Health goals are a lifelong commitment that can be reached successfully with gradual changes. By setting goals that make sense for you and fit into your lifestyle, you'll be able to make changes that can help you lead a longer, healthier life. Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Choose breads and cereals made with whole grains because they are higher in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Add cooked, dried beans or peas into casseroles, salads, soups and side dishes.
Beans are low in fat, high in protein and an alternative to meat.
Limit your intake of high-fat foods, particularly from animal sources. The switch can be as simple as using vegetable oil spray instead of straight vegetable oil or trying tuna packed in water, not oil. Choose low-fat dairy products. Instead of fried foods try baking, broiling or grilling. Eat smaller portions of meat and select cuts that are lean, not marbled with fat.