The Mediterranean Diet was named the Best Overall and Easiest to Follow diet in 2020, 2019 and 2018 by U.S. News & World Report. With an abundance of research available to back its touted benefits, it’s no wonder this eating pattern is one of the most popular and one of the most recommended by health professionals. I distinctly remember my first true introduction to the Mediterranean Diet. As the summer sun scorched down on Sevilla, Spain, I arrived anxious and excited to spend a semester abroad during my junior year of college. I certainly wasn’t in Wisconsin anymore, and the cobblestone streets twisted and turned, leading the way to my new home. And that new home? Well, it was decorated with ham. Jamón Ibérico to be exact and legs of it hung like Christmas lights throughout ... View Post
Produce Guide: Radishes
Crisp, crunchy and vibrant in color, radishes add a pop of brightness and freshness to any meal or snack. This easy-to-grow veggie thrives in cooler season weather and matures quickly. While the most familiar type of radish is the round, red Cherry Belle, there are many varieties of radishes including the French Breakfast Radish, Daikon Radish and the aptly-colored Watermelon Radish. Radishes tend to have a spicy, somewhat bitter flavor that may be intense to some. Fall and winter varieties may have a more pungent taste and are often hardier enabling them to be stored for longer periods of time. When purchasing choose smooth, brightly colored radishes. Any attached tops should be green and look fresh. Remove tops and refrigerate radishes in a plastic bag for up to one week. Save ... View Post
Produce Guide: Asparagus
In the Midwest, the opening of farmers markets is a sure sign spring is actually on the way, despite the fact our calendars told us the season began weeks before. There’s a certain spring (pun-intended) in my step as I brace the still-chilly morning air to catch a glimpse of local veggies like asparagus. Those spears clearly signal fresh produce is on it’s way for months to come. Asparagus is native to the Mediterranean region and today grows throughout most of the United States. Most of us are familiar with the green spears, but purple and white varieties are available as well. When purchasing, choose odorless stalks with dry, tight tips, and avoid limp or wilted stalks. Asparagus can be refrigerated for up to four days by wrapping the ends of the stalks in a wet paper towel and ... View Post
What Does A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Do?
So... what's the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist? If I had a dollar for every time I've been asked that question, well I wouldn't need to work as a dietitian anymore (just kidding!). But in all seriousness, since health and wellness influencers are as popular on Instagram as puppy videos, I think it's important to clarify exactly what the difference is between the two as well as highlight the variety of work dietitians do. What better time than now, to tackle this topic -- March is National Nutrition Month and today (March 11) is National Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day! Let's get started, shall we? Registered Dietitians are credentialed nutrition experts who have completed extensive educational requirements including advanced sciences such as biochemistry and ... View Post
The Best Feeding Gear for Starting Solids
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Starting solids with your baby can be exciting, messy, nerve-wracking and did I mention, messy? All of that being said, I encourage you to embrace the excitement and try not to sweat the mess -- it’s all part of learning to eat! Like everything your baby is doing, eating is a new skill that requires practice and encouragement. While there’s no one method of feeding that works for everyone, having the right gear can make the process a bit smoother. I’m a firm believer in finding what works for your family and only investing in what you truly need (for all kid gear, not just feeding things!). Your baby likely ... View Post
3 Tips for Shopping at a Farmers Market
Spring is around the corner and I cannot wait for the return of our local farmers market. Truth be told, my idea of a perfect weekend morning starts with a trip to the farmers market. I just simply cannot resist the rows and rows of fresh produce, bright flowers and locally-produced goods. Plus, I strive to shop local as much as possible and prefer to support small businesses. And really, nothing tastes better than fresh produce and you deserve to feed your body the best! However, I completely understand that going to a farmers market can be as overwhelming as it is fun, especially with little ones in tow. Often times we arrive with our reusable tote bag, ready to fill it to the brim with leafy greens and juicy berries. Instead we eat a sprinkle-covered donut, buy a new scarf and leave… ... View Post
