Hello Fall, Hello Soup Season!

  A bowl of soup not only makes you feel better when you are under the weather, but it is a great way to make a quick meal that is loaded up with nutrient-dense foods to fuel your body on a cold day. Soup Super Star Ingredients Beans and lentils: Beans and lentils are both affordable and high in fiber and protein. Soluble fiber lowers LDL (lousy) cholesterol and is found naturally in many types of foods including beans and lentils. Use a variety of beans in your recipes (navy, pinto, kidney, black beans). Vegetables: Veggies are loaded with nutrients including fiber, vitamins, and minerals.  Fiber has many benefits for the body including supporting gut health and aiding in weight loss. Unfortunately, most Americans are not consuming enough fiber. In fact, only 5% of people are eating enough fiber. Use [...]

Mocktails: Happiness in a Cup

  A mocktail can be a perfect addition to an evening of partying or relaxing at the pool. Try something healthy and refreshing to enjoy this summer. Use the tips below to create a signature drink without the worries of excess calories. Ingredients: Recipes can use a variety of ingredients such as club soda, tonic water, juice, and coconut water. Seltzer water, club soda, or tonic water: Which one is better? Seltzer water and club soda are calorie free and great ingredients for mocktails. Unfortunately, tonic water is high in added sugar. To put it in perspective, 12 fluid ounces of tonic water has 33 grams of added sugar (about 8 teaspoons of sugar). If you use tonic water, be mindful of your portion size since calories can add up quickly or try no sugar added tonic water. Tip: If [...]