Tip 1 : Short on time: Buy ready-made pasta meals and add cooked vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or peas. Look for low-sodium pasta options

Tip 2 : Make half your grains whole! This includes rice, bread, crackers, cereal, popcorn--look for the word "whole" on the ingredients list!

Tip 3 : Rinse veggies under running water before preparing or eating them to remove dirt and microbes on the surface.

Tip 4 : Make your own watermelon ice-it's a nice refreshment on a hot day. Check online for recipes.

Tip 5 : Look for lower fat cheeses like part-skim mozzarella, or reduced fat versions of Monterey Jack, Swiss, Colby, Cheddar & Muenster.

Tip 6 : Enjoy eggs as your protein food choice--up to one a day, on average, doesn't raise blood cholesterol levels!

Tip 7 : Try a whole-grain pancake or waffle mix to start off your day. If made from scratch, use whole-wheat flour for half the flour.

Tip 8 : Top loin pork roast is a lean cut of meat. Serve it sliced, and save the rest for another meal.

Tip 9 : Support your health and community by buying locally-grown vegetables. Try visiting a farmers market near you.

Tip 10 : Need a healthier dessert? Try baked fruit desserts. Check online for recipes that have little added sugars or solid fats.