Step away from the Oreos...

We're girls. We're dramatic, emotional, and not happy when we're hungry.

That's not just me, right?

I find myself coming home from class or work in the afternoon absolutely starving; like the 'I feel like I only have minutes left to live before I wither away and die' kind of starving.

In our vulnerable states of mind it's super easy to head to the cabinet and gorge on the first salty or sweet snacks we see. Starting today, no more will that half bag of chex mix be gone before our we can say, "Did I really just eat all that?!"

Here are a few snacks and ideas to curb your salty or sweet tooth when you're minutes away from death, without adding a ridiculous number of calories.

1. Hot chocolate or cider - it's sweet, warm, and comes in sugar free versions for minimal calories!!

2. Cut an apple into chip-like slices and sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon and sugar for a crunchy treat that goes a long way.

3. Tuna or chicken salad with celery - Take a can of tuna or chicken: add a spoonful of mayo, chopped celery and a dash of pepper. I use the stalks of celery for dipping instead of crackers.

4. Craving ice cream? Put a cup of frozen berries in a bowl and add a tablespoon of your favorite coffee creamer for a super yummy treat.

5. Popcorn. Use the 100-calorie packs or pour out a portion into a bowl at a time if you find yourself guilty of eating the whole bag.

Lastly, take that snack and leave the room! Eating in the kitchen is dangerous territory. Move out of the danger zone!

Happy snacking!

much love, tara

Kiss Christmas Calories Goodbye

There’s no such thing as “holiday weight”.

Okay, well maybe there is (damn cookie exchanges..) but we are strong, smart, and resourceful. Therefore, send those few pounds you tend to gain over the holidays your Christmas card. They’re not coming to the party this year.

Let’s make this simple and quick. We have presents to wrap.

5 Simple Ways to Avoid Holiday Weight Gain:
1. Bring a healthy appetizer to your next party (pumpkin hummus anyone??)

2. Keep working out! Just because the gym is closed on Christmas doesn't mean you cannot go the other 30 days of the month. Plan to meet a friend so you are more motivated.

3. Have a snack before attending a party. Munch on an apple or a few crackers before you attend an event so you don’t scarf appetizers when you walk in the door.

4. Burn some calories winter style! Ice-skating is a total calf-burner.

5. As tempting as second and third helpings are, stick to one plate at parties. Use this rule for even more success: Make ½ your plate fruits and veggies, ¼ protein, and ¼ starch

see??

Pumpkin Hummus

1 can (15.5 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained

3/4 cup pumpkin puree

3 Tbsp lemon juice

1 Tbsp water

1 Garlic clove, finely chopped

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 pepper

In a food processor, blend all ingreients for about 1 minute or until smooth. Additional water can be added, one teaspoon at a time, if needed for a smoother consistency. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Serve with pita bread/chips, or raw vegetables.

Makes about 2 cups.

Welcome!

This, is me.

I'm Tara. 

I will be graduating in May with my BS in nutrition & dietetics, and am on the (somewhat long and complicated) road to becoming a registered dietitian.

I've spent the last 3 1/2 years at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, and have absolutely no idea where I will be next.

Scared? Obviously.

Excited? yes ma'am

Hopeful? ...Working on it.

Most of the time I feel like my life is a roller coaster. For now, though, all I can do is attempt to keep from drowning in Organic Chemistry and Medical Nutrition Therapy notes.

Sound fun? Well, I'm trying. 

much love,

 tara