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Food tastes better when there's someone sitting across the
table. A good part of the pleasure of eating comes from enjoying
other's company during a meal.
People living alone often neglect to eat nutritious meals
because there is less incentive to cook. Those who eat alone
often select diets that are below par in recommended nutrients,
grazing through the day or indulge at one meal and skipping
others because they have no one to eat with.
To make the most of eating alone, try the following ideas.
- The eyes have it: add pizazz to dining by dressing up the
table with a placemat, flowers, candles and other special touches
to remind you that eating can be a pleasant, leisurely
experience. Eat colorful meals. A plate containing several colors
looks more appetizing. Sliced red tomatoes, green peas and orange
carrot sticks with browned meat makes a more appealing meal than
white or brown foods.
- Texture tips: eat crispy or shredded low-sugar cereals in
yogurt for breakfast. Include different textures within the same
meal--soft, chewy, crisp and firm. Adapt the textures to chewing
ability. Even those who need a softer diet can try soft
vegetables or fruits.
- Enjoy companionship: those who live alone can invite a
friend over for dinner, eat out once a week with friends, plan
lunches with others or visit a senior center at lunchtime.
Prepare a new recipe each week and invite friends over for a
tasting party or potluck meal. When dining out alone, choose
restaurants that serve family style with large groups of
customers seated at the same table. You may end up with good
company.
- Convenience counts: buy prepackaged mixed salad greens and
salad bar vegetables, especially green peppers, spinach,
broccoli, carrots and tomatoes. Salads made with these are great
sources of vitamins A and C. Add salad bar vegetables to stir-fry
meals. Combine a prepackaged frozen entree with fresh or frozen
vegetables and fresh fruits. Watch the entree label for sodium
and fat content. When you cook, make a large batch of food and
freeze left overs in small portions for later.
- Breakfast bonus: even if you're in a hurry or don't
feel hungry, take time for breakfast. Spread a thin layer of
peanut butter on whole wheat toast and add sliced fruit. Eat near
a window and watch the sunrise or birds in the trees. Use your
best dishes and feel special.
For more information, contact your local
Colorado State University Extension office.
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