Hormones & Health

Contributed by: Shellie Billingsley, NASM-CPT Identifying different types of hormones is important in understanding the various ways these chemical messengers influence our health. A very important hormone is Leptin. When struggling with weight, it is important to know what leptin and leptin resistance is, what contributes to leptin resistance, and what you can do to …

Eating While Traveling or On the Go

Contributed by: Laurel Dierking, M.Ed., NFPT, 200YT One of the most challenging times to keep up with good nutrition is when traveling. Whether it is for a short trip or an extended stay, you are oftentimes at the mercy of the local eateries or hotel continental offerings when traveling. Although this can be a challenging …

The Benefits of Dark Chocolate

The Benefits of Dark Chocolate Contributed by: Carol Kline Dark chocolate holds many benefits; cacao’s health benefits are related to natural compounds in the bean, including epicatechin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and resveratrol, known for its neuro-protective effects. Keep in mind that there are certain things to look for when selecting chocolate, look …

Moderation of Healthy Meals Might Save Your Waistline

Contributed by: Amanda Albiar, NCSF-CPT “Eat everything in moderation” seems like a pretty healthy approach to eating. Trying new foods to open up your taste buds and not depriving yourself of dessert may seem like a balanced approach to healthy eating; however, it may actually cause you to both gain weight and increase your risk …

Comfort Foods

Comfort Foods- Shepherds Pie   Contributed by: Michaela Scroggins, M.S., NSCA-CPT I am a lover of comfort food, especially Shepherd’s pie! This is a dish that is usually loaded with mashed potatoes, corn, bread, and cheese! The problem is that these ingredients are loaded with fat and can cause an inflammatory response. Here’s a tasty …

Pre- & Post-workout Nutrition

Contributed by: Shellie Billingsley, NASM-CPT, NPTI Intensity and duration play a huge role when determining what to eat before and after a workout, and there is no exact formula that fits every individual. Listed below are suggested guidelines regarding pre- and post-workout snacks to help you fuel properly before and after exercise since it’s best …

The Benefits of Bone Broth

Contributed by Carol Kline DID YOU KNOW? • The gelatin found in bone broth is a hydrophilic colloid that attracts and holds liquids, including digestive juices, thereby supporting proper digestion • Bone broth reduces joint pain and inflammation courtesy of chondroitin sulfates, glucosamine, and other compounds extracted from the boiled down cartilage • Amino acids …

Coconut Flour…Is it Good for You?

Contributed by: Amanda Albiar, NCSF-CPT Most people think of coconut as being an additive to desserts, candy, or pie fillings….but it can actually be quite beneficial. Coconut flour is made from ground coconut meat and can be found in your local grocery store. The flour has a light airy texture with a coconut flavor and …

Healthy Holiday Recipes – Green Bean Casserole

Healthy Holiday Recipes – Green Bean Casserole Contributed by: Michaela Scroggins, M.S., NSCA-CPT The Holidays are among us, and it is the season to be around family and friends! It is also a time where one might indulge in one or too many tasty treats. A good reminder is to enjoy your holiday meal, but …

Staying Lean All Season Long

Provided by: Michael Devon, NASM-CPT A great way to stay lean this holiday season is to consume less calories the week leading up to a holiday party, or 3-5 days before. Weight loss depends on how much you eat every single day, and weight loss goals are achieved by a consistent approach to your total …