Foods to avoid

Here's a list of foods to avoid--not religiously, but as a general rule--some occasional backsliding OK as long as one keeps up with one's exercise regime:

White bread in general--mainly devoid of nutrients, low in fiber and protein and with a high glycemic index--bad, bad, bad. This includes white bagels and crackers as well.

Pasta, except for whole grain, for the same reasons as white bread; moreover, it's too easy to overeat because of what it is served with.

Fruit juice except in real moderation, because of the high sugar content. Get your nutrients from whole fruits like apples and oranges, instead of apple and orange juice. And the stuff called "cranberry juice cocktail" is crap.

Mashed, skinned potatoes. Glycemic index off the chart and usually mixed with cream, butter, etc. Now eating whole potatoes--another matter. They are good for you.

Boxed cereal in general, due to its high sugar content, high salt content and low whole grain content. Read the label carefully and avoid high sugar and salt varieties especially.

Canned soups due to the high salt content and loads of artificial ingredients. Again, read the label. Make your own out of low-sodium stock and vegetables, etc.

Commercially mass-produced pies and cakes. Make your own cookies, cobblers and brownies using Ned's recipes.

Artificial sweetners and creamers.

Frou-frou drincks from Starbucks and elsewhere, and avoid large sizes. Get the "tall" size and avoid saying "grande" because it makes you look cosmopolitan.

Watch those mixed drinks with lots of sugar. Bad, bad, bad.

Ned will have more suggestions as the spirit moves him.