-
GLP-1 Success Starts with Dietitian Leadership
It should come as no surprise that a large part of the success with incretin-based therapies— like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound—stems from the effective integration of lifestyle modifications, particularly nutrition. This success occurs at both the individual and programmatic levels. But it’s not always for the reasons you might expect. By the time most people begin incretin-based therapy, especially for weight management, they’ve often already tried a range of diets: calorie counting, commercial weight loss programs like Jenny Craig or Weight Watchers, and more. This time, they’re looking for something different—something that addresses the deeper pathophysiology and root causes…
-
GLP-1 Therapy Part 4: Navigating the Decision to Discontinue
I recently had the pleasure of speaking at the Colorado Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Annual Conference on the topic of nutrition strategies for effective GLP-1 use in obesity treatment. This premier event, dedicated to supporting nutrition and dietetics professionals in Colorado, offered a valuable opportunity to share updated evidence on GLP-1 therapies, while also debunking common myths to promote informed and unbiased nutrition counseling. In this four-part series, I’m excited to share my key recommendations to help support your practice. In Part 4, we’ll discuss some of the key questions to consider when deciding whether to discontinue therapy. New…
-
GLP-1 Therapy Part 3: Strategies for Successful Weight Loss
I recently had the pleasure of speaking at the Colorado Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Annual Conference on the topic of nutrition strategies for effective GLP-1 use in obesity treatment. This premier event, dedicated to supporting nutrition and dietetics professionals in Colorado, offered a valuable opportunity to share updated evidence on GLP-1 therapies, while also debunking common myths to promote informed and unbiased nutrition counseling. In this four-part series, I’m excited to share my key recommendations to help support your practice. In Part 3, we’ll discuss strategies for successful weight loss while on GLP-1 therapy, as well as the transition…
-
GLP-1 Therapy Part 2: Preventing and Managing Side Effects
I recently had the pleasure of presenting at the Colorado Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Annual Conference on the topic of nutrition strategies for effective GLP-1 use in obesity treatment. This premier event, dedicated to supporting nutrition and dietetics professionals in Colorado, offered a valuable opportunity to share updated evidence on GLP-1 therapies, while also debunking common myths to promote informed and unbiased nutrition counseling. In this four-part series, I’m excited to share my key recommendations to help support your practice. In Part 2, we’ll discuss strategies for managing and preventing medication-related side effects New to this series? Start with…
-
GLP-1 Therapy Part 1: Setting Realistic Weight Loss Expectations
I recently had the pleasure of speaking at the Colorado Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Annual Conference on the topic of nutrition strategies for effective GLP-1 use in obesity treatment. This premier event, dedicated to supporting nutrition and dietetics professionals in Colorado, offered a valuable opportunity to share updated evidence on GLP-1 therapies, while also debunking common myths to promote informed and unbiased nutrition counseling. In this four-part series, I’m excited to share my key recommendations to help support your practice. In Part 1, we’ll explore key considerations for identifying appropriate GLP-1 candidates and highlight the importance of setting realistic…
-
3 Key Insights from the Nutrition Entrepreneur Summit
Attending the Balance Spring Summit was an inspiring event that reinforced my passion for entrepreneurship and professional growth. The speakers and exhibitors shared insightful, experience-backed strategies on scaling services, staying motivated, engaging in self-development, and building a thriving business—skills that aren’t exactly covered in “dietitian school.” With so much valuable content to absorb, narrowing it down is no easy task. But here are three key insights from the summit that stood out to me, and I hope they resonate with you, too! The Balance Summit Experience The Balance Summit is a truly one-of-a-kind virtual gathering—created by nutrition entrepreneurs, for nutrition…
-
Food Connects Us: A National Nutrition Month Celebration
It’s March already, which means it’s National Nutrition Month—a time to celebrate the power of food and nutrition and recognize the vital role of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists in promoting healthy eating through expert guidance and resources. This year’s theme, “Food Connects Us,” highlights how food brings us together—linking us to our cultures, families, and communities. Sharing a meal is more than just eating; it’s an opportunity to learn about its preparation, the people who made it, and where the ingredients come from. Here are a few meaningful food connections that resonate with me! Creating Connections in the Kitchen Cooking at…
-
Do Food Warning Labels Really Work?
On a recent trip abroad, I couldn’t help but notice the abundance of food warning labels on items at the local mini-mart. Bold, bright labels reading “Danger: High Fat” or “Excess Sugar” were stamped across the front of snack packaging. I wasn’t surprised—I knew full well that the bag of chips I grabbed wasn’t the healthiest choice, but I really wanted to try them. When in Rome! Still, it made me wonder—do food warning labels actually deter consumers? Do they influence purchasing behavior, or do people, like me, simply ignore them when cravings strike? Let’s explore when and why food…
-
Blood Sugar Supplements: Backed by Science or Driven by Hype?
The start of a new year often brings an influx of private practice clients eager to tackle their health goals, and one of the most common topics of conversation is the potential benefits of supplements for glucose control. Many people hope that supplements might provide the extra boost they need to achieve success, especially when the prospect of overhauling their entire diet and lifestyle feels overwhelming. I frequently find myself addressing questions about which supplements, if any, are truly effective for managing blood sugar. Adding to the confusion is the sheer size of the global wellness industry, valued at an…
-
Banning Artificial Food Dyes: Health Risk or Overreaction?
Lately, I’ve been fielding more questions than usual about food dyes, and I can’t help but wonder if the recent ban on six harmful food dyes in California schools is sparking more concern. Many of my clients are increasingly worried about how these dyes might affect their health goals—whether it’s weight loss, diabetes prevention, or overall wellness. The conversation around food dyes is gaining momentum, and it’s clear that people are paying attention to the potential impact on their health. For a long time, my mindset was, “If it’s on the market, it must be safe.” But since having a…
-
The Weight of the Nation: Insights from the Global Health Data Exchange
A recent article published in The Lancet highlights the concerning status of overweight and obesity in the United States, providing a stark look at the trajectory of this public health crisis. Not only are the numbers projected to rise, but the data also underscores a troubling reality: efforts to combat overweight and obesity over the past 30 years have been largely ineffective. I’m no public health expert, but this clearly calls for a critical reassessment of current strategies and the adoption of a more comprehensive approach. Could this study be the wake-up call we need? Study Overview and Data Analysis…
-
Are “Forever Chemicals” Really Forever?
I’d be lying if I said I thought much about the chemicals in my food or cookware. If they’re on the market in the U.S., they must be safe, right? But now, with a toddler at home, I feel a strong obligation to consider these health concerns—especially regarding PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. What are these “forever chemicals”? How do they end up in my food? Should I be worried, and what can I realistically do? If you’ve had similar questions, let’s take a closer look at some of these recent health claims and explore practical strategies to reduce…
-
Seed Oils Uncovered: Are the Risks Greater Than the Benefits?
In recent years, seed oils—such as canola, soybean, sunflower, and corn oils—have become central to discussions on healthy eating. While widely used in home kitchens and food manufacturing, questions have emerged about whether their potential risks may outweigh their benefits. To better inform our choices, let’s take a closer look at the facts about seed oils, including their nutritional profiles, processing methods, and potential impact on health. What are Seed Oils? Seed oils are extracted from various seeds, including canola, sunflower, soybean, and safflower. They’re commonly used in cooking, baking, and food production due to their mild flavor, affordability, and…
-
A Closer Dive into the “Food is Medicine” Debate
What we eat has profound effects on our health and well-being. Research shows that dietary habits can influence the risk of developing various diseases; while some foods may contribute to chronic health conditions, others offer therapeutic and protective benefits. This has led many to advocate for the concept of “Food is Medicine,” emphasizing nutrition’s potential to prevent and manage disease. But what about when conventional medicine is necessary? Are we asking patients to choose between food and pharmacology? Let’s take a closer look at the “Food is Medicine” debate to explore how nutrition and traditional medicine can complement each other…
-
What’s the Deal with Protein Powders?
Protein is an essential macronutrient for everyone, but for people with diabetes, managing blood sugar levels while maintaining a healthy diet is especially important. Supplemental protein can be a convenient way to boost protein intake, particularly for those with active lifestyles or who struggle to meet their daily protein needs through food alone. But what’s the deal with protein powders? Are they really necessary, and how do you choose the right one? Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know. What are Protein Powders? Protein powders are concentrated forms of protein derived from various sources, such as: Whey (a byproduct…
-
It’s Game Time! Healthy Snacks for Football Season
It’s that time of year again—game time! As an avid Broncos fan, it’s hard to pass up the opportunity to watch the game with friends and family. However, it’s tempting to reach for snacks that aren’t the healthiest, especially for those managing diabetes. Here are three of my favorite diabetes-friendly options to keep your blood sugar in check while you enjoy the action. #1 Veggies and Hummus Veggies and hummus make an excellent snack for people with diabetes because they offer a perfect combination of fiber, healthy fats, and protein, all of which help regulate blood sugar. Non-starchy vegetables like…
-
Is the “Diabetic Diet” a Thing of the Past?
If I had a dollar for every time I received a referral to provide education on the so-called “diabetic diet,” I’d be a very wealthy lady! While I understand the good intentions behind these referrals—helping patients develop sustainable eating patterns that support effective glycemic management—I can’t help but wonder what referring providers believe this magical “diabetic diet” really is. The term “diabetic diet” often implies a one-size-fits-all approach, but the reality is far more nuanced. Join me as I explore some of the most common dietary patterns for managing glycemia. Common Diabetes Eating Patterns Before the discovery of insulin, people…
-
The Many Benefits of Breakfast
Breakfast is often hailed as the most important meal of the day, and for good reason. A nutritious morning meal can set the tone for the rest of the day, providing the energy and nutrients your body needs to function optimally. Irregardless of your plans for the day, making time for breakfast can significantly impact your health, mood, and productivity. Enhanced Cognitive Function Studies have shown that eating breakfast can improve memory, attention, and overall cognitive function. For students and professionals, this means better performance at school or work. A balanced breakfast that includes whole grains, fruits, and proteins can…
-
3 Foods to Eat Less of as You Age
As we age, our nutritional needs and metabolism change. Making mindful adjustments to our diet can help us maintain good health, prevent chronic diseases, and improve overall quality of life. Here are three foods you should consider reducing as you get older. Alcohol As we age, our body’s ability to process alcohol can change dramatically. Liver function declines, leading to slower metabolism of alcohol, which means alcohol stays in the system longer and has more pronounced and prolonged effects. Additionally, decreased production of enzymes involved in alcohol metabolism (such as ADH and ALDH) puts older adults at higher risk of…
-
Three Diabetes-Friendly Lunches for the Office
Packing a lunch for the office can feel time-consuming and daunting, especially when you have a million other things to do in the morning. Try these recipes for a healthy and filling midday meal in the office. #1. Wraps and Sandwiches a diabetes-friendly lunch, it’s essential to focus on meals that help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Wraps and sandwiches can be excellent choices if prepared with the right ingredients. Focus on whole grain breads that a high in fiber, lower fat condiments, and amble veggies and protein-based filler! Classic Turkey Opt for a hearty whole wheat bread with this…
