May 8, 2020

Is your hunger real… or something else you’re mistaking for hunger? Loneliness is a trigger to feel hungry. Knowing whether you’re “head hungry” instead of physically hungry is a key to avoiding overeating. Keep track of when and what you’re eating. Learning mindful practices is a tool to be better equipped to combat feeding “head hunger”. While you’re at home, it’s also important to make sure you’re properly hydrating. Being dehydrated can also signal feeling hungry. Instead of eating something else when feelings of hunger arise, try drinking a glass of water and waiting to see if that satisfies you. It’s another strategy to mindful of our body signals.

May 7, 2020

Many states are now requiring all employees and customers in public places to wear face coverings in public places (including grocery stores). Wear a mask to protect others, in case you are infected but without symptoms. The masks others wear will protect you. If you see someone without a mask, avoid shopping there or ask for management to address it (if you are in a state that is mandating this protocol).

May 5, 2020

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in unique ways while following social distancing. This is a great opportunity to host a virtual party and share your favorite recipes or sample Mexican foods. If your virtual guests are nearby, share the flavors with contactless delivery. Remember to keep hot foods above 140 degrees F and cold foods below 40 degrees F while transporting them. Plan a guacamole or salsa contest and then collect samples from and with your guests so you can all judge whose recipe is the best! You’re only limited by your creativity. Visit Eat Right for Life on Facebook to for recipe ideas.

Dietitians Dish – May 04, 2020

Keep working on making habits effortless!

Habit #5 – Take time each day to make connections and show appreciation.

Start with MOM this week!

Taking time to appreciate the people who are important to you is essential for staying connected. With all that’s been going on in the world, it’s still possible to give mom a special treat on Mother’s Day! On your next shopping trip, grab any ingredients you don’t have on-hand and get cooking. Show her the love with these heart-shaped pancakes!

They’re a delicious and decadent combination. If you don’t have a heart shape, just pour them like a regular pancake. Plus, they offer the opportunity to swap for similar ingredients if you have something on hand to avoid a shopping trip. Try peach, strawberry, or another fruit if you don’t have blueberries. Use all-purpose flour for the full amount if you don’t have whole wheat flour.

Heart-Shaped Whole Wheat Blueberry-Nut Pancakes

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 1-1/3 cups sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 Tbsps. lemon juice
• 1-1/2 cups whole wheat flour

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 Tbsps. granulated sugar
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 cup fresh blueberries or 1 (10 oz.) package frozen blueberries, rinsed and dried
• 3/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Directions:

• In large bowl, whisk eggs; stir in sweetened condensed milk, milk and lemon juice. In separate large bowl, sift together flours, sugar, baking soda and salt. With rubber spatula, gently fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients, being careful not to over-mix batter. Let batter stand 30 minutes at room temperature; batter will become thick upon standing.
• Preheat large nonstick skillet or flat top griddle over medium-high heat (325° to 350°); spray skillet and 3-1/2- to 4-inch heart-shaped heat-proof cookie cutter(s) with nonstick cooking spray. Place cutter(s) in skillet; ladle batter into cutter(s) and sprinkle with blueberries and nuts. Cook until air bubbles have developed and underside is an even, golden color; flip and cook until bottoms are golden brown. Repeat with remaining batter, spraying skillet and cutter(s) with cooking spray as needed between batches. Serve pancakes topped with butter and maple syrup, if desired.

 

May 2, 2020

After grocery shopping, you can wipe down packages with disinfectant. Also surfaces which have touched groceries should be sanitized. Cabinet handles, doorknobs, etc. should not be overlooked either. Be sure to wash your hands to avoid spreading around any contaminants which you may have directly touched. AND… don’t forget to sanitize any re-useable bags! That’s just good practice to avoid contaminating future groceries.