Pumpkin has a lot going for it -- a bright orange color, a healthy nutrition resume, and a flavor that is truly delicious. Most people that I know, including nutrition professionals, are enthusiastic about eating pumpkin during the fall. Here is a short list of why? Pumpkin is a Top Choice - Nutrition The big nutrient in pumpkin is vitamin A which we know by its color. The exact name for what makes it orange is beta-carotene which readily converts to vitamin A. This healthy vitamin is also found in carrots and many other yellow-orange colored vegetables. Along with vitamin C, vitamin A is a … [Read more...] about Pumpkin is a Top Choice for Fall
Lentils are a Plant Protein that’s Easy to Cook and Delicious
More and more people ask me about plant proteins these days and lentils are a great choice. Lentils are new to some people so it's time to take away the mystery of this delicious food. Lentils are a meatless alternative to meat, poultry, egg, or dairy protein. They are in the category of pulses which are plant foods that include dry beans, dry peas, and chickpeas. Pulses are grown and harvested for their edible, dry seeds and each 1/2 cup of cooked pulse gives us 8-9 grams protein and 8-9 grams fiber. They truly fit a modern lifestyle because they are quick and easy to prepare and easy on … [Read more...] about Lentils are a Plant Protein that’s Easy to Cook and Delicious
Confidence Makes Cooking More Fun
Confidence adds a fun-factor to cooking and that's worth a lot. 5 Ways to Become More Confident with Cooking Read through your recipe before starting to cook. This is a very important tip and it's hard to follow for most people. When you read a recipe, there's a little organizing and a little learning which builds a little confidence. Do your best not to rush the process and you'll feel more comfortable about what you're getting ready to make. Commit to learning knife skills. There are very few recipes that do not require some knife work. From veggie soups to chicken stews to … [Read more...] about Confidence Makes Cooking More Fun
Plant Proteins and 3 Easy Mediterranean Meals
Plant proteins are all the buzz - and they are a perfect start to designing quick, easy, and affordable Mediterranean meals. As a registered dietitian, my job is to assist, encourage, and teach clients all about food and nutrition in a customized-individualized way. I ask questions to learn about a new client's current nutrition, meals, and snack habits, and I find out about their medical and lifestyle issues that can be impacted by nutrition in a positive way. One of the questions my clients ask most often these days is about plant proteins. When they ask, I explain how handy plant proteins … [Read more...] about Plant Proteins and 3 Easy Mediterranean Meals
How to Eat Out Less for Better Nutrition
When you eat out less then you truly can improve your day-to-day nutrition. The hard part is doing it. When you eat out less then you can concentrate and stay in control of eating nutritiously. Three great benefits of eating out less are that you will: eat a moderate amount of food; eat a less processed plate of food; and eat higher quality nutrition within your budget. Tips for How to Eat Out Less...and feel your best Here are 5 strategies to try: Take time to plan meals. Thirty minutes of 'up front time' will allow you to think about what to prepare for your upcoming meals. … [Read more...] about How to Eat Out Less for Better Nutrition
3 Easy Ways to Add Mediterranean Nutrition to Your Summer
Summer has a way of inspiring healthier grill foods and one choice for better nutrition can lead to another and another. 3 Easy Ways to Choose Better Nutrition this Summer When summer comes, a lot of us feel that making a positive change for healthier nutrition can be a reality and this is definitely true. I encourage you to choose Mediterranean nutrition by hopping into your kitchen and taking action with the 3 easy ways described below. 1st Easy Way: Add Veggies to Your Grill Grilling season is here to stay for many months. The easy way to succeed with a healthier meal is to add … [Read more...] about 3 Easy Ways to Add Mediterranean Nutrition to Your Summer