Author: Molly Morgan

Many people suffer with diseases and issues related to food, including: food intolerances, food allergies, irritable bowel syndrome (or IBS) and celiac disease. While the symptoms can seem similar, the underlying cause of the reaction and discomfort in the body can be very different. The causes can range from an intolerance to an immune response or even an autoimmune disorder. Where to begin If your child is struggling with gastrointestinal discomfort or what you think could be food allergy symptoms, you should begin first with a visit to your healthcare provider. This is important because your pediatrician can work with…

The holiday season is filled with traditions, fun memories and lots of food and drinks. Then right around the corner is the New Year, along with resolutions, which are often tied to eating healthier and losing weight. The good news is that there is no need to give up all of your holiday favorites. Rather than depriving yourself, use these tips to adjust your menu, stay mindful and get active throughout the holiday season. Mix it up. If you are planning a holiday get-together, mix up your menu. Start by ensuring that it includes a variety of foods. Say yes…

Eating a diet centered on plants is linked to numerous health benefits, and working more meatless meals into a family’s eating can also benefit the planet. But is vegetarian eating right for children? Definitely! A vegetarian or vegan eating plan can be right for any age. There are well-researched health benefits associated with vegetarian eating patterns, including: lower weight and body mass index, and reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, certain types of cancer and high blood pressure. In general, those following a vegetarian eating pattern compared to non-vegetarians consume fewer calories from fat, fewer total calories, and more fiber,…

Starting now, it’s candy season. But while a lot of candy is consumed on and around the time of Halloween, actually, Halloween day only accounts for about 4 percent of candy consumption in the United States. As a mom and a registered dietitian, I truly don’t have a problem with the occasional candy bar, soda or sweet. From my perspective the primary issue is the overabundance, accessibility and availability of candy and sweets. If you are a parent, you can relate: At the doctor’s office, there is the lollipop for after shots; at the bank there is a lollipop just…