Dear Foodlover,

Negative calorie foods are foods that supposedly require more calories to digest than the amount of calories the foods themselves contain. Although there is no proof that negative calorie food diets make you lose weight, nutrition professionals  say snacking on these foods, or using them to satisfy cravings, is a good idea...simply because they are healthy and low-cal.  My personal favorite  negative calorie foods are asparagus, broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, spinach, watermelon, honeydew, strawberries, apples, pineapple, peaches, cantaloupe and blueberries.  And of course these foods are only negative calorie foods in their natural state, not when they're slathered in butter or canned in heavy syrup (Doy!).  Experts agree that the best option for long-term weight loss success is to consume negative calorie foods as part of a balanced diet.  And, of course, they also recommend exercise.

Dear Hungry Girl,

I'm heading out to the beach this weekend and want to avoid snacking on the hot dogs, french fries and ice cream I'll be tempted to indulge in. Any ideas for some healthy beach snacks?

-- Seeking Snacks by the Sea

Dear Seeking Snacks,

There are plenty of ways to get your grub on, without packing on pounds.  If you're craving something crunchy, you can chomp on baby carrots, or soy crisps (Glenny's Soy Crisps are awesome!). Want something sweet? Try flavored water, light yogurt, grapes or fresh fruit.  Pack a cooler of healthy foods so you won't be tempted to hit the snack shack!  There's so much to do at the beach that your mind probably won't dwell on all those unhealthy snacks for very long. Take a swim in the ocean, play volleyball, toss a frisbee around, or stroll in the sand.  Besides being a fun way to spend a summer day, these are great calorie-burning activities!

CHEW ON THIS:
June is National Iced Tea Month. The absolute healthiest way to drink it is unsweetened...with a twist of lemon, lime or orange.

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