Vitamin D is also classified as an essential nutrient because although a small amount of it can be made in the body with the help of the sun, we don’t make enough to satisfy our needs. And let’s face it, although I love the sun, I’m wearing sunscreen (which you should be too!) when I’m out and about. By blocking harmful UVA and UVB rays I’m also blocking an important step in the conversion of 7-dehydrocholesterol (a cholesterol precursor) in the skin into vitamin D. Without the help of UVB to make the conversion, I’m missing some of my vitamin D-3. But heck – it’s a trade-off. I can still get enough vitamin D from food and my supplement, while...
It’s that time of the year again! Cold and flu season is upon us and unfortunately, catching a bug is almost inevitable, especially if you’ve got school-aged children like me. And seriously – who has time to sit home and nurse an achy body back to health? Not me! As a busy mom of three kids, I can’t afford to get sick (even though my kids are germ monsters). There are a few key strategies to help prevent illnesses like regular hand washing, getting enough sleep, and eating a balanced diet full of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, protein-rich foods and healthy fats. But let’s face it: nobody is perfect. It’s hard to stay on track – even for me, the...
Halloween is fast approaching. Or is it? It feels like it’s just around the corner because Halloween costumes, spooky books, and mega-sized boxes of treats are available to purchase! The only thing that I suggest purchasing this far in advance would be a fun new trick-or-treating book (or maybe a costume) to get the kids excited. Let’s be honest, those big boxes of Halloween treats will get opened, scarfed and you’ll have to re-purchase right before Halloween. Am I right? To survive Halloween, I thought I would share my top 5 Halloween survival tips to get you through the “terrifying” season. Because kids and sugar and full moons… you get the picture.
We all know how important good nutrition is for our short-term—but more importantly long term—health, right? The nutrients we consume through food help our bodies and brains to function properly, help to repair our bodily tissues, and contribute to our overall longevity and health. Eating a balanced diet complete with lots of vegetables, fruits, protein-rich foods, and whole grains helps us to attain most of the nutrients that we need for proper health. And as a registered dietitian, this is what I guide my clients and readers towards—a nutrient-rich, balanced eating plan most of the time!
