by Stephanie Stuart

Created on: November 20, 2008   Last Updated: December 02, 2008

Like many people, I struggle every day to maintain a healthy diet. I sometimes say that while some people eat to live, I live to eat. I used to think that eating healthy would take up too much of my time, and that I would not feel satisfied at the end of the day. I have found that keeping a few staples in your freezer can keep you from dialing for takeout after a long day or reaching for a bag of chips on that lazy Sunday afternoon.

1. Sorbet/sherbet- There are many different options for sorbet, and its sweet flavor is enticing. Edy's (also known as Dreyer's in some areas) makes a great sorbet, with whole chunks of fruit in it. Sherbet is great on its own, or is also wonderful mixed in with some lemon lime soda (add a little of your favorite white wine, and it's a great summer drink).

2. A tub of fat-free whipped topping- There are many things that you can do with plain old whipped topping to make a great snack. Mix the topping with a small box of sugar free chocolate pudding, and you have a wonderful chocolate mousse. Take some fresh berries, and use the topping as a dip.

3. Vegetables- Frozen vegetables are great, they have a much fresher flavor that canned vegetables, and contain almost no sodium or preservatives. Pick up some steaming bags (available in the paper product aisle at your local supermarket), and you have a quick side dish to any meal.

4. Frozen fruits- Make a quick and easy smoothie in your blender with a couple handfuls of frozen fruit, some plain yogurt and some apple juice. Frozen fruit can also be taken out the night before and refrigerated to make a yummy fruit salad.

5. Grapes- If you have never had frozen grapes, do yourself the favor. Freeze them overnight, and you have a great snack the next day... just don't forget they are there.

6. Multi-Grain waffles- Nothing beats a hot breakfast. Toast a couple waffles, top with some fresh sliced bananas, whichever butter/margarine you choose and a small bit of maple syrup. Quick breakfast, great taste.

7. Sugar-Free Klondike bars- Klondike bars are a part of history. Keep the sugar free ones on hand, and get your fix. They taste wonderful.

8. Fruit Bars- These are similar to a popsicle, but are made with whole fruit. Edy's (Dreyer's) makes great ones. Strawberry is a preferred flavor of many, but any flavor is good.

9. Frozen Chicken- Pick up a bag of frozen chicken breasts, and you can make a quick chicken salad, sandwich or dinner in no time. Marinate them overnight while they are defrosting for some added flavor.

10. Whole Wheat Pizza- Everyone loves a pizza, and the whole wheat crust won't make you feel as guilty about your indulgence. The taste in the crust is wonderful, and lots of folks can't even tell the difference.

Hopefully these ideas will help you see your freezer as something that can be healthy and inviting, instead of the place you store your ice, ice-cream or the kids' chicken nuggets. A little bit of creativity with some basic ingredients really makes a difference in frozen foods. Eating right can be tough with the challenges presented to us between long work days, social committments, and various other little moments we call life. Don't let those stop you, stock up your freezer, and keep on going!

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