Its back to school time again and what gets packed in the lunch box can mean the difference between a focused learning afternoon and a trip to the principal’s office.  Here are my top tips for getting it right! For proper focus, you want a steady stream of glucose going to the brain. Start by choosing a  protein and good carbs. Find ways to work in good fats support the  brain long term: sunflower seed butter, tuna/salmon, dairy, soy Always choose “best in class” when choosing packaged goods, compare labels Treats: I am not a big fan of the “sweet … Continue reading →

We all know that fruits and vegetables are good for us, that’s not news. But science is only now revealing the deeper truth of that statement and what, exactly, is in each one that is such a benefit to us. We could focus on all the things you must eliminate from your life to be healthy, but I much prefer to focus on what you can add. Where else in life is it really true that more is better? The good news is that vegetables are low in calories, high in water, and delicious just as they come out of … Continue reading →

There is nothing more comforting than a bowl of these tender pillow like dumplings;   this is comfort food at its best!  Many varieties of dumplings use only white flour, leaving them nutritionally void of nutrients.  These on the other hand, have the added benefit of the almightly sweet potato and ricotta cheese.  Now I wouldn’t go as far as calling these gnocchi a “health food” but I would say they are a much better option than most dumplings.  My take on including these in a healthy meal is to make them the carbohydrate side dish – not the main player … Continue reading →

A recent study done by the Albany Medical College, N.Y. and reported to The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Annual Meeting  suggests that there is a common mis-perception around breastfeeding and its impact on a child’s potential allergies.  There is plenty of evidence that breastfeeding is best for the infant. (But, in my opinion, this is only true as long as it works for mom.)  Nutritionally, breast milk is the perfect food with added benefits but socially, financially, logistically and physically; only mom can make that decision with each child and every time. Everyone is aware of the … Continue reading →

By Theresa Albert, DHN, RNCP  nutritionist and founder or www.myfriendinfood.com Your poor liver never gets any attention; it is a total wallflower who just quietly takes what you have to dish out. Overlooking this gem is a big mistake because it supports you in more than 500 ways. You can’t live without it and living with a clean liver gives you more energy, helps control your weight and cholesterol levels plus makes you look and feel better. On top of that, it regulates sex, thyroid and stress hormones.  Fear not, some of the things that you can do to protect … Continue reading →