The New Year brings great hope and wonderful expectations. If your resolution is to improve your diet, make healthier meal choices or weight loss, make sure to incorporate dry fruits and mixed nuts as a vital part of your meal plan, which would give better results and compliance
than those that don’t.

First write down your goal, and share with someone you trust for accountability, take small steps, add flavor and keep it fun! Dried fruits like apples, apricots, cherries and sun-dried tomatoes offer healthier alternatives to refined sugar, and they are an excellent way to satisfy a sweet craving. While also providing higher levels of antioxidants, betacarotene, folic acid, fiber, iron, vitamins A and C. Healthy nuts such as almonds, pecans and walnuts are also great sources of protein, minerals and other life-enhancing nutrients. They will keep you full longer throughout the day with the satiety or “filling” value containing protein, fiber, healthy fats and will add a boost to daily nutrient intake.

Dried fruits and mixed nuts are so healthful, delicious and versatile. You can use them in sweet and savory breakfast and snacks such as dips, cereal, yogurt, oatmeal and trail mixes. They add to a variety of entree dishes like salads, veggies, rice, stuffing, breads, pastas and all types of desserts. There are so many choices. For great ideas on indulging your appetite while maintaining your waistline and wallet check out our Pinterest boards: http://pinterest.com/basketbox/