Fitness PR Division

As if we didn’t need another reason to drink more wine! While consumption of grapes and grape products has long been associated with a healthy lifestyle, a new supplement published in the September issue of the Journal of Nutrition provides further evidence that grapes and grape products may play a key role in optimizing health by mediating beneficial biological responses. The vast array of naturally occurring plant chemicals in grapes and grape products are thought to be responsible for the beneficial effects observed. The potential areas of beneficial impact include cardiovascular health, cognitive function in older people, cancer, inflammation, diabetes, and dental health.

The current Journal of Nutrition supplement highlights key presentations made at a meeting of researchers from academia and advisory members from government, who gathered together earlier this year to present and discuss research on the links between consumption of grapes and grape products, diet and health, and disease prevention. The workshop was sponsored by the National Grape and Wine Initiative (NGWI).

As America's fascination with energy, superfoods and exotic ingredients grows, rainforest-grown yerba mate is quickly catching on as the newest organic and innovative beverage sensation to hit the market.

Guayaki, a pioneer and leader in the yerba mate beverage category, is driving yerba mate into the mainstream in new packages and formats. Today, Guayaki introduced two new products that are sure to tantalize the taste buds -- ready-to-drink Lemon Elation Yerba Mate and the Lime Tangerine Organic Energy Shot. Delivering a rejuvenating rainforest experience, both products provide tremendous invigoration, focus and nourishment.

Regarded for centuries as the "drink of the gods" in South America, yerba mate is made from the leaves of the rainforest holly tree ilex paraguariensis. Guayaki's new Lemon Elation Yerba Mate, the first-ever yerba mate available in an aluminum can, delivers a powerful rainforest experience packed with a unique blend of naturally occurring vitamins, antioxidants and nutrients for a balanced stimulation. Well-suited for the health-conscious and eco-conscious, the new Lemon Elation Yerba Mate, like all Guayaki products, is organic, fair-trade certified and cultivated using sustainable and environmentally conscious processes.

Fueled by yerba mate's naturally uplifting and nourishing properties, the new Lime Tangerine Organic Energy Shot is the first-ever all organic offering in the fast-growing energy shot market. An all-natural alternative to artificial energy drinks and shots, the Organic Energy Shot provides a convenient and long-lasting boost of clean energy without the crash or jitters. Powered with whole plant extracts, including yerba mate, acerola cherry and goji berry, the Organic Energy Shot is also available in Chocolate-Raspberry and Lemon.

Spice up your fall by ushering in the harvest and holiday months with all-new Naked(R) Juice Chai Spiced Cider. This super-premium apple cider is a unique and tempting addition to Naked Juice's extensive line of all-natural, 100 percent juices and juice smoothies made from the best, bare-naked fruit.

Joining Naked's Pure Juice line, Chai Spiced Cider is 100 percent all-American apple juice plus the magic taste of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and cloves. As Naked Juice lovers know, doing things the traditional way is never enough for Naked Juice - a simple apple cider just wouldn't suffice! That's why Naked conjured up this aromatic blend of Indian chai spices into a bottle bursting with a tantalizing smell and taste. Chai Spiced Cider offers the best of both worlds - it's great chilled on those sunny fall days or will warm you to your core when poured into a mug and heated, instantly filling the kitchen with the welcoming scent of holiday spices.

Phone calls, emails, Facebook messages. . .people can't stop talking about the new vitaminwater10(TM), which launched in April of 2009. With only 10 calories per serving and natural sweeteners, people can't get enough -- in fact, they love it so much they've asked for more varieties. Today, glaceau is proud to announce the introduction of four new vitaminwater10(TM) varieties to the line-up: go-go (mixed berry), mega-c (grape raspberry), recoup (peach-mandarin) and revitalize (green tea).

"It's all about listening to consumers, and giving them what they want when they ask for it," said glaceau Senior Vice President, Eric Berniker. "Before vitaminwater10(TM), consumers had to choose between low calorie and great taste. With vitaminwater10(TM), we're giving them the perfect combination - a beverage that is only 10 calories per serving, naturally sweetened -- and if I do say so myself, tastes really good. Now, with the introduction of these four new varieties, we've taken low cal to a whole new level!"

Introduced in the northeast and southern California earlier this summer, the four new vitaminwater10(TM) varieties have already received rave reviews by consumers - and, are flooding stores nationwide for all to enjoy. vitaminwater10(TM) is naturally sweetened with groundbreaking Truvia(TM) and contains only 10 calories per serving -- making it a great-tasting, responsible hydration option for the calorie conscious consumer. On top of that, every 20-ounce bottle is formulated with a minimum of 100% vitamin c, 25% of four b vitamins (b3, b5, b6, b12) and added electrolytes (calcium, magnesium, potassium).

Jordin Sparks is on a mission to spark some change by inspiring teens to make a difference. Sparks and the National Milk Mustache "got milk?" Campaign have partnered with VH1 Save The Music Foundation to launch the 'Drink Milk for a Change' program. Sparks knows that drinking milk for a change can help make a difference in herself and her world. Drinking nutrient-rich lowfat milk helps teens look and feel their best - with strong bones, lean muscles and healthy hair and skin. And, studies suggest that teens that drink nutrient-rich milk instead of sugary sodas and sports drinks tend to be leaner than teens who drink little or no milk.(1-2)

Sparks is helping to launch the new 'Drink Milk for a Change' campaign to show teens the simple steps they can take to help make a difference in themselves and the world. An easy way is to make a commitment to drink milk and encourage others to do the same by making a Milk Mustache ad at bodybymilk.com. For every Milk Mustache photo created, one dollar will go to support VH1 Save The Music Foundation*. The VH1 Save The Music Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring instrumental music education in American public schools, and raising awareness about the importance of music as part of each child's complete education.

Nearly 50 percent of respondents to a survey about dietary supplement habits feel that they or their families are missing out on essential nutrients in their daily diets and the majority (63%) believe they are missing omega 3s, essential fatty acids. Over 70 percent do not purchase omega 3 fish oil supplements to address what they are missing in their diet. The survey was conducted by Equation Research on behalf of Croda, a world leader in natural based specialty ingredients, including omega 3 fish and plant oil concentrates. In this day and age of food safety issues from peanut recalls to mercury scares in fish, it is not surprising that among those who choose dietary supplements, purity of product is a primary concern.

Understanding of the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids dates back decades when studies showed that cultures whose diets included high-fat fish had unusually low rates of heart disease. Research showed that it was the fat in the fish -- omega 3 fatty acids -- that had a cardioprotective benefit, along with other health benefits. Studies show that a diet rich in omega 3 fatty acids helps lower triglycerides and increase HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol) while also preventing blood from clotting and reducing blood pressure. Omega 3 fatty acids may also have an anti-inflammatory affect, which can have a positive impact on conditions as far-ranging as Alzheimer's disease, arthritis and several skin conditions. Studies also indicate that omega 3 fatty acids are important to brain development in children.

I wonder how the media that crafted this campaign as seen above feel today about sugar?

Study 1 highlights:

•Just two weeks on a high-fructose diet raises blood pressure in men.

•A drug used to treat gout seems to protect against that blood pressure increase and some aspects of metabolic syndrome.

Study 2 highlights:

•A study in mice finds that the time of day when fructose is consumed is linked to abnormalities in blood pressure, weight gain and behavior.

Abstract P127

A high-fructose diet raises blood pressure in men, while a drug used to treat gout seems to protect against the blood pressure increase, according to research reported at the American Heart Association's 63rd High Blood Pressure Research Conference.

"This is the first evidence of a role of fructose in raising blood pressure and a role for lowering uric acid to protect against that blood pressure increase in people," said Richard Johnson, M.D., co-author of the study and professor and head of the division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension at the University of Colorado-Denver medical campus in Aurora, Colo.

As I mentioned in my post on HIIT, now is the time that more people, especially women, will be focusing on pre-holiday diet and exercise to lose at least 10 pounds prior to holiday festivities (which still subsequently results in that that post-holiday resolution of hitting the gym.) And chances are that while we won't see an increase in pre-holiday gym memberships simply due to cost and time, we will definitely see diet books flying off the shelves and an increase in diet program memberships such as Jenny Craig.

Some of the weight loss books that will prove popular are:

Soy foods, which contain isoflavones and antioxidant compounds, have been demonstrated to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer, according to a study in Journal of the American Medical Association.

The study, the largest to examine soy intake’s impact on breast-cancer survival, followed more than 5,000 breast-cancer survivors. 4-year mortality rates were 10.3% and 7.4%, and the 4-year recurrence rates were 11.2% and 8.0%, respectively, for women in the lowest and highest quartiles of soy protein intake. The inverse association was evident among women with either estrogen receptor-positive or -negative breast cancer and was present in both users and nonusers of tamoxifen. Among women with breast cancer, soy food consumption was significantly associated with decreased risk of death and recurrence. The study was done by researchers from the Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center and Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee and Shanghai Institute of Preventive Medicine, Shanghai, China

Essence of Life, LLC, a bionutraceutical company based in Mount Kisco, N.Y., has been at the forefront of the movement to promote fermented soy’s health benefits. The company has developed innovative products based on fermented soy and natural spices including curcumin, ginger, cardamom and cinnamon. According to co-founder and CEO Dr. Vijaya Nair, “In order to reap the nutritional and anti-cancer benefits of soy, it must be fermented. The culturing of soy destroys the anti-nutrients in soy that prevent the body from absorbing essential minerals and trace elements.”

Soy foods, which contain isoflavones and antioxidant compounds, have been demonstrated to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer, according to a study in Journal of the American Medical Association.

The study, the largest to examine soy intake’s impact on breast-cancer survival, followed more than 5,000 breast-cancer survivors. 4-year mortality rates were 10.3% and 7.4%, and the 4-year recurrence rates were 11.2% and 8.0%, respectively, for women in the lowest and highest quartiles of soy protein intake. The inverse association was evident among women with either estrogen receptor-positive or -negative breast cancer and was present in both users and nonusers of tamoxifen. Among women with breast cancer, soy food consumption was significantly associated with decreased risk of death and recurrence. The study was done by researchers from the Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center and Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee and Shanghai Institute of Preventive Medicine, Shanghai, China

Essence of Life, LLC, a bionutraceutical company based in Mount Kisco, N.Y., has been at the forefront of the movement to promote fermented soy’s health benefits. The company has developed innovative products based on fermented soy and natural spices including curcumin, ginger, cardamom and cinnamon. According to co-founder and CEO Dr. Vijaya Nair, “In order to reap the nutritional and anti-cancer benefits of soy, it must be fermented. The culturing of soy destroys the anti-nutrients in soy that prevent the body from absorbing essential minerals and trace elements.”

Signature sausages, globally inspired sandwiches and a resurgence in fried foods are among the 10 major influencers driving menu trends for 2010, predicts Flavor & The Menu magazine in its newly released Top 10 Flavor Trends issue.

Flavor & The Menu editors watch menu-development, restaurant growth and dining patterns throughout the year, and, with input from a team of restaurant industry experts, select ten trends likely to influence menus and restaurants for the coming year.

Many of this year's trends point to a continued quest for comfort in food and dining, but with added value and enhanced flavor experiences.

"From sausages, family-style dining and 'rustic' fare to tavern settings and nostalgic desserts, these trends are indicative of how we are living our lives in an uncertain time - seeking small indulgences balanced with large helpings of comfort," says Cathy Nash Holley, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief. "We're able to step back and see these trends connected by a common thread and reflected in other areas of Americans' daily lives."

Concurrent with the release of the annual publication, Flavor & The Menu announces the unveiling of a new Web site, http://www.flavor-trends.com, which will launch mid-February. The site will serve as a menu trends resource, including detailed information on these trends, menu sightings, culinary strategies and supporting data along with trend updates and previous years' trend coverage.

Flavor & The Menu's Top Ten Trends for 2010:

Top Ethno-Cuisine Trend: Worldly Sandwiches

• Goodbye, ham and Swiss - from now on it's a world of banh mi, torta, Cubano, tartines, muffalettas and other ethnic/regional sandwiches from around the globe.

Top Sauce Trend: Chile-Fired Sauces

• The American palate is ready for a worldview of chiles and chefs are branching out with usage, layering several types and infusing heat in more ways.

Top Menu-Making Trend: Blue Plate Updates

• Family-style dinners, Sunday suppers and other chef-driven ideas address today's quest for casual-dining formats in ways that boost value and enhance the dining experience.

Top Technique Trend: Deep-Fried, Sanctified

• Nothing develops satisfying texture and flavor like a good piece of fryer work. It's a great fit with the small-plates and bar-foods trend; fried chicken, hush puppies and fresh donuts are good examples.

In 1985 Harvey and Marilyn Diamond wrote a diet and lifestyle book. Today, 25 years later, “Fit For Life” continues to remain popular. Promising to change not just your diet but also your lifestyle, the book helps readers lose weight and create a new healthy lifestyle. The revolutionary New York Times best seller changed the way people saw diets; no longer were they just short lived, but rather they promoted a new way of living.

In 1985 Harvey and Marilyn Diamond wrote a diet and lifestyle book. Today, 25 years later, “Fit For Life” continues to remain popular. Promising to change not just your diet but also your lifestyle, the book helps readers lose weight and create a new healthy lifestyle. The revolutionary New York Times best seller changed the way people saw diets; no longer were they just short lived, but rather they promoted a new way of living.

Fill your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes each day to keep the doctor away, say doctors and dietitians with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. The nonprofit organization is running a full-page advertisement in March's Today's Dietitian urging nutrition professionals to use its new Power Plate graphic as a healthful alternative to the USDA Food Pyramid. The introduction of the Power Plate, which can be seen at www.ThePowerPlate.org, comes as the USDA is revising the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

PCRM's Power Plate is a colorful, user-friendly graphic that depicts a plate divided into four new food groups: fruits, grains, legumes, and vegetables. PCRM nutrition experts researched Institute of Medicine and World Health Organization reports and concluded that plant-based foods are the most nutrient-dense and aid in preventing cancer, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. The Power Plate, unlike the Food Pyramid, has no confusing portion sizes and food hierarchies; it simply asks that people eat a variety of all four food groups each day.

"People eat from plates, not pyramids," said PCRM nutrition education director Susan Levin, M.S., R.D. "We need easy-to-use dietary guidance tools that teach people how to eat right to fight chronic diseases. Studies show people who eat mostly from the four Power Plate food groups have the lowest risk of obesity, heart disease and diabetes."

10 percent of American children will be overweight by the time their fifth birthday. This alarming statistic combined with the fact that 60% of Americans are considered obese, worries many parents. The book, “Baby Knows Best: How to Prevent Childhood Obesity from Day One,” by Dr. Herbert Goldman explores this issue and draws attention to the facts and risks of this disease.

With advice to parents, the book discusses how childhood obesity develops. Dr. Goldman, who has over 35 years in the infant/childhood obesity field, talks about ways to prevent the issue, as well as provides ways to create healthy eating patterns for children from the start.

Dr. Goldman’s approach bodes well for us, as he promotes eating healthy for life. We love the fact that this issue is being investigated and promoted further. As the portions of food at restaurants only continues to increase, it’s important for parents to have the facts and knowledge about what they’re serving their kids. It may be called a Happy Meal, but childhood obesity isn’t a laughing matter. And we’re glad it’s being taken seriously.

Vacations usually mean a break from your normal routine. And that includes your diet and work out routines. Crystal Cruises is out to prove you don’t have to gain ten pounds while on vacation. The September 5 voyage of Crystal Symphony will be completely dedicated to wellness, but the luxury cruise line is still keeping cruise-goers high expectations afloat.

We all know the 411 about the Atkins Diet. Low-carbs, fast weight loss, it’s the one diet that someone we each know has tried. And though the diet has been out of the limelight the past few years, there’s a new Atkins springing up. The book, “New Atkins for a New You: The Ultimate Diet for Shedding Weight and Feeling Great,” by Dr. Eric C. Westerman, Stephen D. Phinney and Jeff S. Volek debuted in early March.

Essentially it’s still the same low-carb diet, the new book revamps Atkins once again. This time around, the authors are calling the diet a lifestyle change and promises readers this form of Atkins can help keep the weight off... forever. We like the revamped references in this book, with over 50 nutritional studies supporting their diet. The number of success stories are also prime motivation that dropping the carbs can mean real results.

The Naked Chef is on a mission to tackle childhood obesity starting with our nation's schools. I don't know about you, but my high school lunch days were nothing but a mess of chicken patties, pizza and tatter tots. Nutrition wasn't even a twinkle in the lunch lady's eye. And with the rise in overweight children steadily climbing, how can we not love Jamie Oliver's bold approach at facing an issue head on that we continue to fail miserably at? His Food Revolution looks to do just that.

For those of us at Pierce Mattie that have started our spring diets, we are cutting back on carb cereal and turning toward eggs for in the morning. New Year's has long since come and gone, and for many Americans, so have those resolutions to eat better and get fit. But just in time for summer shorts and swimsuit season, Bob Greene, Oprah's trusted exercise expert and the New York Times bestselling author of The Best Life Diet Cookbook, has a simple suggestion to get you back on track: eat a healthy breakfast that includes plenty of lean protein.

According to Greene, breakfast is the most important meal of the day because it provides the fuel you need to stay productive, energized and well within your weight loss goals. "A nutritious and healthy breakfast will jump-start your metabolism, give you an energy boost, and help you control cravings," says Greene. "In addition to whole grains and fruit, be sure to include lean protein, which will make you feel fuller longer and help you eliminate those high-calorie mid-morning snacks."

To start his day off right, many of Greene's favorite breakfast recipes include Crystal Farms AllWhites 100 percent liquid egg whites and Better'n Eggs egg substitutes, which are convenient sources of lean, high-quality protein made from real eggs but with no fat, no cholesterol and half the calories.

"From scrambled eggs to an egg white quesadilla to a protein-packed smoothie, AllWhites and Better'n Eggs bring healthy convenience right into your fridge so there are no more excuses for not starting your day off the healthy, nutritious way," Greene says. "We all have busy lives, but it couldn't be easier to add lean protein to your breakfast and get back on track with your health and nutrition goals."

For more of Bob's favorite recipes that will infuse your breakfast with the power of protein, visit www.allwhites.com or www.betterneggs.com.

At Pierce Mattie we know there's no such thing as a perfect diet. But the Perfect 10 Diet comes pretty close. Created by Dr. Michael Aziz, the diet focuses on balancing 10 key hormones that directly relate to health and weight. The three stages, which include foods that are typically banned in most diets, cater to a lifestyle change.

Carbs are okay and as Dr. Aziz points out, low carb diets can wreck critical hormones that assist weight loss. This diet rewrites the food pyramid. Dr. Aziz believes in the 40-20-40 approach; 40% of your calories should come from carbohydrates, 20% from protein and 40% from fat. It encourages whole grains and eating minimal dairy products. It also recommends eating red meat sparingly, as it has been reportedly linked to cancer.

Experts agree – America needs more vitamin D. It's one more reason to grab another glass of milk, according to new research presented at the Experimental Biology conference in Anaheim, California. Milk is the primary source of vitamin D in the American diet, supplying nearly half of all of the much-needed vitamin D.

Using the latest national data (NHANES 2003-2006) on what more than 16,000 Americans ages two and older eat, researchers investigated the contribution of each food group to the total vitamin D intake. No other food item came close to the vitamin D contribution of milk. In fact, for kids ages 2 to eighteen, milk provided nearly two-thirds of all vitamin D in the diet.

"There are few true replacements for the nutrient package you find in one glass of fat free or lowfat milk," said Dr. Keith Ayoob, a registered dietitian and pediatric nutrition expert. "Without milk in the diet, it's hard to meet a number of nutrient needs – most notably vitamin D."

Many Americans are not getting enough vitamin D, and this D-ficiency may put their health at risk. Well known for its role in keeping bones strong, vitamin D is now being hailed for so much more. Emerging science suggests vitamin D may also help protect against diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and certain cancers. It also supports a healthy immune system.

Despite a potential upside of boosting vitamin D levels, Americans of all ages still fall short of their vitamin D needs. In fact, current deficiency levels prompted the American Academy of Pediatrics to double the vitamin D recommendations for children and teens. The Academy estimates that up to half of adolescents have low vitamin D levels.

Experts recommend 400IU of vitamin D each day – the amount in four glasses of fat free or lowfat milk.

One of the easiest ways to dramatically change your diet and improve your health is to rethink what you're munching on between meals.

That's the philosophy of nationally acclaimed dietitian Keri Glassman, creator of A Nutritious Life, nutrition expert for "The Early Show" on CBS and beauty and skin care expert for WebMD.

Keri takes the guesswork out of dieting. She specializes in creating diets that integrate nutrient-packed foods and indicate the best times of day to eat, including regular snacking. With her new book, "The O2 Diet" (Rodale, December 2009), Keri translates complex scientific research on antioxidants into news that's easy to use.

As Keri points out in her book, most have heard about the powerful antioxidants found in green tea, but few know that the green nut--pistachios--contains numerous health-boosting antioxidants as well.

Keri has teamed up with TheGreenNut.org to offer these five tips for healthy eating in 2010:

• Don't skip meals. It slows your metabolism. Think of your body as a fire that needs wood to keep burning. Begin with breakfast within an hour and a half of rising. Try six ounces of nonfat, plain yogurt topped with a small handful of pistachios and one cup of blueberries.

• Eat consistently throughout the day. You'll feel better all around, and making this change will aid in weight loss, too. Small meals every two to four hours help to stabilize blood sugar levels and provide more sustained energy.

• Don't forget to snack. The perfect snack will have about 120 to 160 calories and provide some fiber and/or some protein and/or healthy fat. Try an apple and a stick of reduced-fat string cheese or homemade trail mix composed of two dried apricots and 18 pistachios.

According to SPINS –March 2010, thinkThin bars were the  number 1 ranked diet bar with a 49 percent annual category share and unprecedented growth rates of 36 percent.  Today, Lizanne Falsetto, CEO of thinkproducts, announced from the company's corporate headquarters, that their thinkThin bars led the growth of the diet bar sub-segment in both grocery and natural channels for 2009.

Dieting continues to be a growing trend in America for both health and body image. According to Mintel, 26 percent of Americans were dieting for weight management in 2009, compared to 13 percent in 2004.  Today, with the recent surge of obesity in America over 52 percent of the population is currently dieting for weight loss.

"When you examine the current trends, there should be no surprise that diet and weight-management categories are strong drivers of growth in a stagnant nutrition bar category," said Falsetto.  "It is encouraging that consumers have overwhelmingly chosen thinkThin – once again proving that consumers are savvy buyers who care about the ingredients of the products they purchase and 'think' about what they eat."

In the grocery channel, AC Nielsen's Scantrack, February, 2010, data reports that thinkThin represents 20 percent of the diet bar category sales, with a growth rate of 65 percent, compared to the category's growth rate of 11 percent. Kashi's Go Lean Bar, a strong competitor in the natural diet brand category, showed a decline of 10 percent in the same category.

"The fact that all thinkThin products are packed with nutrients to boost energy and support weight management without compromising taste is why we continue to thrive in a competitive market," said Falsetto. "It is important for us to follow market trends, identify quality ingredients, innovative technology and processes when developing superior food products that are healthy and naturally delicious for effective weight control."

The thinkproducts portfolio consists of a variety of nutritious and convenient weight management foods that include; the thinkThin Nutrition Bar for a high protein boost, thinkThin Dessert Bars to satisfy those after dinner cravings and thinkThin Bites a 100-calorie perfect sized snack.

I was a long time Diet Coke addict despite warnings from friends in the health and fitness industry that it was destroying my bones. Despite hearing that if I would just quit the syrupy heaven in a bottle, I could potentially lose 10 pounds. Despite the fact that drinking soda rendered me no benefits at all. It was only 3 years ago when I really began monitoring my health, that I decided to give it up for good. So how is soda trying to win back the hearts and minds of their lost long time loyalists like me?

Simply put: position itself as good for you.

The SUBWAY restaurant chain, which is known for  delicious choices that are also healthier for you, is proud to introduce the new Orchard Chicken Salad Sandwich, available for a limited time only.

This new sandwich creation combines tender diced chicken breast with chunks of apple, raisins and cranberries tossed in light creamy mayonnaise and served with lettuce and tomato on your choice of fresh baked bread.

"Adding crisp apples, with sweet cranberries and raisins, make a great, refreshing light sandwich," said SUBWAY® Executive Chef Chris Martone. "These fruits, with the addition of fresh vegetables, create a great sandwich or salad that is the perfect start to the summer season."

The Orchard Chicken Salad sandwich, available now through July 4, is a great choice for those looking for full flavor, excellent value and healthier options. At just 8 grams of fat, a 6 inch Orchard Chicken Salad sandwich is a SUBWAY FRESH FIT™ selection. As a footlong sandwich, it takes its place on the restaurant's famous $5 Footlong value menu.

"At Subway, we are always looking to create sandwiches and salads that not only surpass the high standards for flavor that our customers have come to expect, but are also low-fat options for a balanced diet," said SUBWAY® Corporate Dietitian Lanette Kovachi. "The Orchard Chicken Salad sandwich not only fits in perfectly in our selection of FRESH FIT meals, which include a low-fat sandwich with healthier-for-you sides, but also represent a distinct new taste that is packed with flavor."

Joining the Orchard Chicken Salad in the Limited Time Offer spotlight is the Chicken Bacon Ranch and the Jared-favorite, Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki sandwiches.

The Mediterranean Diet, which has been promoted as the heart-healthy diet on well-respected sites like WebMD and the Mayo Clinic, and have even grabbed the attention of the American Heart Association, has now been included in the 2010 DGA (Dietary Guidelines for Americans) as an optimal choice for eating healthy.

From the National Institutes of Health, the Mediterranean diet is based on:

• Plant-based meals, with just small amounts of meat and chicken, when they are used
• Larger servings of grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and legumes
• Foods that naturally contain high amounts of fiber, antioxidants, and other nutrients
• Plenty of fish and other seafood that are rich in omega 3 fats
• Olive oil, a healthy, monounsaturated fat, as the main source of fat used to flavor and prepare foods
• Food that is prepared and seasoned simply, without sauces and gravies
  
• Flavorful meals that bring out the natural taste of foods
  
• Dining with others at a relaxed pace 

2010's DGA has a focus on more plant-based nutrition, and recent reports show that it may be the olive oil aspect of this diet that is proving to have the most benefit from following the diet's outline.

Do you follow this lifestyle diet? How has it helped your health?

If you are serious about body building, then IDS (Innovative Delivery Systems) is for you. Designed with you in mind, IDS offers a line of fat burning, weight loss and protein delivery supplements for men and women body builders. Their products do not contain any ephedra or ephedrine and are formulated with whey protein instead.

The IDS products come in three different options: New Whey Liquid Protein, Multi Pro Whey, and Oatmeal & Whey. The New Whey liquid protein comes in a convenient package and ideal for people looking for protein supplement on the go! New Whey delivers 25 grams of pure protein with no carbs or fat in their 2.9 ounce package (retail at $37.99). There is no need of messy mixing with this product. Plus, the New Whey liquid protein comes in these flavors: Acai Berry, Fruit Punch, Grape, Orange, and Blueberry raspberry.

First of all, I am not vegan and the only raw food to ever have entered my mouth has been fruits and vegetables on a rare occasion (as in forced by mom as a child.) So when a friend of mine suggested eating at a raw food restaurant in the East Village called Quintessence, I was anything but ecstatic. Yet, I found myself sitting down in this quaint establishment mulling over the menu and thinking that many of the entries sounded pretty good (although I wasn't willing to admit that out loud at the time.)

I opted to play it safe with a salad and selected the arugula sprout with caramelized walnuts. The sweet-spiced fig cardamom dressing was heaven, as was the goji berries sprinkled throughout. My friends had ordered the chips and dip as an appetizer, which were homemade corn chips and flax crackers. I decided to expand on my bravery of stepping foot into the raw food realm and give them a try. Yum! (especially the corn chips.)

Dessert took more convincing, as I wasn't exactly keen on trying a non-dairy homemade ice cream. Yet, as soon as it hit my taste buds, I basically stole the spoon from my friend and proceeded to devour the entire Quintessence ice creme. 

While I may still be a long way from converting to the raw food lifestyle, Quintessence sure helped convince me that raw food can be absolutely delicious. You can see their menu at www.raw-q.com.

While, we know that there are many contributing factors making us fat such as our genetic disposition, we do not have to be “trapped” forever with that notion. Even though, studies have shown that some are at a higher predisposition of having “fat genes,” Felicia Stoler, a registered dietitian, a nutrition consultant and author of the upcoming book titled Living Skinny in Fat Genes can help ease readers into losing weight efficiently and effectively. Living Skinny in Fat Genes (set to be released Jan 15th, 2011) proves that having a better education on health issues could lead to healthier, happier and fit lives.

Dr. Felicia Stoller, R.D., is a registered dietitian, nutrition and exercise physiologist, journalist, and the host of TLC’s show "Honey, We’re Killing the Kids" has decided to write a book to show readers on how to take control of their own health through her easy and simple to follow health plan. In this book, she discusses the best new dietary foods, new healthy oils, (palm coconut and canola), and seasonal produce to include into your diet.

She outlines in her book how to:

ProCaps Laboratories has been committed to the safest and most effective nutritional supplements since 1979. They were one of the first wellness brands to begin trailblazing in the “early days” of vitamin supplements. The founder, Andrew Lessman, wanted to help educate the medical profession to enhance the quality of life by understanding the need for vitamins. Throughout his journey in cultivating essential vitamins for the consumers, he used his background in biochemistry to create vitamins that not only fit his health needs, but met the needs of athletes and other health professionals, as well.

Nurtrition PR: Nestle USA Chairman and CEO Brad Alford has announced that Nestle Research Center, based in Lausanne, Switzerland, has donated US $500,000 to Cleveland Clinic's Lerner Research Institute. The gift will fund a collaborative study focused on examining the effects of a diet rich in whole grains on body composition and energy metabolism.

"We look forward to building our relationship with Lerner Research Institute. This collaboration combines Nestle's core expertise in nutrition with Lerner Research Institute's scientific vision, and will help us define the scientific basis for new product development. Our ultimate goal is to provide good tasting products with nutritional benefits to consumers," said Mr. Alford. This study will build on previous Nestle research that has suggested that a diet rich in whole grains has many potential nutritional benefits.

Researchers from the Nestle Research Center in Lausanne met with lead investigator John Kirwan, Ph.D., Pathobiology, of the Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, and his team earlier this year to plan the study, which begins this month. The 26-week study will enroll 40 to 50 people, who will eat meals provided by Nestle Prepared Food Company's facility in Solon, Ohio. During the first phase, one group's diet will include most of their carbohydrates coming from whole grains while the other will receive meals with carbohydrates mainly from refined grains. During the second phase, the two groups will switch diets. Each study participant will receive complementary nutrition counseling, food and medical testing. This research will be one of the largest controlled studies of its type on whole grains and the first to use advanced body composition measurement techniques such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) that are used at the Cleveland Clinic. Scientists at Nestle Research Center will use state-of-the-art metabolomic analyses to examine changes in metabolism.

Tossed, home of garden fresh salads, crepe wraps and sandwiches, today announced its lineup of wheat-free and gluten-free menu suggestions for customers.  Consisting of over a dozen fresh, healthy salads including all three of Tossed's Signature Salads, Tossed's gluten-free menu provides a welcome and diverse alternative for diners who suffer from gluten sensitivity, including those with celiac disease or wheat allergies*.

A growing number of Americans are avoiding gluten, the protein in wheat, rye and barley, because of an allergy or sensitivity.  According to research studies, one in every 100 to 200 Americans is sensitive to gluten.  Many of those with gluten sensitivity suffer from celiac disease, a life-long condition that causes an abnormal auto-immune response in the digestive tract to products containing gluten.  In addition to severe gastric distress, celiac disease can stunt growth and weight gain in children; both adults and children with the disease carry a higher than average risk of lymphoma and other forms of cancer.

In addition to its broad variety of gluten-free chef-designed salads, Tossed also helps guests who prefer to make their own salads while following gluten-free guidelines.  Tossed's "Design Your Own" salad alternative offers tips for making gluten-free salads from over 50 lettuces, toss-ins, chicken and seafood toppings, cheeses and dressings.

"Tossed is pleased to be able to offer so many delicious and healthy choices to individuals who must restrict their gluten intake, or avoid gluten altogether.  Between our Signature and 'Design Your Own' choices, there are literally thousands of ways to enjoy a flavorful, gluten-free meal at Tossed," said Eric Clark, Chief Operating Officer of Tossed Franchise Corporation.

Tossed's gluten-free lineup includes eleven chef-designed salads: Caesar, Apple Walnut, Summer, Asian Chicken, BBQ Chicken, Southwest Blackened Chicken, Greek Salad, Cayenne Shrimp, Spinach, Garden and Cobb.  All three of Tossed's Signature Salads also qualify as gluten-free:

• Tuna Salad—Baby field greens, tuna salad (mixed with apples, dried cranberries and mayo), avocado, shredded carrots and cucumber with fat-free cucumber dill dressing.
• Tossed Signature Salad—Baby field greens, roasted chicken, goat cheese, toasted almonds, mango, jicama, cucumber and dried cranberries with Tossed Vinaigrette.
• Tossed Chef Salad (order without croutons)—Crisp hearts of romaine, bacon, smoked turkey, cheddar, apples, and hard-boiled egg with honey balsamic vinaigrette.

If you ever had trouble losing weight or desire to trim down on certain areas of your body- then Revolution is ideal for you. Revolution, a new dietary supplement, uses the highest ingredients in their most pure form to help improve your overall health and physique. Revolution Lifestyle is about creating high quality nutritional supplements in correlation to a healthy diet. The concept behind Revolution is defined as a “sudden, complete or marked change in something.”

Revolution offers four very unique supplements to amplify metabolism, suppress appetite, and increase exercise intensity. As a result, these supplements will help with trimming down the abdominal fat and creating a leaner physique when paired with a healthy diet and lifestyle.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today released two documents that outline steps to help chain restaurants comply with new federal nutrition labeling requirements.

"One of the most important things we can do when it comes to the nation's health is to provide simple basic information to the American people so they can make choices that are best for them and their family," said FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg, M.D. "The menu labeling program will help Americans get the facts about food choices that are available to them in restaurants and vending machines so they know what is in the food and can make healthier selections."

Section 4205 of the Affordable Care Act, signed into law in March 2010, set new federal requirements for nutrition labeling for foods sold at certain chain restaurants and similar retail food establishments. Establishments with 20 or more locations may be affected.

The documents released by the FDA today include:

• A draft guidance document describing implementation of certain provisions of the federal law. For certain restaurants and similar retail food establishments, these statutory provisions include posting the number of calories for standard menu items on menus and menu boards, providing additional nutrition information in writing, and posting clearly on menus and menu boards that such information is available upon request. These establishments also must post calorie information for self-serve items and foods on display.
• A final guidance document for industry regarding the effect of the new federal nutrition labeling requirements on state and local laws.

The draft guidance states that the FDA realizes that industry may need additional information and time to comply with the new provisions, and that the agency expects to refrain from enforcement action for a time period that will be provided in the guidance once it is finalized. The agency is interested in comments from the public on the appropriate length of this time period.

Today's actions are the latest in a series of steps toward FDA's implementation of the menu labeling provisions in the new law. On July 7, 2010, the FDA opened a docket for the public to submit comments on how the agency could best apply these provisions. On July 21, 2010, the FDA issued a notice explaining how restaurants, similar retail food establishments, and vending machine operators that are not subject to the new federal nutrition labeling requirements can elect to be subject to the federal requirements.

Wynn Resorts proudly debuts an all-new vegan culinary program, furthering their commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences.  Every fine dining and casual restaurant at Wynn and Encore now offers vegan menu items to cater to diners of various tastes and dietary preferences. As the first resort on the Strip with such extensive vegan offerings, Wynn remains on the cusp of a larger shift toward healthy eating.

The award-winning chefs at Wynn and Encore have designed exclusive vegan dishes that highlight vegetables and contain no meat or dairy. The chefs' skill and inventiveness are reflected in options that use naturally healthy ingredients such as tofu and quinoa in a number of vibrant, flavorful preparations. An array of exotic grains and vegetables impart natural earthiness, while coconut milk and vegetable purees lend creaminess to risottos and sauces.  

Special vegan dishes include fava bean puree with sauteed hon shimeji mushrooms, snap pea salad and aged balsamic vinegar at ALEX and the market chopped salad with avocado, carrots, celery, pumpkin seeds, edamame and tarragon vinaigrette at Society Cafe Encore. Hearty entree options entice vegan and non-vegans alike and include the summer vegetable gratin at Botero, risotto con verdure di stagione (risotto whipped with seasonal vegetables) at BARTOLOTTA Ristorante di Mare and Napoleon of savory tofu with ratatouille and fried eggplant at Tableau. The Country Club excites palates with a vegan version of their popular watermelon gazpacho with avocado, jicama, tomato, cucumber, cilantro and yucca crisp, while STRATTA offers whole wheat pasta primavera, a vegan take on the Italian-American staple. SW, Wynn's signature steakhouse, serves crave-worthy vegan dishes such as grilled royal trumpet mushrooms with creamy polenta and shallot balsamic sauce.

Wazuzu's vegan crunch roll with crispy asparagus, avocado, cucumber and arare; Okada's vegan cold soba noodle and Wing Lei's crispy tofu with sugar pea, water chestnut, carrot and bean sprout feature flavorful Asian ingredients. Decadent desserts such as blueberry cobbler with toasted almond ice cream at Sinatra and banana crepes with coconut ice cream and avocado mousse at SWITCH provide a sweet close to any meal.  

By introducing a wide variety of vegan options to all casual and fine restaurants, Wynn Resorts has found another way to ensure that every guest is wholly cared for and satisfied.

With more than 3 million Americans suffering from celiac disease and other gluten allergies(1), TheGreenNut.org has teamed up with Simply Gluten-Free Inc. to offer unique gluten-free pistachio recipes created for the popular Web site's health-focused recipe section.  New recipes will be added monthly to help the nation's growing population of people with gluten allergies or intolerance live a healthy lifestyle while continuing to enjoy delicious and simple meals.

Taking part in physical activities is a priority for many men. Whether it's cross-training at the gym, surfing, or playing a heated game of basketball after work, men know that exercise can help their minds and bodies perform better. To help support their active lifestyle, Bayer Consumer Care introduces One A Day Men's Pro Edge, a complete multivitamin with high levels of key ingredients to support the needs of a physically active man*.

"Because men who are physically active exert more energy, they have an increased need for some nutrients to help their bodies refuel," noted diet and nutrition expert, Madelyn Fernstrom, PhD, CNS. "Though diet is the first source for nutritional needs, supplementation with a multivitamin can help provide extra nutrients to support optimal health for the busy, active man."

One A Day Men's Pro Edge is a specially formulated multivitamin that contains high levels of:*

• Magnesium to support healthy muscle function
• Vitamin A, C & E to meet the increased need for antioxidants caused by moderate to intense physical activity
• B Vitamins to help convert food to fuel

One A Day Men's Pro Edge is now available on shelves nationwide as well as on www.oneaday.com and will retail for $7.99 – 9.99. A list of retailers that carry One A Day products is also available on the Web site.

Low carb diets seem to be the fast track to losing weight and with the popularity of Atkins and South Beach, it's no wonder the diet industry is loving the craze. As recently as last week one of my friends tweeted the praises of a low carb diet contributing to her weight loss. And while for the short term low carb may provide quicker results, thinner doesn't always mean healthier when you follow this diet track. Due to the way low carb foods and diet products are marketed, many times consumers are misguided to believe that what you "read" on the front of the package is what you get...and that's not always true.

Think about it, how many times are we rushed in the market only glancing at the front of the package to deliver us the information we need to make a quick, and what we believe to be, informed decision? How often have you taken the time to not only read the front of the label, but the nutrition facts panel on the back as well? If you are anything like me, not as often as you should. And due to a recent study by the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, we're not alone.

Just because it says low carb doesn't mean nutrition and caloric-wise that it is beneficial. So take the time to look beyond the front label, or low carb marketing hype, directly to the nutrition facts when shopping for products to manage your weight.

To read more about the study, visit www.jneb.org.

The 14th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Heart Failure Society of America (HFSA) will feature a discussion on low sodium diets, "Managing Salt in the Diet," presented by Dr. Terry A. Lennie, Associate Professor in the College of Nursing at the University of Kentucky. The focal point of Dr. Lennie's discussion will be on reducing dietary sodium intake.  

For many of us, the pinnacle of warm-weather months is the highly-anticipated vacation, but what we don't account for is the dreaded slump after returning home from our great escapes. To learn more about women's post-vacation experiences, Kellogg Company and Braun Research fielded a phone survey of 500 U.S. women, 45 and older, in early 2010, and the results were obvious to the Kellogg's All-Bran brand team. According to a recent survey of 500 women(1):

• Nearly three-quarters (71 percent) of women 45 and older in the United States, say they have felt tired, bloated or heavy post-vacation;
• More than half (56 percent) agree they don't always feel rejuvenated after the break; and
• 46 percent say being on, or returning from, vacation makes them feel sluggish.

As suspected, the data indicates that women didn't receive the needed rest and relaxation women sought. A week-long break in both routine and healthy eating habits can take a toll on the body, and that's where All-Bran cereals can help—by kick-starting your post-vacation menu.

"An excellent way to get back into your routine, and feel better in the meantime, is to incorporate fiber back into your diet on a regular basis. Starting a plan like the All-Bran 7-Day Promise™ is a simple way to feel better within just a week after returning from vacation," said Cheryl Dolven, registered dietitian and Kellogg Company director of nutrition marketing. "You can easily include a serving of All-Bran in nearly any dish you put together—from breakfast and lunch, to dinner and dessert—and Kellogg's has made this even easier by developing many recipes that use All-Bran, including five new warm-weather inspired dishes."

The makers of Kellogg's All-Bran cereals have put together five ways to help bounce back from vacation excess. Putting a positive twist on classic recipes, these five must-try dishes can help get the body back on track, so consumers don't feel bloated and sluggish.

• Lemon Poppy Seed Snack Cake: This recipe offers a double dose of lemon—lemon yogurt and lemon peel. If you like, add a dollop of whipped topping and a sprinkling of fresh berries to every piece.
• All-Bran Chicken Satay with Dipping Sauce: Strips of boneless chicken breast, skewered, breaded with Kellogg's All-Bran Complete Wheat Flakes cereal and spices, baked and served with Thai Chili Sauce, Thai Peanut Sauce, or Spicy Tomato Ketchup for dipping.
• "Fried" Green Tomatoes: Sliced green tomatoes breaded with Kellogg's® All-Bran Complete Wheat Flakes cereal and baked.
• Fancy Tart: In the mood for an elegant dessert? Try this tart filled with tangy lemon yogurt and topped with juicy nectarines, black cherries and exotic kiwi fruit.
• Fruit Crisp: Apricots and blueberries tossed with cinnamon, topped with Kellogg's All-Bran Original cereal, brown sugar and walnuts, and baked.

Seven Days to a Better-Feeling You

Taking the All-Bran 7-Day Promise(2) is a simple way to incorporate the daily fiber your body needs: 25 grams of fiber for most adult women and 38 grams of fiber for most adult men. The five warm weather-inspired recipes include All-Bran Original cereal, All-Bran Complete Wheat Flakes cereal and All-Bran Bran Buds cereal. Additionally, All-Bran offers more than 400 great recipes at All-Bran.com. The All-Bran 7-Day Promise has no complicated meal plans, nor does it require calorie counting; simply incorporate one serving of Kellogg's All-Bran into your diet per day, for seven days.

Consumers who complete the All-Bran 7-Day Promise may see improvements in overall digestive health, including changes in regularity, feeling as if they have more energy and less bloating and sluggishness. With four varieties of All-Bran cereal and new All-Bran recipes, there are plenty of tasty ways to fit fiber into your diet. Learn more about the All-Bran 7-Day Promise at www.All-Bran.com

(1) Phone survey of 500 American women age 45 and older in the United States. The survey was conducted by Braun Research between January 28-31, 2010, by a mix of land and cellular phones. The margin of error is +/- 4.4 percent.

(2) All-Bran cereal, as a part of a high fiber diet, helps promote digestive health.

Now there's a new reason to grab a glass of milk when you're on diet, suggests a new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. In a 2-year weight loss study, milk drinkers had an advantage over those who skipped the milk. Israeli researchers found that adults who drank the most milk (nearly 2 glasses per day) and had the highest vitamin D levels at 6 months, lost more weight after 2 years than those who had little or no milk or milk products -- nearly 12 pounds weight loss, on average.

Researchers also found that each additional 6-ounce serving of milk or milk products (about 3/4 of a glass of milk) was associated with 10 pounds successful weight loss above the average, at 6 months.

More than 300 overweight or at risk men and women ages 40 – 65 participated in the study following low-fat, Mediterranean or low-carb diets for 2 years. Regardless of diet, researchers found participants with the highest dairy calcium intake 6 months into the study (averaging about 580mg per day – the amount in nearly 2 glasses of milk) lost about 12 pounds at the end of the 2 years, compared to about 7 pounds for those with the lowest dairy calcium intake (averaging about 150mg, or about half of a glass).

Beyond calcium, the researchers also found that vitamin D levels independently affected weight loss success and in line with previous research, milk and milk products were the top contributors to vitamin D in the diets of the study participants.

Despite the potential health benefits, many Americans are still not getting the recommended 400IU of vitamin D each day – the amount in four glasses of fat free or lowfat milk. This D-ficiency may put their health at risk, for healthy weight and beyond. Well known for its role in keeping bones strong, vitamin D is now being hailed for so much more. Emerging science suggests vitamin D may also help protect against diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and certain cancers. It also supports a healthy immune system.

Fat free milk is packed with nine essential nutrients Americans need, including calcium and vitamin D, and contains 80 calories per 8-ounce serving. Research suggests eating right, getting active and drinking the recommended three glasses of lowfat or fat free milk daily can help you maintain a healthy weight.

Shahar DR, Schwarzfuchs D, Fraser D, Vardi H, Thiery J, Fiedler GM, Bluher M, Stumvoll M, Stampfer MJ, Shai I. Dairy calcium intake, serum vitamin D, and successful weight loss. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2010. Published ahead of print.

Red Mango, the fastest-growing retailer of all-natural nonfat frozen yogurt and fresh fruit smoothies, is welcoming the fall season with its signature fall flavor: Pumpkin Spice.  

For a limited time, now through the end of the year, Red Mango will offer Pumpkin Spice at participating stores nationwide along with its graham cracker crumb topping.  And with crowds of loyal customers who came to love the flavor last year, it will be a bountiful harvest.

"Pumpkin Spice is the flavor everyone loves, and is back by popular demand," says Dan Kim, founder and chief concept officer of Red Mango, who developed the proprietary recipe. "We captured the essence of autumn in a cup, and the response was overwhelming.  Pumpkin Spice achieves that perfect blend of pumpkin and cinnamon with the taste and aroma that signifies this time of year and welcomes the holiday season."

As the first-ever seasonal flavor to roll out nationwide at Red Mango, Pumpkin Spice also welcomed a record number of customers to stores.  The sensation made way for a new objective at Red Mango to capture the taste of each season in a signature way the company could own.

Pumpkin Spice, like all of Red Mango's frozen yogurt flavors, is 100% all-natural, gluten-free, and nonfat, and contains no preservatives, artificial colors or artificial flavors.  

Nasoya, the nation's leading brand of tofu, today introduced Nasoya Tofu U (www.Nasoya.com/Tofu-U), a 'virtual campus' on its web page to educate consumers about all things tofu.  As one of the world's oldest health foods, tofu intrigues cooks with its diverse possibilities and nutritional benefits. However, while many enjoy eating tofu outside the home, Nasoya consumer research has found that the majority still struggle to prepare the ingredient in their own kitchens. With Tofu U to the rescue, this versatile protein will be demystified and tofu connoisseurs and novices alike can "get schooled" with a robust collection of how-to video tips, simple and healthy recipes, tofu games and more at Nasoya Tofu U.

"For many Americans who grew up cooking with ground beef and eggs, tofu can be intimidating. It isn't a staple in American kitchens," said Susan Rolnick, Vice President of Marketing at Nasoya.  "When people learn where I work, I often hear, 'I bought some tofu once and it sat in my fridge until I threw it out.  I just didn't know what to do with it.'  Tofu U is here to help and change that attitude, and Nasoya is the brand to do it in a way that is fun, interactive and easy to follow."

I love going for a run every morning to start off my day energized and refreshed, so I was excited when I learned about a sports drink that will leave me feeling better than ever - pure coconut water! Who would have thought?

Zico is an all natural, anti-oxidant drink that re-hydrates faster than water and far out weighs the benefits of typical sports drinks. I know I was surprised to learn that you would need to drink 15 regular sports drinks to get as much potassium as one bottle of Zico offers, which is more than what is found in eating one banana. This helps reduce cramping during exercise and allows you to recover faster after. It is also less acidic than most drinks and has zero fat, zero cholesterol and zero added sugar. That’s a lot of healthy zeros!

Many know that losing weight is no easy feat. It takes hard work and dedication to get your body how you want it. Some resort to diet pills and stimulants which often cause harmful side effects. But losing weight has been made easy. Would you believe that it can be as simple as sprinkling a seasoning on your food before you eat? This is exactly what SENSA Weight-loss System offers.

Counting calories, diet restrictions, dietary pills and side effects are a thing of the past when it comes to weight loss. Produced by certified neurologist Dr. Alan Hirsch, SENSA is based on 25 years of research and testing. Clinical trials show that people lose an average of 30.5lbs in six months and this product makes it as easy as sprinkling salt on your food.

SPECIAL REPORT: HOW TO GET A BETTER BREAKFAST

Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day, helping you reach your full quota of daily vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients while also helping to control cholesterol and triglyceride levels.  And regularly eating breakfast may even help you live longer.  A new study that tracked hundreds of Americans found that people who regularly ate breakfast had lower rates of type 2 diabetes and were less likely to develop heart failure.  

Silk Soymilk, the leading soymilk brand in the U.S., today announced a new website that allows consumers to trace the origin of the soybeans in each carton of Silk down to the county level. The first-of-its-kind site for soy is intended to provide consumers with additional information about where their Silk soymilk comes from and how it is made.  

Consumers can use the website to enter the manufacturing code and expiration date from any carton of Silk to learn where in the U.S. the soybeans used in the soymilk were grown. The website also includes information about the soymilk production process and Silk's dedication to soybean sourcing, including sourcing all beans from U.S. farmers. Additionally, through the site, consumers can learn more about the steps Silk takes to ensure its soybeans do not contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

With dozens of nutrition bars on the market, choosing the best brand can be a daunting task. For active people looking for that extra boost, PR Bars are a great supplement to your daily routine.

PR Bars, or Personal Record bars, uses Fast Burn Nutrition Technology to bars keep insulin levels steady so that the body will use fat stores as an energy source. It might sound complicated, but it’s pretty simple. Essentially, the bars push the body to burn fat faster and build more muscle. The extra lean muscle mass torches even more calories and increases metabolism. All of that equals a healthier, happier you!

Do you find it difficult to consume the required amount of fruit and vegetables needed every day? If you’re constantly on the go, it can be difficult to plan out meals and be sure your getting all your daily nutrients. Garden Greens is a drink and supplement company bringing consumers the natural benefits of fruits, vegetable and herbs aimed at improving your quality of life.

Getting your daily of dose of vitamins and nutrients is as simple as preparing a tasty drink, shake or taking a vitamin. All of Garden Greens products contain high ORAC values (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity), which means that all these healthy options are high in antioxidant power and work to fight against free radicals in your body. They will help revitalize your health and increase your energy, metabolism and overall wellness.

Most people do not get the essential nutrients they need from their diets alone and with stressful lifestyles, your body can be depleted of necessary vitamins and minerals. On top of this, many brands on the market claim to offer nutritional and beneficial dietary supplements, but what you will find is that most vitamins contain only a tiny dose of the supplement. The rest is typically made up of fillers, like Acaia Gum or Sorbitol. With Avulite, you get 100 percent guaranteed nutritional potency in every product.

Avulite is an online supplier of the latest high-end health and beauty products. They have an excellent reputation for customer satisfaction, service, reliability and quality. Avulite offers vitamins, a weight loss supplement, antioxidant fruit and vegetable powders and tablets, organic fiber powder and antioxidant capsules.

These products are a great way to give your immune system and health a boost. Avulite’s capsules, Coenzyme-Q10, contain powerful antioxidant properties and research has shown that they can protect against free-radical damage to cell membranes, boost energy, support healthy blood pressure and more. It also may support healthy immune functions, resulting in less colds and illnesses- which is a huge plus during flu season!

Lifestyle PR: Lidia Bastianich, beloved television host, author, restaurateur and "first lady of Italian cuisine," is scheduled to launch Lidia's Kitchen, her exciting new cookware and servingware line, on QVC Sunday, October 24 at 7 PM (ET).

Lidia's Kitchen combines the beauty of Italy and the functionality of Bastianich's own cooking style to create a cookware and tabletop collection that is reflective of her practical culinary sensibilities. After many years working in restaurant kitchens, Bastianich has designed cookware created with simple, easy cooking in mind, with plenty of style and utmost functionality.

The fountain of youth just might exist. Resveratrol, a polyphenol extracted from red wine grapes is known for having serious anti-aging and antioxidant properties. It’s been proven in clinical studies to enhance cellular productivity and slows down the degenerative effects of aging, and studies have shown that Resveratrol unlocks sirtuin 1, the “longevity gene”. What does all this mean for you? Youthfulness, more energy, and better health!

ResVitale understands that our bodies aren’t meant to process unnatural chemicals and toxins. For this reason, they’ve created Resveratrol manufactured by completely organic standards. They believe pure sources yield pure results, and it’s true: studies show that antioxidants are about 40% more powerful in organic products. ResVitale has set themselves apart from all other retailers by ensuring three key elements that ensure the highest quality of antioxidants: Vineology, Traceability, and Organics.

There's a brand new recovery drink in the fitness and beverage market that is designed to revive your body unlike other drinks in the same category. Code Blue, taken from the hospital term which means "resuscitate immediately," is an all natural drink targeted for consumption before, during and after stressful activities (i.e. exercise, a night out and frequent traveling.) Code Blue is only 40 calories, 9 grams of sugar and 10 grams of carbs and is free of preservatives and artificial colors. It not only has more electrolytes than most sports drinks, but provides you with the right amount of vitamins and minerals to help you recover quickly, as well as keep you hydrated and balanced.

Here's what's in it:

Got Casein? Because Casein comprises 80% of the protein in cow’s milk, it’s no surprise that scientists realized the benefits of extracting the protein for other commercial products. Micellar casein is the natural form found in milk which is ultra-filtered without chemicals, so it’s guaranteed to be good for your body. Optimum Nutrition’s 100% Casein Protein Powder is one of the leading supplement choices on the market.

Micellar casein prevents the breakdown of muscle. As a slow digesting protein, it forms a gel-like lining in the stomach, which not only allows for a slower release of amino acids, but helps the body to reach peak protein synthesis. In layman's terms, high levels of amino acids promote muscle growth, prevent muscle breakdown, and in turn cells build even more protein.

Happy Meal toys are being banned in California to stop swaying kids from eating fast food (but what about sugary cereals that do that same?), schools have changed their lunch menu's to include more healthy choices combined with a revised physical fitness program...but now vending machines are up for debate as, for the most part, they carry junk food. Are we on a mad dash to control every aspect of our child's eating habits or is this just another aspect of pulling in the reigns on childhood obesity?

A recent study showed that schools that had vending machines with healthy choices of snacks had children, who overall, had better eating habits consuming more fruits and veggies than children who were exposed to vending machines with only potato chips, cookies and candy bars. Honestly? We needed someone to do the research to confirm this? It's common sense. From an early age, children learn by example. So if the only options they are met with for meals and snacking are healthy choices, then they will retain what they've learned and carry that into adulthood.

Because of this, I absolutely agree that if our schools are revising lunch and gym, doesn't it make sense to either A. Replace sugary sweets in the vending machines with more nutrition friendly snacks or B. Remove the vending machine all together if it is not cost effective for the district due to the rate of turnover to replace produce weekly.

If you are a parent, what do you think about vending machines in schools?

*Photo Source: Good Housekeeping

In a new study, children who ate the most vegetables and fruits had significantly healthier arteries as adults than children who ate the fewest.  Here are 10 tips to encourage your children to eat more vegetables and fruits.  

1. Make fruit and vegetable shopping fun: Visit your local green market and/or grocery store with your kids, and show them how to select ripe fruits and fresh vegetables.  This is also a good opportunity to explain which fruits and vegetables are available by season and how some come from countries with different climates.
2. Involve kids in meal prep: Find a healthy dish your kids enjoy and invite them to help you prepare it.  Younger kids can help with measuring, crumbling, holding and handing some of the ingredients to you.  Older kids can help by setting the table.  Make sure you praise them for their help, so they feel proud of what they've done.  
3. Be a role model: If you're eating a wide range of fruits and vegetables -- and enjoying them -- your child may want to taste.  If you aren't eating junk food or keeping it in your home, your kids won't be eating junk food at home either.  
4. Create fun snacks: Schedule snack times -- most kids like routines.  Healthy between-meal snacks are a great opportunity to offer fruits and vegetables.  Kids like to pick up foods, so give them finger foods they can handle.  Cut up a fruit and arrange it on an attractive plate.  Make a smoothie or freeze a smoothie in ice cube trays. Create a smiley face from cut-up vegetables and serve with a small portion of low-fat salad dressing, hummus or plain low-fat yogurt. A positive experience with food is important. Never force your child to eat something, or use food as a punishment or reward.
5. Give kids choices -- within limits: Too many choices can overwhelm a small child.  It's too open ended to ask, "What would you like for lunch?" It may start a mealtime meltdown.  Instead, offer them limited healthy choices, such as choosing between a banana or strawberries with their cereal, or carrots or broccoli with dinner.  
6. Eat together as a family: If your schedules permit, family dining is a great time to help your kids develop healthy attitudes about food and the social aspects of eating with others.  Make sure you are eating vegetables in front of your children.  Even if they aren't eating certain vegetables yet, they will model your behavior.
7. Expect pushback: As your kids are exposed to other families' eating habits, they may start to reject some of your healthy offerings. Without making a disparaging remark about their friends' diet, let your children know that fruits and vegetables come first in your family.
8. Grow it: Start from the ground up -- create a kitchen garden with your child and let them plant tomatoes and herbs, such as basil and oregano in window boxes.  If you have space for a garden, help them cultivate their own plot and choose plants that grow quickly, such as beans, cherry tomatoes, snow peas and radishes.  Provide child-size gardening tools appropriate to their age.
9. Covert operations: You may have tried everything in this list and more, yet your child's lips remain zipped when offered a fruit or vegetable.  Try sneaking grated or pureed carrots or zucchini into pasta or pizza sauces.  Casseroles are also a good place to hide pureed vegetables.  You can also add fruits and vegetables to foods they already enjoy, such as pancakes with blueberries, carrot muffins or fruit slices added to cereal.  On occasions when you serve dessert, include diced fruit as an option.
10. Be patient: Changes in your child's food preferences will happen slowly.  They may prefer sweet fruits, such as strawberries, apples and bananas, before they attempt vegetables.  Eventually, your child may start trying the new vegetable. Many kids need to see and taste a new food a dozen times before they know whether they truly like it.  Try putting a small amount of the new food -- one or two broccoli florets -- on their plate every day for two weeks; but don't draw attention to it.

Nutrition bar company Forward Foods, LLC, today announced that professional football players from the New York Giants, Pittsburgh Steelers, Denver Broncos and Jacksonville Jaguars have endorsed the company's award-winning Detour protein bars. The following four players have all signed multi-season endorsement agreements with Forward Foods:

• Steve Smith, Pro Bowl Wide Receiver for the New York Giants
• LaMarr Woodley, Pro Bowl Outside Linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers
• Eddie Royal, Wide Receiver/Punt Returner for the Denver Broncos
• Mike Thomas, Wide Receiver/Punt Returner for the Jacksonville Jaguars 

Gerber announced today that it is partnering with the Yum-o! organization -- daytime host, bestselling author and philanthropist, Rachael Ray's nonprofit organization -- to invite the greater public to join their combined mission to give the gift of nutrition to hungry families in need.

For every "Like" Gerber has on its Facebook page by January 15, 2011 at www.facebook.com/gerber, they will donate $1, up to $500,000, to Yum-o!  Through Yum-o!'s nonprofit partners these dollars will work to provide families with access to nutritious food in the fight against hunger.

Hunger and food insecurity have been, and continue to be, serious problems for a significant portion of our population. Gerber and Yum-o! share a philosophy that all families should have access to nutritious food, and have teamed up to give the gift of nutrition to children and families in need and raise awareness of the hunger problem in America.  

"Our partnership with Yum-o! is such a natural fit," says Christina Lawrence, Head, Integrated Marketing and Communications, Nestle Infant Nutrition/Gerber Products Company.

"We share a mission in that we want everyone, particularly children, to have access to nutritious food that will help them thrive.  Through Facebook, we've created an easy way for consumers to get involved and join our mission to make a positive impact on childhood nutrition.  A simple click generates an automatic donation to help in the fight against hunger."

Just like the effects of instilling good nutrition habits early, the effects of childhood hunger can last a lifetime. Without an adequate diet, children are challenged to thrive physically, cognitively and psychologically, making it more difficult to reach full potential as they grow into adults.

"It is just unfathomable to me that in a country of such plenty, any child might go to sleep hungry or only have access to unhealthy foods," said Ray.  "Thanks to Gerber, the Yum-o! organization will be able to continue its efforts of feeding hungry American kids and families and in turn allowing them to have a better relationship with food."

Probiotics have recently caught the attention of mainstream media, as regular usage has demonstrated beneficial results for both children and adults. Just as vitamins were initially embraced by holistic and integrated practitioners, probiotics have taken a similar path. Now that big brands have created interest in the category, consumers want to know more. With ever-expanding research supporting the benefits of probiotics for all of us, consumers are now seeking reliable products for everyday use.

“Many people start out in life already lacking the proper gut ecology, and even if we do have an optimal condition, it can be disrupted by the stress of everyday life, prescribed antibiotics, pathogenic bacteria invaders and air and water pollution,” says E. Frank Hodal, Jr., president and CEO, Little Calumet Holdings, LLC, creators of Vidazorb. “Maintaining the correct balance of intestinal microflora is essential to sustaining good health, and this can be aided by adding a probiotic supplement to a healthy diet.”

If you grew up watching Alison Sweeney on Days of Our Lives like I did, I'm sure you will agree that you feel a sort of kinship with her. And I can relate to her now, more than ever, in this season of my life. Just like her, I am a mom (although take her kids times 2 for me) and juggling a fast paced career. And just like her, and most other women who have had children, I struggled (and still do) with my weight post-pregnancy. Much like the website/blog in her namesake is friendly and most of all, real, so is her new book The Mommy Diet.

As host of The Biggest Loser, I'm sure Ali learned a thing or two about diet and exercise. I'm equally as sure that she listened to feedback from the public on what they like about Biggest Loser and what they don't. And as most of us know, we are more likely to be encouraged and motivated by diet tips that we can easily assimilate into our own individual lifestyles than by military style regimens. 

Sure to be a hit, The Mommy Diet, will guide you step by step through pregnancy and thereafter so that you can be healthy and not have to worry about carrying around that "baby weight"...even when your youngest is now in preschool. (Not speaking from experience or anything!)

Check out The Mommy Diet on Amazon.com and see all of Alison Sweeney's health, fitness and lifestyle tips on her website www.AlisonSweeney.com.

The heads of the popular diet website Fat Man Unleashed are nearing the final stretch of a six month weight loss challenge featuring top home diet delivery companies BistroMD and Nutrisystem.

Frank Cruz and Israel Lagares from Fat Man Unleashed have lost a total of 80 pounds. A life-and-death choice is how Cruz refers to his decision to work towards a healthy goal weight of 210 pounds. His family struggled with diabetes, heart problems and weight management. In 2000, Cruz's father underwent a quadruple bypass and open heart surgery. Months later, both of his diabetic grandparents from his father's side of the family passed away from massive heart attacks. By 2005, Cruz was tipping the scales at almost 300 lbs for his 5-foot 11-inch frame. With a young wife and baby at home, Cruz knew that he had to make a change. After several failed attempts at yo-yo dieting, Cruz now refers to his daily progress as death to the yo-yo life.

"I wanted to move past my other experiences and show the world that it is possible for you to transform your life right now from your home," said Cruz.

At a time when the country is facing an obesity epidemic, the problem of nutrition inadequacy is often overlooked. Yet, many Americans are overweight and undernourished, concludes a new study called "What America's Missing."(1)  

The new research, which analyzed government food consumption survey data, indicates that nine out of 10 Americans fall short of key nutrients in their diets – shortages that could put their health at risk. The report identifies a total of 11 "gap nutrients," including calcium, vitamin D and potassium – three of the "nutrients of concern" identified in the 2010 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee's report.

Closing the Gap

To help close the nation's nutrient gap, the National Milk Mustache "got milk?"® Campaign is launching an education initiative today on 1-11-11 to showcase the power of "pouring one more" with the help of actress, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and mom-of-three Susan Sarandon. Sarandon appears in a new milk commercial airing today, directed by noted actor-director Tony Goldwyn. She also dons a milk mustache in her own "got milk?" print ad that debuts January 12 in Parenting Magazine. Both ads encourage moms to "Pour One More" serving of milk to help ensure their families get the nutrients they need. The print copy says:

At an event today in Washington D.C., Walmart, the nation's largest grocer, today unveiled a comprehensive effort to provide its customers with healthier and more affordable food choices. The company was joined by First Lady Michelle Obama as it outlined the five key elements of the program including:

1. Reformulating thousands of everyday packaged food items by 2015 by reducing sodium 25 percent and added sugars 10 percent, and by removing all remaining industrially produced trans fats. The company will work with suppliers to improve the nutritional quality of national food brands and its Great Value private brand in key product categories to complete the reformulations;
2. Making healthier choices more affordable, saving customers approximately $1 billion per year on fresh fruits and vegetables through a variety of sourcing, pricing and transportation and logistics initiatives that will drive unnecessary costs out of the supply chain. Walmart will also dramatically reduce or eliminate the price premium on key “better-for-you” items, such as reduced sodium, sugar or fat products;
3. Developing strong criteria for a simple front-of-package seal that will help consumers instantly identify truly healthier food options such as whole grain cereal, whole wheat pasta or unsweetened canned fruit;  
4. Providing solutions to address food deserts by building stores in underserved communities that are in need of fresh and affordable groceries; and
5. Increasing charitable support for nutrition programs that help educate consumers about healthier food solutions and choices.

New research indicates that eating more fruits and vegetables may reduce your risk of dying from heart disease. According to a new study from the University of Oxford and published in the European Heart Journal, people who consumed eight or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day were 22 percent less likely to die from ischemic heart disease than those who consumed three or fewer servings a day.

Even among those who didn't eat a full eight servings each day, the more fruits and vegetables consumed consistently indicated a lower heart disease risk. For every additional serving above two per day, researchers found a four percent decrease in the rate of heart disease deaths.

Recent government sodium intake guidelines only re-confirms what those in the health industry have been proposing for a while. Cut back on the salt or your health is at risk.

Those with hypertension, chronic kidney disease or who have diabetes, as well as African Americans, are suggested to cut back their sodium intake to just a half a teaspoon per day. Anyone 51 or older are also recommended to follow the guideline. While those who are considered in good health are suggested to only have a teaspoon per day of sodium. 

For food companies already marketing low-sodium foods, this new government guideline may help to provide a boost in sales. Not to mention publicity that will put another positive spin on their products. 

AlsoSalt, a salt substitute, has a great list of low sodium foods on their website, as well as an explanation of low sodium food labels. You can also find the Pocket Guide to Low Sodium Foods here as well. 

Will you be cutting back on your salt intake? Tweet us your response @PierceMattiePR.

I can remember back when I was around 7, my mother used to always fix me a bowl of oatmeal before school. I found the taste rather odd and I used to always say,”Mom why am I eating this?”

She would respond back saying,”Because it's good for you.”

How many times have we heard that? Well after I grew up, I found out that she wasn't kidding. Oatmeal is actually really good for you. There are many variations of oats: rolled oats, steel oats and crushed oats to name a few. The most common variation of oat that Americans intake is known as rolled oat and is usually associated with breakfast.

What makes oatmeal so great is that it is rich in dietary fibers which is imperative for our diets. Not many people get there recommended fiber intake and thus products like Activia, Fiber One and even McDonald's new oatmeal have emerged. Having high fiber is crucial because it can help lower your cholesterol. While we at Pierce Mattie have recently noticed a few aspiring nutrition bloggers bashing oatmeal, we ask – can you suggest something better for breakfast? We don’t think so.

I can remember back when I was around 7, my mother used to always fix me a bowl of oatmeal before school. I found the taste rather odd and I used to always say,”Mom why am I eating this?”

She would respond back saying,”Because it's good for you.”

How many times have we heard that? Well after I grew up, I found out that she wasn't kidding. Oatmeal is actually really good for you. There are many variations of oats: rolled oats, steel oats and crushed oats to name a few. The most common variation of oat that Americans intake is known as rolled oat and is usually associated with breakfast.

What makes oatmeal so great is that it is rich in dietary fibers which is imperative for our diets. Not many people get there recommended fiber intake and thus products like Activia, Fiber One and even McDonald's new oatmeal have emerged. Having high fiber is crucial because it can help lower your cholesterol. While we at Pierce Mattie have recently noticed a few aspiring nutrition bloggers bashing oatmeal, we ask – can you suggest something better for breakfast? We don’t think so.

I can remember back when I was around 7, my mother used to always fix me a bowl of oatmeal before school. I found the taste rather odd and I used to always say,”Mom why am I eating this?”

She would respond back saying,”Because it's good for you.”

How many times have we heard that? Well after I grew up, I found out that she wasn't kidding. Oatmeal is actually really good for you. There are many variations of oats: rolled oats, steel oats and crushed oats to name a few. The most common variation of oat that Americans intake is known as rolled oat and is usually associated with breakfast.

What makes oatmeal so great is that it is rich in dietary fibers which is imperative for our diets. Not many people get there recommended fiber intake and thus products like Activia, Fiber One and even McDonald's new oatmeal have emerged. Having high fiber is crucial because it can help lower your cholesterol. While we at Pierce Mattie have recently noticed a few aspiring nutrition bloggers bashing oatmeal, we ask – can you suggest something better for breakfast? We don’t think so.

Got a sweet tooth? If you're a normal person, you more than likely do. Cookies, pastries, and muffins are just a few that I enjoy. As great as these desserts are, consuming a large amount of sugar isn't always the healthiest thing to do.

But don't fret, there are a plethora of sugar alternatives circling around including Stevia. Stevia is a natural herb found in Brazil, China, Japan and Paraguay. There has been a bit of a controversy with the FDA over the years, however there have been no facts to prove that it is not beneficial for your system. In fact it has been proved to have none of the drawbacks that sugar possesses.

Stevia can have an impact of up to 15x the sweetness of sugar. So essentially you won't need to use as much Stevia as you would sugar. It's a great sugar alternative and is mostly found in your local health food store and you local supermarket. 

Because of the health state that our country is in, it's imperative that we eat and live at our best as frequently as we can. Stevia has the ability to be used in any of your recipes that call for sugar. I've seen some great recipes for banana bread, apple crisp and carrot cake that all include Stevia. So if you want to try something new, head to your local store or try sites like Truvia.com or SteviaintheRaw.com to make a purchase!

Kashi Company, the premier natural food and lifestyle company, today announced the launch of two new tasty foods that the whole family can enjoy: Kashi Berry Blossoms cereal, a berry-kissed whole grain cereal, and Kashi TLC Cherry Vanilla Cereal Bars, the latest addition to the TLC family of wholesome snacks.  Kashi Berry Blossoms cereal and Cherry Vanilla Cereal Bars deliver the positive nutrition people have come to know and expect from Kashi, a nutritious way to help your family make the most of their day.

"At Kashi, we try to provide families with easy ways to jump-start their day with foods they can feel good about," says Keegan Sheridan, natural food and lifestyle expert at Kashi.  "We're excited to introduce these tasty new foods with whole grain nutrition and real fruit to kick off the morning right."

Kashi Company, the premier natural food and lifestyle company, today announced the launch of two new tasty foods that the whole family can enjoy: Kashi Berry Blossoms cereal, a berry-kissed whole grain cereal, and Kashi TLC Cherry Vanilla Cereal Bars, the latest addition to the TLC family of wholesome snacks.  Kashi Berry Blossoms cereal and Cherry Vanilla Cereal Bars deliver the positive nutrition people have come to know and expect from Kashi, a nutritious way to help your family make the most of their day.

"At Kashi, we try to provide families with easy ways to jump-start their day with foods they can feel good about," says Keegan Sheridan, natural food and lifestyle expert at Kashi.  "We're excited to introduce these tasty new foods with whole grain nutrition and real fruit to kick off the morning right."

Kashi Company, the premier natural food and lifestyle company, today announced the launch of two new tasty foods that the whole family can enjoy: Kashi Berry Blossoms cereal, a berry-kissed whole grain cereal, and Kashi TLC Cherry Vanilla Cereal Bars, the latest addition to the TLC family of wholesome snacks.  Kashi Berry Blossoms cereal and Cherry Vanilla Cereal Bars deliver the positive nutrition people have come to know and expect from Kashi, a nutritious way to help your family make the most of their day.

"At Kashi, we try to provide families with easy ways to jump-start their day with foods they can feel good about," says Keegan Sheridan, natural food and lifestyle expert at Kashi.  "We're excited to introduce these tasty new foods with whole grain nutrition and real fruit to kick off the morning right."

Kashi Company, the premier natural food and lifestyle company, today announced the launch of two new tasty foods that the whole family can enjoy: Kashi Berry Blossoms cereal, a berry-kissed whole grain cereal, and Kashi TLC Cherry Vanilla Cereal Bars, the latest addition to the TLC family of wholesome snacks.  Kashi Berry Blossoms cereal and Cherry Vanilla Cereal Bars deliver the positive nutrition people have come to know and expect from Kashi, a nutritious way to help your family make the most of their day.

"At Kashi, we try to provide families with easy ways to jump-start their day with foods they can feel good about," says Keegan Sheridan, natural food and lifestyle expert at Kashi.  "We're excited to introduce these tasty new foods with whole grain nutrition and real fruit to kick off the morning right."

Within the past two years or so, Greek yogurt has become a foodie trend and the superstar of the dairy aisle. For some, it’s an acquired taste…but it’s definitely worth trying. The slightly cheesy, slightly sweet flavor of Greek yogurt is a guilt-free option, as it’s completely devoid of sugar and packed with protein.

Greek yogurt was once a commodity in the US, but now consumers are met with a wide array of choices at the food store. Fage (pronounced “fa-yeh”) Greek yogurt is the leader in its field, bringing high-quality, authentic Greek yogurt to the States directly from Athens. With over 85 years of rich history both abroad and in our own country, Fage has remained dedicated to high-quality products that promote a healthy lifestyle.

Within the past two years or so, Greek yogurt has become a foodie trend and the superstar of the dairy aisle. For some, it’s an acquired taste…but it’s definitely worth trying. The slightly cheesy, slightly sweet flavor of Greek yogurt is a guilt-free option, as it’s completely devoid of sugar and packed with protein.

Greek yogurt was once a commodity in the US, but now consumers are met with a wide array of choices at the food store. Fage (pronounced “fa-yeh”) Greek yogurt is the leader in its field, bringing high-quality, authentic Greek yogurt to the States directly from Athens. With over 85 years of rich history both abroad and in our own country, Fage has remained dedicated to high-quality products that promote a healthy lifestyle.

Within the past two years or so, Greek yogurt has become a foodie trend and the superstar of the dairy aisle. For some, it’s an acquired taste…but it’s definitely worth trying. The slightly cheesy, slightly sweet flavor of Greek yogurt is a guilt-free option, as it’s completely devoid of sugar and packed with protein.

Greek yogurt was once a commodity in the US, but now consumers are met with a wide array of choices at the food store. Fage (pronounced “fa-yeh”) Greek yogurt is the leader in its field, bringing high-quality, authentic Greek yogurt to the States directly from Athens. With over 85 years of rich history both abroad and in our own country, Fage has remained dedicated to high-quality products that promote a healthy lifestyle.

Bakers, set your ovens to 350 degrees. Sandra Lee, editor-in-chief of Semi-Homemade Magazine, host of the highly-rated Food Network cooking shows, Semi-Homemade Cooking and Money Saving Meals, and the spokesperson for Share Our Strength's largest annual fundraiser, The Great American Bake Sale™ and No Kid Hungry™ campaigns has created a new cookbook, Sandra Lee Bake Sale Cookbook (John Wiley & Sons, Inc, March 29th, $19.95), a tribute to delicious time-saving sweet and savory recipes perfect for bake sales, gift-giving and good, old-fashioned fun.  With fifty percent of the future royalties from the book going to support Feeding America®, Share Our Strength®, and No Kid Hungry™, Sandra encourages Americans to host bake sales to help end childhood hunger. Sandra Lee Bake Sale Cookbook will ensure that there's always a reason to say "yes" to baked goods.  

In keeping with the theme of Bake Sale Cookbook and Sandra's commitment to providing support to America's food banks, she will be hosting the World's Largest Bake Sale with Mario Batali, Emeril Lagasse, Lidia Bastianich and Rosanna Scotto on March 29, 2011 in historic Vanderbilt Hall at Grand Central Terminal in New York City from 11:30 am - 7:00 pm.  The World's Largest Bake Sale, sponsored by the Pyrex® brand, will feature savory and sweet baked goods from 30 of New York's most celebrated chefs and restaurants.  Sandra's fellow Food Network star, Duff Goldman from "Ace of Cakes" will also be in attendance.  This event will be the impetus for ancillary bake sale events happening simultaneously that day by 54 teams across the nation, using Pyrex glass bakeware to bake their goods, and raise funds for local area food banks through Share Our Strength.  

Greek Yogurt seems to be the healthy snack of choice lately. A few weeks ago, I discussed the popularity of Fage Greek yogurt, and now everyone’s favorite yogurt brand is jumping on the bandwagon. Yoplait recently released a new line of Greek yogurt products that promise to satisfy hunger without any extra calories.

It’s no surprise why Yoplait is joining in on the trend. Greek yogurt is chock-full of protein, the ultimate body fuel and the foundation for building strong muscles. Studies have also found that the protein-packed snack may keep your body satisfied for longer, so you’ll be less apt to make unhealthy snacking choices throughout the day. Especially for those who are watching their weight (bathing suit season is quickly approaching), it’s a great diet snack that doesn’t taste “diet” at all.

Nutritionists recommend fat-free, protein-rich snacking options, and Yoplait’s new Greek yogurt certainly fits the bill. At 160 calories with zero calories from fat (yes, really zero), it’s a tasty little escape from your mundane snack choices. It’s packed with protein, too: each 6-oz cup contains 14 to 17 grams of it, with all the texture and flavor you expect in a Greek yogurt.

Counting calories can be a real pain. Especially when you're dining out and unsure of how many calories is in your penne pasta that you ordered from your favorite restaurant. It's much easier to count them when you are cooking your food, but it can be a different story when you're out dining.

Introducing Pocket Posh Dining Out Calorie Counter: Your Guide to Thousands of Foods from Your Favorite Restaurants. This compact book was written by nutritionist Pamela Nisevich Bede. This woman knows a thing or two about what it means to be eat and exercise a healthy lifestyle. I mean she has ran about 13 marathons to date. With this book, she wants her readers to be able to live the best life that they can and be able to moderate the foods that are going into their system.

Carla Hall, Bravo's Top Chef finalist and advocate for healthy, balanced food, will team up with Alere Health at the 8th Annual World Health Care Congress (WHCC) in Washington, D.C., to offer cooking demonstrations, exclusive recipes and dish out samples, all from Alere's exhibit booth April 4 – 6.

Alere Health, the health management services business of Alere Inc., provides health and wellness programs to health plans and large employers nationwide. "Making moderate, lasting changes in diet and other lifestyle choices is truly the key to reducing health risks," said Alere Health CEO Tom Underwood. "We are honored that Carla shares our vision for empowering individuals to make healthy eating choices."

Known for her unique combination of comfort food infused with Southern, as well as French inspirations, Carla believes that healthy eating can taste good – especially when combined with fresh organic fruits, vegetables and herbs. She shares five simple steps for a healthy and more balanced life.  

1.  Keep it simple. Eating healthy doesn't have to be complicated. Carla notes that often people substitute easy for healthy. She suggests trying a healthy fruit smoothie for breakfast; making a chocolate banana protein shake for a snack; and always having lots of fruit, nuts and fresh veggies around for snacking as opposed to chips.

The Fresh Diet, America's premier diet meal-delivery plan, announces today, the opening of their first Grab+Go retail location in North Miami. The store, which is located on the main level, under L.A. Fitness at The Causeway Square, 1813 NE 123rd Street; is selling fresh food items from The Fresh Diet's (TFD) premier meal plan service.  

"The Fresh Diet Grab+Go provides consumers, who don't currently subscribe to our daily meal delivery plan, the opportunity to sample our food in a convenient retail location," says The Fresh Diet's CEO, Zalmi Duchman.  "The store is also a nutritious 'fast food' option for those who currently value a fit lifestyle, making Miami an ideal setting for the first of many more Grab+Go locales to come."

We’ve all been there – the jeans we threw on yesterday morning somehow don’t seem to fit this afternoon. It can be a serious blow to the ego, but it’s important to remember that it’s probably not the result of rapid weight gain, but rather from bloating or another gastrointestinal issue.

Problems like these arise from time to time, and it’s important for women to have the answers to any stomach issues they may have. The new book A Woman’s Guide to a Healthy Stomach is a trusty little handbook that addresses many common questions about the stomach problems that plague women everywhere. When over 70 million Americans are affected by digestive problems, it’s vital for women (who are especially vulnerable) to get the help and relief they need.

Dr. Jacqueline L. Wolf is a leading expert in gastrointestinal health and has laid out the causes and remedies for the most-loathed ailments, including constipation, acid reflux, and IBS. Dr. Wolf also makes a point to address more serious but very real stomach conditions like Crohn’s disease and endometriosis.

As National Nutrition month comes to a close, Alere Health, the health management services business of Alere Inc., highlights four ways that the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) updated dietary guidelines can be used to encourage actionable changes in behavior.

In January, the USDA released the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA), using the most blunt language to date about the need to confront America's obesity epidemic.  The guidelines also include changes that reduce recommended sodium and trans fats levels.

How often do you eat your recommended daily fruit and vegetable intake? If your diet is anything like mine, not very often at all. According to the notorious food pyramid, we should be eating at least 3 to 5 servings of vegetables and 2 to 4 servings of fruits a day. As great as carrots and apples can be, not all of us are munching on them as frequently as we should be.

Well that can all end now because of Kristine Miles' upcoming book, The Green Smoothie Bible. In her book she has over 300 different recipes of green smoothies that are loaded with vegetables and fruits that exceed the daily recommended amounts. The green smoothie diet has been all the rage the last few years because of it's ability to pack in great amount of leafy veggies and fruits that are imperative to our diets. Why in the form of a smoothie? It's quick, tasty and all around more fulfilling than sitting around eating celery sticks all day.

According to Margaret Floyd, we aren’t naked enough…that is, in terms of food. The nutritional therapist is among a growing number of people behind the push to eat “naked” foods for a healthier, happier life.

What is naked food, exactly? The answer is simple: foods that are fresh, organic, and prepared to let the natural flavors be the focus of the meal. It means no more of the overprocessed junk foods that Americans have created a long-term, love-hate relationship with.

Unprocessed foods have endless benefits. When we eat foods in their most natural state, we’re feeding ourselves with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals in their most organic states. A general feeling of well-being, better skin, and less illness has been attributed to eating raw, and organic foods put less stress on our body organs so it’s guaranteed we’ll function better on the whole.

It seems that there’s a new diet fad every day. We’ve tried the low-carb diet, the low-sugar diet, the cabbage soup diet…heck, even that wacky lemonade juice diet. Faced with so many fads, how is the average person supposed to choose a diet plan that’s not only effective, but healthy too?

The truth is, losing weight doesn’t come down to dieting. It comes down to making a healthy life change in terms of our eating that will fuel both mind and body. Cherie Calbom, better known as the Juice Lady, has found through research that a live food lifestyle is one of the most beneficial diet changes we can make for ourselves. Her new book, Living Foods Revolution explains the benefits of “live” foods backed by scientific research.

“Live” food, or more simply, raw food has been proven to enhance cell communication, resulting in a healthier, energetic, and more vibrant you. Aside from increased happiness, raw foods are also linked to disease prevention and better skin. The Juice Lady isn’t suggesting you switch to an all-raw diet, but by incorporating more raw foods into meals daily, she promises you will see results and feel more energetic almost instantly.

I always try to find new ways to cook my dinners with exciting recipes that are also very healthy. As great as some things are for you, not everything tastes as wonderful as it looks. Authors Carol Field Dahlstrom, Elizabeth Dahlstrom Burnley and Marcia Schultz Dahlstrom wanted to make sure that they made their foods aesthetically pleasing and delicious all at the same time.

Introducing Gluten-Free Made Simple: Everyday Meals That Everyone Can Enjoy. Within the pages of this book are over 100 delectable recipes that are gluten-free. And you may ask, “What does that mean?” Well, gluten is a food additive that is comes from wheat, rye and barley. This protein is not always the healthiest and eating without it can decrease your chances of getting Celiac disease. Eating a gluten-free diet is the only known treatment for this disease.

As May is National Barbecue Month, John McLemore has culled 10 BBQ Tips from his book "DADGUM, That's Good!" Kickbutt Recipes for Smoking, Grilling, Frying, Boiling and Steaming

• 60,000 copies have already been sold to QVC, where John has legions of fans.
• Paula Deen - in her foreword to the book - said, "I can't think of anything that has made my cooking life easier than John's awesome Masterbuilt products ... John has set a new standard of cooking with this book."

John McLemore, a Southerner through-and-through, was born an entrepreneur and accidentally became a cook. John and Don, brothers and owners of Masterbuilt cooking products, often tested their products by making family recipes. During this testing they realized they had created a simple method of cooking what most people consider very difficult recipes.  With the publication of "DADGUM, That's Good!" anyone can cook these great recipes with ease.

Now you don’t have to guess and speculate about the vitamins your body needs. Nature’s Code, promoted by Dr. Edward Taub and Dr. James Rouse, is a wellness brand that produces vitamins and supplements to suit different health needs. Dr. James Rouse has had many years of experience in the health field including being a naturopathic doctor, QVC wellness doctor, a certified yoga instructor, wellness magazine founder, author, radio talk show host, and television personality. He believes that if people adopt a lifestyle that includes a healthy diet, diet supplements, positive thoughts, and exercise they can achieve optimum wellness.

Nature’s Code has supplements for various needs including bone support, cognitive support, digestive support, energy support, general health, to name a few. Nature’s Code really tried to meet every need and even produces vitamins in pill and liquid form to suit different preferences. This brand also produces healthy and delicious juice drinks and nutrition bars.

The Slim & Beautiful Diet was created by Dr. Aaron Tabor to help his mother lose weight. This diet has been proven to be more effective than simply taking a diet pill and it helps you lose overall body weight. Dr. Tabor doesn't believe that anyone should allow their body to starve (because in the long run, who can maintain that?) and therefore designed a diet that is low in calories, but high in nutrition.

The protein shakes and bars are low-glycemic, gluten-free, trans-fat free, rich in calcium and Kosher. There are also soy-based options for those who are lactose intolerant. The Slim & Beautiful Diet has not only been found to help in weight loss, but also in making your skin, nails and hair look younger. In addition, the diet has been tested and gives guaranteed results.

Many people find it hard to know what or how much to eat to lose weight. Now you don’t have to worry about that. The diet comes with reference booklets of eating plans. Staying on track with this diet is easy, it even allows for you to eat some of your favorites like chocolate and pasta during your diet! In addition, you can get free nutrition counseling to help you maintain your diet and reach your desired goals.

Donna Gates, author of The Baby Boomers Diet, has written and published three other nutritional books. The lecturer and nutritional consultant's first book, The Body Ecology Diet, was written after her struggle with finding a cure to candidiasissince when doctors and medicine were of no help.

The Body Ecology Diet is about building up your immune system so candidaisas and other immune related disorders stop reoccurring. Based on many of the ideas of the original Body Ecology Diet, this new installment focuses primarily one one generation, baby boomers. This new book gives anti-aging secrets and ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet, such as the BED diet. Gates also addresses inflammation and the causes it has on your body and early aging, as well as, the best anti-aging foods to keep around to help not only your appearance but also your energy levels!

As most know the older we get, the less energy we have, but a lot of this depends on what foods you eat and what your diet consists of. This book is all about sticking with the lifestyle you already live, just with a few tweaks to it, cutting out some bad foods, adding in some good, and catching the right amount of hours of sleep. Find it on Amazon.com for $17.70.

Internationally recognized health researchers presented their views at the recent 30th World Nut & Dried Fruit Congress, recommending that food policy makers consider dried fruits equivalent to fresh fruits in dietary recommendations around the world. The presentations recognized that traditional, no-sugar added dried fruits, such as raisins, dried plums (prunes), figs, dates, apricots and apples should be included side by side with fresh fruit recommendations by global policy makers.

Organized by the International Nut and Dried Fruit Foundation (INC), the 30th World Nut & Dried Fruit Congress brought together industry leaders and researchers in an international dried fruit round table. The round table highlighted the collaboration by thirteen scientists from the United States, Greece, Turkey, Japan, and the United Kingdom on the paper entitled Traditional Dried Fruits: Valuable Tools to Meet Dietary Recommendations for Fruit Intake accessible at http://www.nutfruit.org/inc-projects/driedfruits.

McDonald's popular slogan may be "lovin' it" but consumers beg to differ, the fast food icon was joined by Burger King, KFC and Taco Bell among the lower ranked chains in Consumer Reports first ever major fast food ratings.

The survey, based on responses from 36,733 subscribers who made more than 98,000 visits to 53 fast-food chains revealed that readers found them to offer uninspiring food, only so-so service. Other major chains with relatively low scores: sandwich shops Arby's and Quiznos and pizza joints Domino's and Pizza Hut.

"Chains like McDonald's and Taco Bell boast supersized values, but consumers don't necessarily think they offer much bang for the buck," said Tod Marks, Senior Projects Editor, Consumer Reports. "Fifty four percent of our subscribers cited low prices as a reason for picking a particular fast-food restaurant."

Doctor William Davis, author of the upcoming book Wheat Belly: Lose the Weight, and Find your Path Back to Health is an outstanding cardiologist from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Davis’s new book is about the effects of eating wheat and carb’s and how they negatively impact your health.

Some may say Davis is a bit unconventional, as he has a different view on the heart health industry that he discusses in depth in his book. Davis believes the key to a healthy heart is very easy, cutting out carbohydrates and wheat from your diet. He thinks the whole fuss around heart health is a scam of the medical industry. This idea isn’t too far out there, cardiac care reportedly is worth almost sixty billion dollars, and as a cardiac doctor himself, Davis believed he was completely on top of the new medicines and treatments when his mother died from a heart attack. This began his journey to finding a cure for keeping cholesterol down and arteries unclogged.

This book gives the reader all the correct information on the harm wheat has on our body as well as nutritional tips and recommendations for staying healthy and happy.

This book is available on August 30th, but you can pre-order on Amazon.com.

A study published June 29 in Diabetes Care suggests that nuts, such as pistachios, are a healthy food choice for people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers from the University of Toronto and St. Michael's Hospital found that people with type 2 diabetes, who ate about two ounces of tree nuts in place of carbohydrates, improved their long-term blood sugar control and lowered their cholesterol levels.

A study published June 29 in Diabetes Care suggests that nuts, such as pistachios, are a healthy food choice for people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers from the University of Toronto and St. Michael's Hospital found that people with type 2 diabetes, who ate about two ounces of tree nuts in place of carbohydrates, improved their long-term blood sugar control and lowered their cholesterol levels.

A study published June 29 in Diabetes Care suggests that nuts, such as pistachios, are a healthy food choice for people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers from the University of Toronto and St. Michael's Hospital found that people with type 2 diabetes, who ate about two ounces of tree nuts in place of carbohydrates, improved their long-term blood sugar control and lowered their cholesterol levels.

We've discussed pediatric obesity many times at Pierce Mattie PR on this blog; from Jamie Oliver and his Food Revolution to my take on school vending machines to the popularity of video games for child fitness. But now there is a diet book said to target teens by author Paul Kramer that is making waves with parents, not because it is supposed to explain about making "healthy food choices" in a story line, but because it discusses an unhappy, obese child getting bullied then going on a diet, losing weight and living happily ever after as the school's soccer star.

Maggie Goes on a Diet will be released in October, but some parents are already calling a boycott on the book. First of all, its target demographic are girls as young as 6 up to 12. As an aunt of nieces ages 6-9, I can honestly say that I would never choose to teach them about healthy eating habits by getting them a book about dieting. I also wouldn't dare to give them the example of, if you are overwight then you are unhappy and unliked, but if you are thin, you are loved and adored. Sure, most of the time in grade school this is what life boils down to, but do we honestly need to set a precedent as young as 6 that we need to be thin to achieve things in life? Isn't that why we have an epidemic of eating disorders?

We'd like to hear what you think. Tweet us @PierceMattiePR and let us know what you think of a diet book for young girls.

For decades health experts across the country have been declaring the "breakfast is the most important meal of the day" mantra, but the reality is that more than 34 million Americans don't eat breakfast. The lack of breakfast makes a big impact on a family's day, and is an even bigger problem for growing children. Elizabeth Somer, registered dietitian and author of "Eat Your Way to Happiness," cautions that the most important item on a family's back to school list should be getting into the breakfast habit.

"Everyone benefits from the nutrients that breakfast can provide," said Somer. The most recent 2010 Dietary Guidelines encourage Americans to eat a nutrient-rich diet by increasing fruit and vegetable consumption starting at breakfast and continuing throughout the day.  

The 1-2-3 Rule for a Healthy Start to Your Day

To help people squeeze breakfast into their daily routine, Somer developed the 1-2-3 rule. She recommends:

1. Include whole grains, such as cereal, waffles or oatmeal, to help fuel your day.
2. Eat protein such as milk or peanut butter to help you to feel satisfied.
3. Be sure to consume at least two servings of colorful fruits and vegetables.

For decades health experts across the country have been declaring the "breakfast is the most important meal of the day" mantra, but the reality is that more than 34 million Americans don't eat breakfast. The lack of breakfast makes a big impact on a family's day, and is an even bigger problem for growing children. Elizabeth Somer, registered dietitian and author of "Eat Your Way to Happiness," cautions that the most important item on a family's back to school list should be getting into the breakfast habit.

"Everyone benefits from the nutrients that breakfast can provide," said Somer. The most recent 2010 Dietary Guidelines encourage Americans to eat a nutrient-rich diet by increasing fruit and vegetable consumption starting at breakfast and continuing throughout the day.  

The 1-2-3 Rule for a Healthy Start to Your Day

To help people squeeze breakfast into their daily routine, Somer developed the 1-2-3 rule. She recommends:

1. Include whole grains, such as cereal, waffles or oatmeal, to help fuel your day.
2. Eat protein such as milk or peanut butter to help you to feel satisfied.
3. Be sure to consume at least two servings of colorful fruits and vegetables.

The TV series The Doctors is becoming more and more popular since its original airdate in 2008. The show mainly focuses on medical and health issues, as well as providing discussions based on questions presented by various audience members. An emergency room physician hosts the 60-minute series, along with another trained physician, a pediatrician, obstetrician, and plastic surgeon. Another interesting aspect of the show that many viewers are unaware of, is that Phil McGraw, the host of Dr. Phil, created the hit show.

For their fourth season they have added on a new co-host whom we all admire - Jillian Michaels. Jillian Michaels is largely well known, particularly for her nutrition, weight-loss and coaching expertise. She became even more inspiring through training and coaching on the TV show, The Biggest Loser.

Not only has Michaels achieved these inspirational TV roles, but she has mounds of other accomplishments, such as; holding a black belt in martial arts, 2 personal trainer certificates from the leading certification programs in the United States - the National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association (NESTA) and the American Fitness Association of America (AFAA), holds a nutrition and wellness consultant certificate with the American Fitness Professionals Associates (AFPA). Michaels has also written four bestselling books, such as; Making the Cut, Unlimited: How to Build and Exceptional Life, and more. In addition to her popular books, she has created countless workout and weight-loss DVDs that are listed as best sellers, like Ripped in 30, and Yoga Meltdown. She even has 3 video games the Wii system to help you with your fitness level!

Michaels is also actively involved in many charities by holding the position of the ambassador for the American Cancer Society, the ambassador for Stand Up 2 Cancer, and works on various programs to help stop childhood obesity.

Check out their local listings on their website to find out when you can watch!

Will you be tuning in to watch this season ofThe Doctors? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR!

Time Out New York's annual "100 Best Dishes and Drinks" issue hit stands today and in celebration, the publication is rewarding its devoted fans with a full year of giveaways across multiple social media platforms. Time Out New York invites consumers to experience the #100best restaurants throughout the city by sampling its critics' picks of the top dishes and drinks, then share what they eat, drink, taste and see on social media for a chance to win prizes. The cover of the annual issue incorporates the #100best hashtag, innately linking a social media component to the magazine for the first time. To view the full #100best list visit www.timeoutnewyork.com.

"We want our audience to experience all the amazing things the city has to offer by engaging with our content in a new way," said Janet Caputo, Social Media Director, Time Out New York. "#100best will be fun for our consumers, while also driving awareness for New York businesses and the fantastic fare our critics have discovered. This is our first major social media initiative since Time Out New York became part of a global digital media enterprise thanks to an investment by Oakley Capital," Caputo continued. "We look forward to many more similar projects."  

Time Out New York's annual "100 Best Dishes and Drinks" issue hit stands today and in celebration, the publication is rewarding its devoted fans with a full year of giveaways across multiple social media platforms. Time Out New York invites consumers to experience the #100best restaurants throughout the city by sampling its critics' picks of the top dishes and drinks, then share what they eat, drink, taste and see on social media for a chance to win prizes. The cover of the annual issue incorporates the #100best hashtag, innately linking a social media component to the magazine for the first time. To view the full #100best list visit www.timeoutnewyork.com.

"We want our audience to experience all the amazing things the city has to offer by engaging with our content in a new way," said Janet Caputo, Social Media Director, Time Out New York. "#100best will be fun for our consumers, while also driving awareness for New York businesses and the fantastic fare our critics have discovered. This is our first major social media initiative since Time Out New York became part of a global digital media enterprise thanks to an investment by Oakley Capital," Caputo continued. "We look forward to many more similar projects."  

Spartan Stores announced today that its Spartan brand packaging will now include front of the packaging nutrition icons making the company one of the first retailers in the nation to do so. The new labels support the voluntary Facts Up Front nutrition labeling system designed by the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) and the Grocery Manufacturing Association (GMA).

Spartan Stores has voluntarily placed the Facts Up Front nutrition icons on the front of products to highlight calories, saturated fat, sodium and sugar per serving, the daily value percentages for saturated fat and sodium, plus up to two icons showing "nutrients to be encouraged," such as fiber, protein, calcium and vitamins. Facts Up Front is designed to help busy consumers – especially parents – make informed decisions when they shop.

Spartan Stores announced today that its Spartan brand packaging will now include front of the packaging nutrition icons making the company one of the first retailers in the nation to do so. The new labels support the voluntary Facts Up Front nutrition labeling system designed by the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) and the Grocery Manufacturing Association (GMA).

Spartan Stores has voluntarily placed the Facts Up Front nutrition icons on the front of products to highlight calories, saturated fat, sodium and sugar per serving, the daily value percentages for saturated fat and sodium, plus up to two icons showing "nutrients to be encouraged," such as fiber, protein, calcium and vitamins. Facts Up Front is designed to help busy consumers – especially parents – make informed decisions when they shop.

A new survey suggests that pecans are one of nature's best kept secrets.  Although medical research suggests that eating pecans in moderation may reduce the risk of heart disease, 54 percent of Americans are unaware that pecans are good for you.  Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control.  

Most Americans eat pecans in a baked good or dessert, according to the survey of 1,000 U.S. adults conducted by Chicago-based Blue Chip Marketing.  But health experts suggest you "think outside the pie" and snack on pecans as well.  Pecans fit right into the latest USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans which recommend a variety of protein foods, including seafood, lean meat, eggs, beans and nuts, such as pecans.    

Substituting about one ounce of pecans into your daily diet is a healthy alternative for many traditional snack foods, according to Beth Hubrich, R.D., a registered dietitian with the National Pecan Shellers Association.

A new survey suggests that pecans are one of nature's best kept secrets.  Although medical research suggests that eating pecans in moderation may reduce the risk of heart disease, 54 percent of Americans are unaware that pecans are good for you.  Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control.  

Most Americans eat pecans in a baked good or dessert, according to the survey of 1,000 U.S. adults conducted by Chicago-based Blue Chip Marketing.  But health experts suggest you "think outside the pie" and snack on pecans as well.  Pecans fit right into the latest USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans which recommend a variety of protein foods, including seafood, lean meat, eggs, beans and nuts, such as pecans.    

Substituting about one ounce of pecans into your daily diet is a healthy alternative for many traditional snack foods, according to Beth Hubrich, R.D., a registered dietitian with the National Pecan Shellers Association.

With thousands of support groups for dealing with health conditions on Facebook and elsewhere online, Foodily (www.foodily.com), the social recipe network that lets you compare recipes from across the web and share favorites via Facebook, has introduced new search functionality that allows people to filter recipes by specific medical conditions and share them with their circle.

Today, people using the Foodily app for Facebook or visiting Foodily can simply type in one of three specific health concerns – "Diabetes," "Gout" and "Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease" (or "GERD") – to easily browse recipes that meet their dietary needs from diverse online resources that range from independent food blogs to major mainstream cooking sites. Then, people using the Foodily app can easily share recipes that meet their dietary restrictions, and follow others with similar medical issues to discover their favorite dish recommendations without ever having to leave Facebook.

"It's tough enough dealing with a health issue as complicated as Diabetes or GERD on a daily basis, but why should that mean that you can't have a range of healthy recipe options at your fingertips? All of us at Foodily are dedicated to encouraging people to be both healthy and happy with the food on their table," said Andrea Cutright, CEO of Foodily. "Moreover, the ability to be social and share recipes on Facebook lets our users tap into their friends and family – as well as others with comparable diet restrictions – for cooking ideas and emotional reinforcement."

With thousands of support groups for dealing with health conditions on Facebook and elsewhere online, Foodily (www.foodily.com), the social recipe network that lets you compare recipes from across the web and share favorites via Facebook, has introduced new search functionality that allows people to filter recipes by specific medical conditions and share them with their circle.

Today, people using the Foodily app for Facebook or visiting Foodily can simply type in one of three specific health concerns – "Diabetes," "Gout" and "Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease" (or "GERD") – to easily browse recipes that meet their dietary needs from diverse online resources that range from independent food blogs to major mainstream cooking sites. Then, people using the Foodily app can easily share recipes that meet their dietary restrictions, and follow others with similar medical issues to discover their favorite dish recommendations without ever having to leave Facebook.

"It's tough enough dealing with a health issue as complicated as Diabetes or GERD on a daily basis, but why should that mean that you can't have a range of healthy recipe options at your fingertips? All of us at Foodily are dedicated to encouraging people to be both healthy and happy with the food on their table," said Andrea Cutright, CEO of Foodily. "Moreover, the ability to be social and share recipes on Facebook lets our users tap into their friends and family – as well as others with comparable diet restrictions – for cooking ideas and emotional reinforcement."

The latest addition to the Hill's Science Diet portfolio of pet foods – Senior 11+ Age Defying -  was recently awarded the highest ranking by GoodGuide.com, an independent website that provides consumers with expert ratings and information about the health, environmental and social performance of products and companies.

GoodGuide began rating a wide variety of pet food products earlier this year on nutritional performance, caloric content, life-stage specificity and desirability of ingredients.  Hill's Science Diet Senior 11+ Age Defying was given the highest rating (7.4 score).  This is the same score given to other Science Diet products that hold the top rank in all four GoodGuide pet food classifications: dry and wet pet food for dogs and dry and wet pet food for cats.  

Introduced in August 2011, Hill's Science Diet Senior 11+ Age Defying cat food is specifically formulated to help cats 11-years or older feel and act younger. Using an exclusive antioxidant bundle that helps defend the body and brain against aging, consumers can expect to see a cat that is more interactive and playful, more alert and agile, and has fewer litterbox accidents in just 30 days. The small kibble is easy to chew and digest, maintaining lean muscle mass typically lost by older cats; while the nutrients supports healthy cognitive function and a radiant coat with fish oil and omega fatty acids. These benefits lead to an overall increase in engagement and daily well-being for senior felines.  

The latest addition to the Hill's Science Diet portfolio of pet foods – Senior 11+ Age Defying -  was recently awarded the highest ranking by GoodGuide.com, an independent website that provides consumers with expert ratings and information about the health, environmental and social performance of products and companies.

GoodGuide began rating a wide variety of pet food products earlier this year on nutritional performance, caloric content, life-stage specificity and desirability of ingredients.  Hill's Science Diet Senior 11+ Age Defying was given the highest rating (7.4 score).  This is the same score given to other Science Diet products that hold the top rank in all four GoodGuide pet food classifications: dry and wet pet food for dogs and dry and wet pet food for cats.  

Introduced in August 2011, Hill's Science Diet Senior 11+ Age Defying cat food is specifically formulated to help cats 11-years or older feel and act younger. Using an exclusive antioxidant bundle that helps defend the body and brain against aging, consumers can expect to see a cat that is more interactive and playful, more alert and agile, and has fewer litterbox accidents in just 30 days. The small kibble is easy to chew and digest, maintaining lean muscle mass typically lost by older cats; while the nutrients supports healthy cognitive function and a radiant coat with fish oil and omega fatty acids. These benefits lead to an overall increase in engagement and daily well-being for senior felines.  

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have issued seven letters to companies warning them that they are selling illegal "homeopathic" HCG weight-loss drugs that have not been approved by FDA, and that make unsupported claims.  

FDA is advising consumers to steer clear of these illegal HCG weight-loss products that direct users to follow a severely restrictive—and potentially dangerous—diet.

These products that purport to contain the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) are sold in the form of oral drops, pellets and sprays and can be found online and in some retail stores.

• For the list of manufacturers, distributors and products, visit www.fda.gov/hcgdiet

• For more information about FDA's concerns about HCG, visit http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm281333.htm

• To watch the video, HCG: Dangerous to Dieters, in which FDA's Elizabeth Miller explains the actions taken by the federal agencies, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNryeh4rmWs

• For an audio podcast of the interview with Miller on HCG diet products, visit http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/DrugSafetyPodcasts/UCM282183.mp3

• For high-resolution photos of illegal HCG diet products, visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/fdaphotos/sets/72157628192125431/

Sign up for e-mail notices of new FDA Consumer Updates at https://service.govdelivery.com/service/subscribe.html?code=USFDA_9

View the FDA Consumer Update RSS feed at http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/ContactFDA/StayInformed/RSSFeeds/Consumers/rss.xml

FDA Consumer Updates may be posted and published elsewhere without permission. Please credit "FDA Consumer Health Information (www.fda.gov/consumer)" as the source. FDA values feedback on its consumer health information. Send questions, comments, or story ideas to: consumerinfo@fda.hhs.gov.

As health and fitness expert Jillian Michaels says, “you can eat your way through any workout.” Who wants to put in all the effort and strength and not see results because you’re pairing your exercise with an unhealthy diet? CLAY is a fitness and health club, located on West 14^th Street, designed to help and guide you through all these steps by combining personal training, various fitness classes and spa treatments and best of all, nutrition guidance. Which is perfect, because now there is really no excuse to tell yourself, they are providing all the help you need to lead a healthy, active lifestyle.

CLAY offers different nutrition guidance sessions, my favourite being the “Market Tour” and “Kitchen Renewal.” So you can feel like you’re right out of your favourite lifestyle transformation shows. The Market Tour involves you and an expert taking a trip to the grocery and going over what is healthy and why and what types of food you should stay away from. Similarly the Kitchen Renewal program is a nutrition clean up of your fridge, teaching how to transform your unhealthy habits.

I always find it is best to workout in classes or groups because you encourage each other to push a little bit harder. CLAY provides its members with a variety of fitness classes from yoga and sweat classes to power and core sessions. CLAY offers a number of perfect features that everyone would want in a health club: pilates studio, lounge, concierge and café services, full gym and exercise equipment, personal training and best of all ideal spa services that are perfect for a post-workout recovery session.

Are you a member of CLAY? Try out a trail membership to a luxurious heath club and let us know what you think @PierceMattiePR.

We've long known the benefits of omega-3's for heart health, and in recent years if you've had a child, you may have seen "DHA" on formula as important to brain health. Now, a new study, confirms just how important omega-3 fatty acids are for brain health, as baby boomers and their parents begin to fight memory loss and Alzheimer's (my grandmother included.)

Stefan Pinto had written previously about the benefits of Omega-3s for fat loss and encouraged taking daily fish oil supplements. I took Stefan's advice, but had a different benefit--it helped reduce inflammation in my joints. Diets rich in Omega-3s, as well as Vitamins B, C, D and E, have been shown to have an effect on brain shrinkage, which is associated with memory loss and Alzheimer's. Since my grandmother's recent diagnosis of Alzheimer's, I'm hoping an additional benefit of taking my 1000mg of fish oil along with my multi-vitamin daily helps me to avoid memory loss, as well. 

It's better to be proactive and begin incorporating these into your diet now rather than when you begin to show symptoms. Remember, there's so much we can reap from a healthy diet, but when there are times when that is not possible (like an overindulgent client dinner), be sure to take supplments and your vitamins.

Do you incorporate Omega-3s and vitamins into your daily eating habits? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Along with keeping up with the resolutions of the new year, not only comes staying physically fit through exercise, but by way of healthy eating as well.  Not to say that either of these practices are obligatory, yet combining both actions is the most efficient way to a healthier and better looking body. For a while here in NY, we've had FreshDirect and now Amazon has answered the call for the West coast

AmazonFresh offers many of the same online grocery shopping abilities like ordering fresh produce, the use of mobile apps for iPhone, Android and Windows 7, as well as delivery. However, AmazonFresh has the one thing FreshDirect and their competitors don't have...AmazonNow, which basically is a tab tapping into Amazon.com that you can add to your order. AmazonFresh offers fresh fruits and vegetables and about 15,000 nonperishable choices of groceries as well.  And how can you beat a free delivery offer?

Each customer has the delivery option of either the Pre-Dawn Delivery Process (which is before 6 a.m.) or sometime throughout the day at Doorstep Delivery option.  Right now specific zip codes do apply for the mentioned services in Seattle. 

Do you think we'll begin to see more online grocers like AmazonFresh? Have you tried it yourself?  Let us know at @PierceMattiePR.  

A new study by University of Scranton Chemistry Professor Joe Vinson, Ph.D., published in The Royal Society of Chemistry's journal Food and Function online on Dec. 21, 2011, shows nuts pack a healthy punch and ranks walnuts at the top for having both more healthful antioxidants, called polyphenols, and a higher antioxidant potency than the other nuts analyzed.

Dr. Vinson's study evaluated nine types of raw and roasted nuts and two types of peanut butter to assess the total amount of polyphenols found in each, as well as the polyphenols' expected ability to inhibit oxidation of lower density lipoproteins, often referred to as "bad cholesterol." His study found that walnuts had the highest levels of antioxidants and that the quality, or potency, of antioxidants present in walnuts was highest among the nuts.

"Walnuts rank above Brazil nuts, pistachios, pecans, peanuts, almonds, macadamias, cashews and hazelnuts," said Dr. Vinson. His study also found that total polyphenols in peanut butter were considerably lower than roasted peanuts, but the difference was not statistically significant.

Dr. Vinson's study also analyzed the daily consumption of nuts in both the United States and European diets. His research shows that nuts account for barely eight percent of the daily antioxidants in the average person's diet.

A new study by University of Scranton Chemistry Professor Joe Vinson, Ph.D., published in The Royal Society of Chemistry's journal Food and Function online on Dec. 21, 2011, shows nuts pack a healthy punch and ranks walnuts at the top for having both more healthful antioxidants, called polyphenols, and a higher antioxidant potency than the other nuts analyzed.

Dr. Vinson's study evaluated nine types of raw and roasted nuts and two types of peanut butter to assess the total amount of polyphenols found in each, as well as the polyphenols' expected ability to inhibit oxidation of lower density lipoproteins, often referred to as "bad cholesterol." His study found that walnuts had the highest levels of antioxidants and that the quality, or potency, of antioxidants present in walnuts was highest among the nuts.

"Walnuts rank above Brazil nuts, pistachios, pecans, peanuts, almonds, macadamias, cashews and hazelnuts," said Dr. Vinson. His study also found that total polyphenols in peanut butter were considerably lower than roasted peanuts, but the difference was not statistically significant.

Dr. Vinson's study also analyzed the daily consumption of nuts in both the United States and European diets. His research shows that nuts account for barely eight percent of the daily antioxidants in the average person's diet.

With its unique method and approach to treating disease, Hyland’s provides natural remedies for every member of the family, from the infant to the elderly.  Stringent preparation, on top of a century’s worth of homeopathic practice, Hyland’s health care remedies are endless. 

Hyland’s manufactures products for each of the following categories:  Stress/Sleep, Baby, Children’s Health, Pain Relief, Women’s Health, Digestion, Cough/Cold, First Aid, Seasonal Allergies, Skin, Topicals, Kits, Cell Salts, and Single Remedies. 

Sleep deprived from stress and anxiety?  Try Hyland’s Insomnia.  Rid yourself of worry and restlessness, with no risky side affects.  This product is safe for adults and children. 

Has that pulsating headache returned? Not an aspirin enthusiast?  Check out Hyland’s Migraine Headache Relief.  This all-natural formula is free of aspirin, acetaminophen and caffeine. More partial to topicals than tablets?  Can’t seem to escape that grating leg cramp?  Try Hyland’s Leg Cramp Ointment. Night or day, rain or shine, Hyland’s ointment temporarily relieves cramp symtomps of the leg and calf. These are only a few of the myriad remedies Hyland’s has to offer. (Shannon swears by Hyland's teething tablets! It's the only way she kept her sanity when each of her 4 sons were teething.)

Are you into holistic healthcare?  Have you checked out any of Hyland’s products?  What are your thoughts?  Let us know @PierceMattiePR.  

Warm up your winter!  There is nothing akin to bubble baths, candles, and a cup of delicious, yet calming tea at the end of your day to unwind and relax before getting some shut-eye for the night.   I was never too keen on my herbal tea preference until Yogi Tea was brought to my attention.

Although we are no longer infants, we seem to still cling to our child-like ways.  What says relaxation more so than soaking in a hot bath with hot liquid (now tea and no longer milk) running through your inner pipe works?  I cannot contrive a greater scenario. 

Yogi Tea proposes a wide variety of teas with many different, delightful flavors, each while serving a different purpose.  Do you yearn for a tranquil something to sip on?  Or perhaps you want to recharge your batteries in the a.m. and aren’t so partial to coffee.  (Neither am I!) 

Yogi Tea’s innovative, interactive website prompts you to make an initial decision with choosing your tea first by choosing either: mood, flavor or purpose.  By choosing mood, Yogi Tea asks, “how would you like to feel today?”  By choosing flavor, Yogi simply asks, “what flavor would you like to enjoy?”  And lastly, by choosing purpose, “what benefit would you like from your tea?” is asked to further discover your desires. 

Check out Yogi Tea’s colossal, flavorful selection!  Benefit your life or simply your taste buds! Is this your cup of tea?  (No pun intended!)  If you've tried Yogi Tea tweet us @PierceMattiePR.  

Chef Kent Rathbun tackled the culinary scene when he won the Food Network's show Iron Chef America with his brother Kevin Rathbun in 2008. Kent has been perfecting his passion for the culinary arts since the tender age of 9 years old. He studied in several cities such as Dallas, New Orleans, and even Bangkok, Thailand. Throughout his travels he picked up tidbits of tricks that contribute to his signature recipes that have leveraged his popularity today.

Chef Kent Rathbun has seven renowned 5-star restaurants, all located in Texas. The themes vary from Pan-Asian cuisine, to wood fire grills and steakhouses, all sure to satisfy anyone’s taste buds. Chef Kent Rathbun has also proven to be a chef for the stars. He has been featured on several television shows and cooks many prestigious meals for events. For instance, he is a regular guest chef for a “Taste of the NFL”, and has cooked for the 2001 Inaugural Ball. Most recently, Rathbun was able to personally cook his signature Lobster Shooters for Oprah, during a small screening party for the movie Red Tails.

Aside from operating his seven restaurants and cooking for celebrities, Kent has his own product line called “Kent Rathbun Elements”. This line features various sauces, marinades, and dressings. These may be simple condiments, but will add exceptional flavor to daily household meals. The products are available at all Central Market locations; however, if you do not reside in the Texas area, you can also enjoy these savory additions by purchasing Kent Rathbun Elements on www.kentrathbun.com.

Although, Kent Rathbun remains faithful to his mouthwatering dishes, he still strongly believes in maintaining healthy eating habits. After he realized the importance of healthy eating, Rathbun incorporated some of his healthy lifestyle choices into the dishes served at his restaurants. He even offers cooking classes for $400 per class, which demonstrates cooking techniques that anyone can learn. One of his classes called “Farm to Table” encourages and teaches people how to cook healthy meals straight from fresh foods grown locally.

Finally, Kent Rathbun is an advocate for subscribing to weight loss programs via mobile technologies. He relies on the Weight Watchers mobile application to help with the lifestyle changes necessary to transition to healthier diets and lose weight. After becoming acquainted with the program, he as ultimately found the balance between savory and healthy.

Have you ever tasted Kent Rathbun’s tasty treats? How do you balance taste with healthy eating habits?Tweet us @PierceMattiePR

Chef Kent Rathbun tackled the culinary scene when he won the Food Network's show Iron Chef America with his brother Kevin Rathbun in 2008. Kent has been perfecting his passion for the culinary arts since the tender age of 9 years old. He studied in several cities such as Dallas, New Orleans, and even Bangkok, Thailand. Throughout his travels he picked up tidbits of tricks that contribute to his signature recipes that have leveraged his popularity today.

Chef Kent Rathbun has seven renowned 5-star restaurants, all located in Texas. The themes vary from Pan-Asian cuisine, to wood fire grills and steakhouses, all sure to satisfy anyone’s taste buds. Chef Kent Rathbun has also proven to be a chef for the stars. He has been featured on several television shows and cooks many prestigious meals for events. For instance, he is a regular guest chef for a “Taste of the NFL”, and has cooked for the 2001 Inaugural Ball. Most recently, Rathbun was able to personally cook his signature Lobster Shooters for Oprah, during a small screening party for the movie Red Tails.

Aside from operating his seven restaurants and cooking for celebrities, Kent has his own product line called “Kent Rathbun Elements”. This line features various sauces, marinades, and dressings. These may be simple condiments, but will add exceptional flavor to daily household meals. The products are available at all Central Market locations; however, if you do not reside in the Texas area, you can also enjoy these savory additions by purchasing Kent Rathbun Elements on www.kentrathbun.com.

Although, Kent Rathbun remains faithful to his mouthwatering dishes, he still strongly believes in maintaining healthy eating habits. After he realized the importance of healthy eating, Rathbun incorporated some of his healthy lifestyle choices into the dishes served at his restaurants. He even offers cooking classes for $400 per class, which demonstrates cooking techniques that anyone can learn. One of his classes called “Farm to Table” encourages and teaches people how to cook healthy meals straight from fresh foods grown locally.

Finally, Kent Rathbun is an advocate for subscribing to weight loss programs via mobile technologies. He relies on the Weight Watchers mobile application to help with the lifestyle changes necessary to transition to healthier diets and lose weight. After becoming acquainted with the program, he as ultimately found the balance between savory and healthy.

Have you ever tasted Kent Rathbun’s tasty treats? How do you balance taste with healthy eating habits?Tweet us @PierceMattiePR

Chef Kent Rathbun tackled the culinary scene when he won the Food Network's show Iron Chef America with his brother Kevin Rathbun in 2008. Kent has been perfecting his passion for the culinary arts since the tender age of 9 years old. He studied in several cities such as Dallas, New Orleans, and even Bangkok, Thailand. Throughout his travels he picked up tidbits of tricks that contribute to his signature recipes that have leveraged his popularity today.

Chef Kent Rathbun has seven renowned 5-star restaurants, all located in Texas. The themes vary from Pan-Asian cuisine, to wood fire grills and steakhouses, all sure to satisfy anyone’s taste buds. Chef Kent Rathbun has also proven to be a chef for the stars. He has been featured on several television shows and cooks many prestigious meals for events. For instance, he is a regular guest chef for a “Taste of the NFL”, and has cooked for the 2001 Inaugural Ball. Most recently, Rathbun was able to personally cook his signature Lobster Shooters for Oprah, during a small screening party for the movie Red Tails.

Aside from operating his seven restaurants and cooking for celebrities, Kent has his own product line called “Kent Rathbun Elements”. This line features various sauces, marinades, and dressings. These may be simple condiments, but will add exceptional flavor to daily household meals. The products are available at all Central Market locations; however, if you do not reside in the Texas area, you can also enjoy these savory additions by purchasing Kent Rathbun Elements on www.kentrathbun.com.

Although, Kent Rathbun remains faithful to his mouthwatering dishes, he still strongly believes in maintaining healthy eating habits. After he realized the importance of healthy eating, Rathbun incorporated some of his healthy lifestyle choices into the dishes served at his restaurants. He even offers cooking classes for $400 per class, which demonstrates cooking techniques that anyone can learn. One of his classes called “Farm to Table” encourages and teaches people how to cook healthy meals straight from fresh foods grown locally.

Finally, Kent Rathbun is an advocate for subscribing to weight loss programs via mobile technologies. He relies on the Weight Watchers mobile application to help with the lifestyle changes necessary to transition to healthier diets and lose weight. After becoming acquainted with the program, he as ultimately found the balance between savory and healthy.

Have you ever tasted Kent Rathbun’s tasty treats? How do you balance taste with healthy eating habits?Tweet us @PierceMattiePR

Lobster is not only delicious and considered a luxury food item, but it also offers health benefits such as Zinc, Phosphorus, Vitamin B12, Copper, and Selenium, is also low in cholesterol, saturated fats, and calories.

Lobster (especially from Maine) is so delicious and buttery; it melts in your mouth and you avoid looking at your plate because you never want it to be gone. It is a delicacy that you wish you could experience more and more every time it touches your lips.

Thanks to Hancock Gourmet Lobster Company based in Maine, it is a delicacy you can now experience more regularly. Hancock Lobster Company has a full array of lobster and seafood that will deliver right to your front door so you can enjoy lobster in the comfort of your own home.

Not only can you order Lemon Butter Tails (4 -5oz. tails for $80) but you can also order Live Main Lobsters (4 -1.25lb lobsters for $115) and cook them yourself. Order rich and delicious lobster and seafood that will melt in your mouth for your family dinner or impress your guests at your next party with Hancock Gourmet Lobster Company crab cakes ($47 for 6), crab dip ($56 for 2- 14oz containers), and lobster flatbread ($33) (pictured). Your party will be the talk of the town and everyone will leave craving more or wishing they could go to Maine!

Have you tried Hancock Gourmet Lobster Company? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

There are plenty of options if you are looking for the perfect diet. Many of us might have even tried a few of them and not found the results we were looking for. There is a new place to look with researchers and fitness gurus searching in the unlikeliest of places: hunter-gatherer ancestors. It might seem odd at first, but the Paleo Diet is quickly becoming a popular diet option for those who are trying to get healthy and it has the research to back it up.

It has been difficult to define exactly what the Paleo Diet is because it is always changing with time as more research is being done. However, there are a few ideas that stay the same. The idea of the Paleo Diet is based off the diet of our hunter-gatherer ancestors. They were free of many of the diseases that plague us today including obesity, cancer and cardiovascular diseases. For a quick understanding all you need to know is what was available for these ancient people to eat. The answer: Meat, fish, fowl, vegetables, fruits, tubers and nuts. That’s basically all you need to know. If you question whether you should eat something just think if it falls in that list and if it doesn’t then you don’t eat it. Along with what you eat other things to consider are adequate sleep, stress, vitamin D levels and physical activity.

A specific trend that emerged in 2011 but is heading full force into 2012, is Scandinavian cuisine. Why you may ask? It may just be a brief fascination with the Scandinavian culture but it is possibly the sheer nature of the Scandinavian diet. This diet includes small portions, and fresh, natural foods, which is evolving to be the goal foundation of many American diets. Regardless of the reason, more and more people are taking notice of these cultural treasures all throughout New York City. If you have not yet tried the tasty treats check out one of these Scandinavian spots!

Aquavit 

Aquavit is located in Midtown on 55th Street between Madison and Park Avenues. It features premium Nordic cuisine in an atmosphere that is sophisticated, and classy; perfect for an exotic dinner with your friends. If you are not dining in the any of their private dining rooms, you can have a relaxed night out in the lounge which features a full bar and signature aquavit beverages such as the Aquavit Negroni. As for the dinner dining options, four and seven course meals are available that will cost approximately $89 and $115 per person respectively.

Smorgas Chef

Although this restaurant serves Scandinavian food, it knows the on-the-go lifestyle of the typical New Yorker. Smorgas Chef describes itself as a place casual enough for an impromptu delicious meal, yet sophisticated enough for a planned romantic date night. It has three locations throughout the city, in West Village, Wall Street, and at the Scandinavia House Cultural Center in Midtown. All Smorgas Chef entrees range from $16-$30 with a flat rate of $12 for all cocktails. If you happen to live near any of the Smorgas Chef locations, you can even take advantage of their delivery services on those lazy nights or weekends. If you try all three locations and still end up begging for more Nordic cuisine, check out the Chef’s new French-Scandinavian Creperie called Crepes Du Nord in the Financial District!

Fika

A prominent aspect of Scandinavian culture is the midday break for tea and coffee. If you are anything like me, and thrive off of my daily dose of caffeine, you may want to include Fika into your daily routine. Located in Central Park South, the Flatiron District, and the Financial District. Here you can truly indulge in the Swedish way of life by taking a coffee break to enjoy Fika’s delicious gourmet. Once you have had the coffee, it would be a dishonor to turn down their “choklads” to kick start your day. Additionally, their lunch and breakfast menus include delectable Swedish flavors to compliment your coffee and chocolates.

What are you favorite Scandinavian Spots in NYC? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

A specific trend that emerged in 2011 but is heading full force into 2012, is Scandinavian cuisine. Why you may ask? It may just be a brief fascination with the Scandinavian culture but it is possibly the sheer nature of the Scandinavian diet. This diet includes small portions, and fresh, natural foods, which is evolving to be the goal foundation of many American diets. Regardless of the reason, more and more people are taking notice of these cultural treasures all throughout New York City. If you have not yet tried the tasty treats check out one of these Scandinavian spots!

Aquavit 

Aquavit is located in Midtown on 55th Street between Madison and Park Avenues. It features premium Nordic cuisine in an atmosphere that is sophisticated, and classy; perfect for an exotic dinner with your friends. If you are not dining in the any of their private dining rooms, you can have a relaxed night out in the lounge which features a full bar and signature aquavit beverages such as the Aquavit Negroni. As for the dinner dining options, four and seven course meals are available that will cost approximately $89 and $115 per person respectively.

Smorgas Chef

Although this restaurant serves Scandinavian food, it knows the on-the-go lifestyle of the typical New Yorker. Smorgas Chef describes itself as a place casual enough for an impromptu delicious meal, yet sophisticated enough for a planned romantic date night. It has three locations throughout the city, in West Village, Wall Street, and at the Scandinavia House Cultural Center in Midtown. All Smorgas Chef entrees range from $16-$30 with a flat rate of $12 for all cocktails. If you happen to live near any of the Smorgas Chef locations, you can even take advantage of their delivery services on those lazy nights or weekends. If you try all three locations and still end up begging for more Nordic cuisine, check out the Chef’s new French-Scandinavian Creperie called Crepes Du Nord in the Financial District!

Fika

A prominent aspect of Scandinavian culture is the midday break for tea and coffee. If you are anything like me, and thrive off of my daily dose of caffeine, you may want to include Fika into your daily routine. Located in Central Park South, the Flatiron District, and the Financial District. Here you can truly indulge in the Swedish way of life by taking a coffee break to enjoy Fika’s delicious gourmet. Once you have had the coffee, it would be a dishonor to turn down their “choklads” to kick start your day. Additionally, their lunch and breakfast menus include delectable Swedish flavors to compliment your coffee and chocolates.

What are you favorite Scandinavian Spots in NYC? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

A specific trend that emerged in 2011 but is heading full force into 2012, is Scandinavian cuisine. Why you may ask? It may just be a brief fascination with the Scandinavian culture but it is possibly the sheer nature of the Scandinavian diet. This diet includes small portions, and fresh, natural foods, which is evolving to be the goal foundation of many American diets. Regardless of the reason, more and more people are taking notice of these cultural treasures all throughout New York City. If you have not yet tried the tasty treats check out one of these Scandinavian spots!

Aquavit 

Aquavit is located in Midtown on 55th Street between Madison and Park Avenues. It features premium Nordic cuisine in an atmosphere that is sophisticated, and classy; perfect for an exotic dinner with your friends. If you are not dining in the any of their private dining rooms, you can have a relaxed night out in the lounge which features a full bar and signature aquavit beverages such as the Aquavit Negroni. As for the dinner dining options, four and seven course meals are available that will cost approximately $89 and $115 per person respectively.

Smorgas Chef

Although this restaurant serves Scandinavian food, it knows the on-the-go lifestyle of the typical New Yorker. Smorgas Chef describes itself as a place casual enough for an impromptu delicious meal, yet sophisticated enough for a planned romantic date night. It has three locations throughout the city, in West Village, Wall Street, and at the Scandinavia House Cultural Center in Midtown. All Smorgas Chef entrees range from $16-$30 with a flat rate of $12 for all cocktails. If you happen to live near any of the Smorgas Chef locations, you can even take advantage of their delivery services on those lazy nights or weekends. If you try all three locations and still end up begging for more Nordic cuisine, check out the Chef’s new French-Scandinavian Creperie called Crepes Du Nord in the Financial District!

Fika

A prominent aspect of Scandinavian culture is the midday break for tea and coffee. If you are anything like me, and thrive off of my daily dose of caffeine, you may want to include Fika into your daily routine. Located in Central Park South, the Flatiron District, and the Financial District. Here you can truly indulge in the Swedish way of life by taking a coffee break to enjoy Fika’s delicious gourmet. Once you have had the coffee, it would be a dishonor to turn down their “choklads” to kick start your day. Additionally, their lunch and breakfast menus include delectable Swedish flavors to compliment your coffee and chocolates.

What are you favorite Scandinavian Spots in NYC? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

A specific trend that emerged in 2011 but is heading full force into 2012, is Scandinavian cuisine. Why you may ask? It may just be a brief fascination with the Scandinavian culture but it is possibly the sheer nature of the Scandinavian diet. This diet includes small portions, and fresh, natural foods, which is evolving to be the goal foundation of many American diets. Regardless of the reason, more and more people are taking notice of these cultural treasures all throughout New York City. If you have not yet tried the tasty treats check out one of these Scandinavian spots!

Aquavit 

Aquavit is located in Midtown on 55th Street between Madison and Park Avenues. It features premium Nordic cuisine in an atmosphere that is sophisticated, and classy; perfect for an exotic dinner with your friends. If you are not dining in the any of their private dining rooms, you can have a relaxed night out in the lounge which features a full bar and signature aquavit beverages such as the Aquavit Negroni. As for the dinner dining options, four and seven course meals are available that will cost approximately $89 and $115 per person respectively.

Smorgas Chef

Although this restaurant serves Scandinavian food, it knows the on-the-go lifestyle of the typical New Yorker. Smorgas Chef describes itself as a place casual enough for an impromptu delicious meal, yet sophisticated enough for a planned romantic date night. It has three locations throughout the city, in West Village, Wall Street, and at the Scandinavia House Cultural Center in Midtown. All Smorgas Chef entrees range from $16-$30 with a flat rate of $12 for all cocktails. If you happen to live near any of the Smorgas Chef locations, you can even take advantage of their delivery services on those lazy nights or weekends. If you try all three locations and still end up begging for more Nordic cuisine, check out the Chef’s new French-Scandinavian Creperie called Crepes Du Nord in the Financial District!

Fika

A prominent aspect of Scandinavian culture is the midday break for tea and coffee. If you are anything like me, and thrive off of my daily dose of caffeine, you may want to include Fika into your daily routine. Located in Central Park South, the Flatiron District, and the Financial District. Here you can truly indulge in the Swedish way of life by taking a coffee break to enjoy Fika’s delicious gourmet. Once you have had the coffee, it would be a dishonor to turn down their “choklads” to kick start your day. Additionally, their lunch and breakfast menus include delectable Swedish flavors to compliment your coffee and chocolates.

What are you favorite Scandinavian Spots in NYC? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Bleecker Street, New York City has been a cultural hotspot for decades. An icon for American bohemia Bleecker Street was home to many humble beginnings of many artists and musicians who went on to travel the world. Café Wha? located near Bleecker Street was home to careers such as Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Bruce Springsteen and Bill Cosby. Another heavyweight calls Bleecker Street home. New York’s oldest cheese shop Murray’s Cheese has been providing New Yorker’s with a variety of cheese and other products since 1940. With a history as rich as the street itself, Murray’s has grown to one of the nations finest providers of high quality cheese.

Cave-aged beneath Bleecker Street, the selection of 300 cheeses is ripened and offered to customers at the perfect ripeness. Cave aging was a little known practice outside of European countries until Murray’s built their chees caves in 2004 and found the best methods for cheese aging. You are sure to find something new or even specific at Murrays with their rotating selection of 300 cheeses. They have American, English, French, Irish, Italian, Spanish and Swiss cheeses in seven different categories ranging from fresh cheese to hard cheese. Along with their famous cheeses Murrays offers a variety of specialty foods including breads, chocolates, jams and a range of other foods.

Murray’s Cheese has grown to a national presence from their humble beginnings.  The quality cheese is now available in stores in Ohio, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Texas and Colorado. For those native to New York Murray’s encourages you to come take a taste at their Grand Central Market and Bleecker Street locations or maybe take a class or two. Information and purchasing can also be done at murrayscheese.com.

Scholastic News Kid Reporter Topanga Sena, 11, of Orlando, Florida sat down for an exclusive interview with First Lady Michelle Obama when she was in Orlando, Florida, wrapping up her Let's Move! second anniversary tour.

Sena, who was one of two Scholastic News Kid Reporters to interview President Barack Obama last summer, asked the First Lady about the success of her Let's Move! Campaign, the demands of being the "First Mom" and the question that many have considered- if there was one unhealthy food you could make healthy, what would it be?

With about one out of every three children in this country obese or overweight, it’s more important than ever to focus on healthy choices and changes that families can make together. Throughout March, which is National Nutrition Month, BeSmartBeWell.com shares stories of real families like Cindy and her children, who got healthier by cutting out junk food and exercising more.

“We lost over 200 pounds together as a family,” says Cindy in a video on Be Smart. Be Well. “After going back through and looking at pictures of where we were to where we’ve come, it’s just absolutely amazing!”

Making changes for the better
Parents don’t have to do it all on their own. There are many resources available, including MyPlate by the USDA. In 2011, the USDA shed the traditional food pyramid for the new MyPlate, which illustrates the proper mix of fruit, vegetables, dairy, grains and protein you should eat to maintain a healthy diet. For example, it shows that a meal plate should be at least half filled with fruits and vegetables. Parents can use MyPlate to teach their kids what to put on their plate to make a healthy meal.

Although avocados are most likely famous for their annual appearance in Super Bowl party guacamole, most people are not aware of the amazing health and beauty benefits this fruit beholds. While avocados used to have a poor reputation due to its 85% fat content, researchers have recently dispelled myths about this fruit. Currently, avocados are known as a super fruit that excels in nutrition, heart health, skin, hair, and being a tasty complement to ordinary dishes.

Avocados are perfect for anyone who is engaging in an active lifestyle. With the spring and summer months, you now have more opportunities to enjoy the fresh air and exercise outside. To complement your fitness routine, a simple avocado snack can provide you with key nutrients to fuel your body. Avocados have over 13 vitamins including vitamins A, C, D, E and B vitamins. Additionally, it has good fats, which are essential in providing energy to the body for the ultimate workout.

If that isn’t enough of a reason to fully add avocados into your diet, they are also known to provide tremendous natural beauty remedies. It can enhance and remedy anything from puffy eyes, dry skin, and hair. This fruit also can create a low maintenance mask to rejuvenate your skin. The only ingredient is the avocado, which you mash and spread evenly on your face, then let sit for 15 minutes. This is perfect if you have dry or sensitive skin that may react negatively to harsh chemicals.

Of course, they are a tasty, nutritious addition to some of your simple salads, soups, and entrée’s. For new recipes to incorporate this nutritious super fruit into your diet, visit Avocado.org  to experiment with some delicious treats.

How do you use this super fruit as a health benefit? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Although avocados are most likely famous for their annual appearance in Super Bowl party guacamole, most people are not aware of the amazing health and beauty benefits this fruit beholds. While avocados used to have a poor reputation due to its 85% fat content, researchers have recently dispelled myths about this fruit. Currently, avocados are known as a super fruit that excels in nutrition, heart health, skin, hair, and being a tasty complement to ordinary dishes.

Avocados are perfect for anyone who is engaging in an active lifestyle. With the spring and summer months, you now have more opportunities to enjoy the fresh air and exercise outside. To complement your fitness routine, a simple avocado snack can provide you with key nutrients to fuel your body. Avocados have over 13 vitamins including vitamins A, C, D, E and B vitamins. Additionally, it has good fats, which are essential in providing energy to the body for the ultimate workout.

If that isn’t enough of a reason to fully add avocados into your diet, they are also known to provide tremendous natural beauty remedies. It can enhance and remedy anything from puffy eyes, dry skin, and hair. This fruit also can create a low maintenance mask to rejuvenate your skin. The only ingredient is the avocado, which you mash and spread evenly on your face, then let sit for 15 minutes. This is perfect if you have dry or sensitive skin that may react negatively to harsh chemicals.

Of course, they are a tasty, nutritious addition to some of your simple salads, soups, and entrée’s. For new recipes to incorporate this nutritious super fruit into your diet, visit Avocado.org  to experiment with some delicious treats.

How do you use this super fruit as a health benefit? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Although avocados are most likely famous for their annual appearance in Super Bowl party guacamole, most people are not aware of the amazing health and beauty benefits this fruit beholds. While avocados used to have a poor reputation due to its 85% fat content, researchers have recently dispelled myths about this fruit. Currently, avocados are known as a super fruit that excels in nutrition, heart health, skin, hair, and being a tasty complement to ordinary dishes.

Avocados are perfect for anyone who is engaging in an active lifestyle. With the spring and summer months, you now have more opportunities to enjoy the fresh air and exercise outside. To complement your fitness routine, a simple avocado snack can provide you with key nutrients to fuel your body. Avocados have over 13 vitamins including vitamins A, C, D, E and B vitamins. Additionally, it has good fats, which are essential in providing energy to the body for the ultimate workout.

If that isn’t enough of a reason to fully add avocados into your diet, they are also known to provide tremendous natural beauty remedies. It can enhance and remedy anything from puffy eyes, dry skin, and hair. This fruit also can create a low maintenance mask to rejuvenate your skin. The only ingredient is the avocado, which you mash and spread evenly on your face, then let sit for 15 minutes. This is perfect if you have dry or sensitive skin that may react negatively to harsh chemicals.

Of course, they are a tasty, nutritious addition to some of your simple salads, soups, and entrée’s. For new recipes to incorporate this nutritious super fruit into your diet, visit Avocado.org  to experiment with some delicious treats.

How do you use this super fruit as a health benefit? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

What makes any event great? Is it the DJ? The alcohol? The guest list? When you leave a party or wedding what are you talking about on your way home? What are you craving? The FOOD. You wish you would have had one more bite of this and had taken an extra serving of that. But if the food wasn’t up to par you spend the car ride home disappointed.

Wouldn’t it be delicious if everything you put in your mouth were a perfect bite? Well if The Perfect Bite Co. is catering that will definitely be the case. Starting in 1990 Teri Valentine created The Perfect Bite Co. and vowed to only use quality ingredients in her individually handmade appetizers.

It all started with kisses, the Mixed Berry Lemon Crème Pastry Kisses, that is. They were such a hit in the corporate breakfast baskets that The Perfect Bite Co. expanded their menu to include other delicious appetizers such as the Cilantro Pesto & Corn Pastry Kisses and the Lobster & Tarragon Pastry Kisses.

However, they don’t only make Pastry Kisses. They also make delicious appetizers such as their Wild Mushroom & Aged Jack Mini Pizzas and, my favorite, the Caramelized Onion & Gorgonzola Mini Burgers.

The Perfect Bite Co. conveniently has a Planning Guide to help party hosts figure out how many appetizers they should provide for each person attending the party. Additionally, The Perfect Bite Co. sells its products in many local grocery stores such as Whole Foods, The Fresh Market, Williams-Sonoma, and many others, or you can have your order shipped directly to your home or venue.

From $9.50 to $18 for boxes of 12 appetizers The Perfect Bite Co. is sure to provide your party with the most delicious handmade appetizers made with quality and natural ingredients.

What has been your favorite party appetizer? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR!

What makes any event great? Is it the DJ? The alcohol? The guest list? When you leave a party or wedding what are you talking about on your way home? What are you craving? The FOOD. You wish you would have had one more bite of this and had taken an extra serving of that. But if the food wasn’t up to par you spend the car ride home disappointed.

Wouldn’t it be delicious if everything you put in your mouth were a perfect bite? Well if The Perfect Bite Co. is catering that will definitely be the case. Starting in 1990 Teri Valentine created The Perfect Bite Co. and vowed to only use quality ingredients in her individually handmade appetizers.

It all started with kisses, the Mixed Berry Lemon Crème Pastry Kisses, that is. They were such a hit in the corporate breakfast baskets that The Perfect Bite Co. expanded their menu to include other delicious appetizers such as the Cilantro Pesto & Corn Pastry Kisses and the Lobster & Tarragon Pastry Kisses.

However, they don’t only make Pastry Kisses. They also make delicious appetizers such as their Wild Mushroom & Aged Jack Mini Pizzas and, my favorite, the Caramelized Onion & Gorgonzola Mini Burgers.

The Perfect Bite Co. conveniently has a Planning Guide to help party hosts figure out how many appetizers they should provide for each person attending the party. Additionally, The Perfect Bite Co. sells its products in many local grocery stores such as Whole Foods, The Fresh Market, Williams-Sonoma, and many others, or you can have your order shipped directly to your home or venue.

From $9.50 to $18 for boxes of 12 appetizers The Perfect Bite Co. is sure to provide your party with the most delicious handmade appetizers made with quality and natural ingredients.

What has been your favorite party appetizer? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR!

Petrossian began as a retailer in the 1920s by two Armenian brothers. They began their business by introducing the delicacy of fine caviar to the Parisians. After the French demonstrated an appreciation for the finer foods in life, Petrossian expanded to selling other products such as fine chocolates, smoked salmon, cheeses, jams, wine and baked goods. Prices range anywhere from $11 pates to $300 goose fois gras gastronome, perfect for a summertime tea with the girls or a poker game with old chums. 

Petrossian has retailer locations in New York City , West Hollywood and online. For the past eighty years, Petrossian has maintained an honorable reputation of being a top importer of caviar from all over world. Quality and excellence are two of the the ideals Petrossian has strived to maintain over the years, with fresh caviar prepared and aged to perfection. 

Whether Petrossian products are purchased as a holiday gift option or personal splurge, you won't be disappointed in the eclectic mix of flavors this company has to offer. The different caviar species are available online with information about color and taste to help the customer find the perfect fit. Drink and storage recommendations are also available to make the caviar enjoyment process one to never forget. 

Visit the Petrossian website for more information about gift baskets, delivery options and more. 

Highlighted as one of the culinary world's trending items by the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade, figs took center stage at the 37th Annual Winter Fancy Food show in San Francisco this past January.  California Figs allow chefs and consumers the opportunity to incorporate this on-trend fruit into an array of dishes throughout the year.

In fact, it's easy and fun to incorporate figs into this Spring's activities and menus.  Scrumptious California Dried Figs, available year round, make great snacks and naturally sweet, flavorful recipe additions. The dense, sweet flesh, coupled with figs' unique texture, goes well in baked goods and desserts, and are a perfect complement to meat, poultry, fish, whole grains, and other fruits and vegetables, as well.  Dried figs are ready to eat right out of the package and are easily sliced and diced to create an amazing marinade, condiment or sauce, like the California Fig Advisory Board's Caribbean Fig-Jerk Sauce.  

I find that more and more people are looking toward a vegetarian or vegan diet. Whether it is to detoxify the body of impurities or chemicals, or refrain from consuming animal byproducts, it is evident that the vegan movement continues to grow indefinitely. The most difficult task for vegans is to enjoy cuisine at a restaurant that caters to those dietary needs.  Overcome those difficult outings and take a look at a few of these vegan and vegetarian restaurants in New York City!
          
A popular vegan restaurant in New York is Blossom located in Chelsea. It is a quaint but upscale restaurant that offers a wide array of vegan options. The restaurant is open for dinner every night and open for brunch on the weekends. Some of the featured items on the menu include Seitan Scaloppini, Lemongrass Crusted Tofu, and Lasagna. For dinner, the entrées typically range from $18 - $22. There are two additional Café Blossom locations on the Upper West Side and West Village for a more casual setting.

Candle 79 is another vegan hotspot located on the Upper East Side. They pride themselves on serving organic cuisine by promoting sustainable practices in their business operations. An interesting aspect of the restaurant is that along with organic meal specials, are their “Eco Cocktails”. Some of these include Strawberry Fields, Rasa and Rum, and Tropical Sage which all feature organic ingredients. Candle 79 is open for brunch, lunch and dinner at specific times throughout the week.

Dirt Candy is creatively named for its commitment to the vegetables that grow and are natural pieces of the earth. The restaurant is located in East Village and opened in October 2008 by Chef Amanda Cohen. She is a graduate of Natural Gourmet’s Chef Training Program and has a history of working with vegetarian and organic restaurants. She opened Dirt Candy to pursue her love for the industry. Dirt Candy features creative and intricate dishes with simple names such as “Cucumber” and “Corn”. These entrées are between $17-$19 and can easily be made vegan dishes upon request.

Have you been to any of the vegan and vegetarian restaurants in New York City? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

I find that more and more people are looking toward a vegetarian or vegan diet. Whether it is to detoxify the body of impurities or chemicals, or refrain from consuming animal byproducts, it is evident that the vegan movement continues to grow indefinitely. The most difficult task for vegans is to enjoy cuisine at a restaurant that caters to those dietary needs.  Overcome those difficult outings and take a look at a few of these vegan and vegetarian restaurants in New York City!
          
A popular vegan restaurant in New York is Blossom located in Chelsea. It is a quaint but upscale restaurant that offers a wide array of vegan options. The restaurant is open for dinner every night and open for brunch on the weekends. Some of the featured items on the menu include Seitan Scaloppini, Lemongrass Crusted Tofu, and Lasagna. For dinner, the entrées typically range from $18 - $22. There are two additional Café Blossom locations on the Upper West Side and West Village for a more casual setting.

Candle 79 is another vegan hotspot located on the Upper East Side. They pride themselves on serving organic cuisine by promoting sustainable practices in their business operations. An interesting aspect of the restaurant is that along with organic meal specials, are their “Eco Cocktails”. Some of these include Strawberry Fields, Rasa and Rum, and Tropical Sage which all feature organic ingredients. Candle 79 is open for brunch, lunch and dinner at specific times throughout the week.

Dirt Candy is creatively named for its commitment to the vegetables that grow and are natural pieces of the earth. The restaurant is located in East Village and opened in October 2008 by Chef Amanda Cohen. She is a graduate of Natural Gourmet’s Chef Training Program and has a history of working with vegetarian and organic restaurants. She opened Dirt Candy to pursue her love for the industry. Dirt Candy features creative and intricate dishes with simple names such as “Cucumber” and “Corn”. These entrées are between $17-$19 and can easily be made vegan dishes upon request.

Have you been to any of the vegan and vegetarian restaurants in New York City? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Fitness resorts are all the rage as fitness goers long for a mix of fun in their workout program with long lasting results. These camps or live-in type fitness programs offers something for everyone that help you with a lifestyle change rather than simply focusing on a diet or just exercise. California Fitness Camp has been getting media attention, especially because it's not just a 1 week stay as if being on vacation, some residents are there for months to transform their eating habits and workout regimen.

California Fitness Camp starts off with a full body analysis, so that you know what your baseline is in order to watch the transformation as you work through your time there. And as everyone's needs are different, they customize a fitness plan that caters to you. Food is prepared by a 5-star chef, but in order to make sure that healthy meal preparation is something you can carry out once you are back in your own home, they also offer education and cooking classes on healthy eating habits, recipes and even how to manage food on the go. And of course, your mental attitude plays a big role in your weight loss success, so spa treatments are incorporated into your stay.

California Fitness Camp is located at the 5-star La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, California. The grounds are gorgeous and the luxury accomodations would motivate anyone to want to book their stay here to get in shape.

Would you consider a live-in resort such as California Fitness Camp for your exercise and weight loss needs? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR. 

Beauty from within no longer just means you have a great personality... Nutrition is becoming just as popular in the beauty industry as are the products meant to combat anti-aging. Between beauty supplements, Vita-Mix smoothie mania and recipes targeting various skin issues (inflammation, restoring tissue, healing, etc.), if you have a product with any nutritional value that benefits those looking for anti-aging products, now is the time to promote it.

From superfruits to veggies, the key to all anti-aging products are the antioxidant benefits they provide the skin. Kale is one such veggie that promotes healthier skin between cooking it up, eating it in a salad or mixing it into your smoothie. As are any food that contains Vitamin C (restores tissue and vibrancy to skin), Vitamin A (for oral health--healthy gums = a healthy smile), Vitamin E for better complexion, etc. 

Taking cue from beautiful women abroad in France and Scandinavia, their skin is naturally beautiful because healthy eating is part of their culture. If you need some inspiration to find the right fruits and veggies to target the right nutritional track for your skin based on your age, do a search on Pinterest. Such a great resource of recipes and ideas to get you started.

Which foods are you incorporating into your diet for better skin health? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.