Episode #150. Back to Basics To Build a Healthier Tomorrow Together. Dr Robyn Littlewood, CEO Health and WellBeing Queensland.

 Simple Ways to Make Healthy Happen Think of the impact we can make if we unite our efforts. By emphasizing prevention, engaging the community, and fostering partnerships, we can break the cycle of obesity and overweight in our daily environments.Fibre, Baked Beans, and the Role of Frozen FoodsWhen discussing health and nutrition, one cannot overstate the importance of dietary fibre. Fibre is an essential component that aids in digestive health, can help lower cholesterol levels, and supports healthy blood sugar levels. It’s found in various foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Among these, baked beans, particularly when made from navy beans or haricot beans, emerge as an excellent source of dietary fibre.Baked Beans: Not Just Comfort Food Baked beans, a staple in many households, aren't just a comfort food; they're a nutritional powerhouse. Apart from being rich in fibre, they're a great source of plant-based protein and essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc. The tomato sauce they are often baked in also adds to their nutrient content, particularly the antioxidant lycopene which is good for heart health. However, one must be cautious about the sugar and salt content in some commercially prepared baked beans. Opting for a low-sodium and low-sugar variety or making them at home can be a healthier choice.Frozen Foods and Fibre: The mention of frozen foods often conjures images of unhealthy, processed meals. However, freezing is a preservation method that can lock in the nutrients of fresh produce. For instance, frozen green beans or peas can retain much of their fibre content, making them as beneficial as their fresh counterparts, if not more so in some cases, especially if the fresh versions have been stored for extended periods or transported long distances. The key is to select frozen foods that have no added salts, sugars, or preservatives.Incorporating fibre into our diet doesn’t have to be a complex task. Simple, everyday foods like baked beans, whether from a can or homemade, and a mix of fresh and frozen veggies can help us achieve our daily fibre intake. So, the next time you're at the grocery store, consider stocking up on both baked beans and some fibre-rich frozen foods. Your digestive system will thank you.Pick of the CropIn today's fast-paced world, where convenience often trumps quality, the age-old practice of sourcing food directly from gardens has become a lost art for many. However, introducing children to the joys of gardening and the pleasure of consuming fresh, home-grown produce can pave the way for healthier eating habits and a deeper appreciation for nature. Here's how to bridge the gap and reintroduce gardens to our children's tables:Start Small: Begin with easy-to-grow plants like herbs (basil, mint), lettuce, or radishes. These quick-growing plants offer children rapid gratification, encouraging them to remain invested in the gardening process.Get Hands-On: Allow kids to get their hands dirty! Digging, planting seeds, watering, and eventually harvesting allows children to connect with the food source physically and emotionally.Educational Opportunities: Use the garden as a living classroom. Discuss where different foods come from, the importance of seasons, and the role of pollinators like bees and butterflies.Cook Together: Once your produce is ready to be harvested, involve children in the cookSupport the showSubscribe and support the podcast at https://www.buzzsprout.com/367319/supporters/newLearn more at www.profselenabartlett.com