat your burger plain or with healthy toppings like lettuce, tomato, salsa or pickles. Same goes for salads: Order them without cheese and the dressing on the side.

Eat mindfully. Savor each bite, chew your food thoroughly, stop eating when you are full, and try to avoid eating on the run.

Enjoy the splurge and don’t feel guilty about it! Of course, moderation is key, but if you over-do-it, try to get back track the very next day with extra healthy meals and some exercise.

What are your best tips for enjoying fast food in a healthy way?

Trading Up Downtown Giveaway

Thanks to everyone who entered last week’s giveaway! Here’s your winner: 67!

67. Marie

Fajita peppers and onions and lots of guac!

Congrats, Marie! Please email me at thaupert@nuval.com with your full name and mailing address to claim your prize.