The Michigan winter isn’t known for its crop yield but it an excellent opportunity to dig into freezer items from your home or store. Foods intended for freezing are picked at peak ripeness when their nutrient content is at its highest, then blanched and frozen. In general, frozen food retains nutrients well up to one year, but some nutrients are…
It’s officially here – the cozy season of delicious food, special gatherings and cookie exchanges. A holiday centered around food can certainly pose challenges to health goals. It’s difficult to say no to a second helping of your favorite food, but there are ways to help keep your hunger and desire for more in check: Get enough sleep to keep…
Turkey isn’t the only staple on the Thanksgiving menu, and it’s important to plan and think ahead to avoid waste. A good rule of thumb whether you’re receiving a Thanksgiving goody bag of leftovers or storing away, foods stay safe for up to about four days in the fridge. Here are some other things to keep in mind: The average…
One in 10 Americans has diabetes, and 95% of them have Type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body’s ability to regulate and use glucose, or blood sugar, as fuel is impaired. The pancreas produces less insulin, the hormone that helps cells process sugar from blood, and cells become insulin-resistant and begin to take in less sugar. This…
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…
