Before you exercise or do any physical activity, always eat a light snack such as an apple. 2. Relying on energy bars and drinks. Although they are fine every once in a while, they don't deliver the antioxidants you need to prevent cancer. Fruits and vegetables are your best bets, as they are loaded in vitamins, minerals, fluid, and fiber. Although some beans taste good as they are, others are available with different flavors to help enhance their taste. Nuts are hihg in protein, although they deliver a lot more fat than beans, which means you should enjoy them in moderation. By having one cup of cooked beans, you'll get the same amount of protein as eating two ounces of meat! Both fruits and vegetables are great sources of dietary fiber as well as many vitamins and minerals. - Choose foods made with whole grains, such as whole wheat bread and dishes made with brown rice. - If you crave dessert, look for something with low fat, such as berries or fruit. - Always remember not to deprive yourself of the foods you truly love. The average fat intake over the course of weeks and months is important, not the fat intake of every meal and food you consume. Younger adults and high active adults who have higher calorie needs can probably eat a little more fat. Older adults and those that aren't very active should aim for a lower fat intake. The best sources are whole grains and concentrated grain products. 5. Kids need fiber as well. Children that are older than 2 years of age should consume a daily intake of fiber. Kids are most receptive to fiber found in fruits, vegetables, and even fortified breakfast cereals. 6. More fiber needs more water. Most believe that milk upsets their stomach, and therefore they will avoid it. They should be getting around 1,500 mg of calcium a day, and nonfat powdered milk can be used in recipes as a substitute for milk. Other foods such as yogurt, low fat cheese, and broccoli can also help you meet the requirements for calcium.