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  • Peanut Butter vs. Almond Butter, Sunflower Butter, and More: Cost per Nutrient and More Comparisons

    In Episode 1 of our Peanut Butter Adventures, we talked about peanut butter’s popularity in the US. We also talked about some of the features of peanut butter that make it so appealing. It’s versatile, kid-friendly, and nutritious.  In this post, let’s talk about two of my favorite topics: nutrition and cost. We’ll look at

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  • Peanut Butter Adventures, Episode 1

    Here’s the first installment of my adventures with peanut butter. Sure, I have a growing boy at home, but there’s more to the story. I’ve been making peanut butter sandwiches for a local food pantry for a year. Now, I’m going to hand out jars of peanut butter when I see a need on the

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  • Reasons to Eat Dairy: Should You Have More?

    Many people accept non-dairy substitutes as healthier than dairy products, but is it really best to avoid milk, yogurt, and cheese? Here’s a look at dairy recommendations, average consumption in the US, and nutrients in dairy products versus dairy-free substitutes. We’ll also look at why many people avoid dairy products and why you should…or shouldn’t. 

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  • Top Ways to Get Your Kids to Eat Vegetables

    Do your children eat enough vegetables? Most kids don’t even come close. The USDA says only half of children eat a vegetable on a given day. In comparison, the Dietary Guidelines suggest at least 1 ½-2 ½ cup of vegetables per day for children ages 4-8 years. The shortfall is even more shocking when you

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  • Accept What Children Say About Their Hunger

    There are times when my son says he’s hungry, and it doesn’t seem possible. This might happen after he’s already eaten a lot that day or at that meal. It also tends to happen when he knows there’s a treat around, such as if we’re at an event where food is sold or provided. Keep

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  • What’s the Right Answer When Parenting? I Never Know Until It’s Too Late

    Every child is an experiment of one. You’d think that would at least mean that after weeks and months and years, you’d get to know your child. You’d think wrong, at least in my case.  It seems as though I’m slow on the learn-to-parent spectrum. Every situation feels like a toss-up to me.  Take July

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  • Left-Handed Hoops: Pain-free fun at the cost of my dignity

    I really wanted to play basketball at the park this morning. I’m not good at it at the best of times, and today was more disastrous than usual – in some ways. In the end, though, I overcame back pain, potential embarrassment, and bright sunlight to get what I wanted from my morning. Here’s the

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  • Does “Dairy-Free” Mean Healthy? Is It Better for Weight Loss?

    When I talk to people who are trying to lose weight or eat healthier, they often tell me they’re choosing dairy-free options like coconut milk, almond yogurt, or cashew cheese. They’re often shocked to find out that these options often don’t help them reach their protein goals, and may not even have fewer calories or

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  • What Everyone Wants to Know: What was at the July 4 Potluck?

    I posted my reflections from the Fourth, talking about balancing healthy food and activity choices with the just-as-critical need for socialization, fun, and relaxation that can recharge you for the coming weeks and months. Today, let’s keep it light-hearted with a run-down of the food and beverages at the potluck I attended.  It was an

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  • Reflections from the Fourth: Balancing Family, Fun, and Physical and Mental Well-Being

    Holidays like the Fourth of July can be tricky for anyone trying to make healthy choices, so it’s important to balance your choices. Some choices – like grilling skinless chicken instead of a ground beef patty – may help you make progress towards your health and weight goals today. Other decisions – like staying out

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