The average American gains about one to two pounds during the holidays. Even scarier, the less dramatic the weight gain, the more likely it is to stay and accumulate long-term. Holidays are meant to be enjoyed, but most people overdo it with the copious amounts of food eaten over several days.

Louisiana ranks fifth in the nation for diabetes prevalence and 18th in the nation for diabetes-related deaths. According to the American Diabetes Association, prediabetes and diabetes are estimated to cost $5.4 billion annually in our state. A majority of people with diabetes suffer from Type 2 Diabetes, which is preventable.

As a registered dietitian, one of the main complaints I've heard from clients of all social classes has been “eating healthy is just so expensive.” Much to my frustration, it can seem very expensive to the average consumer when walking through the organic section at the grocery store.

Nearly one fourth of America’s daily calorie intake comes from snacks. Since snacks often account for a sizable portion of our diet, it is important to make smart choices. When done correctly, snacking can contribute necessary nutrients to your diet, help with appetite control, and may even aid in maintaining a healthy weight.