How do I make a healthy St. Patrick's Day meal?

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

You can fix up a traditional St. Patrick's Day meal while maintaining a healthful eating plan. Here are tasty tips for preparing a healthy Irish feast:

For corned beef, purchase the leanest brisket possible and trim off any extra fat before cooking. Also rinse with water to remove the brine.
Prepare mashed potatoes with low-fat or fat-free sour cream and milk in place of butter. Season to taste with garlic and onion powders and pepper.
Steam vegetables to maintain as many vitamins and nutrients as possible.
Serve corned beef on whole-wheat bread with reduced-fat Swiss cheese. Mix low-fat or fat-free mayonnaise with horseradish for a tasty condiment.

If you just can't part with traditional, higher-calorie ingredients, eat a lighter meal earlier in the day, eat smaller portions and get some physical activity to burn some calories.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Cooking & Health

Most Americans don't prepare meals from scratch, and many eat out frequently. Reconnecting with food by cooking it can improve not only taste but health. How you cook can make a difference not only to taste, but nutrition. Boiling broccoli or cabbage can destroy antioxidants. Microwaving or cooking on a griddle can preserve them. Stir-frying can be a good, quick way to prepare food too. Frozen and fresh vegetables have similar nutrient levels (not always similar taste). Canned foods do not. Some foods require adequate cooking time to ensure safety. If you think you don't have time to cook, a little planning can go a long way. Veggies may be pre-cut when time permits, and beans or pasta can be prepared in advance without loss of flavor or nutritional value. Many recipes may be modified to lower fat or sugar variations.

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