Diet

When most people think of the Dallas Cowboys, their minds automatically wander to the 53-man roster. However, the team extends well beyond the players on the field to include coaches, trainers, a chaplain, front office staff and even merchandise designers. While they don’t all compete on Sunday, each person is an integral part of the team. One thing that helps make the Cowboys unique in the NFL is the Fuel Up Training Table that continues feeding the team long before and after the players take the field.

Looking for an easy dinner? Pizza may be the perfect solution. It’s fast, easy and everyone can join in the fun. It’s also sure to be eaten when everyone gets involved in the prep work. With a few additions, it can also be a nutritious family favorite. Ready to plan your next pizza night? Here’s what you need to know:

In my household, Sunday night is for planning. As I look over the family calendar, I need to ensure that everyone will make it through the next week dressed and fed. Getting all that laundry done and meals prepped can be challenging, so I take time during the weekend to prep for the week ahead.

• Read more about Simplify Your Smoothies: 6 Recipes You Can Prep Overnight

We’ve all heard that breakfast is important, but the realities of a hectic morning can make it difficult. For many, eating a wholesome meal in the morning becomes an afterthought when rushing out the door. Let’s explore why you should eat it anyway – and go over some tips on making it as quick and effortless as possible.

It’s common to have some muscle soreness after physical activity. During exercise, your body takes fuel from your food and breaks down muscle for energy, so you’re left dehydrated, drained of fuel and broken down.

• Read more about The Evolution – and Improvement – of School Meals

Are your mornings rushed? Getting your kids out of bed, dressed and well-fed can feel like an impossible feat – especially when you have little or no time to prepare a wholesome breakfast. Overnight oats are the perfect solution for a quick, healthy breakfast (that you can take on the go!). Never heard of them? They’re simply rolled oats soaked overnight in milk and/or yogurt until softened. Toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, seeds or a dash of something sweet (such as honey or brown sugar) add variety and extra flavor to this delicious dish.

Many so-called nutrition experts tell you to cut out entire food groups or focus on just a few “superfoods.” While it’s true that some foods offer more nutrient bang for your buck, it’s really how we put all those foods together on a plate that makes the difference.

Healthy eating isn’t about a rigid set of rules; it can be quite flexible. As a registered dietitian nutritionist, I neither preach nor practice perfection. My focus is on helping you find healthy changes that fit your life – small changes that stick.

It seems that, lately, every time you turn on the TV you see commercials for probiotics. They’re in yogurts, supplements and now even fruit juice! This might get you wondering: WHAT are these probiotics we keep hearing so much about, and do we really need them?