Organic, healthy, low-fat, natural and the list goes on – commercial food packages are filled with seemingly healthy terms. The truth is, there are plenty of foods packed with unhealthy ingredients that are deemed organic and natural. The best place to look decipher a healthy choice from an unhealthy one is the nutrition facts label and ingredient list. But even…
The fall season brings along beautiful warm colored leaves, cozy flannel, trips to apple orchards and of course – pumpkins. Belonging to the same family as squashes, pumpkins pack in a plethora of nutrients. A single cup of pumpkin provides 7 grams of fiber to aid in digestion and a third of the daily need for vitamin K. Its bright…
Plant-based milks have long catered to those with lactose intolerance, milk protein allergy and food restrictions. Lately, these dairy alternatives’ sustainability and health aspects have attracted more consumers to add them to their grocery carts in the form of milk, yogurt, coffee creamers and desserts. The nutrient profile of dairy alternatives varies among brands. It’s common practice to load sugar…
Cucumbers are a family favorite. Composed of 96% water, they promote hydration and bring refreshing flavors to a hot summer day. Although it’s mostly made of water, this crispy, crunchy, low-calorie vegetable is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants. Walking down a grocery aisle, you might be met with a variety of cucumbers. The most common are garden and English…
As we head further into the Autumn, a fresh harvest of in-season produce is calling. In the fall, Michiganders can take advantage of grapes, green beans, corn zucchini, cabbage and of course – apples. A family trip to the apple orchard is a great way to teach kids about healthy produce while packing in some steps. Sometimes known as nature’s…
Tailgating food is doesn’t have to be unhealthy, enter – taco bar. Hosting a taco bar for a tailgate can mean a mix of purchasing pre-prepared ingredients and making a few easy recipes at home. The key to a successful healthy taco bar is to offer a variety of lean proteins and vegetables in a tasty way. The size of…
Suicide is a complex topic and often results from multiple coinciding factors in a person’s life. When a parent takes their own life, the impact can reach across generations of their family. As September is National Suicide Prevention Month, it offers an opportunity to examine why seeking help for mental health concerns is so important and to understand the lasting…
This refreshing but earth appetizer or salad loads up on vitamin C and plenty of antioxidants. Pro tip: wear gloves and avoid white clothing when preparing beets as their bright pigment is known to stain skin and clothing. Serves 2 Ingredients For the salad 4 beets 4 navel oranges 2 blood or raspberry oranges 1/8 cup goat cheese, crumbled 1/4…
Processed meats like deli sliced turkey and ham are sandwich staples and make for easy protein additions at breakfast and lunch. However, research continues to show that processed meats – high in sodium and preservative chemicals – are associated with chronic illnesses. In fact, a study found individuals who ate red or processed meat four or more times per week…
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in four American adults sit for more than eight hours a day. This may not be surprising as our society continues to shift toward a more sedentary lifestyle. Though modern transportation has allowed for more flexibility in the distance between where you live and where you work, it has…
In the US, two-thirds of children’s calories come from ultra-processed foods. Too many cookies, crackers, snack cakes, pizzas, and ice cream are just a few items on the list of ultra-processed foods that can increase the risk for childhood obesity and health problems down the road. Starting healthy habits early in the year such as packing a healthy lunch and…
The research continues to show that shifting towards a plant-based helps reduce the risk of chronic illnesses and can help in maintaining a healthy weight. Furthermore, eating plant-based protein sources is one of the best ways consumers can make an impact on our declining environment. Grilled chicken and steaks are summertime favorites, but have you tried making grilled tofu for…
It’s no secret the pandemic has shifted family schedules – many parents are working from home, some children are attending virtual school and participating in fewer evening-time extracurricular activities and sports. A silver lining of the pandemic for some are family meals. In fact, research demonstrates a plethora of health benefits associated with consuming meals as a family. Along with…
The health benefits of a plant-based diet have been proven by research. But what do you do if you can’t imagine going without some of your favorite foods — like burgers? Fortunately, there are delicious meatless versions, like the Black Bean Burger. Beans are a great source of protein, fiber, iron, calcium and a slew of other nutrients. A cup…
Ever wonder why some restaurants have menus that change with the season? Even though customers might want to come back for their favorite strawberry dessert, their go-to restaurant may not offer it in the winter. The reason is that food grown in-season is picked at the perfect time after ripening on a vine or in the field, resulting in a…
