Julia Zakrzewski, Author at Healthy Smart Living

How To Get Kids To Try New Foods

July 8, 2022

At some point, most kids will start to get picky with their food choices. Although expected, it can be stressful and frustrating for a parent. Read on to learn how to recognize when picky eating has gone too far, and how you can break out of the rut! Exceptional tips on how to get kids to try new foods: My Kid Only Wants To Eat One Thing When your child only wants to eat one thing at every meal it is very likely they have entered a food jag. This is very common when a child is about to start or is currently experiencing a growth spurt. Studies have shown that children will crave simple carbs, like white bread and white pasta, right before they grow! The best...

food for kids

Food And Drinks For Great Skin

Julia Zakrzewski

June 8, 2022

Nutrition

In the heat of the summer applying makeup is the last thing you want to do. It gets melty and gooey, and it feels like your skin can’t breathe! Instead of reaching for concealer, focus on your diet choices instead. Certain food and drinks can help you maintain great skin. Food and Drinks for Great Skin: A Summer Guide 1. Prioritize Hydration The number one recommendation to help achieve great skin is to stay hydrated. The human body constitutes 70% water, and we need to keep replenishing our fluid throughout the day to prevent dehydration. Dehydrated skin can feel itchy and red, and can appear dull instead of glowy. Choose water whenever possible and keep your intake of sugar-sweetened beverages low. If plain water is boring, jazz it up...

food

What Is Intuitive Eating?

Julia Zakrzewski

May 17, 2022

Nutrition, Top Picks

Ready to ditch diet culture and embrace a different approach to eating? Get ready to learn all about Intuitive Eating and its long-term benefits! What Is Intuitive Eating? Intuitive Eating (IE) is an approach to eating that rejects rules and restrictions we commonly see in mainstream diet culture. It is a refreshing approach to nourishing your body that doesn’t rely on counting calories, macros, or grams of fat. Instead, you tune into your hunger cues and listen to the natural intuition of your appetite. What Are Hunger Cues? Hunger cues are your body's method of signaling you to say “hey, I could benefit from some energy and nutrition right now!” You may notice that there are several different reasons why you feel hungry, this is normal and is all...

intuitive eating

Need Plant-Based Protein Ideas? We Got You.

Julia Zakrzewski

April 27, 2022

Nutrition

People who follow a plant-based diet always get asked the same question: where do you get your protein from? Fortunately, there are plenty of plant-based protein options on the market to fit your budget and your tastebuds! What is a Plant-Based Protein? A plant-based protein is a source of protein that comes from plant sources instead of animals. They are a major source of protein in a vegan or vegetarian diet, and they can be included in an omnivore diet too. Choosing a variety of plant-based protein sources is essential to a diet that is rich in nutrients, vitamins, and fiber. Fiber ensures satiety at meals and has also been linked to stable blood sugars and improved levels of cholesterol. How Much Protein Do I Need? Everyone's protein requirements will...

protein vegan

Gut Health Supplements: Prebiotics Versus Probiotics

Julia Zakrzewski

February 23, 2022

Nutrition

The digestive system is also called the second brain. It is a sophisticated system, and it needs regular care to function. Your gut thrives when you are active, eating an excellent diet, and managing your stress. But what can you do when things start to feel a little funky downstairs? What are the best gut health supplements and healthy gut food to take? Gut Health Supplements: Which Option is Better? If you want to know how to improve gut health naturally, we will discuss in this article the difference between probiotics and prebiotics supplements and which will be the most beneficial to your gut health. What is a probiotic? Probiotics are health-promoting bacteria that live in your gut. Billions of bacteria work hard to ensure your daily digestion remains...

gut health prebiotics probiotics

8 Healthy Recipes To Shake Up Your Winter Menu!

Julia Zakrzewski

January 14, 2022

Nutrition

In the winter it is easy to get stuck in a recipe rut. It can feel like everything is out of season, and you end up buying the same foods all the time. To break through these ruts it is important to try new recipes. Choose meals that are rich in vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains will ensure your meals are satisfying and nourishing. 1. Damn Delicious Quinoa Chili Chili is a staple dish in the cold months, but it can often feel heavy and high in saturated fats. Substituting quinoa instead of ground beef is a great way to add lean protein to the recipe, but still, maintain the familiar texture! Add as many vegetables as you can to your chili to increase the vitamins...

recipes

Important Nutrients That Can Support Your Mental Health This Winter

Julia Zakrzewski

December 8, 2021

Nutrition

If you have ever felt like your mood takes a turn for the worse in the grey months of winter, you’re not alone. Many people are affected by the decreased sunshine and the colder weather. Although you can’t control the daily weather, you can optimize your diet and include specific nutrients that have been proven to support mental health! Iron This mineral is essential to energy levels, immunity, and brain health. It is also one of the most difficult minerals to absorb from the diet, and many people are unknowingly deficient in iron. Women are at higher risk for iron deficiencies due to regular menstrual cycles. Vegetarians and vegans are also at elevated risk of low iron levels, and they may need to rely on a supplement...

vitamins

Healthy Fall Fruits and Veggies to Eat This Season

Julia Zakrzewski

November 24, 2021

Nutrition

Not sure what produce is in season? Read our healthy fall fruits list below to find out, and be sure to check out the recipes so you can add them to your weekly menu! Apples Autumn would not be complete without enjoying ripe apples in their prime season. There are so many different varieties of apples to try it can be a fun challenge for your family to try and taste as many as possible! You might be surprised by the difference in sweetness, sourness, and texture. All apples are rich in fiber which promotes heart health. Specifically, the soluble fiber in the fruit helps to lower your cholesterol. The peel of the apple will contain a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. Different colored apples offer different...

recipes

What to Eat Pre- and Post-Workout

Julia Zakrzewski

August 4, 2021

Nutrition

There are many different approaches to fuelling your body to optimize your workout. Depending on what type of exercise you complete, and how long, the nutrition recommendations will vary significantly. Read on to learn how you can incorporate nutrition tips into your physical activity routine, and improve your performance! Before the workout Your body will need lean fuel. Avoid eating anything high-fat and deep-fried before a workout. For these foods to be properly digested, your gut needs to devote all of its energy to break down these foods. This will strain your digestive system while you work out because while you are exercising, blood flow to your gut decrease. The blood is redirected to your muscles, and they are supplied with fresh oxygenated blood. To avoid upsetting your...

Workout Foods

9 Online Resources for Parents and Care-Providers

Julia Zakrzewski

July 21, 2021

Family

The worldwide web is an exciting place that allows us to stay connected more than ever before. Resources that once felt far away, can now be accessed by the click of a button. We’ve compiled a list of online resources that can be helpful for: parents, expecting parents, and families with children who require additional care. 1. Cerebral Palsy Guide A comprehensive digital resource providing valuable information on the background of the disease and viable treatment options. They offer practical information on how parents and providers can offer the best care for their children as they grow and mature into adulthood. They also offer a robust community section on their website to provide families with additional support. Link: cerebralpalsyguide.com 2. Early Intervention Services (available per State) Early Intervention services vary per...

resources

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