Breakfast of Champions

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With school getting started it can be a difficult transition for kids on many different levels. One of the hardest aspects of going back to school is getting up in the morning. With young kids getting out of bed can be hard and getting them into the car to get to school on time is even harder. However, just because you might be short on time it is essential that kids get a healthy and nutritious breakfast. When kids eat breakfast in the morning it is setting them up for success throughout the rest of the school day. With their little tummies full they will be able to focus on learning and have the energy to get through until lunch. Here are some simple ideas that are quick for those morning when you are running late to ensure you set your kids up for success.

¨ Piece of toast with peanut butter and milk

¨ Low-fat yogurt with some fresh or dried fruit or granola

¨ Apple slices and peanut butter

¨ Cheese stick and cup of fresh fruit or 100% fruit juice

¨ Oatmeal with nuts or fruit

¨ Fiber rich cereal and milk

¨ Granola bar with dried fruit or nuts in it

-Written by Elizabeth Honner, SDSU Dietetic Student

Navigating the Dos and Don’ts of Nutrition, Diets, and Wellness on Social Media

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It seems that on social media today, many people are self-proclaimed nutrition experts. Log on to Facebook or Pinterest and you won’t search long before you find someone selling workout plans, meal plans, diet supplements, or other weight-loss aids. Google “diets” or “weight-loss” and you will find hundreds of popular and even crazy diets for weight-loss. So if all of this is available, who are the real experts? How do you know if these products and diets are safe? What will work for you?

Although there are many reliable nutritional resources online, it is important to always question the source. Many of the information obtained from Pinterest or Facebook or from people selling these products is not necessarily reliable or the best fit for your body and health.

Registered Dietitians are trained and educated to provide the most accurate, science-based, and up-to-date nutritional information. Dietitians are one of the best ways to seek out questions about supplements, eating habits, weight-loss goals, or other nutrition concerns with a clinical and healthy approach.

So next time you see an add for weight-loss or nutritional programs online, ask yourself a few important screening questions:

            Is the program supervised or created by a health professional?

            Does this program sound safe for my body?

            Does this program sound like something I could enjoy doing?

            Is the cost of this program financially feasible?

            Is this a program I want to use forever?

The truth is that healthy living and mindful choices are a lifelong endeavor. No program, supplement, or magic pill is typically going to be something you want to commit to using (or spending money on) for the rest of your life. It is important to remember and value sustainability when choosing a wellness and nutritional lifestyle. Making the choice to fuel your body with good foods and be active for life is the key to good health and weight management. If you have questions or seek guidance for your nutritional or wellness needs, call or visit your Brown Clinic Registered Dietitian, Kelsey Raml!

-Written by Mariah Hodne, SDSU Dietetic Student

 

 

Benefits of Drinking Coffee

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Many of us enjoy one or more cups of coffee each morning and although the caffeine and wake-up call it provides may be the motivating factor, perhaps some of the drink’s other benefits can play a role in your continued enjoyment of it!

 

Coffee has been shown to help with brain function, perhaps prevent some diseases, and increase calcium intake when milk is added. Coffee also contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties as well. Important vitamins and minerals such as potassium, niacin, vitamin E and magnesium are also present in coffee.

 

One thing to keep in mind about your morning pick-me-up may be to choose wisely. Some of the fancy coffee drinks found at popular coffee shops can also contain loads of sugar and fat, which may contribute empty calories to your daily intake. When choosing a coffee drink, choose low or non-fat drinks or plain coffee, or plain coffee with milk to ensure the most benefit from your coffee.

 

During the hot summer months, enjoy cold-brew coffee or iced coffee as a seasonal way to reap these benefits!

Written by Mariah Hodne, SDSU Dietetics Student

 

Reference: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. http://www.eatright.org/resource/health/wellness/preventing-illness/benefits-of-java

 

Stay Energized for your Sport!

 

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Some fall sports are starting practices now and with practices running multiple times a day and running from sport to sport it is important to keep your athletes energized and properly hydrated. Healthy snacks are important for athletes to have the energy necessary for practice. A snack higher in protein and sufficient carbohydrates is recommended before a long practice. Some snacks before practice could include: a cheese stick, crackers and cheese or a little meat, almonds, hard boiled egg, or a small sandwich. It is important that athletes stay hydrated. Water is the preferred and recommended beverage for proper hydration during exercise. Vigorous practices that are over a hour may require a sports drink to replenish electrolytes but water should be the go-to drink before sports drinks. Remember to keep your athlete properly hydrated and energized!

-Written by Elizabeth Honner, SDSU Dietetics Student