Family Reunions the Healthy Living Way

By Stacy Simon Whether it’s your first family reunion or your 50th, getting the whole family together is likely to involve food, activities, and lots and lots of family stories. Family reunions are a time to reminisce about the old days and create new traditions, a chance to reconnect with family members, and to meet new ones. If you’re planning or attending a family reunion this summer, make healthy living a part of the activities for young and old alike. Choose a healthier menu This year, adapt some family recipes to incorporate ingredients that are lower in fat, salt, and calories. You’ll be teaching a new generation to love a healthier version of your family’s treasured favorites. At the same time, you’ll be helping the older folks who may have high blood pressure, diabetes, extra weight, or other conditions that require special attention to eating healthy. Follow food safety tips Food spoils quicker in warmer temperatures. Make sure you follow safety tips like these from the US Department of Agriculture: Wash hands, utensils, containers, and work surfaces before handling food to prevent harmful bacteria from spreading.Cook food the same day you plan to serve it, not in advance, to give bacteria less time to grow. Cool food quickly by spreading it out in shallow containers and refrigerating.Keep mayonnaise-based foods cold.Wash melons and tomatoes before cutting, in case bacteria are present on the rind or peel. Refrigerate the cut pieces imm...
Source: American Cancer Society :: News and Features - Category: Cancer & Oncology Tags: Diet/Exercise/Weight Source Type: news