nutrition

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for weight control. Recent studies are beginning to identify eating patterns that are associated with healthy body weights. But none of these findings are of much value unless they are personalized for you. So get ready to look inward and reflect. You too can be successful if you take the time to get to know yourself.

I'm often amazed by the number of people who worry a lot about food additives but pay little or not attention to sodium. Generally speaking, their concerns ought to be reversed.

As children, my siblings and I grew up in the city. Our parents bought all our food from the supermarket. But for two weeks every summer for a number of years, they took us to visit good friends of theirs who had a farm on 20 acres in Vermont. We fed the pigs, cows, goats, sheep, and chickens. We gardened, learning to tell the delicate green fronds of baby carrot tops from the equally delicate baby weeds. We picked blackberries, ate them until we were covered with purple stains, and gave the remainder over to be made into pies.

Grocery stores nationwide are hopping on the whole-food bandwagon, helping health-conscious shoppers make wiser choices. Aisle by aisle, customers are presented with dozens of options - whole-wheat pasta or the ready-made boxed version? The low-fat, low-calorie frozen lunch or the frozen pepperoni pizza? Although most stores have begun offering healthier versions of classic favorites, ultimately the choice is yours. Here are a few ways to healthfully navigate those supermarket aisles:

1. Find the right supermarket