How healthy is your pasta? Depends on how much.

Way back in the day, when low-fat or no-fat was being touted as the cure-all and sure path to weight loss, I made a huge mistake. I listened to it and didn’t ask the right questions.

Oh, boy … did I ever pack on the pounds.

Now, 30 lbs or so lighter (and that’s been the case for about 10+ years ), I fully understand that staying a healthful weight isn’t that simple.

Portion control - aka calories - and becoming a food activist and deciding that you only eat whole grain pasta (and breads) is the only real way to keep the scale - and your waistline - in their places.

We only buy whole grain breads and pastas here. And I really do find that whole grain pastas are very filling, despite the much smaller portions in relation to the vegetables and marinara style sauces and toppings.

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Homemade breakfast on-the-go options for under $1.00

Yes, you can do it and leave the fat, calories and sodium of the fast food versions behind - in addition to using sustainable and often organic choices. There’s a good thing - be kind to your heart, waistline and the planet. “Not too shabby” as friend, Bill Epperson, used to say.

Oatmeal is such a quick fix even for the noncook. In fact, I’ve actually made a large serving of oatmeal - or multiple whole grains such as flake barley, oats and kamut or spelt - the day before and it keeps and heats up just fine for a couple of days afterward. Really, you’re just adding some nice warm milk and a bit of fruit.

These other options can also be prepared - or partially prepared- the night before to make the morning crunch less anxiety producing. A little bit of advance planning goes a very long way.

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