Magazine extols benefits of Danish diet

A weekly magazine, Woman's World, recently touted the benefits of Denmark's style of eating, which is said to rival the Mediterranean diet for its healthy building, obesity fighting benefits.

A key factor is Denmark's dining is traditional whole grain rye bread, which is said to blow traditional whole grain wheat bread "out of the water." The bread is extra flavorful, rich in fiber, controlling hunger and killing cravings better than wheat bread. You can find it among international bakery items at a well stocked grocery store. It is called European style or Bavarian rye bread. Look for whole grain rye as the first ingredient. Or you can make it yourself. See recipe below.

Home cooked meals prepared the traditional Danish way can also help you shed pounds. One study says you can eat 1,100 calories less per day and weigh 22 pounds less. Avoid processed food altogether and stick with "close to nature" ingredients, such as whole grains and seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as fresh meats and fish. You can save hundreds of calories each day if you fix meals at home from fresh ingredients instead of buying processed, packaged food, or eating out.

Smaller portions on smaller plates is also a habit of Danes, which helps keep obesity to lower levels than in the U.S.

Eat good fats including Omega 3's from fresh fish.

Reduce comfort food cravings by eating with family as often as possible. Family meals often are healthier with more fiber, more calcium, and less fat than solitary dining on quick packaged meals.

And of course, like the Danes, get more exercise by biking or walking instead of driving everywhere. Get active and stay active for better health, better weight, and better mood.

Recipe for whole grain rye bread:

1 package of instant dry yeast
4 cups of whole grain rye flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups buttermilk
3 tablespoons of canola oil

In bowl mix yeast, flour, and salt. Microwave buttermilk until lukewarm. Stir in oil. Add buttermilk mixture to flour mixture in bowl. Knead 10 minutes until smooth, adding 1/2 cup more flour if needed.

Place in oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and leave to rise in a warm place for 1 1/2 hours. Knead lightly and transfer to greased loaf pan.

Cover with plastic wrap and set aside for one hour to rise again.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 45 minutes. Brush with water occasionally.
Makes about 36 thin slices.

Happy dining.