http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/feeds/diet-diva?key=diet-diva Healthline Health Blogger Tara Gidus - Diet Diva en-us Copyright (c) 2013 Healthline, All rights reserved. en-us Copyright (c) 2013 Healthline, All rights reserved. http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/book-review-1000-low-calorie-recipes Jackie Newgent is an amazing dietitian, chef and friend, but that is not why I adore her new book, 1000 Low-Calorie Recipes. This is a gem of a cookbook. Not only is it loaded with healthy recipes, everything I’ve made from pizza to salad dress... Fri, 16 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/book-review-1000-low-calorie-recipes Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-11-16T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fueling-for-the-long-run Last weekend was Disney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon and as the Official runDisney Nutritionist, I was there joining in on the action. Before the race I did a warm up run with a group runners and spoke with them about how to fuel during train... Thu, 15 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fueling-for-the-long-run Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-11-15T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/upping-your-nutrition-game Recently I did a TV segment with Charles Divins on the Daily Buzz. It was a blast! We discussed how to making a few simple switches to your usual food choices would help you up your nutrition game. Shaving only 100 calories a day from your diet... Mon, 12 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/upping-your-nutrition-game Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-11-12T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/lets-talk-about-chili I’m sure we may all have a special memory that involves chili. This warm dish often signifies fall and cool weather; it warms you up from the inside out. Maybe you had chili while sitting snuggling by the fire, a chili cheese dog right after a ... Fri, 09 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/lets-talk-about-chili Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-11-09T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/november-is-peanut-butter-lovers-month How do you like your peanut butter? Smeared on a sandwich with jelly, as a topping for apple slices, or plain right out of the jar? I agree, it’s finger licking good. My favorite? A spoonful dunked in a hot bowl of oatmeal. When it melts, it ma... Wed, 07 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/november-is-peanut-butter-lovers-month Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-11-07T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/gluten-free-living Celiac disease is a hot topic in social media, after Jennifer Esposito tweeted about getting fired after falling ill on the set of the CBS drama “Blue Bloods.” She tweets that her doctor recommended her to reduce her work schedule due to Celiac.... Mon, 05 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/gluten-free-living Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-11-05T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/a-tribute-to-oatmeal This past Monday marked National Oatmeal day, and what’s a better way to celebrate than a warm bowl of oats in the morning? Growing up I’d have instant oatmeal in the car ride to school. My mom wasn’t a huge fan of oatmeal, or so she thought, a... Fri, 02 Nov 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/a-tribute-to-oatmeal Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-11-02T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/bites-for-a-healthy-pregnancy Pregnancy is a wonderful experience, but it doesn’t come without its challenges, especially if it’s your first. I remember hearing all sorts of pregnancy advice and old wives tales during my pregnancy from well meaning family and friends, but ... Wed, 31 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/bites-for-a-healthy-pregnancy Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-31T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/family-dinner-time Growing up, my family always sat down to dinner to eat together. It was a time to catch up on our days and discuss anything that was going on at school or in after school activities. I definitely feel like this made our family closer and we wer... Mon, 29 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/family-dinner-time Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-29T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-fall-flavors We’re in the heart of the fall with leaves changing and falling lightly to the ground. This time of year also provides some uniquely fall flavors packed in nutrition and good taste. Here are some of my favorite fall foods -- try to incorporate ... Fri, 26 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-fall-flavors Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-26T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/keep-your-food-and-your-family-safe With the growing number of food contamination outbreaks this past year; you may be wondering how you can keep your food and family safe. Paying attention to the news is your first step so you are aware of any new recalls or outbreaks, how can y... Wed, 24 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/keep-your-food-and-your-family-safe Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-24T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/ten-ways-to-celebrate-food-day Have you heard of Food Day? Everyone will be celebrating a day dedicated to food on October 24th this year. The mantra for food day is “Eat Real”, and it’s something I support whole-heartedly. Eating real, whole food is a predominant element ... Mon, 22 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/ten-ways-to-celebrate-food-day Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-22T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/the-411-on-natural-and-artificial-sweeteners Everyone seems to have their own preference on what type of sweetener they like to cook/bake with, or have in their coffee. It can be really confusing as to what types of sweeteners are healthier. Well, the truth is, every sweetener has its own... Fri, 19 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/the-411-on-natural-and-artificial-sweeteners Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-19T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/ten-ways-to-enjoy-pumpkins-this-fall Today's post was inspired by a recent trip to the pumpkin patch with my five-year-old-son. Pumpkins seem to be the shining crop of fall -- they are fun to pick, great for carving, and the best of all, they are absolutely delicious in almost anyth... Wed, 17 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/ten-ways-to-enjoy-pumpkins-this-fall Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-17T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/three-ways-to-boost-your-nutritional-intake Last week one of the biggest nutrition conferences of the year, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Food and Nutrition Conference and Exhibition, took place in Philadelphia.This is an exciting time for professionals to see what is on the mar... Mon, 15 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/three-ways-to-boost-your-nutritional-intake Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-15T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/where-does-your-food-come-from Ever wonder where your food really comes from? I recently was on The Daily Buzz national morning TV show talking about an amazing group of women farmers who help foster the conversation.Watch the clip here! CommonGround is a group of volun... Fri, 12 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/where-does-your-food-come-from Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-12T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/three-simple-fun-tailgating-ideas The air is getting crisp and that means baseball playoffs are coming, but Saturdays and Sundays are now reserved for football! With the plethora of outdoor sports, that only means one thing for fans: Tailgating. I recently did a segment on The D... Wed, 10 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/three-simple-fun-tailgating-ideas Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-10T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/support-the-farmers-buy-local Weekends are days I love to spend with my family. Whether we go bike riding in the park, walking around our neighborhood or browsing through the farmer’s market, its time well spent! If you have never walked around or bought anything from a far... Mon, 08 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/support-the-farmers-buy-local Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-08T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/exercise-for-your-health Exercising not only helps you lose weight, it also reduces your risk of chronic diseases, improves your mood, reduces stress, improves sleep, and improves your overall quality of life. With our busy schedules, fitting exercise into our daily r... Fri, 05 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/exercise-for-your-health Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fall-is-apple-season Fall is one of my favorite times of the year. The weather begins to cool down, football starts again and it’s apple-picking season! During this time of year, you can find so many types of apples -- at a super market, a farmers market, or by mak... Wed, 03 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fall-is-apple-season Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-03T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mcdonalds-calorie-postings-how-will-it-affect-you More new changes at McDonald's! Last year they changed the calorie levels in their happy meals and now they are giving you the option to make better choices when you dine out. McDonald's just recently began posting their calorie counts inside ... Mon, 01 Oct 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mcdonalds-calorie-postings-how-will-it-affect-you Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-10-01T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/tart-cherries-for-post-workout-recovery Don’t waste your workout! When you get done with an intense workout or long competition, your muscle glycogen stores (energy stores) are severely depleted. Muscle tissue also gets damaged as you train and compete and requires repair immediately... Thu, 27 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/tart-cherries-for-post-workout-recovery Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-09-27T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/5-key-nutrients-for-pregnant-women While pregnancy is certainly a joyous time, it can also be a time full of stress and anxiety as you constantly wonder if you are doing everything right! Now that you are eating for two you want to make sure you are giving your baby all the pro... Wed, 26 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/5-key-nutrients-for-pregnant-women Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-09-26T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/truth-about-paleo-diet People are always talking about the newest diet craze or fad diet that helped them drop that last 10 pounds they were struggling to lose. The magic plan that works for one person may not work for another. One of the diets many people (including... Mon, 24 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/truth-about-paleo-diet Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-09-24T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-game-day-menu Avoid putting on those extra pounds this football season (without even tasting the difference)! Here are some ideas to put a light spin to some classic tailgating foods. Appetizers: Bowl of mixed nuts – Easy to eat and most everyone loves ... Fri, 21 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-game-day-menu Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-09-21T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-of-the-week-blackberries When it comes to desserts, jellies, jams, and wine you often think of more common fruits like strawberries or grapes, but blackberries are gaining traction as a new favorite. Low in calories and sweet to the taste, blackberries are one of my f... Wed, 19 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-of-the-week-blackberries Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-09-19T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-spice-of-the-week-oregano Spaghetti dinners are one of the quickest and easiest things to prepare after a long day at work -- an added bonus is that my family loves spaghetti night! As a dietitian, I always try to find ways to make meals healthier and taste better at th... Mon, 17 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-spice-of-the-week-oregano Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-09-17T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/after-school-snacks-the-fourth-meal Did you know that children consume about 25% of their calories from the snacks they eat? When children get out of school they are very hungry because their last meal was lunch, and they may or may not have actually eaten much. Therefore, it’... Fri, 14 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/after-school-snacks-the-fourth-meal Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-09-14T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-and-mood Are you tired? Sad? Tense? Mad? Whether its anxiety about an upcoming deadline, mood swings from a rollercoaster of a day, or just plain hormonal changes, you can actually help your mood by eating certain foods. Instead of reaching for the fami... Wed, 12 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-and-mood Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-09-12T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/six-super-foods-add-to-diet Check out all the great nutritional benefits of these six super foods to give your diet an extra boost!These top six picks are ones that you may have heard about but may not include as often in your daily routine.I talked about these recently o... Mon, 10 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/six-super-foods-add-to-diet Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-09-10T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/best-brain-foods-for-breakfast Everyone in America has probably heard the saying one time or another in their lives that “breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” Well, it’s the truth and especially important for growing children. Eating a healthy breakfast ensures ... Wed, 05 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/best-brain-foods-for-breakfast Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-09-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-spice-of-the-week-cinnamon Are you looking for more creative ways to spice up your cooking and add flavor to your dishes? As mothers and the prominent chefs of the house, we are always looking for ways to make our food taste better or to get our children to eat the food... Tue, 04 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-spice-of-the-week-cinnamon Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-09-04T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/do-fit-kids-earn-better-grades Do you believe that children who are more physically active make higher grades than others? If you said yes, then you are correct! A new study has found that fitter children are more likely to earn higher scores on standardized tests in reading... Fri, 31 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/do-fit-kids-earn-better-grades Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-31T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-of-the-week-cucumbers Living in Florida we’re used to afternoon showers and really hot temperatures. Sticking by some sort of water -- either pool or beach -- is a must in order to beat the heat. Another great way to keep cool and stay healthy this summer is by eati... Wed, 29 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-of-the-week-cucumbers Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-29T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/back-to-school-special-got-milk As your kids go back to school this fall, do you ever wonder what they are eating or what foods are being offered to them for breakfast and lunch? Some of you may know that the schools have begun implementing changes to their menus according t... Mon, 27 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/back-to-school-special-got-milk Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-27T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-of-the-week-figs A fig is a small, soft fruit that has many tiny seeds on the inside with a very thin skin. They have an unusual texture but are sweet and delicious!The fig fruit is native to the Middle East and is one of the first fruits to be cultivated. Figs ... Fri, 24 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-of-the-week-figs Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-24T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-first-supplements-second After seeing so many athletes test positive for banned substances, we all wonder how this happens. More than half of Americans use dietary supplements every day. Most athletes that test positive have no idea that the supplement which they are t... Thu, 23 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-first-supplements-second Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-23T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/national-sandwich-month Did you know that August is National Sandwich Month? Sandwiches are one of my go-to snacks and favorite lunches of all time just because there are so many different combinations. The sandwich has been around for a long time and was actually dis... Wed, 22 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/national-sandwich-month Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-22T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/five-second-rule-myth-fact Most of you have probably heard about the “five second rule" -- if a piece of food or a utensil hits the ground and stays there for five seconds or less, it's still acceptable to eat/use. What’s your guess? Do you think it’s a fact or a myth? Wit... Fri, 17 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/five-second-rule-myth-fact Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-17T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutritional-superstar-whole-grains Have you made the switch to whole grains yet? Whole grains are complex carbohydrates that contain many key vitamins and minerals. Dietary guidelines for Americans recommend that half of your grains come from whole grains. This means the average... Wed, 15 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutritional-superstar-whole-grains Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-15T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-nutrient-of-the-week-lutein If I were to tell you that there was one nutrient that is connected to vision, would you know which one it is? If you haven’t heard of lutein before today, then you may start trying to incorporate more of this carotenoid into your daily diet aft... Mon, 13 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-nutrient-of-the-week-lutein Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-13T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/a-new-kind-of-snack-bar If you’ve seen the nutrition bar section at your local grocery store lately, you may have noticed an influx of different brands, each one claiming to be “healthy.” Choosing a convenient snack bar that is both nutritious and great tasting can be ... Fri, 10 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/a-new-kind-of-snack-bar Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-10T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/quick-tips-for-cutting-calories Losing weight is not always as easy as it sounds. You have probably tried diet after diet, and while some of them may work in the beginning, the second you straythe pounds start creeping back up. I have seen this same scenario time and again wit... Thu, 09 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/quick-tips-for-cutting-calories Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-09T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-of-the-week-tomatillos A member of the tomato family and native to Central America, a tomatillo (“little tomato” in Spanish)is a small, round fruit that is usually green or yellow and surrounded by a papery husk. They are used in many Mexican dishes to give them a tang... Mon, 06 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-of-the-week-tomatillos Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-06T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/back-to-school-weight-gain-how-to-avoid-it It is now the first week of August, which means that summer is almost over back to school time is lurking just around the corner. The beginning of a new school year is always exciting, and whether your kids are in pre-school or heading off to coll... Fri, 03 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/back-to-school-weight-gain-how-to-avoid-it Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-03T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-spice-of-the-week-ginger Ginger has been used since ancient times as a healing medicine in Asian, Arabic, and Indian cultures.Ginger has a spicy and slightly sweet taste with a strong, pungent aroma. Ginger is rich in volatile oils,essential fatty acids, beta-carotene, an... Wed, 01 Aug 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-spice-of-the-week-ginger Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-08-01T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/what-foods-are-the-olympians-eating I love the Olympics— theanticipation, the excitement, the medal ceremonies, and of course, the food! Olympic athletes know the importance of fueling and have the ability to distinguish what foods are best for performance and which ones are not.... Mon, 30 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/what-foods-are-the-olympians-eating Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-07-30T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-of-the-week-monk-fruit We all need to cut down on our sugar intake, but that doesn't mean you can't satisfy your sweet tooth. Naturally sweeten your favorite beverages and foods with my super food of the week : Monk Fruit. Monk fruit is a small green melon grown on... Fri, 27 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-of-the-week-monk-fruit Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-07-27T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/seeds-aren't-just-for-the-birds Nuts are a great snack and incorporating them into some of your meals can provide essential fatty acids, vitamins, and fiber to your diet, but have you ever thought about eating seeds? Seeds are an often overlooked food by many. These tiny little... Wed, 25 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/seeds-aren't-just-for-the-birds Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-07-25T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/energy-all-day-at-the-office Do you tend to have energy slumps throughout the day? Not sure how to fuel up? We get stuck in meetings, on conference calls, or working hard at our desks all day long. Often we get so busy we forget to eat -- that’s when energy drains and we find... Mon, 23 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/energy-all-day-at-the-office Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-07-23T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-nutrient-protein Three nutrients make up the macronutrients that we must include in our diets daily--carbohydrates, protein, and fat. All have important functions and work synergistically in our bodies. While carbohydrates and fat are both necessary to include... Fri, 20 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-nutrient-protein Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-07-20T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/grill-up-safely July is the peak month for grilling and cook outs. Think safety so your good times aren’t spoiled by illness! Summer is the time when you are going on vacation or hanging with the kids, so the last thing you want is to come down with a food bo... Wed, 18 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/grill-up-safely Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-07-18T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/what-choose-avoid-salads Salad--the no brainer diet food, right? Not so fast! While salads can be a great choice at times, it’s way to easy to load up a salad with “fun stuff” that’s not necessarily the most weight friendly. Some salads’ calorie levels can even exceed e... Mon, 16 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/what-choose-avoid-salads Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-07-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/color-plate-matters Do you love having dinner parties like I do? Well, the next time you are planning what to serve, how much to serve, and who to invite, you may also want to take into consideration the color of the plates you will be serving your food on. Yes, t... Fri, 13 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/color-plate-matters Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-07-13T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-peaches While the summer months produce an abundance of seasonal fruits and vegetables, one that often comes to mind that I cannot get enough of is peaches. With their fuzzy coats, this round and versatile fruit is full of nutrients and is worthy of bei... Wed, 11 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-peaches Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-07-11T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/diet-downhill-day-goes Do you have intentions of eating healthy when you get up in the morning and then somewhere around 3 PM you hit the candy jar at work and it’s all over? You wake up in the morning, have a healthy breakfast, and try to plan for the day ahead. But... Mon, 09 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/diet-downhill-day-goes Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-07-09T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/grocery-money-spent Whenever I take clients on grocery store tours, I always talk to them about the following things: Fill the majority of your cart with plant-based foods--fruits, veggies, whole grains, beansNever go to the grocery store hungry to prevent impu... Fri, 06 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/grocery-money-spent Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-07-06T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/link-maternal-vitamin-d Childhood obesity is on the rise and a lot of attention has been directed towards excessive intake during pregnancy. However, new research shows that inadequate nutritional intake may be to blame for excessive body fat during childhood. A rece... Wed, 04 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/link-maternal-vitamin-d Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-07-04T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/product-review-coco-via No food on Earth can match the unique blend of flavanols that is found in cocoa, coining the term “nature’s most surprising superfruit.” That’s right: Cocoa is a FRUIT! Who knew? Cocoa flavanols are good-for-you phytonutrients that are naturall... Mon, 02 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/product-review-coco-via Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-07-02T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/adventurous-grilling-ideas Summer’s here! Why not spend some more time outside on the grill? Everything tastes better on the grill! Grilling meats reduces the fat content because it allows the fat to drip off the grill. The grill isn’t just for hot dogs, hamburgers, an... Fri, 29 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/adventurous-grilling-ideas Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-06-29T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-product-special-k-bars People are busy. I get that. I am busy as a working mom with two young boys and nutrition isn’t always the top priority…even for me (shhh, don’t tell anyone!)! Today, when people are rushed in between meetings or just swamped with work in the a... Wed, 27 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-product-special-k-bars Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-06-27T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/juice-or-blend Are you confused on whether it’s better to juice or blend? The truth is they are both fantastic options to go with on our quest to “Live more fruitfully.” Whether you like to juice your fruits and vegetables or blend them, both are easy ways to... Mon, 25 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/juice-or-blend Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-06-25T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/simple-summer-eating The best part of the year and my favorite time of the year is finally here! That’s right …it’s summer time. Warmer temperatures mean more days spent outdoors, more pool days with the kids, backyard BBQ’s, vacations, and many other social events... Fri, 22 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/simple-summer-eating Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-06-22T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-red-bell-peppers Are you ready to liven up your summer with something sweet and vibrant? Red pepper is the perfect superfood to incorporate into your diet this summer! This crunchy and slightly sweet food has a vibrant color that will liven up any summer meal.... Wed, 20 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-red-bell-peppers Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-06-20T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/bananas-beneficial-exercise I am a huge believer in the fact that every athlete should have a banana a day and I preach this constantly to all of the athletes I work with. Bananas provide numerous health benefits and have been a long favorite source of energy for enduranc... Mon, 18 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/bananas-beneficial-exercise Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-06-18T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/man-food-makeover Father’s Day is right around the corner. Why not make some healthy “man foods” for your man, or yourself! Typical man foods (wings, pizza, burgers, Sloppy Joes, onion rings, French fries) are normally full of saturated fat, sodium, empty calori... Fri, 15 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/man-food-makeover Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-06-15T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-zucchini Zucchini, a powerful antioxidant, is now in season! What a great time to start incorporating it into your diet. It made the list as our superfood of the week! This superfood is a good source of many vitamins and minerals including: ... Wed, 13 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-zucchini Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-06-13T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/small-mighty-after-school-snack Want to provide your children with a nutritious after-school snack that prevents excessive calorie intake and increases satiety (feeling satisfied longer)? Small but mighty, raisins might be your snack of choice! A recent study found that chil... Mon, 11 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/small-mighty-after-school-snack Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-06-11T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/411-weight-gain-pregnancy When you first find out you’re pregnant, you want to do everything you can to make sure you have a healthy baby and a smooth pregnancy. Keeping your weight under control before and during pregnancy is an important way to ensure the health of yo... Fri, 08 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/411-weight-gain-pregnancy Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-06-08T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-watermelon Summer is here! It’s time to indulge in watermelon, the unofficial fruit of the season! Not only is watermelon juicy, sweet, and delicious, but it's jam-packed full of nutrients. Watermelon is made up of about 91 percent water and will help... Wed, 06 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-watermelon Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-06-06T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/best-toppings-pizza If you’re like I am, you enjoy a nice greasy slice of pizza (or two…or three…). Just like the next guy, but you may be wondering, “How can I possibly make this meal of oh-so-good cheese, sauce, and bread of any nutritional worth?” Take this lit... Mon, 04 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/best-toppings-pizza Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-06-04T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-spice-tumeric You may have been keeping up with my blog and reading about the superfoods and super nutrients. Well, I’d like to introduce you to the very first…wait for it…. super spice! It’s turmeric. You may have heard of it. You may even know about its nu... Thu, 31 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-spice-tumeric Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-31T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/summertime-eat-season A new way to try and beat the heat, maintain your weight and your budget, all the while helping to save the earth is by eating in season this summer. With the changing of seasons, try a change of outlook this summer by deciding to purchase frui... Tue, 29 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/summertime-eat-season Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-29T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fueling-olympian Have you thought about what it takes to fuel an Olympian? London eagerly awaits the arrival of 10,500 athletes from over 204 different countries, but the athletes will not be the only ones there. This year, the U.S. Olympics Committee will be ... Fri, 25 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fueling-olympian Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-25T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sleep-influence-eating-habits Just as important as getting 8 glasses of water a day, so is getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Sleep is that important part of your day that you are resting, recovering, and preparing for the next day. So what happens when we don’t get enou... Mon, 21 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sleep-influence-eating-habits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-21T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eat-out-healthy Do you think there is nothing healthy to eat when eating out? Think again! Dr. Jo’s Eat Out Healthy is a great tool to help anyone navigate healthfully through the world of dining out no matter what your taste or your nutrition knowledge bas... Fri, 18 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eat-out-healthy Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-18T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mango-magical-fruit Many of us have spent a lot of our time trying to figure out what the magical food or diet is that will keep us both slim and healthy. Well, new research has emerged claiming that the mango may help you do just that. Comparing the diets of ov... Fri, 18 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mango-magical-fruit Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-18T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-concord-grape-juice When it comes to Concord grape juice, this is a superfood that is sometimes overlooked. My kids love Concord Grape Juice and it’s something I keep on hand at my house at all times. There is a substantial body of research to support the idea th... Thu, 17 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-concord-grape-juice Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-17T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-nutrient-fiber Fiber, a word many people often associate with…cardboard. While this is so far from the truth, the bottom line is that it's a nutrient you don’t want to miss! Fiber in general terms is the non-digestible parts of the plant also known as “rougha... Wed, 16 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-nutrient-fiber Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fantastic-gnu-product For years now, the key phrase for keeping weight off and keeping you fuller longer has been simply, “Eat more fiber.” According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, you should be getting 25 to 30g of fiber in your diet daily. So, the quest... Mon, 14 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fantastic-gnu-product Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-14T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/kashi-meals Let’s face it, sometimes it is difficult to get to the kitchen to cook. Whether we are running errands, taking kids here and there, or just had a long day at work and the last thing we want to do is cook a meal for the family. Home cooked meal... Fri, 11 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/kashi-meals Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-11T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/reading-labels-beef For the longest time, Americans have held steak and beef in the highest of standards. In the old days beef was symbolic of wealth and prestige and today many people still order it to celebrate a special occasion. This year the USDA began requir... Wed, 09 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/reading-labels-beef Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-09T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-strawberries There’s nothing that says “hello summer” quite like eating a juicy, sun ripened strawberry. Strawberries serve a greater purpose than just fulfilling a sweet tooth as they are packed with health benefits, making it a nutritious fruit choice for... Mon, 07 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-strawberries Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-07T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-olives We have seen a growing trend this year with a shift from “fat free” foods to healthy fats. While more attention is often given to olive oil than its whole counterpart, olives are actually one of the world’s healthiest and most widely consumed ... Fri, 04 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-olives Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-04T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/six-people-who-can-often-sabotage-diets When you are trying to lose weight, often your friends and loved ones become your biggest obstacle, contributing to halting your best efforts in your weight loss program. Since those closest to us have the greatest influence on our eating habit... Wed, 02 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/six-people-who-can-often-sabotage-diets Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-05-02T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/best-foods-for-healing Are you an athlete who has been sidelined in the past for a minor sports injury? Whether you are a weekend warrior or a more serious athlete, you can help to avoid being sidelined for too long but incorporating a few important nutrients into yo... Mon, 30 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/best-foods-for-healing Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-04-30T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/the-art-of-keeping-weight-off One of the biggest struggles people face in terms of dieting and fitness is how to maintain weight after losing it. Whether you have lost 100 lbs or 10 lbs, you want to make sure you keep that weight from creeping back up. Below are some helpfu... Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/the-art-of-keeping-weight-off Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-04-27T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/five-foods-you-should-be-eating Opinions seem to change on foods everyday. One day a food is good for you, one day it is bad for you. In recent research, some of the foods once thought to be bad for you and that many people avoided, may actually help you lose weight! Eggs:... Tue, 24 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/five-foods-you-should-be-eating Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-04-24T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/tested-tricks-for-getting-your-kids-to-eat-their-veggies Nutrition researchers all over the country are constantly publishing studies on the benefits of eating more vegetables. Thanks to this research, we know that a diet that includes at least 3 servings of vegetables may reduce our risk for heart d... Mon, 16 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/tested-tricks-for-getting-your-kids-to-eat-their-veggies Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-04-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/the-salty-truth Food without salt? Sounds gross right? When I work with clients who need to be on a low sodium diet due to medical reasons, I try to find ways to keep their salt intake in check with little tricks and tips instead of cutting salt out completely... Mon, 16 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/the-salty-truth Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-04-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-fresh-juice Do you have a juicer collecting dust in your pantry? It may be time to dust it off and give it a whirl! I just recently started juicing and absolutely love it. Juicing allows you to pack more fruits and vegetables into your day thus helping y... Mon, 16 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-fresh-juice Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-04-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/loving-on-some-soy What do you think of when you think of soy? Tofu? Soy milk? Edamame? Are you turning up your nose in disgust or reading on with excitement because you love soy? You don’t have to be a vegetarian to eat soy. In Asian countries tofu is often ser... Thu, 12 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/loving-on-some-soy Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-04-12T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-papaya There may be no better way to start a day than with a bowl of ripe papaya cut into chunks! This bright orange fruit is easy to digest, tastes great, and has a ton of nutritional benefits! That’s why papaya just happens to be my super food of th... Wed, 11 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-papaya Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-04-11T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-raisins When thinking of fruits and veggies, you may automatically think fresh, but dried fruit can actually count too. Raisins are one of the most popular dried fruits today. These simple fruits make a convenient snack and are easy to tuck into a lunch b... Mon, 09 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-raisins Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-04-09T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/use-those-leftovers It’s evident that food prices are continuing to rise, and it’s easy to use that as excuse to not eat healthy. Do you know one of the biggest food costs? Throwing food away! Either we let it go bad without using it soon enough or we throw away e... Mon, 09 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/use-those-leftovers Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-04-09T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/easter-candy After Halloween, Easter is the second largest candy eating holiday. When it comes to candy, there really isn’t one candy that is better than the other. At the end of the day to prevent packing on the pounds, it all comes down to calories. Many ... Wed, 04 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/easter-candy Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-04-04T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/celebrate-national-pbj-day Do you know what is celebrated on April 2? It’s doubtful you’ll get a day off of school or work for it, but it certainly is a fun one to celebrate! Historically this popular sandwich all started during WWII when American soldiers mixed their rat... Mon, 02 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/celebrate-national-pbj-day Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-04-02T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-onion One of my favorite foods to cook with and a great way to enhance flavor is with onions. Onions are the foundation to many recipes and almost always one of the first ingredients to go into my pan at home. Raw or cooked, onions add a ton of flavo... Thu, 29 Mar 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-food-onion Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-29T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-dive/frozen-foods March is a busy month with it being National Nutrition Month, National Athletic Training Month, St. Patrick’s Day Month,and let’s not forget National Frozen Foods Month! The National Frozen and Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) is encouragi... Wed, 28 Mar 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-dive/frozen-foods Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-28T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mother-nature-knows-best When it comes to food, Mother Nature knows best! I recently featured some of my favorite naturally nutrient rich foods on The Daily Buzz national morning show. Check out the clip and read below for more details and recipe links. PotatoesAt 11... Mon, 26 Mar 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mother-nature-knows-best Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-26T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-product-kind-grains You have undoubtedly noticed the recent increase in the number of gluten free products available in super markets nowadays. According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, one in 133 people in the United States has Celiac Disease for which the trea... Fri, 23 Mar 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-product-kind-grains Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-23T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-nutrient-antioxidants Antioxidants are small, but they pack a huge punch when fighting off disease! These super nutrients help to protect your body from various diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. They also play a role in helping our immune systems st... Thu, 22 Mar 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-nutrient-antioxidants Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-22T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-vitamin-a You hear about antioxidants all of the time, and having a varied diet, rich in fruits and vegetables proves to be beneficial because each food provides different amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants needed for certain body functions.... Mon, 19 Mar 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-vitamin-a Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-19T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-fats-are-in Despite years of the anti-fat sentiment, it’s becoming clear that more and more research suggests that the right kinds of fats can make you healthier! More food and beverage companies have even caught on to this trend by emphasizing the good fa... Mon, 19 Mar 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-fats-are-in Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-19T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/exercise-making-fat We're already months in to the New Year. Did you vow that this would be the year that you’re going to lose weight? Have you signed up for a road race, whether it be a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or full marathon, because you know that more exercise ... Fri, 16 Mar 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/exercise-making-fat Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-omega-3 You probably know at least one person in your life who is taking fish oil, also known as omega 3 fatty acids, but maybe don’t understand why they take it or maybe even the need for it. I will clear up the mystery and highlight the numerous nutr... Wed, 14 Mar 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-omega-3 Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-14T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/share-your-breakfast I wrote last week about the importance of breakfast, and I truly believe in the importance of breakfast because when you start your day with breakfast you are setting yourself up for great things to happen. Last week was National Breakfast Week... Mon, 12 Mar 2012 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/share-your-breakfast Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-12T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/beef-lovers-rejoice Listen up all you beef lovers. Have I got some news for you that is going to make your heart jump for joy! A recent study published in the December issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition called the BOLD study or “Beef in an Optima... Fri, 09 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/beef-lovers-rejoice Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-09T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-mango Mangos are one of nature’s most powerful fruits. Its popularity stems from its unique taste, appealing fragrance, and rich colors. Mangos are an easy snack to pack when you are on the go and are one of my favorite fruits to throw in my purse. M... Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-mango Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-07T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/balanced-breakfast-key-success Do you struggle to get a nutritious breakfast for yourself or your family daily? Too little time? Not hungry? Whatever the reason may be, everyone needs this meal. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day (ever heard that one before?) a... Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/balanced-breakfast-key-success Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-05T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/plate-shape-march Hello March! March just happens to be National Nutrition Month! National Nutrition Month® is a nutrition education and information campaign created annually in March by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The campaign focuses attenti... Fri, 02 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/plate-shape-march Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-03-02T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/decipher-menu-choose-right-foods Eating out can be a lot of fun, but when trying to stick to a diet or trying to eat healthy, it can sometimes be a challenge. Deciphering a menu can often be difficult with the large array of choices that often presents itself to us. Th... Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/decipher-menu-choose-right-foods Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-02-27T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/moderate-exercise-mommies-to-be Are you expecting and worried about not being able to exercise regularly for fear of causing harm to your baby? Well a recent study from John’s Hopkins University found that exercise during pregnancy is actually quite good for your baby! Res... Fri, 24 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/moderate-exercise-mommies-to-be Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-02-24T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-plantains Plantains are best described as green counterparts of rich, ripe yellow bananas and are actually a natural super food that many people are unaware of! Although they look similar to bananas, they are actually quite different. In many tropical re... Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-plantains Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-02-22T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fuel-body-carbohydrates With all the athletes that I work with, I preach about the importance of fueling your body correctly before, during, and after workouts. With all the fad diets out there, many of them try to eliminate the most important source of energy we need... Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fuel-body-carbohydrates Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-02-17T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-b-vitamins Many people toss the term “B vitamins” around without true knowledge of these powerhouse nutrients! What many people don’t know is that there are 8 vitamins designated as B vitamins, which include thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pan... Wed, 15 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-b-vitamins Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-02-15T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/heart-your-cart With the month of February being heart month, it is a good time to do everything you can to show your families’ hearts some love! A healthy diet is one of your most powerful weapons in the fight against heart disease. Building a heart healthy d... Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/heart-your-cart Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-02-13T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eating-green "Going Green" is a buzz phrase you are hearing a lot from people trying to find ways to help protect our environment now and for future generations. You may have started to switch your lightbulbs, unplug appliances, recycle papers, cans, and bott... Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eating-green Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-02-10T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/prevent-flu-winter With little boys ages 2 and 4, I try to do everything I can to prevent them for getting sick. They are bringing home other kid’s germs daily from school. If I can do everything in my power to build their immune systems, I can keep them healthy!... Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/prevent-flu-winter Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-02-10T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-vitamin-c Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is probably the most well known vitamin of all. It is a water soluble vitamin that not only performs as an antioxidant, but also plays a part in various body functions such as: Maintaining and re... Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-vitamin-c Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-02-08T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/prevent-heart-disease Heart disease is the leading causes of death for both men and women in the United States and most countries. Diet plays such an important role in the development of major risk factors of heart disease including hypertension, obesity, diabetes, ... Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/prevent-heart-disease Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-02-06T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/go-red Did you know that heart disease is the number one killer of women in the US? Surprising right? But actually, it’s a fact that more women die of heart disease than all forms of cancer combined. Heart disease causes one in three deaths each year ... Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/go-red Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-02-01T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/live-fruitfully It’s a well known fact that people should aim to get at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day, however few of us do. Fruit is one of my favorite things to snack on or to accompany my meals as it provides numerous health benefits inc... Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/live-fruitfully Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-01-30T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fact-or-fad The weight loss industry makes billions and billions of dollars every year telling us that by eating only bacon and eggs, grapefruit, or cabbage, we will get the body of our dreams. Fad diets are weight loss plans that promise dramatic results.... Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fact-or-fad Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-01-27T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/do-you-need-sports-drink-exercise Water is always an excellent choice for hydration; however sports drinks do have their place with athletes or with recreational gym goers. Today’s commercial drinks, such as PowerAde and Gatorade, incorporate electrolytes and carbohydrates wit... Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/do-you-need-sports-drink-exercise Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-01-25T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-proanthocyanidins Urinary tract infections (UTI’s) are common, painful, and disruptive infections that most often occur in women. No woman wants them and every woman wants to do everything to prevent them. It has always been a common thought that drinking cranb... Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-proanthocyanidins Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-01-23T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fight-the-flu Everyone knows that when the weather starts to turn cold after those warm summer months, it means flu season is upon us. No one likes to be away from work or laid up in bed all day, but about 10-20% of Americans get the flu each year. Influenza... Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fight-the-flu Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-01-20T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-iron For many of the populations that I work with (pregnant women and athletes), iron is an extremely important mineral that needs to be a part of their diets daily. Iron is required for a number of vital functions, including GrowthReproductionW... Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-iron Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-01-13T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/go-bananas Bananas are one of my favorite foods of all time. I believe everyone should have a banana every single day and I tell this to all my clients and athletes that I work with. Bananas are a fantastic super food as they are inexpensive, they taste g... Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/go-bananas Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-01-11T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-tuna In the past, tuna has had a bad rap because of potentially high mercury levels and it seems to be a question I get all the time when I am recommending it as a good source of lean protein to clients. In fact, when consumed in moderation tuna off... Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-tuna Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-01-09T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fuel-your-fitness-goals Some people may think that getting into great shape means to only work out regularly, however if getting in shape is one of your New Year’s Resolutions, exercise is only half the equation. What you eat can make or break your fitness goals so th... Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fuel-your-fitness-goals Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-01-06T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/lose-weight-without-sacrificing-flavor When you are trying to lose weight, every calorie counts. Just because you’re cutting calories doesn’t mean you have to cut good taste! The truth of the matter is that dieting does not mean you must abandon food or flavor but rather you must d... Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/lose-weight-without-sacrificing-flavor Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2012-01-05T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/make-resolutions-stick The New Year is upon us, which means new beginnings, a new start, and a new chapter in our lives. This is why so many people create resolutions to kick off the New Year. It’s a great opportunity for people to eliminate bad habits and to establi... Fri, 30 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/make-resolutions-stick Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-12-30T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-peanut-butter I’ve always been a peanut butter fan since I was a child. I can remember eating it by the spoonfuls out of the jar! To this day, it is one food I’ve never gotten sick of. It’s tasty, satisfying, inexpensive, and even good for your health. That’... Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-peanut-butter Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-12-28T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/boost-your-willpower Dating all the way back to the time of Adam and Eve, individuals have struggled with self control. We eat too much, we drink too much, we gamble too much, and we even become addicted to things like drugs, smoking, and work. So what exactly is t... Tue, 27 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/boost-your-willpower Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-12-27T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/chocolate-lovers For those of you who know me, I am a CHOCOLATE LOVER! A day does not go by without me eating chocolate at one point or another. One of the many lessons I’ve learned throughout the years is that a little goes a long way! Dark chocolate o... Fri, 23 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/chocolate-lovers Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-12-23T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-grapefruit Nothing is better than a grapefruit to jumpstart your day with breakfast in the morning. Like other citrus fruits, grapefruits are packed with nutrients making it this week’s superfood of the week. Grapefruits contain numerous amounts of ... Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-grapefruit Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-12-21T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/boost-your-immune-system-holiday It’s that time of the year again . . . the holiday season, which means tons of holiday parties, traveling, and low immune systems. The last thing you want to ruin you holidays is a cold or the flu. So how can you keep your immune system strong ... Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/boost-your-immune-system-holiday Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-12-19T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/digestive-troubles-holidays With the holiday season in full swing, you don’t want anything to prevent you from getting to those holiday parties--especially not “stomach” issues. Why is holiday time especially troublesome for digestive upset? Travel Schedule disruptionE... Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/digestive-troubles-holidays Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-12-16T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-oranges Whether eaten as a snack or with a meal, oranges contain a wide variety of nutritional benefits. This juicy and sweet fruit provides over 93% of the daily value for vitamin C making oranges an immune-boosting, super food of the week. Liv... Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-oranges Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-12-14T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-sensitivities Are you suffering from a stubborn health problem (for me it used to be migraines) that won’t go away no matter what you try? Do you feel like the medications you’re taking aren’t actually getting at the root cause of your illness, but you want ... Mon, 12 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-sensitivities Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-12-12T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cancer-fighting-foods As a dietitian, I often preach about the power of nutrition as medicine. I had a client come in recently with high cholesterol, high LDL, and high triglycerides and after changing his diet for a month, he saw those numbers drop to almost normal... Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cancer-fighting-foods Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-12-09T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-eggs For many years, Americans limited egg consumption for fear of raising their cholesterol levels. We are finally breaking away from these old beliefs as new research confirms that eggs are okay to eat again! Nutrient dense and a fantastic source ... Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-eggs Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-12-07T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pizza-vegetable So apparently Congress is in need of a nutrition seminar on what a vegetable is. Like many of you, when I heard that Congress said that pizza and French fries are vegetables, I was shocked. How can these politicians allow our childhood obesity ... Mon, 05 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pizza-vegetable Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-12-05T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sweetened-drinks-heart If you are in that pre-contemplation stage of behavior change and just can’t seem to give up soda or sugar sweetened beverages, here’s your new incentive. A new study presented at the American Heart Association’s annual meeting suggests t... Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sweetened-drinks-heart Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-12-02T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-asparagus When I think of a vegetable I hated to eat as a child, I think of asparagus. However, the more I was exposed to it, the more I began to enjoy it and rightfully so as asparagus is a powerhouse veggie! This vegetable is a member of the lil... Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-asparagus Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-11-30T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-obsessed-apps As a dietitian, I’m a huge foodie! I mean I get excited walking into beautiful grocery stores. You pretty much can say I’m food obsessed. I am also obsessed with the hundreds of food applications available for my iphone. These food apps help me... Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-obsessed-apps Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-11-28T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/bring-thanks-back-thanksgiving November is the one month designated to giving thanks. We gather around the table during the eleventh month of the year with close relatives surrounded by great food and family traditions. But the real reason behind the season is not to eat unt... Thu, 24 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/bring-thanks-back-thanksgiving Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-11-24T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-turkey At last, it's turkey time again! It seems that turkey is ignored 10 months out of the year until the holiday season arrives, but with the nutritional benefits this lean protein provides, people should start thinking about including it more ofte... Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-turkey Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-11-23T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mashed-potatoes Mashed potatoes are a dinner favorite at my house and you don’t have to twist my arm too hard for me to make them! Potatoes often get a reputation for being a “bad food” but potatoes are actually a really nutrient rich food! It’s a surp... Mon, 21 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mashed-potatoes Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-11-21T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/guess-myth-fact Just about every day some new nutrition advice is in the media or magazines, or your friends tell you they’ve heard something from the guy at the gym. Confused about who to believe? Here are five things you may or may not have heard of, but I’... Fri, 18 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/guess-myth-fact Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-11-18T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/slim-holiday-season It's that time of year again: Food is tempting you as holiday parties fill your calendar, but you’re concerned about fitting into your little red dress!How about focusing on how to eatbetweenthose parties to keep you on track this holiday seas... Fri, 18 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/slim-holiday-season Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-11-18T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-cranberries Tis the season for giving thanks and family feasts! I love Thanksgiving and look forward to the great food that the month of November has to offer . . . turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, and don’t forget the cranberries! This is one of my f... Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-cranberries Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-11-16T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/foodily-app At the end of a long work day, do you ever struggle to come up with ideas for dinner? Believe me, I have been there numerous times, especially if it is one of those days where nothing sounds good. Well, have I got a solution for you! A Fun F... Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/foodily-app Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-11-14T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/digestive-disturbances Do digestive disturbances rule your life? Nothing is worse than a stomach issue that leaves you feeling bloated, uncomfortable, constipated, or gassy. Approximately 60-70 million Americans experience these problems every day. While many believe... Fri, 11 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/digestive-disturbances Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-11-11T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fuel-up-to-play Childhood obesity is skyrocketing today with statistics showing that nearly one in three American children/teens is being classified in the overweight and obese categories. It is now the number one health concern parent’s face today topping dru... Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fuel-up-to-play Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-11-07T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/shape-your-babys-diet Is your child a picky eater? Does he or she dislike or spit out their vegetables when you try to feed them? Would you believe me if I told you that this could be due to what you ate during your pregnancy? Recent studies have shown that in o... Fri, 04 Nov 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/shape-your-babys-diet Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-11-04T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-pecans Nuts are high on my list of favorite superfoods. They're full of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that keep our bodies going strong, and they taste great too! I love all types of nuts, especially those that can really make a difference in o... Wed, 02 Nov 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-pecans Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-11-02T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/hiding-veggies Your kids don’t gobble up the veggies? We’ve all been there. Young children are just beginning to develop their senses, and vegetables have natural bitter components to them that don’t naturally taste good. Kids are very smart and very obse... Mon, 31 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/hiding-veggies Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-10-31T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-halloween Halloween is approaching fast, and, if your kids are like mine, they love candy and would eat it as their meal if they could! Here are six tips for a healthier Halloween to prevent your children from filling up on non-nutritious foods all da... Fri, 28 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-halloween Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-10-28T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-garbanzo-beans Whether you call them garbanzo beans or chickpeas, this addicting legume receives my superfood spotlight this week for some of the amazing health benefits it provides. If you’re a regular reader of this blog, you already know about my bean obs... Wed, 26 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-garbanzo-beans Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-10-26T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/national-food-day It’s time to get real and eat real! Mark your calendars because October 24th is National Food Day. Thousands of Americans are gathering in schools, farmers markets, college campuses, and state capitols to talk about ways to improve and transfo... Mon, 24 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/national-food-day Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-10-24T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fall-flavors The air is getting crisp and the leaves are turning—it can only mean one thing: Fall is in the air! It’s harvest time for many fruits and vegetables in the fall, so take advantage of some of those fall flavors! I was on The Daily Buzz natio... Fri, 21 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fall-flavors Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-10-21T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-pumpkin Fall is my absolute favorite time of the year. I love the beautiful colors of the leaves, and of course the food! One particular food that comes to mind is pumpkins! Pumpkins are a true sign that fall has arrived. During the months of September... Wed, 19 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-pumpkin Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-10-19T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/oats In a recent post, I talked about the amazing health benefits of oats, but what if you are stuck in an oatmeal rut? Oats are not only meant for breakfast. They can be incorporated into almost any meal to help you get the whole grains and dietary... Fri, 14 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/oats Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-10-14T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/crave-healthier-foods What are some of your cravings? If you’re like the average American when it comes to food cravings, you turn to your favorite comfort foods—likely loaded with fat, salt, or sugar. I admit that quite often I have cravings for something downright... Mon, 10 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/crave-healthier-foods Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-10-10T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mindful-eating Do you stuff down a sandwich in front of a computer screen while preparing for your next meeting? I am guilty of it occasionally, too, but I have learned to try to control this by being aware and mindful of the food I am putting in my body. ... Fri, 07 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mindful-eating Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-10-07T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fat-tax On October 1, 2011, Denmark became the first country to issue a “fat tax” on certain foods to encourage healthy eating. Foods like butter, milk, cheese, pizza, meat, oil, and processed food are now subject to the tax if they contain more than 2... Fri, 07 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fat-tax Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-10-07T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-eggplant If you have never bought or prepared eggplant before, believe me I get it. But don’t let those purple veggies be intimidating! Have no fear, you’ll get some dynamite ideas for the next time you want to make something just a little different for ... Wed, 05 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-eggplant Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-10-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/meatless-mondays The Meatless Monday movement is growing quickly! Never heard of it? Well, celebrities like Oprah, Olivia Wilde, Bob Harper, Simon Cowell, Gwyneth Paltrow, and many more are taking the pledge and jumping on the band wagon of avoiding meat on Mo... Mon, 03 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/meatless-mondays Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-10-03T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/dirty-dozen The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a U.S. based environmental advocacy organization that developed a list in 1995 compiled of fruits and vegetables most contaminated with pesticides. Referred to as the “Dirty Dozen,” the list of produce ... Fri, 30 Sep 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/dirty-dozen Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-09-30T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-pistachios When the mid-day munchies hit and you’re tempted to grab a sugar-filled snack, bypass the candy bar or chips and reach for a handful of pistachios instead. When consumed in moderation, this tree nut can be effective in managing weight when comp... Wed, 28 Sep 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-pistachios Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-09-28T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-journals I knew I’d get your attention with that headline. Am I selling a “magic” cream or pill? Nope! Just old fashioned accountability in the form of: a food journal. Simply keeping track of everything you eat within a day can open your eyes to unhea... Mon, 26 Sep 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-journals Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-09-26T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fall-vegetables Ever get in a rut eating the same darn fruits and veggies all the time? Break out of the rut with creative ideas to inspire you to eat your veggies! Fall is a great time to explore the flavors of the season: Eggplant: This purple beauty ... Fri, 23 Sep 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fall-vegetables Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-09-23T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-butternut-squash Fall is the season of orange super foods—pumpkin, acorn squash, and this week’s super food of the week: butternut squash. This fall veggie is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrients. If this food has not made its way onto your dinner table yet, no... Wed, 21 Sep 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-butternut-squash Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-09-21T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/wow I just started working with Jamba Juice, and I really love one of their key messages. They want everyone to have a “Daily WOW!” Put some WOW in your NOW! (They even have ambassadors of WOW!). Isn’t that fun? Ever since I heard that, I try t... Mon, 19 Sep 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/wow Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-09-19T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/grocery-store-savings Do you feel like every time you go to the grocery store you are spending a lot more money than you had intended to? Many Americans feel this way. Often, in the effort to save money, people cut nutrition. According to a recent study published... Fri, 16 Sep 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/grocery-store-savings Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-09-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/flavored-milk As a mom of two young boys who can sometimes be picky, milk is something I won’t let them skip out on. Milk is packed with essential nutrients to help kids grow into strong healthy adults. Both white and flavored milks are excellent sources of ... Mon, 12 Sep 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/flavored-milk Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-09-12T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-safety With recent food recalls and caution against food contamination, it makes me wonder, where does food safety start? Many of you know of someone or have experienced yourself the unpleasant, gut-wrenching side effects of food poisoning. As someone... Fri, 09 Sep 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-safety Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-09-09T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-whole-grains If you haven’t made the switch to whole grains yet, September is the month to jump on this bandwagon. Did you know that September is whole grains month? Whole grains are packed with nutrition! That’s why this week’s super food is whole grains.... Wed, 07 Sep 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-whole-grains Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-09-07T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pack-school-lunch The end of another summer means new teachers, new school supplies, dreaded homework, and, of course, school snacks and lunches! This year, you can keep it simple and healthy by joining the public health initiative P.A.C.K. (Pack Assorted Colors... Mon, 05 Sep 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pack-school-lunch Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-09-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutty-for-nuts If anyone knows me, they know that I am definitely a nut fan. I love all types from almonds to pecans to pistachios and more! All nuts are a great source of protein, antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats, and add delicious taste to meals ... Fri, 02 Sep 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutty-for-nuts Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-09-02T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-prunes With my busy schedule and always being on the go, I have to make sure I am keeping my energy levels up by eating every 2 to 3 hours. One of my go-to snacks is a few dried plums, also known as prunes. I know what you're probably thinking…grandma... Wed, 31 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-prunes Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-31T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/finish-your-milk When I was growing up (in the dairy state of Wisconsin), my mother never used to let me leave the table unless I finished my entire glass of milk at meals. “It’ll help you grow and give you strong bones,” she’d say. Aren’t moms always right? Sh... Mon, 29 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/finish-your-milk Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-29T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/school-lunch-box-safety I remember when my mom used to pack my lunch for school when I was a kid. This was before ice packs were invented. I’d go to school, put my lunch box in my cubby, and not think about it until lunch time. This is still what many children probabl... Fri, 26 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/school-lunch-box-safety Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-26T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-red-wine There’s nothing better for many people than having a relaxing glass of wine at the end of a busy work day. Did you know that wine in moderation can potentially be good for you? That’s why this week’s superfood is red wine! Moderate amounts o... Wed, 24 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-red-wine Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-24T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/are-you-hydrated During exercise, particularly in the hot and humid weather of August, fluid and electrolytes are lost through sweat. If not appropriately replaced, water and electrolyte imbalances can negatively impact your health and performance. When exercis... Mon, 22 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/are-you-hydrated Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-22T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/vitamin-d Vitamin D is one of the essential nutrients known for its role in maintaining healthy bones by helping calcium to be absorbed, but it’s been connected recently to reducing risk of a variety of diseases (heart, certain cancers, diabetes, multipl... Fri, 19 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/vitamin-d Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-19T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-cherries During the summer months of June to August, grocery stores flourish with bright red cherries! When looking for a versatile, easy-to-pack snack that is often on sale (an added bonus) during these months, I often turn to this week’s super food: C... Wed, 17 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-cherries Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-17T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/dog-days-of-summer-hydration With the temperatures rising, staying hydrated is essential! We lose water daily through regular activities, so in the summer months it is especially important to replace fluids lost from the heat. Dehydration can occur during intense heat, cau... Mon, 15 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/dog-days-of-summer-hydration Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-15T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/milk-alternatives One staple of the American diet? Milk! Milk is great for strong bones and a healthy body, but even though milk is an important part of our diets, individuals may require or desire other versions. This may be due to lactose intolerance (lactose ... Fri, 12 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/milk-alternatives Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-12T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cauliflower-health-benefits You’ve probably heard the phrase “Eat your greens” much more often “Eat your whites,” but I am a firm believer of eating the rainbow and both food colors are essential for health! Eating different colored foods provides a variety of nutrients. ... Wed, 10 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cauliflower-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-10T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/guide-to-healthy-vacation Where are you going on vacation? I love summer because it’s a chance to spend time with family and friends, and, with kids on summer break, it’s a perfect excuse to go on a summer vacation! Unfortunately, we also tend to get off schedule, inclu... Mon, 08 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/guide-to-healthy-vacation Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-08T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthier-happy-meal By now, you're probably aware that McDonald’s recently announced its plan to reduce its Happy Meals' overall calorie count by 20 percent. Launching in September, the new Happy Meal will contain a 100-calorie portion of fries and include a pack... Fri, 05 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthier-happy-meal Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-wheatgrass It may not be a regular part of your routine, but maybe after you read this post, you’ll be motivated to try the superfood of this week: wheatgrass! As a natural food grown from a wheat plant, wheatgrass provides a powerhouse of nutrients i... Wed, 03 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-wheatgrass Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-03T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fiber “Eat more fiber!” Sound familiar? It seems like we are told this advice almost daily, with this superstar nutrient filling up the pages of nutrition newsletters and articles in health magazines. So, what exactly is fiber and where can you find ... Mon, 01 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fiber Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-08-01T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cheese As a Wisconsin-ite (born and raised), one of my favorite foods and guilty pleasures is cheese. Cheese makes any dish better, doesn’t it? Unfortunately, cheese has some fat (and it’s not all good fat) and calories. So, what’s a cheese lover to d... Fri, 29 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cheese Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-29T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-corn When I think of summer foods, one immediately comes to mind, and it happens to be this week’s superfood: corn! There’s nothing better than grilling up some delicious corn for your backyard BBQ. To spice up your corn dishes, try the many type... Wed, 27 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-corn Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-27T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/no-grill-no-problem Summertime may be the season for grilling, but what about people without grills? If you don’t have a grill, there are still other delicious methods of cooking that you can take advantage of! Broiling When grilling isn’t an option, your nex... Mon, 25 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/no-grill-no-problem Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-25T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/coconut-water During these hot summer days my body craves something refreshing to re-hydrate and re-energize. Looking for something a bit different? Have you tried coconut water yet? You’ve probably seen it around—it’s been gaining popularity with athletes ... Fri, 22 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/coconut-water Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-22T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-kale Leafy greens….you hear it all the time, right? Eat your green leafys. Greens are an excellent way to get in quality nutrition, bursting with nutrients. For a green that goes above and beyond in getting my daily dose of health I turn to the supe... Wed, 20 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-kale Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-20T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-eating-on-the-fly Do you have upcoming flight plans? Whether you are traveling for leisure or business, it is important to get a healthy jumpstart, starting at the airport! With all of the donut shops and fast food chains lining every terminal, it can be hard to... Mon, 18 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-eating-on-the-fly Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-18T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-eating-game-day As a dietitian for a professional sports team (Go Orlando Magic!), I enjoy my regular dose of fun sporting events. Isn’t it ironic that while the athletes are sweating it out on the court or field, we’re in the stands stuffing in the calories? ... Fri, 15 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-eating-game-day Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-15T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-greek-yogurt I’m always looking for foods and snacks that satisfy, and protein is one way to satisfy hunger. When you think protein, your mind may go straight to meat, but there’s another way that is my favorite and also our superfood of the week: Greek Yog... Wed, 13 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-greek-yogurt Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-13T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/summer-treats Summer is one of my favorite seasons not only because of the great weather, but also because of the fresh foods that are in abundance. Some of my favorite produce such as berries and watermelon are available, which means refreshing and nutritio... Mon, 11 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/summer-treats Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-11T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/myplate-or-no-plate Have you been using MyPlate since it came out to help visualize portions and food groups on your plate? A few weeks ago, I covered an introduction to the MyPlate icon, after it was unveiled by the USDA. Now, it’s time to put the plate into act... Fri, 08 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/myplate-or-no-plate Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-08T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-bananas Bananas are America’s most popular fruit and the world’s most consumed food sold at the supermarket, so just by sheer popularity bananas are our superfood of the week! But never fear, bananas also have lots of nutritional benefit, too. The ... Wed, 06 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-bananas Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-06T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pop-tastic It's no secret that I am a big fan of popchips. I have written about them before and I just read an article in USA Today about the CEO of popchips, Keith Belling. He is completely dedicated to building the popchips brand, and in just over 2 year... Tue, 05 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pop-tastic Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/he-likes-it-mickey-likes-it Remember that old Life cereal commercial? Mickey is trying Life cereal and his brothers can't believe he is actually eating it? He Likes It! Mickey Likes It!How do we get our kids to eat healthy food---and actually enjoy it? My 2 year old Basi... Tue, 05 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/he-likes-it-mickey-likes-it Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutrition-its-matter-fact Welcome to March! Lots going on this month....St. Patrick's Day, Easter, and.........National Nutrition Month! I know you have been waiting all year for nutrition month! It is finally here!Nutrition is one thing that people are talking about al... Tue, 05 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutrition-its-matter-fact Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/small-changes-big-results Looking for a way to lose a large amount of weight and keep it off? Make small changes. Many people look for quick fixes and go on diets that deprive them of their favorite foods, which only leads to weight regain. To lose weight and keep it of... Tue, 05 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/small-changes-big-results Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fourth-of-july We’re going to the beach for the holiday weekend (I live in Florida) and I am so excited! My kids are young and love crashing in the waves and playing in the sand. We need a little vacation, so this long weekend is falling at the right time! ... Fri, 01 Jul 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fourth-of-july Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-07-01T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-chia Have you ever had a Chia Pet? Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia! Did you realize that you can actually eat those seeds? I wouldn’t recommend the exact ones from the Chia Pet box, but you can find Chia seeds at your local health food store. Chia seeds are tiny,... Wed, 29 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-chia Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-29T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/all-the-flavor Cutting calories doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite flavors. Try substituting these simple and healthier alternatives for their high-calorie counterparts. Get the flavor of bacon in your recipe without all the fat. Instead, use ... Mon, 27 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/all-the-flavor Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-27T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/summertime-flavor It’s summertime, which means it’s really easy to plan your meals based on what’s in season! More often than not, we buy our favorite foods when they aren’t at their peak ripeness. This means we eat our foods when they don’t taste their best, an... Fri, 24 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/summertime-flavor Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-24T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-breakfast-block Subway is known for a quick and healthy (easy on the sauces) option for lunch or dinner, but they have just launched a breakfast menu that is equally healthy and fresh.One of the things that I personally love about Subway is the ability to customi... Wed, 22 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-breakfast-block Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-22T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-potato When you hear potato, what comes to mind? Starchy, white? Fattening and avoid at all cost? While starchy and white may be true, the latter is absolutely false! Over the years, the potato has gotten a bad rap thanks to the many diet fads and “no... Wed, 22 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-potato Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-22T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/dangers-of-grazing Are you a grazer? If you read my blogs on a regular basis, you know that I am in favor of eating small portions and eating frequently throughout the day. However, mindless “grazing” can lead to calories going unnoticed throughout your day, beca... Mon, 20 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/dangers-of-grazing Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-20T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/rely-on-convenience Does the thought of cooking or preparing a meal seem like a daunting task? If so, I’ve got a secret for you: it’s okay to “cut corners.” Convenience foods exist for the sole purpose of making your life easier, and it’s okay to let them do just ... Fri, 17 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/rely-on-convenience Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-17T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-walnuts When it comes to nuts, I have quite a few favorites, and walnuts are definitely on the list! Walnuts are a true powerhouse food, which is why they are the superfood of the week! They are shaped like a heart when you look at them in the shell an... Wed, 15 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-walnuts Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-15T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/beverage-smart About two-thirds of the earth’s surface is covered in water, and 60-70 percent of your body is made up of water. Therefore, it is obvious that this liquid is essential for life. You’ve probably been lectured on the importance of hydration so ma... Mon, 13 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/beverage-smart Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-13T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/caffeine Like most busy people, I occasionally get those mid-day slumps where I begin to lose energy and feel sluggish. For most, this results in a caffeine fix (not for me…I get up and MOVE and eat a low glycemic snack), but did you ever think about wh... Fri, 10 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/caffeine Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-10T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-acai One of my favorite things about berries is the array of types available to nourish our bodies. There are blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries and one that is a bit off the beaten path: Acai berries! Many health claims have go... Wed, 08 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superfood-acai Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-08T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/myth-skipping-meals-and-weight-loss photo courtesy of the internetHave you skipped breakfast or lunch, thinking it’s a good way to lose weight? You’re saving calories, right? Not really. While your intentions may be good, they are misplaced.Even though skipping meals might seem ... Mon, 06 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/myth-skipping-meals-and-weight-loss Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-06T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/usda-introduces-myplate The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Guide Pyramid, first developed in 1992 and modified since then, has officially hit the dust. MyPyramid was, in my opinion, difficult for people to follow and use as the guide to a healthy diet... Fri, 03 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/usda-introduces-myplate Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-03T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/green-tea-health-benefits Worried about getting enough antioxidants? Well worry no more! Sometimes it can be hard to get in enough antioxidant-rich foods, but what if you could drink your antioxidants instead? For an effortless way to get antioxidants, try the super foo... Thu, 02 Jun 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/green-tea-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-06-02T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/is-organic-better Is anyone else confused about whether to buy organic or conventional food? With all of the conflicting information about whether organic or conventional food is better for you, it’s hard to know what to think! Read on for insight on the organic... Tue, 31 May 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/is-organic-better Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-05-31T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/memorial-day-grilling-season Memorial Day is the unofficial kickoff to summer grilling season. Have you dusted off the grill and fired it up yet? If not, get cooking! Backyard barbecues tend to involve highly decadent foods, but they don’t have to! With spring in the air... Thu, 26 May 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/memorial-day-grilling-season Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-05-26T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/chocolate-health-benefits You’ve probably heard people say that chocolate is good for you. I find that I don’t usually have to tell people that twice. For some reason, everyone remembers it the first time. Personally, I can’t live without my chocolate. Knowing that it’s... Wed, 25 May 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/chocolate-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-05-25T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sandwich-makeover Remember Joey from Friends? I can’t think of sandwiches without thinking of Joey! Mmmmm…..sandwiches! One of the staples of the American diet: the sandwich. It’s perfect for a quick, easy meal, and with so many varieties you’ll never get bo... Mon, 23 May 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sandwich-makeover Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-05-23T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-cooking-swaps As a dietitian and food enthusiast, one of my favorite things to do is cook and bake. To me, there’s nothing better than finding a unique recipe and creating it from scratch. Often times I have trouble deciding on a recipe; there are so many de... Fri, 20 May 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-cooking-swaps Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-05-20T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/oats-health-benefits They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so if you’re eating it (as you should), make it full of health and nutrition! My go-to way of incorporating a deliciously healthy breakfast into my day is to include oats. Either as... Wed, 18 May 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/oats-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-05-18T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-tips-busy-week The idea of eating healthy gets a bad rap when it comes to providing meals in a pinch. A lot of people have the idea that preparing healthy food is time consuming—but it doesn’t have to be! So before you pull into the drive-through for a meal o... Mon, 16 May 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-tips-busy-week Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-05-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/beware-liquid-calories We all know the importance of watching the calories we eat, but have you ever stopped to consider the calories you drink? Liquid calories can add up quickly and oftentimes they don’t contribute any nutritional benefits (especially if you don’t p... Fri, 13 May 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/beware-liquid-calories Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-05-13T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/tomatoes-health-benefits Summer is around the corner and that means: tomatoes! Tomatoes go well on so many things: sandwiches, salads, pasta, chicken, Mexican food­—you name it! They are tasty and satisfying, and with its many uses it is one of the most multipurpose fru... Wed, 11 May 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/tomatoes-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-05-11T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-eating-on-the-job Are you eating well at home but being tempted by office treats? Clients often tell me that they have healthy home eating down to a science, but they have trouble staying on track when they’re in the office. With office snacks and unhealthy ven... Mon, 09 May 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-eating-on-the-job Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-05-09T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/spring-cleaning It’s that time of year again: Spring Cleaning! It’s the time every year to rid yourself of the old and bring in the new. Maybe you’re clearing out old clothes, papers and electronics…but what about food? Make your spring-cleaning not only a purge ... Fri, 06 May 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/spring-cleaning Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-05-06T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/avocado-health-benefits The “Stinking Rose,” the “Alligator Pear”: You might think twice about trying these foods if you only heard their strange nicknames. But don’t be fooled by these colloquialisms. Otherwise you’d be missing out on some amazing tastes and even bet... Wed, 04 May 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/avocado-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-05-04T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/salmon-health-benefits There’s a lot of hype right now about omega-3 fatty acids, which is leaving many people confused. Why do we need them? How do we get them? What’s the best form? Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that are found naturally in various foods,... Mon, 25 Apr 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/salmon-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-04-25T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/earth-day-2011-green-food-choices Going green is more than just reducing your carbon footprint. It may help you improve your diet. The key is to start small by incorporating changes step by step into your daily life. A great book of reference is Go Green Get Lean by Kate Geaga... Fri, 22 Apr 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/earth-day-2011-green-food-choices Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-04-22T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/waist-size-disease-risk Can you look at a person and tell if they are at risk for developing problems such as diabetes, elevated lipid levels, abnormal cholesterol, and more? Recent studies done have found that waist size may be a better predictor of disease prevalence a... Wed, 20 Apr 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/waist-size-disease-risk Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-04-20T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/garlic-health-benefits Myths exist that say garlic can be used to successfully ward off vampires, werewolves, and evil spirits. While the jury is still out on that one, there is a lot of evidence that shows that garlic can at least help you ward off some diseases. Wit... Mon, 18 Apr 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/garlic-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-04-18T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eating-intuitively Whenever I pass any book store or magazine stand I am floored by the amount of new diet trends that I see sprawled across the pages of magazines and newspapers. There are low-carb diets, low fat, Atkins, zone, south beach, weight watchers, Pale... Fri, 15 Apr 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eating-intuitively Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-04-15T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/dates-health-benefits With Easter and Passover right around the corner, it’s time to celebrate with some traditional foods! Holiday foods often get a bad name since the focus tends to be placed on high fat, high calorie dishes. But what if I told you that there was ... Wed, 13 Apr 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/dates-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-04-13T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-food-imposters Have you ever eaten a food because you thought it was super healthy? Make sure you look carefully at everything you eat and don’t be fooled by deceptive advertising! A few of our favorite foods may have been branded as nourishing, when in reali... Mon, 11 Apr 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-food-imposters Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-04-11T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/blueberries-health-benefits Blueberries are one of the most popular AND nutritious fruits around. Blueberries are not only delicious but this small fruit packs an incredible amount of nutrition.Health Benefits of Blueberries Some of the health benefits of blueberries i... Fri, 08 Apr 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/blueberries-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-04-08T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/radiation-in-food The radioactive activity in Japan has left a lot of American scratching their heads wondering what the impact is for us. Milk in California and Washington State has tested positive for radiation, and the source of the contamination is confirmed... Wed, 06 Apr 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/radiation-in-food Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-04-06T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/artichoke-health-benefits Spring is in the air, which not only means blooming flowers and warmer weather, but delicious and in-season foods that are good for your body and your health. Spring vegetables are fresh and delicious, and many add beneficial nutrients to your ... Wed, 30 Mar 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/artichoke-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-03-30T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/balanced-meals-energy-levels Maintaining your energy isn’t just about sleeping well and exercising—it’s also about eating balanced meals! To get the most from your meals, include each food group, plan your meals in advance, and be mindful of your portion sizes for sustaine... Mon, 28 Mar 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/balanced-meals-energy-levels Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-03-28T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-colored-food Many American’s plates tend to be beige and brown with meats, loaded potatoes and refined grains. A diet rich in these foods provides high fat and cholesterol, with little nutritional quality. So what can we do to improve nutrition and add some... Fri, 25 Mar 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/health-benefits-colored-food Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-03-25T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/beans-health-benefits Want to know my secret way of adding large quantities of fiber and protein into my diet with one simple food? The answer: beans! Whenever I’m in need of a good dose of fiber, protein, nutrients, and flavor I look to this week’s superfood, and o... Wed, 23 Mar 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/beans-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-03-23T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/small-change-diet-book-review The newest diet book on the market is one of the smartest ones ever written. Are you tired of making drastic changes to your lifestyle, only to get burnt out and then go back to even worse habits? Keri Gans, Registered Dietitian, saw that i... Mon, 21 Mar 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/small-change-diet-book-review Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-03-21T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/quinoa-health-benefits Looking for plant based protein? There are many non-meat foods out there that provide great sources of protein to fuel the body and give us needed strength. There is one food in particular that is a staple in my diet due to its nutritional ben... Wed, 16 Mar 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/quinoa-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-03-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/tips-to-cub-cravings One of the most challenging things about eating healthy and keeping fit is fighting off your food cravings! I am a chocolate lover myself, so I understand how hard it can be to deny myself my favorite treat. So how can we stop ourselves from o... Mon, 14 Mar 2011 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/tips-to-cub-cravings Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-03-14T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pomegranate-health-benefits Want a fruit that tastes great, is healthy and can be used as a beautiful garnish? Try this week’s superfood: pomegranates! Pomegranates are a deliciously healthy fruit that have been gaining popularity for their great taste and amazing health ... Fri, 11 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pomegranate-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-03-11T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/registered-dietitian-day What’s an RD? If you didn’t know already, RD day is on March 9. This is the day that we recognize the leading experts in food and nutrition, our registered dietitians (RDs). A Registered Dietitian is a credentialed authority and the leading ... Wed, 09 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/registered-dietitian-day Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-03-09T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/apple-cider-vinegar-with-mother Have you ever found a product that is completely new to you? There are some very unique foods out there—many that you have never heard of or even thought could exist! I recently spoke with someone who wanted to know more about apple cider vineg... Mon, 07 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/apple-cider-vinegar-with-mother Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-03-07T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/almond-health-benefits When it comes to eating well, that means eating a variety of carbohydrates, proteins,andfats. The word fat scares off many people, but it’s an essential part of our diets. Fat keeps our bodies functioning properly, provides cushioning for our orga... Fri, 04 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/almond-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-03-04T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eat-right-with-color March is upon us, which you may or may not realize is a very important month for dietitians everywhere. It is National Nutrition Month! This year’s theme is “Eat Right With Color.” What does that mean? Simply add colorful foods to your plate.... Wed, 02 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eat-right-with-color Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-03-02T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/vending-machines We’ve all been there. It's three in the afternoon and your eyes are drooping as your energy starts to fall. This can only mean one thing: it’s time for a snack! Since you’ve eaten all of the food you brought from home already, there’s only one ... Mon, 28 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/vending-machines Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-02-28T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-comfort-foods When you think of “comfort foods,” what are the first foods that come to your mind? For me, I think of soups and stews or chicken dishes. Something that warms you from the inside out. During these cold winter months, hearty meals are more appea... Fri, 25 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-comfort-foods Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-02-25T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eat-this-for-heart-health The heart is one of the hardest working muscles in the body. It pumps an average of 2,000 gallons of blood through 60,000 miles of blood vessels each day. Instead of focusing on what NOT to eat, let’s look at what TO eat! Choose Heart H... Wed, 23 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eat-this-for-heart-health Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-02-23T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/kefir-health-benefits I am starting something new: Each week one of my blogs will be devoted to one particular “Superfood.” While no food is the healthiest thing on the planet nor will any one food cure cancer, there are definite advantages to eating certain foods. ... Tue, 22 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/kefir-health-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-02-22T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutrition-healthy-heart February is known as the month of Valentine’s Day, love, and chocolate. To go along with this heart theme, February also is American Heart Month, a time to spread awareness of one of the top problems our nation faces: heart disease. Heart di... Thu, 17 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutrition-healthy-heart Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-02-17T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/make-fiber-fabulous GNU BarsIf you are like the average American, you are getting about 12-15 grams of fiber every day. But that’s not enough. Men, you need about 35 grams a day. Women, you should get around 25 grams.Just a quick warning: Dietitians love to talk a... Tue, 15 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/make-fiber-fabulous Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-02-15T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/2010-usda-dietary-guidelines On January 31st, 2011 the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) released the 2010 dietary guidelines, a guided report giving nutrition recommendations to the general public based on current needs of our country and population. Publishe... Fri, 11 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/2010-usda-dietary-guidelines Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-02-11T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/the-flexitarian-diet Tara with Dawn Jackson BlatnerHave you considered the idea of becoming a vegetarian but can’t imagine a life completely free of meat? We all know how hard it can be to eat meat-free, so for those of you who enjoy your vegetables but still want ... Wed, 09 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/the-flexitarian-diet Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-02-09T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/on-the-road I am writing this post on a plane to Las Vegas for a speaking engagement. While healthy eating begins at home, being on the road is not excuse for letting it slip. As a busy professional myself, I know how hard it is to eat healthy while travel... Mon, 07 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/on-the-road Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-02-07T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-pizza I was about a month into my very first job as a dietitian when a high level executive I was working with asked me, “How often do YOU eat pizza?” It was my first introduction into the fact that people look at dietitians as if they are perfect ea... Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-pizza Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-02-04T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/big-game-no-guilt-snacking The Big Game is on for Sunday, and while the players will be burning it off, most people will be packing it on. Check out my latest appearance on The Daily Buzz TV show with my no-guilt Big Game snacks! The Super Bowl is one of the bigges... Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/big-game-no-guilt-snacking Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-02-03T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superbowl-2011-snacks Super Bowl Sunday could easily be renamed Super Snack Sunday. Most people don’t sit down to a meal while they’re watching the game—they are much more likely to fill up on snacks like pizza, wings, and chips and dips. You might start a riot if y... Wed, 02 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/superbowl-2011-snacks Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-02-02T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-to-prevent-cancer Cancer is scary because we don’t always know why people get it. Over the years, cancer prevalence has increased greatly, and that’s partially because of lifestyle behaviors that we as a nation have adopted. Although cancer may occur because of ... Mon, 31 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-to-prevent-cancer Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-01-31T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eat-light-eat-often Energy and performance are very important in my day-to-day work. In order to be an efficient full-time worker and full-time mom, I need to make sure I’m at the top of my game to provide the best for my family. For many people, the first go-to en... Thu, 27 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eat-light-eat-often Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-01-27T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/stomach-bug-er-visit In my 36 years of life, not once have I had to visit an ER. That is, until a few weeks ago when I came down with a nasty stomach virus. I was so sick I made the decision to break down and get an IV and some anti-nausea meds. I am still not... Wed, 26 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/stomach-bug-er-visit Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-01-26T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/portion-control Are you eating healthy, but still not seeing the results you’ve been hoping for? The reason could be portion sizes! Food portions have increased to two or three times of what’s recommended without us even realizing it. In order to get control o... Mon, 24 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/portion-control Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-01-24T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/strategic-grocery-shopping Healthy eating starts at your home, but in order to ensure that your home will be stocked with nutritious food you need to first learn how to shop strategically in the grocery store! Grocery shopping can be pretty overwhelming. With the nev... Thu, 20 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/strategic-grocery-shopping Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-01-20T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/stress-and-health My clients often see me to increase their energy, improve their performance, and lose those extra pounds. To reach these goals the first things that usually come to mind are eating well and exercising. This is definitely the right place to star... Tue, 18 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/stress-and-health Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-01-18T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/tips-to-get-thin-by-spring Rather than focusing on the traditional New Year’s resolutions that are often a distant memory by March, this year, try making a few super simple changes that will provide long lasting benefits. Small changes100 calories per day = 10 lbs. pe... Fri, 14 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/tips-to-get-thin-by-spring Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-01-14T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-restaurant-eating PTQGNTDJCYNV - Is it possible to eat healthy at restaurants? Absolutely! But it does take some careful ordering and possibly some discipline. Many of my clients do great when they’re cooking at home, but once that menu is in their hands, their ... Wed, 12 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-restaurant-eating Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-01-12T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/meals-in-a-flash photo courtesy of IkescsWith the hectic lifestyles that we all lead, healthy eating can often take a back seat to other obligations, like family, work, hobbies and everyday living. All these can make it hard for individuals to plan healthy and... Fri, 07 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/meals-in-a-flash Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-01-07T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/vegetarian-diet-benefits Curious about vegan and vegetarian eating? You’re not alone! The percentage of individuals following a vegetarian or vegan diet has been increasing each year, presumably due to its health benefits and the concerns many people have about the eth... Wed, 05 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/vegetarian-diet-benefits Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-01-05T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/SMART-new-years-goals photo by Yuval Y., GFDLHappy New Year! It’s that time again for new resolutions and goals, so how can we choose goals that we’ll actually stick to? Make this year different by coming up with resolutions that are realistic for you and your life... Mon, 03 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/SMART-new-years-goals Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2011-01-03T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/make-time-for-exercise All too often I hear people say “I just don’t have time to exercise!” With deadlines, meetings, and making time for family, exercise can be easy to push aside. Although exercise may not be a priority, if performing well in your job and every... Thu, 30 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/make-time-for-exercise Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-12-30T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/immune-boosting-tips-holidays The holidays are a time for family fun and social gatherings, but with the hustle and bustle of the season, it can also be a time of stress and sickness. With the cooler weather paired with the stress of the holidays, it can be very easy to fe... Tue, 28 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/immune-boosting-tips-holidays Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-12-28T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-holiday-entertaining-tips The LolaPTQGNTDJCYNV -The air is getting colder, the days are getting shorter, and your jeans are getting tighter. How can you enjoy the holidays without gaining weight? Do some of your holiday favorites actually have some nutritional benefit?Hea... Thu, 23 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-holiday-entertaining-tips Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-12-23T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/lorem-ipsum Vivamus eu nibh orci. Sed vehicula felis elit. Mauris euismod turpis id lacus viverra nec lacinia urna bibendum. Integer at lectus vel eros semper tempus quis non dui. Curabitur et arcu ut eros luctus lobortis. Aliquam sit amet lacus in est... Wed, 22 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/lorem-ipsum Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-12-22T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-holiday-tips Happy Holidays! “It’s the most wonderful time of the year……” Here we are, in the midst of the holiday season. How are you doing so far? We have a week left of celebrating before the New Year’s Resolutions will come to take away those extra... Tue, 21 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-holiday-tips Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-12-21T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/understanding-glycemic-index Eating right not only means eating well and exercising, it also means choosing the best foods to benefit your body. With the right fuel you will have so much energy you won’t know what to do with it! Snacks are important to bridge your energy... Mon, 20 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/understanding-glycemic-index Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-12-20T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/gluten-free-diet One of the big nutrition trends right now is that of eating gluten-free, but where did all the hype come from? Gluten free diets are for those that have an autoimmune disorder known as Celiac Disease, meaning that they are allergic to gluten. G... Fri, 17 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/gluten-free-diet Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-12-17T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/understanding-whole-grains One of the big buzzes in nutrition seems to be all about whole grains and fiber. As a result, there’s a lot of confusion about the two subjects. For example, just because something is high in fiber doesn’t necessarily mean it has whole grains. ... Mon, 13 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/understanding-whole-grains Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-12-13T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-snacking Oftentimes the first thing that people do when trying to lose weight is cut meals and snacks out of their diet, but when you’re eating for health my philosophy encourages you to eat more throughout your day. Eating regular, portion controlled me... Fri, 10 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-snacking Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-12-10T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sneaky-sodium Not many people actually know how much salt they are supposed to eat each day, or how much they’re getting from the foods that they eat. It’s almost impossible to tell, and the stats prove this! The recommendation for sodium intake is 2400 m... Wed, 08 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sneaky-sodium Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-12-08T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/anti-aging-foods Is it just me or is there some cream or pill around every corner and on every shelf that promises to stop aging in its tracks? Even though the economy has taken a hit in the past few years (I am trying to avoid saying ‘tough economic times’ one... Fri, 03 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/anti-aging-foods Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-12-03T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-fats-basics Certain fats are actually an essential part of a healthy diet and can be very good for you! It’s just all about portion and choosing the right types. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-fats-basics Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-12-01T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/so-long-farewell It brings me sadness to write this post, but there comes a time when all good things come to an end. This is my last blog post for The Diet Dish on Healthline in it's current state.The good news is that Healthline is making major improvements and... Fri, 30 Apr 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/so-long-farewell Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-04-30T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eat-good-form When you watch a diver or figure skater compete, you comment on what good form they have. The slide into the water or across with ice with grace and fluidity. Lifting weights requires you to have proper form to prevent injury.Have you ever thoug... Mon, 26 Apr 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eat-good-form Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-04-26T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/earth-day-go-green Earth Day is already in it's 40th year! It is so great that we have a day commemorated to celebration our beautiful and precious planet.What can you do to eat well to protect the earth?Get some good tips in my two favorite "green" books:Go Green ... Wed, 21 Apr 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/earth-day-go-green Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-04-21T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/can-fda-limit-salt-foods Salt is everywhere in our food. Even foods you don't realize contain salt have a bunch added to it. In fact, according to research published by the American College of Nutrition, most (77%) of the sodium in our diets comes from salt in processed... Tue, 20 Apr 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/can-fda-limit-salt-foods Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-04-20T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/what-can-you-cook-food-stamp-budget This is the exact task posed to 2 chefs and a food magazine editor: feed a family of 4 for 7 days, 3 meals a day, on a food stamp budget. A family of four has a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as food stamps) budget of ... Fri, 16 Apr 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/what-can-you-cook-food-stamp-budget Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-04-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/why-eat-soy April is Soyfoods Month (yes, there is a month for everything!), so what better time to talk about soy!Why eat it?Weight management: Many soy foods are lower in calories than their meat counterpart. For example, my fave soy sausage (Lightlife It... Wed, 14 Apr 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/why-eat-soy Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-04-14T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/less-sleep-more-weight If you are night owl and can't seem to get yourself to bed at night, starving your body of the sleep it requires, you may be in for another unpleasant side effect: weight gain.Quite a few studies in the past have connected sleeping fewer hours to... Tue, 13 Apr 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/less-sleep-more-weight Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-04-13T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-tasty-food-find-young-kids I wrote recently about raising adventurous, non-picky eaters. Getting kids to eat the right kinds of food is a constant challenge!My two year old loves fruit snacks, so I was thrilled when I found some organic fruit snacks. These snacks are Tast... Sat, 10 Apr 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-tasty-food-find-young-kids Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-04-10T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/calories-posted-most-chain-restaurants Did you realize that somewhere in the depths of the health care bill that was just signed was something that will impact if you order a Big Mac?In the new health care bill there is a new requirement that all chain restaurants with over 20 stores h... Wed, 07 Apr 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/calories-posted-most-chain-restaurants Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-04-07T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/good-me-bad-you When I saw this study in the Journal of Consumer Research I thought immediately of myself. The study found that people choose healthier foods for themselves than when they are choosing for others. This is so interesting to me and struck a cord a... Fri, 02 Apr 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/good-me-bad-you Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-04-02T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eat-eggs-easter What better time of the year to eat eggs than for Easter? Easter is one of my favorite times of the year. Bring on the eggs!Not too long ago eggs were shunned because we thought they were bad for the heart. But medicine and research has evolv... Mon, 29 Mar 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eat-eggs-easter Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-03-29T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/my-two-year-old-eats-octopus I recently wrote a post about feeding kids and creating healthy eaters. I have to do a follow up on this post with a book I found recently on the subject.The title alone will hook you: My Two-Year-Old Eats Octopus: Raising Children Who Love to ... Sat, 27 Mar 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/my-two-year-old-eats-octopus Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-03-27T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/truth-packaging-translating-food-label-terms Are you completely confused when it comes to reading food labels? What exactly does natural mean? What exactly is unprocessed food vs processed food?Let's look at some terms and decifer their meanings. Thanks to the American Dietetic Associatio... Fri, 19 Mar 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/truth-packaging-translating-food-label-terms Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-03-19T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutrition-made-easy I am celebrating National Nutrition Month the entire month of March. This is about as exciting as it gets for us in the nutrition world.People think eating right has to be difficult or that everything healthy has to taste like cardboard. Not tru... Thu, 18 Mar 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutrition-made-easy Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-03-18T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fresh-better-canned-or-frozen While fresh fruits and vegetables are good, they often sit in my crisper drawer and rot. The biggest food cost is when food is wasted and not eaten. That is why I love frozen vegetables so much. They can sit in my freezer for weeks or months, j... Tue, 16 Mar 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fresh-better-canned-or-frozen Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-03-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/myths-about-dieting I started a quiz in yesterday's post and I know you could barely sleep last night, anxious for the answers, right?True or False: Calories eaten at night are more fattening. FALSE. It doesn't matter what time of the day that you overeat, your bo... Fri, 05 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/myths-about-dieting Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-03-05T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/do-carbs-make-you-fat It is National Nutrition Month--time for Registered Dietitians everywhere to bask in our glory of sharing nutritional wisdom with the world for 30 days (because we are really just sitting around eating bon bons the other 335 days of the year).In t... Tue, 02 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/do-carbs-make-you-fat Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-03-02T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/is-raw-milk-better-for-you My mother grew up on a dairy farm in Wisconsin and she talks about drinking truly fresh milk, right after milking the cows. The taste, she says, is wonderful and unlike any other milk you can get today. Back then, she wouldn't drink the milk at ... Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/is-raw-milk-better-for-you Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-02-26T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pistachio-wonderful-green-nut Last week was National Almond Day and now February 26 is World Pistachio Day. I guess February is the month to eat nuts!Pistachios are another favorite nut of mine because they taste great and they are also lower in calories than a lot of the oth... Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pistachio-wonderful-green-nut Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-02-26T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fiber-one-bars-godiva-coffee-yoplait I am always on the hunt for new foods on supermarket shelves and I have 3 new products I have tried and want to share with you!Fiber One 90 calorie barsI was a big fan of Fiber One bars when they first came out. They were one of my go-to bars for ... Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fiber-one-bars-godiva-coffee-yoplait Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-02-22T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-dark-chocolate-hersheys Dark Chocolate is the best. I love the rich flavor and strong aroma of a good piece of dark chocolate. Since February is the time to think about your heart, it is also great time to eat chocolate (not like there is a bad time to eat chocolate).I... Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-dark-chocolate-hersheys Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-02-19T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/almonds-are-learn-health-benefits-almonds In honor of National Almond Day (February 16) I thought I would write about the wonderful nutritional benefits of almonds.Did you know that 100% of the almonds in the United States come from California? And 80% of the world's almonds are from Cal... Mon, 15 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/almonds-are-learn-health-benefits-almonds Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-02-15T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/heart-healthy-eating-tips Love is in the air with Valentine's Day right around the corner. February is Heart Month and here are a few ways to keep your ticker strong!What does it mean to eat right for heart health?Avoid too much saturated fat and trans fatEat more soluble... Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/heart-healthy-eating-tips Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-02-11T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/heart-health-choose-cherries It’s no coincidence that February is both National Cherry Month and American Heart Month. Eating RED foods like cherries can be a powerful way to protect our hearts. A growing body of science indicates that tart cherries’ powerful bundle of antiox... Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/heart-health-choose-cherries Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-02-09T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/how-do-you-anti-age Is it just me or is there some cream or pill around every corner and on every shelf that promises to stop aging in it’s tracks? Even though the economy has taken a hit in the past few years (I am trying to avoid your reading ‘tough econ... Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/how-do-you-anti-age Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-02-08T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-should-taste-good How clever is this for a brand name? Food Should Taste Good. Yes, it should!I have recently been introduced to these chips and they are fantastic! They sent me some samples and I was impressed with not only the taste and texture, but the nutriti... Sun, 07 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-should-taste-good Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-02-07T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/5-steps-to-lower-cancer-risk Today (February 4, 2010) is designated World Cancer Day to create awareness around cancer and how to prevent it. Over 12 Million people get diagnosed yearly around the world and 7.6 Million die from cancer. Cancer is responsible for 1 in every 8 ... Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/5-steps-to-lower-cancer-risk Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-02-04T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/game-day-snacks Planning your Big Game buffet? Here are some ideas:Chips and dipChips and dip are a must. Everyone wants to crunch and dip at any party. Chips are not bad--many chips are made with just three ingredients (corn or potato, oil, and a little bit of s... Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/game-day-snacks Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-02-03T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/wear-red-friday-feb-5 February is American Heart Month and Friday, February 5, 2010 is the official National Wear Red Day designated by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Did you know that heart disease is the number one killer of women AND men in this cou... Tue, 02 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/wear-red-friday-feb-5 Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-02-02T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-york-soda-tax I blogged yesterday about how New York City is leading the country by legislating changes in restaurants and food companies to improve the health of it's citizens. They have banned trans fat, required calories to be listed on menus, started adver... Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-york-soda-tax Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-01-28T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/BMI-obesity I read an interesting article in the Wall Street Journal today about a study out of the Mayo Clinic published in the European Heart Journal suggesting that even "normal weight" people can be fat which carries health risk.The study found that peopl... Tue, 26 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/BMI-obesity Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-01-26T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/bacon-and-eggs-brain-food I ran across this story the other day about bacon and eggs boosting brain power in baby mice if the pregnant mice were fed a certain nutrient found in bacon and eggs. Hmmm....as if pregnant women aren't already confused enough. Should they be ea... Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/bacon-and-eggs-brain-food Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-01-25T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/satisfying-snack-ideas I am always looking for foods that actually satisfy me and keep me full for a longer period of time. Sugar and white flour taste great but don't do much for lasting energy and satisfaction. They are used up as quickly as they enter my body. I h... Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/satisfying-snack-ideas Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-01-21T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fast-food-nutrition-guide-book I have written several times recently about how to eat better on the road and I just found another great resource. I was at a friend's house and saw this book sitting on their counter and picked it up. It is called the Stop and Go Fast Food Nutr... Thu, 14 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fast-food-nutrition-guide-book Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-01-14T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/5-healthy-snack-ideas Now that we are a few weeks into the New Year, I thought you may need a few new ideas for snacks. You are probably sick of your resolution to eat healthy and want some tasty alternatives to munch on. Here are a few of my favorite snacks that tid... Thu, 14 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/5-healthy-snack-ideas Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-01-14T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/are-food-labels-accurate I am a firm believer that if you keep track of your calories it will help you lose weight. Numerous studies show that when someone tracks their calories they lose more weight, and some estimate that you can even lose twice as much weight if y... Tue, 12 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/are-food-labels-accurate Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-01-12T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthier-choices I love January because everyone is so motivated to eat better and lose some weight. If you are looking for some ideas, check out the clip below from my Daily Buzz TV appearance on Wednesday morning:Healthy Choice: They are reinventing themselves... Thu, 07 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthier-choices Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-01-07T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/road-again Now that the holiday break has passed, many vacation traveler's are home and business travelers are out in full force again. I travel about every other month for business, but some people live on planes and hotel rooms. If you missed it, be sure... Wed, 06 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/road-again Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-01-06T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/how-much-do-you-burn The million dollar question that I often get asked: how many calories do I need to lose or gain weight? You would think that as a dietitian this is a logical and easy question for me to answer. However, it is not that simple. It is really a "g... Tue, 05 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/how-much-do-you-burn Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-01-05T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-year-eat-better January is always a very BUSY month for dietitians. The holiday gluttony is an unpleasant memory and we are feeling a bit soft around the middle. Time for New Year's Resolutions to lose weight and get in shape!Watch this clip with some tips on h... Fri, 01 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-year-eat-better Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2010-01-01T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/size-matters When someone asks me what I think is the biggest contributor to our weight problem as a society, I don't even have to hesitate before I answer: Portions! We are simply eating too much.People love to tell me what they don't eat."I cut out the ice... Thu, 31 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/size-matters Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-12-31T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/5-new-years-tips The two most common resolutions are to quit smoking and to lose weight. Unfortunately most people stop there. They say they want to lose weight but they don't make a specific plan to make it happen and by February the idea of weight loss is a di... Mon, 28 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/5-new-years-tips Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-12-28T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthified As a dietitian sometimes I feel like I should (or people expect me to) eat "perfectly" all of the time. There really is no such thing as a perfect eater, and if there were I am far from it. I have too much of a sweet tooth for that. I think I a... Sun, 27 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthified Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-12-27T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/airport-food-beware I just read an article on USAToday.com that talked about the safety violations of many restaurants at airports. Since all restaurants in airports are inspected by their local health departments, there isn't one particular agency overseeing all of... Sat, 26 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/airport-food-beware Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-12-26T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/whole-foods-healthy-foods I have been saying this for years: Just because you bought it at Whole Foods doesn't mean it is "healthy." The roots of Whole Foods is natural, organic, healthy food. But over the years they have gotten very upscale (hence the nickname Whole Fo... Wed, 23 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/whole-foods-healthy-foods Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-12-23T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sugar-kids-cereals I believe I have stated in my blog before that my husband's favorite cereal is Lucky Charms and now my 2 year old asks for Lucky Charms for breakfast sometimes. Am I embarrassed as a dietitian that my 2 year old eats sugary cereals? I am not. W... Fri, 18 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sugar-kids-cereals Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-12-18T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-trends-next-year The Food Channel released their food trends for 2010. You can read the complete list here, but I wanted to mention just a few that caught my interest.We are going away from convenience foods and moving more into making food from scratch and getti... Wed, 16 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-trends-next-year Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-12-16T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/calorie-restriction-extended-life The main reason why someone would restrict calories is to lose weight. You need to burn off more calories than you are taking in to produce weight loss. The word "restrict" doesn't sound very nice, but that is really what it is. Restricting you... Fri, 11 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/calorie-restriction-extended-life Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-12-11T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/its-party-time This week has already been busy with holiday parties and this weekend and the following week are also packed full on the schedule. I love going to parties and I love eating at parties, but I honestly need to strategize in order to get through the... Thu, 10 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/its-party-time Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-12-10T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/what-does-light-mean Are you as confused as I am when you are looking at packages and food labels? This is what I do for a living and even I can get confused! When you see the words "light" or "fat free" what does that really mean? Here is a quick look at the defin... Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/what-does-light-mean Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-12-07T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cows-milk-or-soy-milk I get asked this question quite often: Which is better for me, cow's milk or soy milk? The answer is a bit complicated.Cow's milk is obviously an animal protein vs soy coming from a plant source. Cow's milk contains all essential amino acids an... Fri, 04 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cows-milk-or-soy-milk Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-12-04T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/holiday-entertaining We are now in full swing of holiday parties! Are you doing any entertaining this year or are you just being entertained?It is really easy to substitute lower fat and lower sugar ingredients to cut calories. Your guests will not even know!DipsBea... Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/holiday-entertaining Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-12-02T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/thanksgiving-hangover It is so nice to have some extra days off to enjoy family or do some holiday shopping, isn't it? It is almost too nice and I don't want to go back to work again on Monday. These days after Thanksgiving often feel like a hangover not from alcohol... Sat, 28 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/thanksgiving-hangover Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-11-28T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/donate-local-food-banks-snapfish I love it when companies partner up to donate to good causes. The Rachel Ray show tomorrow (Wednesday) is going to have Nick Lachey, Carter Oosterhouse, and The Fray on for a Thanksgiving feast for 2,500 people in Wilmington, Ohio. They are also... Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/donate-local-food-banks-snapfish Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-11-24T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/movie-popcorn The Center for Science in the Public Interest came out this past week with some pretty shocking stats on popcorn at the movie theatres. I knew the popcorn wasn't good...but even I was surprised to see how bad it was!They compared three major chai... Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/movie-popcorn Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-11-23T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/does-coffee-make-you-fat I got a call from the local FOX station last week about a story they were working on. They wanted to know if coffee can make you fat.Of course coffee can make you fat if you add a bunch of milk, cream, sugar, flavored syrups, etc. But they were ... Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/does-coffee-make-you-fat Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-11-23T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/planning-thanksgiving-menu Many of you will be sitting down and planning your Thanksgiving menu and shopping for those yummy treats. Here are some ideas to make things a bit healthier!Turkey: There are so many options out there. If you aren't into cooking the entire bird... Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/planning-thanksgiving-menu Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-11-20T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/alcohol-reduce-heart-disease-risk I get this question a lot: Isn't drinking some alcohol good for me? What about the antioxidants in red wine?A new study out of Spain published in the medical journal Heart found that indeed alcohol in almost any quantity is associated with nearl... Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/alcohol-reduce-heart-disease-risk Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-11-20T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/raise-your-hand-chocolate-milk Some schools have recently eliminated chocolate milk from their school cafeterias. They claim that it is too high in sugar. I understand the concern with the childhood obesity epidemic, but when you look at the research it is obvious that flavor... Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/raise-your-hand-chocolate-milk Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-11-13T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cereal-its-whats-breakfast I am a big cereal eater. My husband eats cereal EVERY morning for breakfast. We love it! My two year old started his cereal eating career with Cheerios. I remember cutting them in half when he was first starting out and now he shoves a fistful... Thu, 12 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cereal-its-whats-breakfast Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-11-12T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/does-low-carb-make-you-angry As if we haven't seen enough bad press for low carb diets, check this out: a study just published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that dieters who followed a low carb diet for a year were more depressed, angry, and confused than people... Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/does-low-carb-make-you-angry Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-11-10T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/what-can-you-get-100-calories Those 100 calorie snack packs are everywhere! The perception is that "it is only 100 calories." The danger is that even 100 calories extra each day can cause weight gain of 10 pounds in a year!!! Just because it is "only 100 calories" doesn't m... Mon, 09 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/what-can-you-get-100-calories Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-11-09T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/powered-red The only negative side effect of exercise is that you produce a lot of free radicals and inflammation, especially with intense exercise. The good news is that there are foods that help your body recover from intense exercise.Cherries are one of t... Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/powered-red Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-11-06T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutrition-your-fingertips I love, love, love this new book! I always love when Registered Dietitians write books, and I especially love when they are brilliantly written and super informative!Elisa Zied, MS, RD, wrote Nutrition at Your Fingertips (part of the At Your Fing... Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutrition-your-fingertips Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-11-04T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/boost-your-immunity Cold and Flu season is in high gear! Are you doing everything you can do prevent getting sick?Wash your hands regularly. I can't stress this enough. We touch our eyes and noses all day long and any germs on our hands go directly into our body. ... Fri, 30 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/boost-your-immunity Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-10-30T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/obesity-and-health-care-costs With all of the talk of controlling health care costs, studies find that obesity is one of the biggest contributors to obesity. A study by RTI International found that people who are 30 pounds or more overweight cost $147 Billion in medical bills... Wed, 28 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/obesity-and-health-care-costs Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-10-28T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/halloween-and-food-allergies For kids with food allergies, ghosts and goblins aren't the scariest part of trick or treating--the treats are. What does a child with a nut allergy do on Halloween?One of the most common allergies is a peanut allergy. There is a warning on over... Wed, 28 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/halloween-and-food-allergies Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-10-28T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/satisfying-breakfast I know you have heard it before...breakfast is the most important meal of the day. You hear this all the time because it is true! I think all meals are important, but breakfast is extra important to kick start that metabolism from overnight. Ea... Mon, 26 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/satisfying-breakfast Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-10-26T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/snack-sized-calories-add With Halloween right around the corner, those little snack sized candies are everywhere. How easy is it to grab one and eat it without even thinking? But they are so small....they don't have many calories, right? You may be surprised!Fast Break... Fri, 23 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/snack-sized-calories-add Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-10-23T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/trace-food-back-field How cool would it be if we were able to scan a tomato at our local supermarket and see where it was grown and when it was picked? This technology may not be far away. A few years ago food producers in the US and Canada joined together to create ... Thu, 22 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/trace-food-back-field Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-10-22T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/school-goes-meatless-monday Have you ever tried to go "meatless" for one day? How about one day every week? The 80,000 students in the Baltimore Public Schools will have a chance to go meatless every Monday. Baltimore is the first (and hopefully not last) school district ... Wed, 14 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/school-goes-meatless-monday Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-10-14T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/5-ways-lower-risk-breast-cancer Do you know 8 women? The most recent stats show that one in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 182,000 women get diagnosed and 40,000 die each year from... Tue, 13 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/5-ways-lower-risk-breast-cancer Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-10-13T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/hunger-relief If you are reader of my blog regularly, you know that I like to talk about food. The best kind of food is free food, right? Well, at least in college I thought so. But the other thing I like to talk about is companies who do the right thing to ... Mon, 12 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/hunger-relief Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-10-12T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pouring-pounds The city of New York is at it again...they were the first to ban trans fat and lead the fight for restaurant labeling of calories on menus. Now they have an ad campaign that is grossing some people out.The picture above is of a glass of soda bein... Fri, 09 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pouring-pounds Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-10-09T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/top-10-riskiest-foods The Centers for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) released a report listed the top 10 "riskiest" foods that are regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). CSPI claims that these 10 foods accounted for nearly 1000 disease outbreak... Wed, 07 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/top-10-riskiest-foods Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-10-07T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthier-wic-offerings For the first time in 35 years, the US government program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is getting new nutrition guidelines. BRAVO!New foods being offered include:whole wheat and whole grain breadsbrown ricetofucanned beansmore fresh fru... Mon, 05 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthier-wic-offerings Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-10-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/best-sweetener You have probably seen all of the new stevia-based sweeteners on the market lately. What is the difference between all of them? How do they taste? You will have to try them for yourself, but I can tell you from my experience which one I like th... Wed, 30 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/best-sweetener Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-09-30T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/family-dinner-night Remember the days when we used to sit down together every night for dinner together as a family? I grew up this way. Not eating together wasn't an option or even a thought. Mom made dinner and called us when it was ready. It was as simple as that.... Mon, 28 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/family-dinner-night Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-09-28T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/benefits-pasta I was sitting in a restaurant the other day eavesdropping on the woman at the table next to me. She was deciding what to order and talking to her friend. She said, "I had a PBJ sandwich for breakfast and pasta for lunch so there is no way I can ... Fri, 25 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/benefits-pasta Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-09-25T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/satisfying-snacks I am always in the quest for snacks that will satisfy in many ways: mouth (taste), brain (cravings), and stomach (satiety). When I saw a recent study comparing 4 different snacks and the effects on physical and psychological hunger, I was intri... Wed, 23 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/satisfying-snacks Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-09-23T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/taxing-soft-drinks This week's New England Journal of Medicine contained a very, very interesting proposal put forth by a few prominent physicians and researchers working on the obesity crisis in America.They propose that beverages loaded with sugar should be consid... Fri, 18 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/taxing-soft-drinks Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-09-18T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/national-guacamole-day Yes, it is true. There is actually a National Guacamole Day! It is Wednesday, September 16. So in honor, let's review the benefits of avocados, and therefore guacamole!Ancient edibles: Avocados originated around 7,000 B.C. The Aztecs ate them, ... Tue, 15 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/national-guacamole-day Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-09-15T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/latino-nutrition-month Latino Nutrition Month goes from September 15-October 15. Oldways and the Latino Nutrition Coalition are working to build awareness of how food and lifestyle choices can reduce the rise of chronic disease that the Latino community faces.Latino Am... Mon, 14 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/latino-nutrition-month Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-09-14T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/school-rewards-and-random-acts-fitness I love it when a major food company takes the initiative to encourage fitness and eating right, especially when geared toward our children. Subway has two amazing programs that I wanted to tell you about. The Random Acts of Fitness is great for ... Sat, 12 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/school-rewards-and-random-acts-fitness Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-09-12T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/where-germs-are-hiding With news reports about the H1N1 flu all over the place, you may not think about the old "stomach flu" right now. Did you know that there really is no such thing as the stomach flu? If you have diarrhea or vomiting, it is usually not from influe... Wed, 09 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/where-germs-are-hiding Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-09-09T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/whole-grains-photo-contest Do you love whole grains? Snap a picture of yourself/your family enjoying your favorite whole grain food and submit it to the "I Love My Whole Grains" contest being run by Oldways and the Whole Grains Council. YOu don't have to be in the picture, ... Tue, 08 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/whole-grains-photo-contest Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-09-08T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eating-too-healthy-can-be-disorder I wrote about this new eating disorder called orthorexia in a previous post over a year ago. Orthorexia is not an official classification as an eating disorder but it is basically known as an obsession with healthy eating.Some people don't know w... Sat, 05 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/eating-too-healthy-can-be-disorder Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-09-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/prostate-cancer-month September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Did you know that one in six men in the United States will get prostate cancer in their lifetime? Those are strong odds and it makes prostate cancer the most common cancer in American men. Lung canc... Fri, 04 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/prostate-cancer-month Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-09-04T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/snack-ideas-office-or-after-school I am a big believer in "Eat light, Eat often." I limit the size of my meals so that I can spread my calories throughout the day to keep my metabolism as high as possible. I look forward to my next eating "event," so snacks are key to my daily ro... Fri, 21 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/snack-ideas-office-or-after-school Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-08-21T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-juice-box-kids I told you yesterday about some healthy options for packing the kid's lunches. I mentioned these juice boxes in the blog post, but I thought I would tell you more about them because I love them!I often hear from parents that they don't like to gi... Wed, 19 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-juice-box-kids Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-08-19T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/back-school-lunches It is getting near the end of summer. Even though the weather is still hot, school starts next week or has already started for many kids across the US. How can you get your kids to eat healthy food that won't come back home in their lunchbag, un... Tue, 18 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/back-school-lunches Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-08-18T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/artificial-sweeteners-cancer-causing Of all of the questions I get asked about nutrition, I would say that artificial sweeteners are one of the most commonly asked about topics. So every time I see a headline with a recent study on the safety of artificial sweeteners I take notice.T... Mon, 17 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/artificial-sweeteners-cancer-causing Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-08-17T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/how-much-sugar-do-you-eat I was reading a very interesting study in this month's issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association the other day. The study was on sugar consumption and looked at different populations in the US and compared on average how much suga... Fri, 14 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/how-much-sugar-do-you-eat Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-08-14T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/love-trail-mix One of my favorite snacks is trail mix with various nuts and dried fruits. Nuts are incredibly healthy, and my favorites are pistachios, walnuts, pecans, and almonds from a taste and nutritional perspective. Dried fruit is sweet and can satisfy ... Tue, 11 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/love-trail-mix Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-08-11T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/smile Believe it or not, today is the beginning of National Smile Week in the US!!! Sound silly? Maybe, but a healthy mouth is actually quite serious. Periodontal disease can lead to infections and other diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and t... Mon, 10 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/smile Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-08-10T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/bravo-unilever-no-more-hydrogenated-oils In a very big move, Unilever, which sells more soft margarine than anyone else, will be removing all hydrogenated oils from all of it's soft spreads by early 2010. The brands are I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter!®, Shedd’s Spread Country Crock®, B... Fri, 07 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/bravo-unilever-no-more-hydrogenated-oils Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-08-07T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/its-whats-dinner Have you heard the tagline, "Beef: It's What's for Dinner?" Why would a dietitian be recommending beef? Let me tell you the many reasons!Beef is what I consider to be a naturally nutrient rich food. It has 10 essential nutrients that are essen... Thu, 06 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/its-whats-dinner Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-08-06T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/protein-needs-increase-during-pregnancy OK...so I am focused on pregnancy nutrition these days since I only have a few weeks left!Did you know that the Dietary Reference Intake for protein goes from 46 grams for females to 71 grams for pregnancy??? Another way to calculate is to take y... Wed, 05 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/protein-needs-increase-during-pregnancy Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-08-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/omega-3s-good-brain-and-heart I am in my final 4 weeks of pregnancy and I have been asked many times which supplements to take while pregnant.I take the following:Prenatal vitamin. I take Pharmanex Lifepak Prenatal. Contact me for more info on it.1000 IU Vitamin D. I take ... Tue, 04 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/omega-3s-good-brain-and-heart Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-08-04T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fiber-why-you-need-it You probably are not surprised that most people do not get enough fiber. In fact, 9 out of 10 Americans are not meeting the recommended amounts. A lack of fiber results in irregularity of bowel movements, but there are also numerous health benef... Mon, 03 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fiber-why-you-need-it Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-08-03T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/organic-food-no-healthier I have been bombarded with questions about this new study released yesterday about organic food being no healthier than conventionally grown produce. The study is in the September issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.Organics have ... Fri, 31 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/organic-food-no-healthier Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-07-31T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/benefits-fruit I am on a fruit kick this week because summer is just such a great time to look for fruit. Peaches, plums, nectarines, watermelon, kiwi, cherries, they are all good!90% of Americans do not get the recommended amount of fruit. Adults should get a... Wed, 29 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/benefits-fruit Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-07-29T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-way-eat-fruit I just discovered a new way to eat fruit. People often tell me that they don't eat fruit because it goes bad on them too quickly (poor excuse, but hey, it has happened to me, too). It gets put into the crisper drawer and long forgotten. Or I he... Tue, 28 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-way-eat-fruit Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-07-28T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/great-summer-fruit-watermelon Who doesn't love watermelon? I think my two year old would eat it until his stomach would explode if I let him (let's not try that).In the heat of July, I am thinking watermelon is about the most perfect food to eat right now. It is actually 92%... Mon, 27 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/great-summer-fruit-watermelon Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-07-27T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mindless-eating-2-years-old I have not posted a blog in a week because we were on vacation and truly wanted to be on vacation and not be tied to doing any "work."We went to north Georgia for a few days then up to the mountains in western North Carolina. How gorgeous! It wa... Sun, 26 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mindless-eating-2-years-old Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-07-26T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fiber-kids I was wandering around the Kellogg's nutrition site and found 2 really interesting things they are doing.I told you not too long ago about their commitment to add fiber to many of their children's cereals. Along with this, they have a whole secti... Fri, 17 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fiber-kids Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-07-17T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/realage I just returned from the Florida Dietetic Association conference. It was great! I love going to conferences and hearing speakers and networking with other dietitians.I wanted to especially tell you about the fabulous keynote speaker who kicked o... Fri, 17 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/realage Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-07-17T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/summer-sipping It is hot out there in the middle of July. What are your kids drinking? A recent survey found that moms report their kids drinking fruit drinks (56%) and slushies (43%) as their top summertime drinks. Unfortunately both of these don't have much... Thu, 16 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/summer-sipping Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-07-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sport-nutrition-coaches I just got a new book this week that I had to tell you about. You know I don't promote books unless they are REALLY good!This one is for any coach or trainer or dietitian who is working with athletes, especially student athletes. It is called Sp... Sat, 11 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sport-nutrition-coaches Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-07-11T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/saving-money-saving-food Money is tight and people do not want to waste food by throwing it away. I understand not wasting perfectly good food, but my concern is in the safety of food that is kept longer than it should be, so here are some guidelines to keep in mind.Numb... Thu, 09 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/saving-money-saving-food Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-07-09T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/expect-best I am officially on the countdown to when this next baby is due. 8 weeks and counting (due Aug 31). I have a little boy on the way, ready to join my other little guy who just turned 2 a few weeks ago.For any women out there who are pregnant or th... Tue, 07 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/expect-best Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-07-07T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mcd-premium-burger Have you heard about the new premium burger at McDonald's? They have been testing it for several years in various locations around the US and it must have tested well because now they are coming to all US locations in the next few months. The bu... Tue, 07 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/mcd-premium-burger Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-07-07T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-suggestions-backyard-bbq With the 4th of July weekend right around the corner, you are probably starting to plan your menus for that backyard BBQ. Here are a few quick suggestions:Munchies: Pistachios make a great appetizer because they are a heart healthy nut and you ... Wed, 01 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/healthy-suggestions-backyard-bbq Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-07-01T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sugar-vs-high-fructose-corn-syrup Have you noticed that many products on grocery shelves are bragging that they do not have high fructose corn syrup (HFCS)? HFCS has been demonized by many people in the public as well as the medical community in recent years. But how much differ... Tue, 30 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sugar-vs-high-fructose-corn-syrup Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-30T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/back-basics-kitchen Since 2009 has been described as the "year of the home cook" many Americans are getting reacquainted with their kitchens. Do you remember what to do in the kitchen? Are you lost when it comes to meal planning and preparation? Looking for health... Mon, 29 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/back-basics-kitchen Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-29T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/michael-jackson-cardiac-arrest I was shocked to learn today that 50 year old Michael Jackson died of cardiac arrest.It made me realize how heart disease can strike anyone at any age. Tim Russert also died last June from cardiac arrest at a young age of 58.Here is a quick revie... Fri, 26 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/michael-jackson-cardiac-arrest Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-26T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/get-your-fruit Get Your Fruit On! I love this new tagline from Tropicana. Statistics show that 7 out of 10 Americans are not getting enough fruit in their daily diets. The Dietary Guidelines encourage us to get 2 cups of fruit per day. For those who do get t... Fri, 19 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/get-your-fruit Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-19T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/antioxidant-snack I am on an antioxidant kick this week with my previous two posts on berries and spices. Antioxidants are so important to eat, so I am always on the lookout for foods that contain them. Remember that antioxidants help boost immunity (especially... Thu, 18 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/antioxidant-snack Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-18T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/spicy-antioxidants I wrote a post yesterday about berries, and today I am going to stay with the same antioxidant theme but focus something you probably don't think about when you think antioxidants: Herbs and Spices.Adding herbs and spices to your food can boost t... Wed, 17 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/spicy-antioxidants Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-17T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/summer-berries Now that summer is here, so are some of the best fruits. Berries are such a great treat in these summer months. And, they are loaded in antioxidants! They are low in calories and have virtually no fat or sodium. A cup of many berries are less... Tue, 16 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/summer-berries Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fiber-morning I just read a press release from Kellogg's announcing that they are going to add fiber to most of it's cereal line. They are committing to adding at least 3 grams of fiber to 80% of the Kellogg cereal line in the US and Canada by the end of 2010.... Thu, 11 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fiber-morning Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-11T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/soy-safe I have had several people recently ask me about whether eating foods from soy is harmful. Some have asked because they have a thyroid problem and heard that soy interferes with their synthroid, others are worried about breast cancer, and most rec... Wed, 10 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/soy-safe Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-10T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/summer-hydration It has been summer in Florida for quite a while already, but I know the rest of the country is catching up quickly! It is so important for proper hydration during these hot and humid summer months, especially if you are out working in the yard or... Tue, 09 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/summer-hydration Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-09T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/protein-keep-you-full My last post was about how much protein our bodies actually need. I want to follow that information up with some very interesting research and thoughts around what the optimal level of protein is, which may be different than what our body "needs.... Mon, 08 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/protein-keep-you-full Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-08T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/how-much-protein-do-you-really-need Have you ever thought about how much protein you are supposed to get each day? The answer to that question is not as black and white as you may think.The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is set at 0.8 grams (g) per kilogram (kg) of... Fri, 05 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/how-much-protein-do-you-really-need Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fresh-fit-kids With the school year coming to an end, it is important to start thinking about how you can keep your kids active and eating right this summer.Move MoreGet them involved with sports like Little League, swimming, beach/sand volleyball, or whatever y... Wed, 03 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fresh-fit-kids Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-03T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/orlando-magic-nba-finals I just have to write about the Orlando Magic today because last night they clinched their spot in the NBA finals by beating the Cleveland Cavaliers 103-90. They are the Eastern Conference Champs and now start Thursday against the Los Angeles Lake... Mon, 01 Jun 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/orlando-magic-nba-finals Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-06-01T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/going-generic I don't have to tell you that in this economy everyone is looking for ways to cut costs. One place many people are choosing to save pennies is by choosing generic, or store brands, instead of name brands at the supermarket.The Food Marketing Inst... Wed, 27 May 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/going-generic Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-05-27T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/have-you-been-down-yogurt-aisle-lately Remember the days when your two choices for yogurt were Fruit on the Bottom or Light? If you haven't been in the yogurt aisle in a while, you may want to consider visiting. There are a bunch of very tasty new yogurts in the dairy case that are w... Sun, 24 May 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/have-you-been-down-yogurt-aisle-lately Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-05-24T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/grilling-out-weekend I am looking out the window at a heavy rainstorm right now and having a hard time imagining grilling out this weekend, but Memorial Day weekend is the kickoff of grilling season in the United States. So....it would be nice if this rainy weather w... Fri, 22 May 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/grilling-out-weekend Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-05-22T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/yummy-new-snack I am always on the lookout for a new snack and I found one I just had to tell you about. I have a big sweet tooth so sweet snacks are usually my first choice (although I also do love my popchips). I firmly believe in the glycemic index for snack... Wed, 20 May 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/yummy-new-snack Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-05-20T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/omega-3-supplements I wrote a blog a few weeks ago as sort of an overview of the benefits of including omega-3 fats in your diet. If you are not familiar with the numerous benefits, please read or re-read that post.Since I wrote that, I have had numerous questions a... Fri, 15 May 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/omega-3-supplements Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-05-15T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cheerios-drug I really don't think the cholesterol lowering effects of Cheerios are comparable to how a drug may help lower cholesterol, but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is saying that the claims Cheerios is making on it's boxes are similar to those m... Wed, 13 May 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cheerios-drug Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-05-13T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/high-sodium-dishes I love salt. I love the taste of salt and I love salty food. Salt simply tastes good. Unfortunately, too much salt isn't good for us. It can lead to high blood pressure which can lead to stroke.Salt is listed as sodium on a food label, and the... Tue, 12 May 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/high-sodium-dishes Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-05-12T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/canned-food-good-you We are all trying to cut back at the grocery store, but do you always have to get fresh produce? Not necessarily. I am always all for getting lots of fruits and veggies in whatever form. But I often hear people tell me they don't think canned i... Wed, 06 May 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/canned-food-good-you Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-05-06T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pork-and-swine-flu Can you get swine flu from eating pork? The experts are saying a resounding, "NO!"Swine flu (or H1N1 flu) is transmitted similar to any other flu. You can get it from being in contact with the saliva or mucus of someone infected. Wash your hand... Tue, 05 May 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/pork-and-swine-flu Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-05-05T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/hydroxycut-recall I have said it before and I will say it again. Diet pills do not work and can be dangerous. For proof of the dangerous part, check out the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notice of the recall of Hydroxycut.In all, there are 14 products that h... Sun, 03 May 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/hydroxycut-recall Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-05-03T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/best-workout I know that this blog is called the Diet Dish but I just had to tell you about a new workout I have been doing lately. It is so incredible I just had to share! Jenny Evans, the creator of this workout is brilliant!It is called Powerhouse Hit the... Fri, 01 May 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/best-workout Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-05-01T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/omega-3s-which-best The science on the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids is strong and seems to be getting stronger every day. But people I talk to are often confused as to where the best source of omega-3 is and how to get it. So here is my omega-3 101 lesson. Omeg... Thu, 30 Apr 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/omega-3s-which-best Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-04-30T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/are-you-nutritional-hippocrite The idea for this post came yesterday as I was eating yogurt for a snack. I was enjoying a Stoneyfield Farms organic vanilla fat free yogurt but decided that I wanted a little bit of crunch with it. Looking at the cereals open in the pantry, I d... Mon, 27 Apr 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/are-you-nutritional-hippocrite Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-04-27T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/love-nuts-try-walnuts A definite favorite snack of choice for many people I talk to are nuts. There is something about nuts that are just tasty. I often get asked which nut is my favorite or which is the healthiest and it is hard to narrow down to just one "best." E... Fri, 24 Apr 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/love-nuts-try-walnuts Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-04-24T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/are-you-losing-nutrients-when-you-cook I love vegetables and my favorite way to prepare most veggies is to simply saute them in a bit of olive oil. I rarely boil veggies but sometimes I microwave them. Which method of cooking actually maintains the most nutrients and which causes the... Thu, 23 Apr 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/are-you-losing-nutrients-when-you-cook Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-04-23T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/why-am-i-still-hungry-i-just-ate Have you ever eaten something that you think should make you feel full, only to leave you still hungry? Those little 100 calorie packs of white flour and sugar make me feel that way. I would have been better off not eating anything!A new book ca... Wed, 22 Apr 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/why-am-i-still-hungry-i-just-ate Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-04-22T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-research-eggs A meeting this week called Experimental Biology had some really interesting new research presented on eggs. I have written about eggs in the past and tried to clear up some of the confusion around whether they are good or not. Check out my past ... Mon, 20 Apr 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-research-eggs Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-04-20T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/kgc-instead-kfc KFC (formerly known as Kentucky Fried Chicken but now goes simply by KFC to try to shed the fried name) has introduced a new healthier option known as Kentucky Grilled Chicken. They are hoping that by offering a healthier option it will bring peo... Fri, 17 Apr 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/kgc-instead-kfc Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-04-17T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/green-cooking-and-eating-tips Earth Day is less than a week away now, so let's get ready to green it up!I told you last week about the Big Green Cookbook by Jackie Newgent, RD. If you are interested in becoming more eco-friendly in how you cook, this book is a must have!I hav... Wed, 15 Apr 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/green-cooking-and-eating-tips Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-04-15T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/top-5-reasons-consider-weight-loss-surgery I used to have sort of a bad attitude about weight loss surgery. I thought it was the easy way out. I am embarrassed to admit this now, but I am pleased to tell you that my attitude has changed significantly.The term "morbidly obese" is such an ... Fri, 10 Apr 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/top-5-reasons-consider-weight-loss-surgery Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-04-10T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/big-green-cookbook Ok, I know I am really on a "going green" kick now, but there are just all of these fabulous books out so recently! Check out my previous blogs on Go Green Get Lean and The Green Pregnancy Diet if you missed them.The latest of my loves is Big Gre... Thu, 09 Apr 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/big-green-cookbook Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-04-09T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/green-pregnancy I am definitely on a "green" kick lately. I told you about Go Green Get Lean by Kate Geagan, RD a few weeks ago. Now The Green Pregnancy Diet just came out written by Radha McLean and edited by me!Since I am pregnant with my second (it's a boy a... Tue, 07 Apr 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/green-pregnancy Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-04-07T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/it-ok-be-vegatarian-teen When I was in 2nd grade I had a childhood friend who lived on a farm that I visited often to feed their couple of pigs. Then my pig (named Blacky for the one black ear he had) went to slaughter and I was devastated to learn that Blacky was going ... Sat, 04 Apr 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/it-ok-be-vegatarian-teen Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-04-04T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/restaurant-info-online-darden-restaurants If you are watching your waistline, you know that calories are an important thing to pay attention to. But how do you know how many calories you are downing at lunch at the Olive Garden or Red Lobster? You are about to find out. With the recent... Tue, 31 Mar 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/restaurant-info-online-darden-restaurants Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-03-31T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/family-mealtime-back The recession that the US and much of the world is facing is having some interesting side effects. I like to focus on the positive, so I will tell you about one of these positive results.People are starting to eat at home a bit more in an attempt... Fri, 27 Mar 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/family-mealtime-back Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-03-27T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/red-meat-may-reduce-length-life A new study in this week's issue of Archives of Internal Medicine is turning some heads, especially those who love steak and burgers.The researchers from the National Cancer Institute found that over the 10-year period studied those who ate the mo... Tue, 24 Mar 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/red-meat-may-reduce-length-life Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-03-24T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/first-garden If you didn't already have a ton of reasons to love Michelle Obama, here is another one: She broke ground yesterday on a garden in the South Lawn of the White House in order to grow fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The produce will be used f... Sat, 21 Mar 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/first-garden Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-03-21T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/go-green-get-lean It is not often that I highly recommend books on my blog, but once again I have come across a book that I truly think is remarkable. So please excuse me while I gush for the next few minutes. This book is hot off the presses and titled, Go Green... Fri, 20 Mar 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/go-green-get-lean Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-03-20T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-labeling-law-today The new Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) food labeling law goes into effect today. This new law covers meats, fish, shellfish, and perishable agricultural products like fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, and certain nuts like macadamia nuts... Mon, 16 Mar 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-labeling-law-today Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-03-16T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/smarter-school-lunch-room I just found out this week about a new website that some brilliant nutrition minds at Cornell University have put together to try to attack the issue of school lunches. You have likely heard about the technique of eliminating vending machines and... Sun, 15 Mar 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/smarter-school-lunch-room Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-03-15T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/dietitians-open-nasdaq March is National Nutrition Month and today was quite the day for the American Dietetic Association. ADA President Marty Yadrick presided over the ringing the opening bell to get the markets started today. I think this is so cool and a sign that... Fri, 13 Mar 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/dietitians-open-nasdaq Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-03-13T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/lean-lunch In my line of work, I talk to people all day long about what they eat. You can't really shock me anymore because I do feel like I have heard it all. But it is the everyday stuff that bothers me most. I am surprised and disappointed when I hear ... Wed, 11 Mar 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/lean-lunch Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-03-11T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/bad-bug-got-me I was all set to have an enjoyable vacation away from home this past weekend and I spend the entire weekend on the bed in the hotel room instead. We went out to dinner on Thursday night (restaurant to remain nameless) and within a few hours I was... Mon, 09 Mar 2009 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/bad-bug-got-me Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-03-09T07:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/march-eat-right-month March is National Nutrition Month and the theme is simply, "Eat Right." National Nutrition Month is a time when the American Dietetic Association, a non-profit organization of 68,000 nutrition professionals, focuses on helping consumers focus on ... Wed, 04 Mar 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/march-eat-right-month Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-03-04T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/annual-report-card-nations-health The US government released the most recent figures on vital statistics, disease prevalence, health care utilization, and other health topics. It takes quite a while to crunch numbers, and believe it or not, these data from 2006 are the most recen... Tue, 03 Mar 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/annual-report-card-nations-health Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-03-03T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/calories-rule You have probably heard the news stories on the new study that was just published in the New England Journal of Medicine comparing 4 different weight loss diets. If not, check out the study yourself.The study was a pretty large trial and the goal... Fri, 27 Feb 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/calories-rule Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-02-27T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/alcohol-and-cancer-risk-women Everyone is talking about this new study out of Britain in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute which found that middle-aged women who drank alcohol, even moderate amounts, had increased risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, lar... Wed, 25 Feb 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/alcohol-and-cancer-risk-women Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-02-25T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/lent-begins-get-creative-meat-substitutes Ash Wednesday is the marker of the beginning of Lent for many religions around the world. For many, that means giving up certain things like sweets, soft drinks, watching TV, etc. For Catholics, it means giving up meat on Fridays. Orthodox Chri... Wed, 25 Feb 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/lent-begins-get-creative-meat-substitutes Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-02-25T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/running-vs-walking-more-calorie-burn If you have not already read it, please read my post yesterday about the question I often get, "Do you burn more calories if you run a mile vs walking a mile?" The answer is yes, you do burn more calories running.Why?It is more difficult to run t... Fri, 20 Feb 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/running-vs-walking-more-calorie-burn Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-02-20T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/which-burns-more-walking-or-running-mile "Do you burn more calories if you walk or run a mile?" Same distance, different pace. I get asked this question quite often, so I have taken a considerable amount of time to figure it out. It seems as if the answer would be that you burn the sa... Fri, 20 Feb 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/which-burns-more-walking-or-running-mile Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-02-20T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/heart-healthy-snacks It is still Heart Health Month, so I have more heart healthy ideas for you. Snacking is always tough to find tasty, healthy ideas. Here are my top heart healthy snacks:Raisins: New research in the journal Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental ... Wed, 18 Feb 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/heart-healthy-snacks Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-02-18T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/3-hours-runningno-sports-drink My husband Stephen is a marathon runner and has been for several years. He is usually very good about his nutrition before, during, and after runs, but yesterday it all fell apart.He met his friend to run 18 miles, which is not unusual for a long... Mon, 16 Feb 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/3-hours-runningno-sports-drink Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-02-16T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/body-milk-get-fit-finals I am in Phoenix right now for the NBA Allstar events. What an experience! I have been a part of a new campaign called Get Fit By Finals that the NBA, WNBA, and Body By Milk campaign (you know, the milk mustache people) have put together. They c... Fri, 13 Feb 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/body-milk-get-fit-finals Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-02-13T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/drinking-lots-soda-boosts-kidney-disease-risk I read an interesting study today published in PLoS ONE, a journal published by the Public Library of Science. The study found that women who drink two or more cans of soda per day are nearly twice as likely to show early signs of kidney disease ... Tue, 10 Feb 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/drinking-lots-soda-boosts-kidney-disease-risk Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-02-10T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/soy-heart-health This is the third of three posts on heart health because it is National Heart Month and heart disease is the #1 killer of men and women in this country! Check out the first post on risk factors for heart disease and the second post on how to decr... Thu, 05 Feb 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/soy-heart-health Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-02-05T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/strengthen-your-ticker February is National Heart Month, and if you haven't already please read my previous post on major risk factors for heart disease.So now that you know what increases risk, let's focus on what decreases risk of heart disease.Exercise Every Day: Ex... Wed, 04 Feb 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/strengthen-your-ticker Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-02-04T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/keep-your-heart-healthy I think it is because Valentine's Day is in February that the month is associated with hearts. February is National Heart Month, so I thought it fitting for my first post in February to be about how to keep your heart healthy.Heart disease is the... Mon, 02 Feb 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/keep-your-heart-healthy Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-02-02T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/more-big-game-ideas We are only 2 days from the big game on Sunday, so I am sure you are deep into planning your menus. I have a few suggestions, of course. Make sure you read my number one suggestion from my post earlier this week about guacamole.NutsDid you know... Fri, 30 Jan 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/more-big-game-ideas Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-01-30T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-bowl-pick You thought I would have a prediction of who would win, huh? I am talking about FOOD picks, of course. It is, after all, all about the food.Some people actually watch the Superbowl for the football. But many others (like people of the female va... Wed, 28 Jan 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/super-bowl-pick Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-01-28T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/packing-lunch-small-kids Do you pack a lunch for your preschooler? Or do you rely on the food provided at child care? Because of the economy, more and more child care centers are requiring parents to provide food for their children. In the January issue of the Journal ... Sat, 24 Jan 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/packing-lunch-small-kids Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-01-24T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/first-lunch Wonder what Barack Obama's first meal was as the new President of the United States?Here is the menu for the Inaugural Luncheon:First CourseSeafood Stew2207 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa ValleySecond CourseA Brace of American Birds (pheasant and duck)with... Tue, 20 Jan 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/first-lunch Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-01-20T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/peanut-butter-recalls Many of you have likely heard by now about the peanut butter recalls. I have been getting so many questions about it that I decided to post some information to make it easier to sort out.Salmonella can cause vomiting, fever, diarrhea, and abdomin... Tue, 20 Jan 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/peanut-butter-recalls Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-01-20T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/putting-recession-pounds I read a story the other day about the terrible economy and recession that is going on in America and the impact on health. The thought and fear is that people are going to start gaining weight due to the recession, dubbed "Recession Pounds."Why ... Sun, 18 Jan 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/putting-recession-pounds Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-01-18T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cheap-healthy-foods-budget This is part 3 of 3 about an article in the February 2009 issue of Consumer Reports. Today is about the sections on price vs. nutrition and healthy foods on a budget.Take a look at these cheap eats that are also very nutritious:Cooked black beans... Mon, 12 Jan 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/cheap-healthy-foods-budget Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-01-12T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/six-keys-healthy-weight I hope you read my last post about the Consumer Reports article on weight in the February 2009 issue of Consumer Reports.They surveyed over 21,000 readers to find out about their nutrition and exercise habits as well as their weight. Consumer Rep... Sat, 10 Jan 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/six-keys-healthy-weight Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-01-10T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/successful-dieters A new article on successful dieters in the February issue of Consumer Reports piqued my interest. Make sure you click on all of the sections on the left if you go to the hyperlink I provided here.I am always interested when I see articles like th... Thu, 08 Jan 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/successful-dieters Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-01-08T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sharpen-your-mind-defeat-depression I just finished reading a new book that I thought I would tell you all about. It is called The UltraMind Solution by Mark Hyman, MD. The book is about the connection of the body's health to the mind. We are seeing more and more attention and be... Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/sharpen-your-mind-defeat-depression Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-01-06T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/apple-peel-sports-boost Apples are the iconic symbol of health. Remember, "an apple a day keeps the doctor away?" Researchers at Cornell University are taking this to the bank. They have developed a dried apple peel powder into organic applesauce to create a product c... Mon, 05 Jan 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/apple-peel-sports-boost Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-01-05T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/weight-loss-new-years-resolution Losing weight and quitting smoking are the two most popular resolutions for the New Year. But have you set resolutions in the past, only to go back to your old habits after a few days to a few weeks? Here are some tips to keep those resolutions t... Fri, 02 Jan 2009 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/weight-loss-new-years-resolution Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2009-01-02T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/return-home-cooking Because money is not as plentiful as it once was, many people are cutting back on a lot of things...and food is one of them!These foods saw the following price increases:Milk: 11.6%Eggs: 29.2%Vegetable oils: 8%Bread: 9%The National Restaurant A... Mon, 22 Dec 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/return-home-cooking Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-12-22T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-sweetener-all-natural-zero-calories I told you a few months back about some new sweeteners using the Stevia plant that were on the horizon. The best one I have seen is Truvia (pronounced True-Vee-Yah).All NaturalThe reason I am gushing about Truvia is because it is for the first tim... Fri, 19 Dec 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-sweetener-all-natural-zero-calories Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-12-19T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/online-weight-management-program Hello Diet Dish readers! I have an exciting announcement. I have teamed up with www.reallivingnutrition.com to provide online nutrition counseling. Online counseling is becoming much more popular, so I thought I would jump in and find the best pr... Wed, 17 Dec 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/online-weight-management-program Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-12-17T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/milk-fitness-drink When you are thinking of fitness drinks, milk very likely doesn't come to mind. But let me tell you why I think it is the perfect drink for fitness enthusiasts.Milk contains:9 essential nutrientsCalcium and Vitamin D to maintain bone strengthHigh... Fri, 12 Dec 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/milk-fitness-drink Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-12-12T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fast-food-cheap I was reading a very interesting article in The Wall Street Journal today. The headline was "McDonald's Sales Keep Growing," and they reported that of the 30 companies that make up the Dow Jones Industrial Average, only McDonald's and Walmart hav... Tue, 09 Dec 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/fast-food-cheap Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-12-09T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/more-good-news-about-blueberries I love blueberries, but I don't always love the price of them in the grocery store. What a nice surprise this week to see them 2 for $4 in the middle of winter! I had a bowl of fresh berries with lunch and it was a treat!You have heard about the... Sat, 06 Dec 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/more-good-news-about-blueberries Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-12-06T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutrition-solutions-pms Premenstural Syndrome (PMS) is a syndrome that is difficult to link specific foods directly to reducing symptoms. That being said, we do know that certain brain chemicals and hormones cause the body to act differently at different times of the cyc... Thu, 04 Dec 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/nutrition-solutions-pms Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-12-04T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/hidden-salt I was reading an article in the January 2009 issue of Consumer Reports about hidden salt in our food. The average American eats about 4,000 mg of sodium each day. The Dietary Guidelines suggest that we have less than 2,300 mg of sodium each day.... Wed, 03 Dec 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/hidden-salt Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-12-03T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/lose-weight-phone I have been counseling people for 12 years on how to improve their diet, lose weight, and perform the best you can. I mostly do face to face counseling, but with the technology age that we are in and have been in for a while, it is tempting to co... Mon, 01 Dec 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/lose-weight-phone Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-12-01T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/hungry-america Most of us don't think about if we will have food for dinner tonight. Instead, we dream about what we might make or which restaurant we will go to. Unfortunately for many people, they rely on assistance from the United States Department of Agric... Sat, 29 Nov 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/hungry-america Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-11-29T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/top-5-thanksgiving-tips The biggest food holiday of the year for Americans is fast approaching. Are you ready to indulge? What are your favorite treats? People don't want to hear from a dietitian how many calories are in their favorite treats. You just want to enjoy,... Tue, 25 Nov 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/top-5-thanksgiving-tips Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-11-25T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-help-preschool-nutrition Are you the parent of a preschooler but have no idea how to get them to eat right? Help is here!MyPyramid, the food guide system designed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), has a new section just for preschoolers. The MyPyram... Mon, 24 Nov 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-help-preschool-nutrition Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-11-24T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/acai-health-or-hype Superfoods are the talk of many internet sites, but do they really live up to the hype? One of the superfoods that I often get asked about is acai berry.Acai is a plant found in Central and South America. It has a stem and berries. The stem if ... Fri, 21 Nov 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/acai-health-or-hype Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-11-21T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/top-10-ways-save-money-thanksgiving Many of us are feeling the effects of this economy in our bank accounts, yet prices still seem to be going up for many of our commonly purchased items. Let's be thankful that gas prices are down, but Christmas is right around the corner and we ne... Thu, 20 Nov 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/top-10-ways-save-money-thanksgiving Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-11-20T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-lipid-watch You have no doubt heard a lot about HDL, or good cholesterol, and LDL, or bad cholesterol. You have probably seen triglycerides on your lab results, but unless it was really high, your doctor may not have even mentioned it to you. That may chang... Mon, 17 Nov 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/new-lipid-watch Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-11-17T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/flex-your-diet Have you thought about becoming a vegetarian, but you can't bear the thought of not having Thanksgiving turkey or an occasional burger? You don't have to be a vegetarian because you can be a Flexitarian.Flexitarian LifestyleNumerous research stud... Tue, 11 Nov 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/flex-your-diet Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-11-11T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/think-you-are-allergic It seems to me that I am seeing a lot more people who tell me that they are allergic or sensitive to different foods. I know that food allergies are on the rise, especially in children, but it still seems odd that so many people avoid so many dif... Sat, 08 Nov 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/think-you-are-allergic Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-11-08T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/diabetes-month November is American Diabetes Month, so I thought it was a good time to talk about the disease.Stats7.8% of the population (23.6 million) people have diabetesHispanic/Latino Americans are 1.8 times more likely to have diabetes than whitesAfrican A... Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/diabetes-month Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-11-04T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-labels-must-have-origin Illnesses thought to be caused by contaminated food have been making headlines in the past few years. Remember the spinach, tomato, pepper, and beef scares?A new labeling law has been passed that requires certain food to identify the "country of ... Mon, 03 Nov 2008 08:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/food-labels-must-have-origin Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-11-03T08:00:00Z http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/five-fall-faves Even though I live in Florida, I can still appreciate the fall. We had our own little cold front come through earlier in the week and it was in the 40's overnight and 60's during the day. That cool air felt so good! I love the "crisp" feel in t... Fri, 31 Oct 2008 07:00:00 GMT http://www.healthline.com/health-blogs/diet-diva/five-fall-faves Tara Gidus, MS, RD, CSSD, LD/N 2008-10-31T07:00:00Z