May 6th is International No Diet Day! It’s a celebration of body positivity, body diversity, and the freedom of food. Use this as an opportunity to break free from diet culture.   From talk shows to tabloid magazines, diet fads surround us every which way we turn. One diet says to eat all of the…

You have likely heard of a gluten-free diet, but you may not be aware of why some people must follow one. Gluten is a protein that when ingested can trigger painful symptoms in a person with celiac disease. Throughout the month of May, the healthcare community aims to inform as many people about this disease…

Did you know that raisins are just dehydrated grapes that people have been eating for thousands of years? Humans have been indulging their sweet tooth with raisins since BCE! On April 30th crack open up a box of these sweet dried grapes for National Raisin Day!   While they are commonly referred to as “nature’s…

As time progresses and news of the outbreak spreads, the more it appears self-isolation will have to continue for a while longer. Staying home is important for everyone’s safety, but so much time indoors can be a challenge whether you live alone or with family and friends.   Staying cooped up inside can lead to…

Did you know that garlic is at its most flavorful shortly after being cut? The pungent smell and flavor are a result of the garlic cells being broken down. Celebrate this aromatic food for National Garlic Day on April 19th.   Garlic has a myriad of health properties that make it a superfood. It produces…

Did you know that mushrooms are not a vegetable, and considered a fungus? Celebrate this tasty food for National Day of the Mushroom!   Mushrooms are packed with vitamins, minerals, protein, and antioxidants. These properties provide different health benefits, which is why mushrooms are often considered a superfood.   There are a wide variety of…

The American Heart Association has declared April to be National Move More Month! The AHA’s goal is to raise awareness on the benefits of regular physical activity. It is believed that just 30 minutes a day can provide you with several health benefits.   Regular movement is a key component of a healthy lifestyle. There…

This year marks the 25th anniversary of National Public Health Week! Celebrated the first full week of April, National Public Health Week, commonly abbreviated NPHW, focuses on many different dimensions of health and wellness.   Every day of the week has a different theme advocating for awareness on different aspects of health. Most years, NPHW…

Did you know that April is dedicated to making advances in fighting cancer for National Cancer Control Month? This month serves to raise awareness about cancer prevention and treatment. According to predictions made by the American Cancer Society, 1.8 million new cancer cases will be diagnosed this year.   This alarming statistic shows the importance…

As you are painstakingly aware, right now we are in the midst of a global pandemic. Other than staying home and isolated, there is not much you can do to prevent yourself from getting the virus. However, you can keep your immune system healthy to help it protect you.   Having a healthy immune system…

Did you know that March 26th is National Spinach Day? This leafy green vegetable, beloved by Popeye, has many wonderful health benefits. Spinach is packed with many vitamins and minerals, and can be enjoyed in numerous ways.   Eating this vegetable comes with a few health benefits including improved blood sugar control, a decreased risk…

Did you know there are 29 million people in the United States who are affected by diabetes?   This year American Diabetes Alert Day falls on March 24th. The goal for this day is to stress the prevalence of diabetes in this country and to raise awareness of your risk.   There are two types…

During this time of uncertainty and panic, most people are wondering what they can do to prepare. One thing that many people are doing to prepare for weeks of self-isolation is stocking up on supplies at the grocery store. As you have probably seen on television or for yourself, the grocery stores are becoming more…

St. Patrick’s Day, the feast day for the patron saint of Ireland, is tomorrow, March 17th! While this day originally celebrated the widespread of Christianity in Ireland, over the years it has become more of a celebration of Irish culture.   This holiday is celebrated worldwide, especially among the Irish diaspora who want to keep…

Did you know that salt has been used for centuries as a natural food preservative? Table salt is not only used to preserve food, it is also commonly used to flavor dishes. Salt is an essential mineral that your body needs to function properly. However, using too much salt is can negatively impact your health….

Did you know that March is National Nutrition Month? This annual campaign was created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to raise awareness about informed food choices, sound eating, and the importance of physical activity.   This year’s theme is “Eat Right, Bite by Bite.” This theme encapsulates the basic principle of intuitive eating…

Did you know that the average American eats about 3 pounds of peanut butter per year?   Whether you’re a creamy or a crunchy lover, don’t miss out on celebrating this delicious power food not only on March 1st for National Peanut Butter Lovers Day but throughout March as it’s National Peanut Month.   Peanut…

If you are familiar with my practice, you likely know my stance on diet culture. However, you may be wondering what exactly diet culture entails. Society tells you that you need to be a certain shape, size, or body type to be happy. The only way to achieve this “ideal body” is by following the…

Did you know that about 30 million Americans will experience an eating disorder sometime in their life? There is a negative stigma that goes along with eating disorders, which can prevent people who suffer from these disorders from getting help.   February 24th-March 1st is National Eating Disorder Awareness Week. This week is dedicated to…

Did you know that cocoa seeds were once used as a form of currency? This should come as no surprise given the divine foods that they are turned into. There are so many ways to enjoy chocolate, from dark to milk chocolate, there is no wrong way to eat it. Grab a bar of your…