Johnsonville Sausage and Registered Dietitian Sarah-Jane Bedwell are teaming up to bring consumers flavorful new ways to stick to their healthy lifestyle resolutions in 2012.

"While it's only been a few weeks, New Year's Resolutions may already seem too overwhelming for people to stick with," said Bedwell, RD and the author of SELF Magazine's 'Eat Like Me' Blog. "Resolving to eat better and lead a healthier lifestyle is a great way to start the year. However, finding ways that work for you to stick to those goals is the key. One of the most important things is finding foods you enjoy and don't make you feel like you're sacrificing to be healthier."

Bedwell notes that pairing a lean protein like Johnsonville Chicken Sausage with a selection of vegetables makes for a well-rounded dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.

"Johnsonville has a number of great recipes featuring their Chicken Sausage, which helps mix things up and keep healthier eating interesting," said Bedwell. "Eating better doesn't mean eating the same thing every day. Whether it's Apple Chicken Sausage Sweet and Sour Stir Fry or Three Cheese Italian Style Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Rigatoni, there are several flavorful options filled with vegetables and lean protein to help keep you on your way to your 2012 goals."

Johnsonville Chicken Sausage – available in Three Cheese Italian Style, Chipotle Monterey Jack Cheese and Apple – is fully cooked, so consumers can simply heat it through and incorporate it into their favorite recipes. Johnsonville has also introduced, in select markets, a Pork & Chicken Sausage. The Pork & Chicken Sausage is available in both Mild Italian and Traditional Brat varieties.

"At Johnsonville, we recognize many consumers are looking for better-for-you choices but don't want to sacrifice great flavor," said Amber Brandimarte, Johnsonville Sausage senior brand manager. "That's why we're proud to offer not only great-tasting sausage with 50 percent less fat, but also unique and flavorful recipes to incorporate them into your family meals."

In addition to eating better, Bedwell offers several other suggestions on how to stick to a resolution of a healthier lifestyle in 2012. For example, she recommends eating a breakfast with a complex carbohydrate for filling fiber, a protein to keep you fuller longer, and a fruit or veggie to add even more fiber and nutrients; avoiding fad diets; and keeping healthy snacks on-hand to avoid going too long between meals.

More tips from Bedwell on healthy living in 2012 at www.johnsonville.com.

Source: Johnsonville Sausage