Health &Wellness

It’s March, time for National Nutrition Month®.  I personally love this year’s theme “Bite into a Healthy Lifestyle”.  It is SO true.  A healthy lifestyle begins with the food that you use to fuel your body.  This month, take time to nourish yourself with whole foods: whole grains, fruits, veggies, Read more…

Valonda Calloway and me on the set of My Carolina Today show.

On July 10th, I had the pleasure of appearing on My Carolina Today to talk about healthy snack and lunch ideas for children who attend summer camp.  Since kids tend to like finger foods, I came up with several nutritious and fun-to-eat food combos to keep summer campers fueled for their activities. The snack and lunch ideas that I showcased were “power snacks”.  A power snack is high in complex carbohydrates, fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals, and whenever possible heart healthy fats. (more…)

Its Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start to the summer season.  Time for lazy days of lounging by the pool, trips to the beach, kayaking in local lakes, and of course cookouts.  This summer I challenge you to try out some new things with your standard burgers, veggies and potato salad. (more…)

What do you get when you combine pineapple, mango, red bell pepper, jalapeno peppers, red onion, lime, cilantro and chili powder?  An ultra healthy salsa to enjoy on a beautiful spring day.  Its Cinco de Mayo, and if you are looking for a healthy way to spruce up your Mexican meal for tonight, my yummy and colorful twist to the traditional tomato salsa is the one to try. (more…)

When I work with clients, many of them are surprised when I suggest that they add nuts to their meal plans.   They often ask, “Aren’t nuts fattening?”.  Yes, nuts contain a good quantity of fat, however much of that fat is the heart healthy mono- and polyunsaturated kinds.

The great thing about nuts is that they not only contain the good kinds of fat, but they are also a great source of protein and fiber.  The combination of fat, protein and fiber is a powerhouse for increased satiety.  Adding nuts to your meals and snacks can help you feel full for longer periods of time, which can be a huge benefit for those struggling with weight management.  The biggest catch when using nuts, is that you have to really watch your portion sizes.  But thankfully, a little amount can go a long way for overall health benefits. I often suggest to clients that they substitute nuts for other foods that are high in saturated fats. (more…)

Ah, hummus.  This incredibly good high protein food is really good for your heart.  Hummus is made from chick peas(also known as garbanzo beans), which are a great source of folate and are very high in soluble and insoluble fiber. When you increase your intake of soluble fiber, you can decrease the risk of heart disease by 15%.  Not to mention, hummus is a great protein source which can help you feel more full on less.  Start serving hummus with fresh veggies or whole wheat pita strips to do your heart some good today! (more…)

I love football and I love the Super Bowl.  Not only do you get to watch a great sporting event, but you also get to enjoy funny commercials and often enjoy the company of friends and family for the evening too.  I also love the Super Bowl for all the yummy food that can accompany a Super Bowl party.   This year, I challenge you to try a healthy and festive dish that is perfect for any celebration of the Big Game. (more…)