Most people believe they’re eating a balanced diet—but a recent survey conducted by MyFitnessPal suggests otherwise. Every year, the MyFitnessPal Nutrition IQ survey examines how well people grasp nutrition basics. As we celebrate National Nutrition Month, the latest survey uncovers surprising gaps in Americans’ understanding of basic nutrition.* From protein…
How Long Does It Take for a New Habit to Feel Natural?
Have you ever decided to adopt a new behavior—like drinking more water, exercising daily, or eating more vegetables—thinking it would take 21 days to form a habit? If so, welcome to the club! Before studying behavior change science as a registered dietitian, I also wondered how long it takes for…
How Protein and Micronutrients Can Transform Your Health
After years of dieting and counting calories I learned a few lessons along the way. Once I shifted my mindset away from obsessing over calories, I finally saw major turnarounds. The result is what I call my protein and micronutrient theory of health. If you’ve struggled with restricting calories and…
Anti-Inflammatory Herbal Tea Recipe
For many years I lived with Hashimoto’s disease. Thinning hair, weight gain, and extreme fatigue were my “normal.” Autoimmune conditions have skyrocketed in past years, not just thyroid issues. What do these conditions have in common? They’re all accompanied by inflammation! While recovery is a multifaceted approach, anti-inflammatories are a…
Should Doctors Be Allowed to Medicate Mentally Ill Patients Without Consent?
Updated March 13, 2025 Recently, I’ve come across several groups on Facebook and elsewhere that claim to be for the rights of the mentally ill. They talk about defending their rights through lawsuits and online campaigns. They also support the banning of a doctor’s rights to give psychotropic medication/psychiatric treatment…
5 Ways Trauma Changes Your Brain and Body (And How You Can Start Taking Back Control)
Trauma has a way of leaving its mark—not just in your memories but in the way your brain and body work every day. These changes can feel confusing or overwhelming, but understanding them is a powerful first step toward healing. Let’s explore five distinct ways trauma affects you—and what that…
Ragin’ Cajun Seasoning Recipe
Part of my mom’s family is originally from New Orleans, Louisiana. Whenever I visited there I’ve loved the flavors of Cajun cooking. Especially the Cajun seasoning blend, which gives a special kick to the local Cajun food. I wanted to recreate recipes that use it at home, like Cajun chicken…
Following a Low-Carb Diet? Here’s a Dietitian’s Grocery Shopping List
As a dietitian, having a low-carb grocery list is my top tip for anyone looking to cut back on carbohydrates. And there are some valid reasons some people cut back. Maybe you want to manage your blood sugar or simply make room for more protein and fiber on your plate…
Can Fast Food Fit Into a Healthy Diet? Yes—Here’s How.
Sometimes the convenience of popping into a fast-food joint when you’re on-the-go is the only way you can get your hanger tamed. As a working mom of two, I get it! And research backs this up: One study showed that for every additional 30-second traffic delay per mile traveled, there’s…
Building a Referral Network: 6 Mistakes to Avoid
Everyone needs a team. As a health coach, you can become an expert in multiple areas: nutrition, behavior change psychology, fitness and athletic performance, stress management and recovery, and more. However, no matter how many certifications you earn, you’ll invariably encounter clients with progress-blocking problems you don’t have the skills,…