Many Americans fall short of meeting their daily recommended fiber intake, a vital nutrient found in various foods such as fruits, vegetables, and grains. Explore the role of fiber in the diet this January during National Fiber Month.   As a type of carbohydrate, fiber, referred to as roughage or bulk, originates from plant starch,…

Did you know that fiber is only found in plants? Dietary fiber, also known as roughage, is a form of carbohydrate from plants. Many great food sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Nutritional fiber supplements are another way to incorporate fiber into your diet. National Fiber Focus month, which happens every…

Did you know there are approximately 40,000 bean varieties in the world? Pinto beans, lima beans, baked beans, chickpeas, there are so many to choose from. Beans are quite well known for being an excellent source of protein and fiber.   Beans have a lot to offer when it comes to nutritional benefits! They are…

January is Fiber Focus Month and as the New Year kicks off, now is the perfect time to learn more about fiber and how to incorporate more fiber into your everyday meals.   You probably have heard of fiber but are wondering why you need it. Fiber is a form of carbohydrate that adds bulk…

Did you know that oatmeal is one of the most popular breakfast items? This pantry staple is not only an inexpensive breakfast option, but it will also keep you energized all morning long. Whip up a bowl of your favorite flavor oatmeal to celebrate National Oatmeal Day this October 29th.   If making a quick…

Did you know that increasing your whole grain intake can be beneficial to your overall health? Swapping out refined carbohydrates for whole grain products is rarely a bad idea! Increase your consumption throughout the month of September for National Whole Grain Month.   There are so many health benefits associated with whole grain products, that…

Did you know that people who consume more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes? A recent study found that eating ample fruits or vegetables can lower your risk of developing diabetes by 25%.   Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are not only delicious, they are power-packed with…

January is National Fiber Focus Month, which makes it the perfect time to learn more about the benefits of fiber and how to increase your intake. First, let’s briefly discuss what fiber is. It’s a form of carbohydrate that your body can’t break down into usable energy. It’s broken down into insoluble and soluble fiber,…

Did you know that today is National Macaroni Day?If you’re like me, you know that any day of the year is a great day to celebrate this versatile food. Pasta has gotten some bad press over the last few years, and it’s time to set the record straight. You can have your macaroni and eat…

Are you tired of your go-to grains and are in the mood to try something new? Look no further than millet, an ancient grain that has been long forgotten! Millet is similar to quinoa in that it is a smaller, seed-like grain, and was once a staple in diets across the world. It has even…

Did you know that strawberries are one of the most popular fruits eaten in the United States? They are extremely popular because they are so versatile, nutritious, and delicious! It’s no wonder then that this well-liked fruit has its own day. On February 27th, we get to celebrate National Strawberry Day!   You may be…

What better way to start off 2018 than with National Fiber Focus Month! Fiber is an essential part of any diet and provides a seemingly endless array of health benefits. But, are you getting enough?   The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommend that men get ~38 grams per day and women consume ~25 grams…

The winter months are coming and, unfortunately, so many of our fruit and vegetable staples are out of season. But, fear not! The humble and delicious Pear is in season basically all year round. December is National Pear Month, and is the perfect time to learn all about this delectable fruit!   Pear Facts  …

Ficus carica, also known as the common fig, may not be so common to everyone. Figs are delectable little fruits that are not only delicious, but also offer a number of health benefits. National Fig Week is November 1st through 7th and is the perfect time to learn more about figs.   Shopping for Figs…

Did you know yesterday was National Oatmeal Day? Did you eat any oatmeal to celebrate? Don’t worry if you didn’t, there’s still time!   Not only is oatmeal delicious, it’s full of health benefits. Since only the outer hull is removed, the germ and bran remain intact, making it a whole grain product. It’s high…

Cranberries are one of the few fruits native to North America. However, you may only think of cranberries around Thanksgiving.   If that’s the case, you are missing out! Cranberries are a nutrient-dense fruit that should be incorporated into your diet all year round. They can add color and texture to an already great meal, add…

Lightweight, nutritious, energy boosting… trail mix is the ideal snack! This Thursday, August 31st is National Trail Mix Day, and it is one of my favorites!   Trail mix comes in a variety of ways, but the most common combination is a mixture of nuts, dried fruits, and sometimes chocolate. Traditionally, as the name implies,…

If you’re looking for a healthy snack that’s packed with nutrients, fiber, and healthy fat, there’s no better food than nuts. There are so many varieties to choose from as well as many ways to prepare meals and snacks using them as ingredients.   Nuts are actually a seed surrounded by a hard, inedible shell….

Is there anything better then biting into a delicious and juicy peach? Peaches are in their peak season right now, which makes August the perfect month for National Peach Month! Peaches are enjoyed all over the world and with a seemingly infinite amount of ways to enjoy them. They have a unique taste that is…

Did you know that buying seasonal produce not only saves you money, but also allows you to prepare the best and freshest meals? Even if you do not have access to a local farmer’s market, you can still get a more nutritious bang for your buck when purchasing fruits and vegetables that are in season….