Vegetables are probably one of the best foods for overall health so don't ever neglect them! – not while you are dieting and not in maintenance. But let's face it....

Vegetables do take a bit more time to plan and prepare. You have to wash them, cut them, and then usually cook them. I get it, it's sometimes just easier to grab something else to snack on. The problem is though, that something else usually isn't going to support your health (or your weight loss efforts) in the same way as vegetables are. So when it comes to keeping veggies convenient and easier to keep in your food plan, here are some tips:

• Buy a veggie platter or precut veggies and keep them in view, front center in your frig. (Use a measured out serving of low fat dressing if you need a dip.) Use them promptly as they lose both taste and nutrition quality.
• Find an exciting recipe for marinated veggies with your favorite herbs/spices. I suggest using a nonfat dressing and adding in a measured amount of good olive or avocado oil. Or just look online for some ideas. Just remember what your fat allowance is.
• For the cooler months make up some veggie soups and freeze them in individual servings.
• Grocery stores frequently offer a variety of frozen blends of vegetables: fiesta or Hispanic blends, Italian blends and many others. Extra fresh herbs and seasonings can be easily added for even more flavor. For example fresh basil can support an Italian flavor; Salsa, Mexican seasonings and hot sauces can zip up Hispanic options.

Keep in mind eating more veggies is a healthy mindset. You want it to become a habit not just for weight loss but for good health in general. You have to want to be healthy, you have to want to lose weight, and most importantly you have to want to invest in a little time and effort. And you should always remind yourself of the numerous rewards of eating more vegetables. More this week on veggies.