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Making Healthy Choices for Valentine's Day

Are you planning on getting her flowers or candy?  Perhaps, you were planning on getting him candy as well.  Valentine's Day is the day for celebrating love.  There is no better way to celebrate love then by offering the gift of health.

Feeling adventurous:

As a couple, if you are in sync with each other and enjoy exercise, you could plan a romantic evening dedicated to physical energy.  Climb Time Indy located at 8750 Corporate Drive would be an excellent source of fun and exercise without the need to brave the Indiana cold.  If the cold isn't a bother, a simple walk together would be a romantic geture.

If you aren't feeling so energetic, bowling is an ideal way to have fun and burn calories.  Following is a list of a few places in Indy that offer bowling:

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After a little release of energy, perhaps a romantic dinner would serve to create the perfect atmosphere.  Remember, if eating out then choose a restaurant that offers grilled or baked fish or lean meats.  Make the dinner healthy by choosing vegetables as side items.  If celebrating includes dessert, make it heart healthy by choosing something made from dark chocolate.  In the spirit of romance, it is quite alright to share a dessert which would also help to limit the portion size.

Staying home:

There is nothing wrong with staying in for Valentine's Day.  This year Valentine's Day is on Monday.  Most careers require that the employees work that day.  So, after a long day of work, relaxing with your sweetheart would be a great way to say "I love you."

Rent a movie.  Find something that stimulates both of your interests. 

Fix a romantic dinner.  Here are a few suggested links:

Valentine's Day Celebration Recipes -
A Romantic Meal Idea: Our Perfect Romantic Menu

Or, just use your imagination.  A family favorite is pizza.  For a healthy recipe that is also simple, try using pita bread as your crust.  You can cut it into a heart shape with a clean pair of kitchen scissors.  Pita bread is like a "personal sized pizza."  This is a perfect idea for couples who don't enjoy the same toppings.  You can make them anyway.  Want mexican?  Coat the pita bread with refried beans and two tablespoons of salsa, add mexican shredded cheese.  Bake for 10 minutes at 350 degrees or until cheese is melted.  Top with lettuce, tomatoe, black olives, sour cream.  Simple, creative, and tasty.

Looking for the perfect gift:

Truly consider your partner's personality.  For some, flowers may be the way to go.  Not everyone "loves" jewelry.  There are absolutely no "wrong" gifts.  Thoughtfulness and imagination is the key to success.

No matter how you spend Valentine's Day with your special someone, make it memorable.  Our society encourages individuals to use food to celebrate.  Food is truly the fuel for the body.  It is necessary, but the choices need  to remain healthy and balanced with appropriate exercise.  HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

, Indianapolis Eating Disorder Examiner

Angela R. Coats has 12 years of experience as a licensed practical nurse. In her life, she has had her own battles with eating disorders. She has published a novel on the subject entitled "Serenity." angicoats@yahoo.com

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