Health

Pomegranate juice

Top Beverages for Heart Health: What to Consume (And Which Beverages to Avoid)

Cheers to a Healthy Heart! Discover the Best Beverages to Consume and Which Ones to Nix.   When counseling patients who have been referred to the cardiac rehabilitation facility I work at, I get a lot of questions about what foods to eat to keep their heart healthy. Depending on their specific dietary needs, some…

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By Cheryl Mussatto, MS, RD, LD | Jul 5, 2024
woman reading food label

Unlock the potential for your best health by trading eating perfection for eating smarter

Redefining the Menu: Ditch Perfect Plates, Embrace Smart Eating for Lasting Health Nutrition isn’t just about eating the perfect diet (boring); it’s about eating smarter. Navigating the world of healthy eating can feel like a daunting task, but fear not! Here’s your guide to eating smart without sacrificing the joy of food – because, let’s…

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By Cheryl Mussatto, MS, RD, LD | Jun 4, 2024
People ordering fast food

Do calorie counts on fast-food menus really impact a person’s decision-making? Sort of, according to Taco Bell study

Posting calorie counts on fast food and restaurant chains may somewhat impact a person’s food choices at these establishments, potentially contributing to improved health outcomes.     Let’s be honest – fast food has become ubiquitous in the United States. In other words, it’s here to stay. From large cities to small rural towns, fast…

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By Cheryl Mussatto, MS, RD, LD | May 11, 2024
Omelet for breakfast with vegetables

Boost Your Breakfast: Easy Ways to Sneak in More Veggies for a Healthier Start to Your Day

Eating more vegetables for breakfast is easier than you may think!    Are you a breakfast person? If so, I have a tip for improving your health – remember to sneak in veggies for a healthier start to your day. I know it’s easy to stick to the usual breakfast foods like eggs, cereal, or pancakes, but…

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By Cheryl Mussatto, MS, RD, LD | Feb 25, 2024
Healthy gift ideas for Christmas

18 Christmas gifts promoting health and wellness all year long

Discover Christmas gift ideas that inspire and motivate loved ones to lead a healthier lifestyle in 2024   The holiday season is upon us, and if you’re still looking for the perfect gift for your loved one, I’ve got you covered with some great ideas. This list is not about mundane items like socks, underwear,…

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By Cheryl Mussatto, MS, RD, LD | Dec 7, 2023
Pomegranates and pomegranates juice

Pomegranates – Protector of your health

The fruit’s seeds and natural juice are a wealth of nutrients beneficial for your health. Right about now, you may be overlooking an extraordinarily nutritious fruit. And it’s not the usual apples, oranges, or bananas.  While all fruits are good for us, the “jewel of the winter,” better known as pomegranates, protects your health.  Usually…

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By Cheryl Mussatto, MS, RD, LD | Dec 2, 2023
Thanksgiving pies

How to enjoy Thanksgiving food guilt-free using three empowering approaches

  Feeling anxious about weight gain this holiday season? Here’s how to stop Thanksguilting and start enjoying Thanksgiving.   This year, don’t allow worries about overeating ruin your Thanksgiving celebration with loved ones. It’s a once-a-year occasion that should be enjoyed without reservation. Instead, recognize that this holiday has several healthy opportunities to take advantage…

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By Cheryl Mussatto, MS, RD, LD | Nov 15, 2023
Alarm clock reminding to eat healthy and exercise

Finding Time For Healthy Behaviors

  Taking time to plan, prioritize, and problem-solve can help you reach your behavior change goals   Achieving behavior change goals, such as healthy eating and exercise, requires planning, prioritizing, and problem-solving. Putting these three “P’s” to work will help you stay on track and overcome any obstacles that may hinder your success. Beginning a…

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By Cheryl Mussatto, MS, RD, LD | Oct 24, 2023
Pouring a cup of tea

Flavan-3-ol-rich foods: Why a daily dose may reduce risk of heart disease and diabetes

Why these dietary compounds are important for reducing risk of our most widespread and serious chronic health complaints of our time   Are you wondering what flavan-3-ols are and why they matter? You’re not alone. As a nutrition writer and outpatient clinical dietitian working with both cardiac rehab and diabetes patients, my goal is always…

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By Cheryl Mussatto, MS, RD, LD | Jul 8, 2023
Arugula in a wooden bowl

Bitter foods – The taste of good health

Instead of scrunching up your nose at bitter foods – embrace them!   Many people do not enjoy the taste of bitter foods, preferring sweet, salty, or sour flavors instead. However, those who have avoided bitter-tasting foods may miss vital nutrients and compounds essential for gut and digestive health and significant bone, brain, and liver…

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By Cheryl Mussatto, MS, RD, LD | Jun 24, 2023