Every year, Americans gain on average of 5 pounds per year and most do not lose it. Losing weight can always be a challenge but it is even more challenging to try and do so during the holidays. So, we recommend just focusing on maintaining your weight during these next 2 weeks. Focusing on incorporating a healthy eating plan is key to help you do just that and you can do so on a budget. Planning ahead is key. You don’t have to find a lot of time but just setting aside a little time to find healthy recipes and plan your menus, even if just for a few days, can make a big difference. When you are eating, whether it is a meal or a snack, it is key to watch your portion size. There are no foods that cannot be a part of a healthy eating lifestyle but the key is moderation and portion size. Often, I hear of people trying these new fad diets. We actually recommend that you stay away from those because they are usually very restrictive and not something you can or will maintain for long periods of time. It is best to just stick to a healthy eating lifestyle, something you can do for the long-term. Some tips to help you prevent this problem is to enjoy your food but eat in moderation. Make sure that you are paying attention to proper portion size. Also, eat a rainbow. If you have a colorful plate, you probably have more fruits and vegetables on it. Fruits and vegetables tend to be lower in calories, high in vitamins and minerals, and high in fiber. If you are going someplace where there is a lot of temptation, pick your favorites and say no to the rest. We will have several different opportunities for programs and workshops after the new year to focus on topics to help you improve your health in 2023. It is not too late to join us this month for our virtual Lunch N’ Learn “Holiday Gifts from the Kitchen” on Tuesday, December 20th at 12:00 p.m. Register online at FCS Registration for this free workshop.

Try the following recipe courtesy of the University of New Hampshire Extension. For more information on Food for Thought programs, check us out online at Facebook or email jennifer.brown@ncsu.edu

Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas

– serves 4

1 lb boneless chicken breast or thigh

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

1 red pepper, sliced into strips

1 green pepper, sliced into strips

¾ cup salsa

1 Tbsp. taco seasoning

8 (6inch) corn tortillas

Place whole chicken breasts or thighs in slow cooker. Remove the outer skin from the onion. Scrub the peppers and onions with a vegetable brush under running water and dry with a paper towel then slice peppers into strips and thinly slice the onion. Place the pepper and onion mixture on top of the chicken. Mix salsa and taco seasoning mix in a medium bowl. Pour over chicken. Place lid on slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours until chicken is done. Prior to serving, insert a food thermometer into the center of a chicken breast or thigh. The final cooking temperature of the chicken should reach at least 165° F. Carefully remove lid to allow steam to escape. Gently stir chicken and sauce with a plastic or wooden slotted spoon. Spoon 1/2 cup of chicken mixture into center of each tortilla; add desired toppings and fold tortilla over filling. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information: 280 calories, 4.5g fat, 31g carbohydrates, 4g fiber, and 29g protein