What is the Mediterranean Diet?

The Mediterranean diet is a heart healthy eating plan. The primary focus of this diet are plants and healthy fats. This type of diet is adapted from the traditional flavors and cooking styles of the Mediterranean countries and focuses on the eating patterns across many different Mediterranean countries. That is why there is no single […]
What is the Diabetes Plate Method of Eating?

The Diabetes Plate method was originally developed by Swedish dieticians as a visual way to teach meal planning in a simple way for individuals with diabetes. Later, it was adapted and modified to align with the nutritional guidelines of the American Diabetes Association (ADA). The intent of the Diabetes Plate is to control blood sugar […]
The Importance of Physical Activity for Child Growth and Development

Exercise is a type of physical activity. It is important to understand that physical activity is more than exercise and it is a very important part of a child’s growth and development. Physical activity has become less important to children because they have become more interested in video games and smart phones. This has caused […]
Why Are Childhood Obesity Rates So High?

After the COVID-19 pandemic, the rates of childhood obesity rose from 19 percent to 22 percent (United States Centers for Disease Control [CDC], 2022). The results of a study by Nagata, Cortex, Cattle, et al (2021), showed that excessive screen time is one of the contributing factors in childhood obesity. In fact, screen time increased […]
What is the Difference between Whole Foods and Processed Foods?

Whole foods are those that are unprocessed or minimally processed foods that either came from a plant or animal such as: vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes, grains, meat, chicken, eggs and seafood. To simplify, these are foods that can be found in nature. Whole foods contain large amounts of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which […]
Three Steps for Successful Meal Planning

By planning your meals ahead of time, you can create delicious nutritious meal that fit your food preferences and lifestyle Step 1: Create your Menu What type of meal planning approach do you prefer? Once you have decided on the meal planning approach, you will want to create your menu. You can use a meal […]
Why Should You Make a Meal Plan?

Meal planning will allow you to see how much you are really eating. You are less likely to eat at a restaurant when you plan your meals ahead of time. The portion sizes at a restaurant are typically larger than what you should actually be eating. Another benefit of meal planning is that you will […]