There is not a more American month of the Year than July, and it is synonymous with outdoor parties, fireworks and good times. With that said, it is also a time to contemplate a midway point – Since more than half the year has now gone: Have you reached at least half the goals you set for 2016 yet? Summer also comes with lots of great fresh produce, it’s a time of good, sweet and juicy fruit selections which we normally do not see in abundance in the other seasons. […]
Garbage or Gourmet?
The phrase “Eat healthy” more than likely creates a visual of fruits and vegetables in most people’s minds. Even I, in my office, have a poster that recommends “Eat a Rainbow” today. The poster represents a rainbow made from food, from red beets and tomatoes, to green leafy vegetables, yellow squash, bright orange papaya and even purple eggplant. Many of us actually do eat this way, but we also tend to throw away the parts of our rainbow that could offer a greater nutritional value than the parts we […]
JULY 2015 NEWSLETTER
More than half the year has now gone: Have you reached at least half the goals you set for 2015 yet? Summer is a great time to be healthy and/or lose weight because foods are light, fruits and vegetables are at their prime and the weather provides no excuses for avoiding exercise. FRUITS AND VEGETABLES ALWAYS IN SEASON FOR HEALTH Summer offers lots of variety in fruits and veggies. Fresh fruits and vegetables are most nutritious and best tasting when they are picked at their peak. It is thus important […]
APRIL 2015 NEWSLETTER
SHEDDING YOUR WINTER COAT For some, cold weather tends to bring on a sense of indoors, warm and snuggly, and of course comfort foods to accompany that. Furthermore, cold weather tends to limit outdoor activity and at times, even routine exercise commitments. If calories are adding up and physical activity is diminishing, this could add on those unwanted winter layers. April means that warmer temperatures are around the corner. Transitioning from Winter to spring includes shedding that extra layer and getting out of the winter coat, and into the […]
Athletes Guide to Holiday Season Survival
With Thanksgiving just past and December holidays imminent, yet another holiday season begins. Just like with Pavlov’s dog, a forthcoming holiday season brings thoughts of cookies and cakes, turkey and trimmings, pumpkin and pecan pies. Moreover, with racing season on the low down, it is not difficult to pack on the off season pounds. With a survival guide and a plan of action you do not have to forego the traditions and feasts of this time in order to remain at competing weight. In essence, match your nutrition choices to the specific […]
Body Temperature: a Metabolic Thermostat
Ilana Katz MS, RD, CSSD It seems the climate in most areas is a topic of conversation these days. It’s not that we are making small talk with weather conditions, but the unusual climates are setting in. Freezing way before winter starts, or a few hot days emerging in the midst of a cold spell, and vice versa for Summer. So how does a cyclist (or endurance athlete) know how to dress, or even eat accordingly, when they could experience four seasons in a matter of hours. In this […]
Power Muffin Recipe – Ideal for Optimal Fuel or Recovery
RECIPE OF THE MONTH Power muffins are great for a pre work out energy boost, with the perfect amount of carbs to get your metabolism revved up. They are simple, quick and delicious for the time strapped athlete – make a bunch at a time – they are freezable too!! Take one out of the freezer and take it to work with you for your afternoon snack. If you use them for recovery, remember to add an extra source of protein along with it, like perhaps a glass of […]
JUNE 2014 NEWSLETTER
FATHERS, FRUITS AND VEGGIES Summer is here…Can You Smell the BBQ! June has a lot to offer, not only do we salute our beloved Dad on the 19th… but did you know that in June we celebrate National Fruit & Vegetable (F&V) Month. So pick-up a favorite fruit and veggie, and hug your Dad the next time you to see him! ———————————————————————– Color and More Color Think color to eat healthfully. From apricots through yellow onions, consider adding these top dozen fruits and vegetables to your diet this summer. […]
DIET SODA – TRUTH OR DARE
Ilana Katz MS, RD, CSSD Diet soda is often used as a “crutch” by many trying to lose or maintain weight. It has zero calories, so surely it has a role to play in the weight loss industry? Amazingly enough, however, there is no scientific research that demonstrates diet soda is proportional to weight loss. In fact, it has been uncovered as the culprit to much weight gain and many negative health issues. So what then is the reality behind a seemingly innocent beverage? As a dietitian that specializes in […]
Running on empty?
Whew, this last week has been an amazing run of nutrition seminars for me. I consistently feel humbled to be in the presence of some amazing athletes, as well as honored to be able to present my knowledge on Sports Nutrition to groups like USA Track and Field, the Atlanta Track Club, Triple Seven Dance Studio, Sports Factory and many more. I thus wanted my blog for this month to review some of the highlights coming from these athlete interactions. Thanks for the great feedback and compliments. Here is thus […]