The holidays are approaching, and so many of these celebrations seem to revolve around high-calorie food and drinks. Family parties often feature a big buffet of appetizers, main dishes and a sea of desserts. Work party potlucks have tables crammed with goodies. And meeting friends for the holidays often means a drink or dessert – or both. But there are…
Turkey with stuffing and gravy, creamy casseroles and sweet pumpkin pie for dessert – there are certain dishes that are synonymous with Thanksgiving. Often, these staples have elements full of saturated fat and sugar. While it’s okay to enjoy these comfort foods, it’s great to offer healthy options to create balance at the table. Luckily, fiber-rich root vegetables and crucifers…
Winter squashes are more than just decorative doorstep elements during the fall season. This family of diverse squashes includes fall cooking staples like butternut, spaghetti, acorn, delicata and pumpkin. Unlike their summer squash counterparts like zucchini and yellow squash, they have a hard interior and exterior. Rich in vitamins, fiber and antioxidants, they’re nutritional powerhouses that can contribute to overall…
Nestled in the heart of Armada, Michigan, Blake Farms isn’t just an orchard; it’s a treasure trove of family-friendly activities and natural wonders. Established in 1946, this family-owned gem has embraced the joy of childhood with an array of kids’ activities that transform a visit into an unforgettable adventure. Whimsical Wonderland: Navigating the Orchard The moment you step onto Blake…
As we enter the fall season, students of all ages are preparing for midterms. Those faced with the daunting task of studying for exams endure long hours of reading, note-taking, and problem-solving. All this work can take a toll on energy levels, therefore eating balanced meals and snacks is essential. The brain is a highly active organ that requires a…
Salmon seasoned to perfection and then grilled on a wooden plank. Thick filets of cod, dipped in egg wash, then breadcrumbs and baked to a golden crisp. Trout caught on a cool fall day and grilled over an open fire. When it comes to eating fish, there are so many delicious possibilities. Reports have shown an increase in fish consumption in recent…
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated in the United States from September 15 to October 15. The celebration honors the rich cultural contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans, including their diverse and delicious cuisine. From the spicy dishes of Mexico to the aromatic stews of Cuba, there’s a lot of diversity across Hispanic nations’ cuisine. However, they all share an emphasis…
As we approach the fall solstice, there’s a new crop of fresh, in-season produce to enjoy. Michiganders can look forward to green beans, corn, cabbage, and delicious apples in September. Apples are often referred to as nature’s toothbrush and offer a plethora of health benefits. They have prebiotic effects, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and are rich in fiber and polyphenols.…
Nearly 20% of children ages two to 19 years old could be characterized as obese – that’s about 14.7 million children. Recent studies have shown the percentage of obese children and teens is not only rising but is affecting kids earlier in their lives than ever before. The risk for obesity increases when most of an adolescent’s diet includes high-calorie foods, like vending machine snacks, fast…
Another summer has flown by and it’s time for kids to go back to school. It’s no secret that well-fed children perform their best in school, but what does that mean when it comes to school lunches? Different food groups provide important nutrients to fuel a child’s day of learning and playing. It’s crucial to incorporate at least three out of…
