Tuesday, December 16, 2025

What's all the sprout about grains?

Sprouted grains have worked themselves into the mainstream of grocery store shelves and local farmers markets nationwide. Often found in loaves of breads like Ezekiel bread, sprouted grains are whole grain seeds that have germinated or just begun to sprout into a plant. They are soaked, then nurtured, in an …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 6 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Holiday food safety

In the midst of the holiday season, it can be easy to forget food safety basics with all the baking, cooking, and festivities that occur. Keep these tips in mind when stocking up your fridge and whipping up holiday treats in the kitchen:
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

Talk turkey and family health this Thanksgiving

Chronic disease affects many Americans. There are some contributing factors we can control such as nutrition, physical activity, tobacco use, etc.; however, there are also risk factors we cannot control such as age, gender, and family history. Most people have increased risks for chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

Stock up on fall superfoods

With the falling leaves and crisp air comes the wonderful time of fall harvest. Stock up on these seasonal superfoods this autumn for a fun twist on classic dishes:
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS AGO

Coffee, healthy or not?

Whether coffee is healthy for you or not, more than half of Americans over the age 18 are consuming coffee each day. According to the National Coffee Association’s National Coffee Drinking Trends 2015 report, 27 percent households own single-cup brewing machines which is up from 7 percent in 2011. Over …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Food banks and primary care - a natural partnership

Access to healthy food, regular physical activity and checkups with primary care providers are critical components of wellness and longevity. However, many adults in Idaho live in low-income communities with high rates of food insecurity and lack of access to the foods needed to maintain their health or treat their …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

The power of the pumpkin

The holidays are upon us. Tis the season for pumpkin! Pumpkins usually make their appearance in October in time for Halloween festivities. Pumpkins are used for carving, decorations, and endless recipes, making them one of the most versatile fruits in the world. Yes, pumpkins are classified as fruit. They are …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Fiber is your friend

We’ve all been told to get more fiber in our diets. How does fiber help us and how do we get enough? Fiber is not only found in whole grain foods such as brown rice or whole wheat bread, but also in fruit, vegetables, and legumes (beans, peas, and lentils).
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO

Spotlight on prostate cancer prevention

September is National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men. According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 7 American men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Nuts for nuts (and seeds)

Various proteins and healthy fats are recommended for an all-around healthy diet. Both nuts and seeds are healthy sources for protein, and monounsaturated and polyunsatuarated fats (termed the “healthy fats”). Eating nuts and seeds can be good for your heart. Here’s why.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Berry refreshing!

We’re right in the heat of berry season this summer, so don’t skimp on these little nutrition goldmines next time you visit the farmer’s market or grocery store. We’ve all heard that berries are good for us, but what exactly do they do?
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Celebrating World Breastfeeding Week

World Breastfeeding Week 2016 runs from August 1st to August 7th. The theme for this year is about how “breastfeeding is a key element in getting us to think about how to value our well being from the start of life, how to respect each other and care for the …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

All olive oils are not created equally

One of the key ingredients to a long and healthy life is olive oil. For years dietitians have been promoting the use of olive oil as a heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. Because of its rich source of tocopherols, carotenoids and polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory properties olive oil has been shown to …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Nutty for coconut oil

Coconut oil seems to be everywhere these days, and this sweet, nutty oil is the nutritional buzzword of the summer! But what’s all the hype about? Coconut oil adds a tropical twist to many dishes, but it has also been used as a weight loss aid, immune system booster, and …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Food safety for summertime fun

Summertime in North Idaho gives way to some of the most beautiful days, allowing us to spend time with family and friends in the great outdoors. Gatherings almost always include food and beverages. Nothing would ruin a party more if one of your guests or you got sick from the …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Eating mindfully

We live in a food culture, constantly surrounded by birthdays, dinners, holidays, and other social gatherings that revolve largely around an elaborate and plentiful array of culinary items. You may have heard of the term mindful eating at some point, but what is it?
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Why do we need vitamin E?

Vitamin A is good for your eyes. Vitamin C boosts your immune system. Vitamin D supports bone health. Consumers are generally aware of the basic benefits of certain vitamins because they have been drilled into our brains. One vitamin that doesn’t get much attention is Vitamin E.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Tart cherries: A functional food with many functions

Tart cherries have gained momentum as a “superfood” in recent years, most recognized as aiding athletes in exercise recovery. Although we can’t pinpoint foods as “superfoods,” we can talk about properties of foods and their proposed benefits.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Men's Health Month

As spring turns to summer and the weather warms, some of us may be tempted to forgo our healthy habits like ditching our workouts due to the heat, or making hamburgers, hot dogs, and beer a staple at barbecues. While doing these things in moderation poses little harm, poor habits …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Farm-to-table in your own backyard

Farm-to-table is a trend that is becoming increasingly popular among U.S. restaurants. What is farm-to-table? It can hold a different meaning depending on how one looks at it. A blanket meaning is the production process from harvest to consumption, and everything in between such as packaging and sales. However, some …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Get your gut bugs

Most of us probably aren’t thinking about bugs when we eat, but we should be! Probiotics, that is, are the good bacteria in our intestines that are beneficial for health. Your gut contains a diverse yet delicate balance of microorganisms known as the gut microbiome.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Health and fitness for our employees

May is a great month to celebrate National Employee Health and Fitness Day, which is third Wednesday of this month. The weather is getting warmer, and it is a great reminder of all the fun outdoor activities we can take advantage of — a great way to kick off health …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

What's in your supplement?

Have you ever taken a fish oil supplement because you heard it was good for your heart? How about a vitamin C gummy when you feel a cold coming on? According to the CDC, over half of American consumers use supplements regularly, but there are a few things to be …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Dairy and alternative milks - a look inside

More and more people have been switching out their cow’s milk for non-dairy alternatives. It used to be that soy milk was the only non-dairy alternative to cow’s milk. With many more alternative milks on the market today, there is a substantial benefit for the vegan and lactose intolerant populations …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

The latest news about fat

Low fat, high fat and low carbs, no trans fat, limit saturated fat, you’ve probably heard it all! As a nutrition expert, I provide evidence-based information on nutrition topics to provide the most accurate information to consumers. Over the years, recommendations for certain nutrients may change. This doesn’t mean false …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Eat to keep your colon healthy

March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, which leads into a great discussion on things you can do to lower your risk of colon cancer. Although colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer among men and women in the U.S., it remains one of the more preventable cancers …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Spice it up!

As we continue to celebrate National Nutrition Month®, we will continue with 2016’s theme to “savor the flavor of eating right.” Part of savoring food is to use a variety of herbs and spices to enhance its flavor. Did you know that herbs and spices aren’t just for flavoring, but …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Get your greens this St. Patrick's Day

In the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day and the wearing of the green, let’s shed some light on leafy greens — the superstars of your salad fixings. Packed with folate, fiber, beta-carotene, B vitamins, and phytochemicals that help fight heart disease and cancer, leafy greens are a nutrition powerhouse.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Savor the flavor of eating right

March is National Nutrition Month® in which the theme is “Savor the Flavor of Eating Right.” What does this mean to you? Eating slowly to savor your dish? Reducing portion sizes? Using savory spices and herbs to try new dishes? The overall intent of National Nutrition Month® is to create …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO

Eat wholesome with whole grains

Grains have been a staple of the human diet for thousands of years, providing nourishment along with a rich history of culinary and agricultural traditions. You may have heard claims from the USDA supporting more whole grain consumption or seen food labels designating “made with whole grains.” However, on the …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Order up on omega-3s

February is American Heart Month, which means that now is a great time to reflect on heart health. Omega-3 fats in particular are well known for their heart healthy benefits.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO

Baby-led weaning: Is it a solid method for feeding?

Baby-led weaning (BLW) is a method for introducing solids to infants without the use of pureed food or spoon feeding. This method of feeding was developed in the United Kingdom. In the United States baby-led weaning refers to the gradual decrease of breast or bottle feedings.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Kick-starting weight loss in the New Year

• Stay hydrated! Often times, when we think we are hungry, we are actually dehydrated. Most people need at least eight cups of water daily. Carry a water bottle with you when you go places to ensure you are staying hydrated throughout the day.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 9 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO

Edible? Yes. Incredible? That's up to you.

If you want to know trends at the grocery store just ask a cashier. While many different items come through the checkout line, there is an old trend that is new again and in almost everyone’s basket. Here is your hint: they come by the dozen and shoppers are very …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS AGO

Bones crave calcium and vitamin D to stay healthy

‘Tis the season of ghouls, goblins, and skeletons. Skeletons — a reminder to keep your bones healthy! Calcium and vitamin D are essential for a healthy skeleton.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO

Bears are not the only worry!

Summer time in Coeur d'Alene is filled with fun, family and camping. The great outdoors offer plenty of opportunity for fun, and food is almost always close by.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Building a better breakfast

September is National Breakfast Month, and when kids head back to school and parents are left to juggle busy schedules, it is sometimes easier for both adults and kids to reach for less nutritious convenience food items (think donuts and pop tarts) or to skip breakfast altogether. It is estimated …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Celebrate whole grains

Carbohydrates have gotten a bad rap in the recent years. I've heard, "Carbohydrates make me fat" and "I'm on a low-carb diet" or "I'm cutting out bread." What many people do not realize is how important carbohydrates are for brain and body function. Generally speaking, 130 grams of carbohydrates per …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Eating to 100 - balance your protein throughout the day

Koretaka Ueda was waiting for us in the distance as we drove through the rice paddies to his modest home. As he welcomed us into his home his enthusiasm and energy for life was contagious.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

The ins and outs of oils

What oils do you reach for when you cook your favorite meal? The emergence of trendy culinary oils such as grapeseed, hemp, or pumpkin seed oils and the claims about their various health benefits can be overwhelming for consumers.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO

Breastfeeding benefits baby, mom

Breastfeeding your baby provides the complete nutrition he or she needs in the first stages of life for proper growth and development. The American Academy of Pediatrics and other health organizations recommend and strongly encourage mothers to breastfeed infants exclusively for the first six months of life, with continuation until …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Eating like cavemen: Paleo diet analysis

The Paleo diet has become popular in the last several years, especially among athletes. Paleo is short for Paleolithic, which is the era of the caveman. The Paleolithic era is also known the hunting and gathering period and came before the agricultural revolution. That means that the Paleo diet only …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

'Tis the season for organic

The summer season presents a great opportunity for increasing fruit and vegetable consumption and supporting your local economy. Purchasing in-season, local produce can be a healthier way to enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables as the time from farm to table is reduced and foods may retain nutrients longer …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

July is National Grilling Month

National Grilling Month is here! I'm not sure who comes up with these declarations, but I sure enjoy the celebrations.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Power up with plant proteins

The benefits of plant-based diets for the prevention of heart disease and cancer are well known in the health community, but are often challenged for being low in protein. Humans do not synthesize nine of the twenty amino acids required as building blocks of protein, and therefore must obtain them …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Supplements: Friend or foe?

Dietary supplements are widespread and easily available in today's market with consumers asking a lot of questions: Do they really work? Which supplements would benefit me the most? How much should I take? Are they worth the money?
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Locally grown foods: Better for everyone

It may not always be possible to choose foods that were locally grown (depending on the season and your need). However, choosing them when you are able can benefit your health and supports your local community in a variety of ways.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO

Worksite wellness: Sustainable changes for a healthier workforce

Promoting healthy habits in the work setting benefits both employers and employees. A healthier workforce contributes to reduced absenteeism due to illness and injuries, and increased productivity. More directly, healthier employees may reduce an employer's health care costs on premiums and worker's compensation claims. In order to control health care …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Planting healthy habits

Every year, Kid Healthy Week is celebrated in the last week of April, recognizing health and wellness efforts made by schools and their community partners to improve nutrition and physical activity habits in youth. There is a link between health status and learning. Those who engage in regular physical activity …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO

Public health: Building healthy communities

This week celebrates National Public Health. Each day focuses on a theme. Monday was "Raising the Grade," to spark talks about the health of our nation and measures of good health. Tuesday was "Starting from Zip," with the idea that the zip code may have a lot to do with …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 10 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO

Eating for endurance

'Tis the season for triathlons, marathons, and other endurance events, but before you hit the course, take a look at what is in your kitchen cupboards. Whether you are a first-timer or a seasoned athlete, nutrition and proper hydration are keys for sustained performance and injury prevention.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO

Belly slimmers for barbecues, beach days

With summer in full swing, we may be tempted to overindulge in cookout foods high in fat, sugar, and sodium. Though these foods are OK to consume in moderation, they may displace other nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. For those of you wishing to stay slim …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Pro fat or low fat?

From the low fat, low cholesterol craze in the '80s to the pro fat, low carb phenomenon sweeping grocery shelves today in the form of coconut oil and "fat burning" supplements, consumers may once again be confused. The research on high fat versus low fat diets is inconsistent. No wonder …
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO

Why we heart February for kids

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. About 81 million people in the United States have some form of heart/cardiovascular disease. That's about 35 percent of the population, and it is starting at younger ages.
COEUR D'ALENE PRESS | UPDATED 11 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO