Learn to Love: Farro


Updated 05/25/09 1:47 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 6 comments

Learn to Love: Farro

If you're looking for a new grain to try, pick up some farro. Also known as emmer, it's a variety of wheat that originated in the Middle East, but is primarily grown in northern Italy. It's similar to barley and wheat berries, and can be used in place of rice, quinoa, couscous, or other grains in your favorite dishes. It has a satisfyingly chewy texture similar to brown rice, and if you buy Read more

Fiber Quiz: Grains


Updated 04/23/07 12:00 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 7 comments

Fiber Quiz:  Grains

We all know that fiber is so good for us, right? You want to make sure that you're getting at least 25-30 grams a day since this might help reduce the risk of breast cancer, so it's good to know just how much fiber is in the foods we eat. Do you know... Which cooked grain has more fiber? Millet Brown Rice Rolled Oats Quinoa Read more

What's the Deal With: Amaranth


Updated 04/20/07 5:12 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 5 comments

What's the Deal With:  Amaranth

When perusing the cereal aisle, I have come across boxes boasting that they contain amaranth. This started me wondering, is it healthier than other grains? Amaranth was a staple in the diets of pre-Columbian Aztecs, who believed it had supernatural powers and incorporated it into their religious ceremonies. Ground amaranth seed was mixed with honey and then shaped into idols that were eaten. Read more

Ways to Slim Down Your BBQ


Updated 05/27/12 7:40 PM · Posted by · 19 comments

Tips For Saving BBQ Calories

It's officially barbecuing season, and with this comes tons of burgers, hot dogs, potato salad, and beer. To avoid packing on the pounds this Summer, here are some ways to add a healthy spin to your barbecues. Go for homemade guacamole instead of creamy dips: Avocados offer the healthy fats your body needs, which is a much better option than the saturated fats found in dairy-based dips. If Read more

Bento: The Original Boxed Lunch


Updated 05/11/12 5:10 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Japanese Bento Boxes

Many of us wish we brought our lunch to work more often, and while leftovers and sandwiches are delicious options, sometimes we're looking for out-of-the-box ideas. Might I suggest you start searching in the box with a bento lunch? This Japanese boxed lunch has a long history, but these days it's a delicious, healthy, and convenient lunch option, perfect for Spring picnics or munching at your Read more

Craft a Heart-Healthy Salad in Honor of Mediterranean Diet Month


Updated 05/10/12 12:24 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

How to Make a Mediterranean Diet Salad

We might not be able to make it to Greece or Southern Italy anytime soon, but we can bring the cuisine to us by celebrating Mediterranean Diet Month in our own kitchens. The healthy benefits of the Mediterranean diet are touted by numerous studies, and for good reason: it promotes heart health, good vision, and weight control, to name a few. An easy way to get the Mediterranean diet into your own Read more

What's Your Mom Lunchbox Style?


Updated 05/09/12 1:15 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

What Kind of Lunchbox Mom Are You?

What's most likely to show up in your kids' lunchboxes? According to social media site Meebo, your parenting personality has a lot to do with the way you feed your kids. Are you more white bread or organic whole grain? Take our quiz and find out if the study's findings match up with the foods that your kids are most likely to find come lunchtime. You're in the grocery store's bread aisle. Read more

Olympic Pros Shawn Johnson, Natalie Coughlin, and Mia Hamm Share Their Healthy Snack Ideas


Updated 05/08/12 9:50 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

How Olympic Athletes Snack

Being an Olympic veteran means three things: you're a world-class athlete, you're used to hectic schedules, and you know how to travel smart. So who better to ask about how to stay healthy while being on the go than a few famous Olympic athletes? Whether you're snacking at home or need something to grab and go, here are recommendations from veteran Olympians Natalie Coughlin, Mia Hamm, and Shawn Read more

Whole Grain Calorie Breakdown


Updated 03/17/12 9:45 PM · Posted by · 19 comments

Calories in Whole Grains

Whole grains are healthy for us because they're loaded with immune-boosting vitamins, energy sustaining carbs, and filling fiber to encourage weight loss, and they are a low-fat source of protein. With so many to choose from, find out which grains are lowest in calories and which offer the most fiber and protein. Read more