Livin' Lean Topic Tuesday: Why I Think It's Great When "Cookin' Lean" Makeovers Increase Fiber...& A Giveaway Winner!

First, I would like to announce the winner of her very own copy of RUN LIKE A GIRL: HOW STRONG WOMEN MAKE HAPPY LIVES. Miss Jessica from Kitchen Belleicious is the winner! Jessica now has a great summer read to enjoy. Thanks to all who entered! And if you haven't been by to see what Jessica has cookin', please do! She also has a great site for kids; Belleicious Kids. Great stuff!

Now...why do I think it is so great when my recipe makeovers increase the fiber content? Here's why!

• Fiber has been shown to reduce the risk of developing various conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, diverticular disease, and constipation.
• Fiber is a carbohydrate that the body cannot digest; found in all fruits, vegetables, grains & legumes.
• Studies are showing that whole grain versions of fiber are most likely leading the health benefits of fiber consumption.

I overheard some ladies talking about whole grain bread and white bread. They said they like the taste of white better and there really wasn't a significant difference in calories. This may be true, but what there ladies are forgetting about it FIBER! It's not just about calories and fat. We need to remember to fill our bodies with fruits, veggies and whole grains. Since recently realizing the full importance of watching fiber intake, I now include it in the nutrition facts for each recipe I do. When the fiber content goes up, I am one happy cook! Here are some ways to guarantee an increase in fiber in your cookin':

• Substitute whole grain versions of bread, pasta and rice.
• Use fresh vegetables for snacking instead of chips and crackers.
• Use fruit and vegetable purees in place of butter or oil.
• Use legumes instead of meat in dishes like soups, chilis or burritos.
• Use whole grain cereals for cookies or breading dishes like chicken tenders.

Hope you all have a wonderful Tuesday!

I am really excited about this summer and having the opportunity to be busy in the kitchen. My Mom is visiting this week and we have great things planned: Paula's Buttery Crab Pot Pies, Paula's Hummingbird Cake, Rach's Creamy Freeze Pops (Kimber's Korner) and last but not least...Giada's Coffee-Glazed Italian Donuts.

We better get cookin'!

And congrats, JESSICA! Email me your shipping address to cookinlean@gmail.com and I will get your book right out to you!! You're gonna love it!



**Information for this post on fiber was taken from the Harvard School of Public Health. Fiber: Start Roughing It!