What’s the Deal with Iodine?

You might have heard of iodized salt, seen it in the grocery store, or even have some in your kitchen right now! But do you know why iodine is added to salt, or even what iodine does for our bodies? Today, I’ll share with you some knowledge on iodine and why it’s important for body … Read more

College Life and Eating Healthy on a Budget

Hi I’m Anna Matthews! I’m a senior at Appalachian State University and Maria’s intern for the summer. As a college student, I don’t have the time, money, or energy to make extravagant meals. However, it is important to me that I cook most of my meals and maintain a healthy diet. The recipes I’m sharing … Read more

Happy July 4th

July 4th is an exciting midsummer holiday that Americans across the country enjoy indulging in, including myself. Like any other holiday, July 4th inspires a lot of unhealthy foods and activities. However, it is possible to participate in this holiday while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. With the COVID-19 precautions still in place, it would be … Read more

Bringing St. Patrick’s Day Home

Are you looking for a way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day that involves more than warm green beer and potatoes? I’m taking this year, with the Coronavirus scare, as an opportunity to try out some new recipes at home. As we practice social distancing and avoid crowded pubs and bars this season, here are some … Read more

Things to do during “Social Distancing”

We are all going to have a huge shift in our normal routines over the next few weeks (or longer). It would be really easy for all of us to stay in pajamas all day and “stress eat”! While this situation is certainly less than ideal, let’s try to make the best of it. We … Read more

New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthy 2020

Tired of making New Year’s resolutions that you don’t keep? Here are some tips for building healthy habits and making your food goals stick: Keep it Simple Stay away from vague, drastic, or unrealistic resolutions like “eat clean,” “lose 50 pounds,” or “get a six-pack.” These types of resolutions inherently set you up for failure. … Read more

Tips for a Healthy Thanksgiving

Ahhh, Thanksgiving—a lovely little holiday often synonymous with food comas and extra pounds. But eating healthy doesn’t mean missing out on Thanksgiving! Just use the following tips to eat sensibly, stay safe, and enjoy a scrumptious day of feasting. Watch Portion Sizes Aim to make half your plate vegetables—go ahead and load up on veggies … Read more

This Fall, Fall in Love with Pumpkins

Fall is officially here—the air is chilly, leaves are turning colors, and pumpkins galore are found in every grocery store. But did you know that pumpkins are a lot more than just pretty fall decorations? They are nutritional powerhouses packed with healthful fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins. While one cup of cooked pumpkin has only 50 … Read more

Easy Meal Planning with the Plate Method

Meal planning with the plate method is a simple way to create healthy, balanced meals. Plan your dinner plate with the following three easy steps: Fill half of your plate with non-starchy veggies, such as asparagus, beets, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, cucumbers, eggplant, green beans, kale, lettuce, mushrooms, onions, peppers, radishes, spinach, and tomatoes. Make a … Read more

Beat the Heat: Tips for Staying Hydrated in Summer

We all know we’re supposed to drink more water. But let’s face it—sometimes water gets boring and drinking enough can feel like a real chore. Here are some fun, creative ideas for keeping the family healthy and hydrated all summer: Seltzer Mocktails Craving a refreshing, bubbly drink, but trying to avoid the extra calories and … Read more

Nutrition and Diabetes Counseling Center of NC