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Packaged Foods Detox

Let’s face it. Packaged foods are quick, easy, cost-effective and satisfying. However, they are also packed with sugar, sodium, chemicals and fats that extend their shelf life and infuse them with artificial flavors.

 

Try going package-free for 28 days; you won’t consume any premade meals or snacks. Instead, Dr. Oz will show you how to prepare easy and economical meals from nutritional whole foods.

Packaged foods are a quick and easy antidote to our stressed out schedules. They can be made in minutes, enjoyed on the go and they don’t require any brainpower at the grocery store. However, what price are you willing to pay for this tasty convenience? High blood pressure? Diabetes? Obesity? All these conditions can threaten your health when you rely on packaged foods to feed your precious family.

Follow Dr. Oz’s 28-day plan to detox your dependence on packaged foods. You’ll learn to make quick, easy and cost-effective substitutions that are better for you, your family and the environment.

  • Week 1: Shop the Perimeters

    Dump the freezer of frozen foods and any premade snacks from your pantry. Then, hit the grocery store with the knowledge that you’re only shopping the perimeters.

    By shopping the perimeters of your grocery store, you’ll keep the frozen and packaged foods out of your cart and out of your pantry. The perimeter of your grocery store is where the whole foods and produce live. You'll be stocking up on these to make fresh versions of your freezer favorites.


  • Week 2: The “Whole” New Meal Plan

    With the foods that you’ve purchased by shopping your grocery store’s perimeter, make whole food alternatives of your favorite meals. Try these healthy, whole food recipes and see how their nutritional value compares to the processed versions.


  • Week 3: Go Naked

    In the third week of your challenge, you can now restock your freezer with “naked,” pure frozen foods like berries, (which can be tasty in a breakfast smoothie like Dr. Oz’s Magical Breakfast Blaster) vegetables and whole grain breads found in your grocer’s freezer.


  • Week 4: The Re-Freeze

    You’ve completed 3 very successful weeks without relying on prepackaged foods. However, life is busy and unpredictable – that’s why you’re now allowed one frozen meal per week. However, they must adhere to Dr. Oz’s Frozen Food Guidelines:

    • No more than 350 calories
    • Only 4 grams or less of saturated fats
    • Cannot exceed 800 milligrams of sodium
    • Must contain at least 3-5 grams of fiber

    Additionally, pair your frozen dinner with a green leafy salad or fresh fruit to help stay full.


ADDED TO Weight, Diet, Family Health, Nutrition ON Mon 2/8/2010

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