by kelsey | Oct 25, 2011 | Cooking Tips, Food, Weight Management

Applecrisp is one of my all time favorite fall treats. I was in the baking mode this weekend and decided this treat sounded pretty tasty. We all know sweets are not the best for us, but there are ways to get your sweets without over-doing it. First off, is portion control. Having a smaller amount allows yourself to get your fix but not over-do it, Below was the piece I enjoyed last night. You will also want to eat slower and savor the taste!

In addition to portion control, recipe modification can help. You can relace the butter or shortening with applesauce, prune puree, or oil. Or instead of using the whole egg, use 2 whites to one egg. You may want to try a sugar substitute or reduce the sugars in your recipes as well. I personally enjoy desserts with fruits such as apple crisp, rhubarb, blueberries, etc as they are often a little ‘lighter’ than the heavy chocolate, fudge, cream desserts. Next time you’re looking to bake a treat, take a second look at your recipe and see if you can make any adjustments!
-Kelsey
by Dan | Oct 23, 2011 | Exercise, Family, Goals, Motivation, Wellness/Health
I often get asked by patients, not only how I find the time to exercise, but why do I exercise? By the end of each day, the answer becomes easier. This weekend was a perfect example of that.

First, on saturday, there was the State Cross Country meet in Sioux Falls. Here Nick is competing, and for a 9th grader on varsity, does very well. The weather was perfect, and I did a lot of running just to keep up in order to take pictures. Then when this was done, it was back in the car to go home and make it to the school in order to see my girls at the annual TUCKS dance, which they have been planning for months.

We got back in time to be able to take pictures quick before the grand march and presentation of all of the couples. The girls were very happy that we got back in time for this.
So why do I exercise? I have too many things to do and see in regards to my kids. I want to be around for a long time and be a part of their lives, and participate in those activities. I want to be healthy enough to be around for them. These are some of my main driving forces, the things that keep me motivated and enthusiastic about my health, and my daily exercise. I am staying in shape, and feel better, but the bottom line is I am doing this for my kids and my family. Hopefully they will be stuck with me for a long time. I, and they, would not want to have it any other way! Have a good week coming.
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1487
by Dan | Oct 20, 2011 | Exercise, Motivation, Weather, Wellness/Health

There is definitely a chill in the air this week with the weather change. The leaves are close to all being off the trees. Today ended up colder, but no wind, so it actually did not feel too bad outside running/walking today. It is so much more enjoyable to be outside yet, especially when the winds are calm.

Even with the leaves all coming off, and winter starting to approach, the view of things can still really be enjoyable. Enjoy these days being out yet. Before too long it will be dark when we go in to work in the morning, and dark when we come home. Enjoy the days before the snow comes. Have a good weekend coming up.!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1484
by kelsey | Oct 20, 2011 | Food, Weight Management

Are you getting adequate whole grains in your diet? At least half our grain intake should be from whole grains. Examples of whole grains include whole wheat/whole grain breads, cereals, crackers, pasta, brown rice, wild rice, and many more! When you are purchasing a product at the store, double check the ingredient list to make sure that 1st ingredient says “whole grain” or “whole wheat”, “enriched” means it’s still white and not the best choice! This white wheat variety of flour is a great way to get more fiber and nutrients in your recipes without changing the texture and taste much. Give it a try as you start to get your holiday baking list ready!
-Kelsey
by kelsey | Oct 19, 2011 | Cooking Tips, Diet, Food, Weight Management

We had some very tasty veggies last night at our STRIVE 2 Survive lecture. Jeff Gamber and County Fair prepared cooked mixed vegetables roasted with rosemary. Since they were so tasty, I thought I’d share the recipe with the rest of you as we all strive to get more vegetables in our diet!
1/2 red onion
3 yams chunked
1 green pepper sliced
1 red pepper sliced
1 pkg whole mushrooms
1 pkg baby carrots
1 pkg fresh rosemary
1/2 cup olive oil
Combine all ingredients in a 9×13 cake pan with olive oil in the bottom. Sprinkle with rosemary (do not use the stems) and bake uncovered for 1 hour.
Enjoy!
-Kelsey