FOLLOW
All of Our Healthy Tips
On-the-Go Tips
Here are some tips for when you're short on time. Find a list of foods to keep on-hand in your own kitchen for quick Mediterranean-style snacks. Also, find a list of healthier menu items to look for when you are out and need to grab a quick bite.
The Mediterranean Diet - What's the Story?
Have you heard the buzz about the Mediterranean diet? Read this month's feature article to find out the basics and benefits of the traditional Mediterranean lifestyle.
VIDEO: It's Tomato Season!
Michael Marks introduces the Create Your Plate approach to meal planning. He'll also tell you how to store tomatoes and give an example of how you can include this non-starchy vegetable in your meals.
VIDEO: Let's Talk Cukes
Michael Marks presents the different varieties of cucumbers you can use to make your meals and snacks. He also shares some preparation tricks and meal ideas.
VIDEO: The Many Types of Tomatoes
Michael Marks shows you the different varieties of tomatoes and how to incorporate tomatoes into your meal plan.
On-the-Go Tips
Here are some tips for when you're short on time.We'll share a trick that will make it easier to put a homecooked meal on the table - even on the busiest of days. Also, check out healthy convenient snacks to opt for in place of less nutritious Halloween candy.
Our Favorite Fall Foods for You and your Family
The leaves are turning and the weather is getting cooler, but there are still plenty of tasty and nutritious foods to eat! Treat yourself and your family to some of our favorite fall foods this October!
VIDEO: All About Sweet Potatoes
Michael Marks, Your Produce Man, explains the difference between sweet potatoes and yams. He’ll also touch on how sweet potatoes can fit into your diabetes meal plan
VIDEO: Basil – From the Store to Your Plate
Michael Marks shares a trick for storing this fresh herb. He’ll also show you how to use basil to add flavor your food for less calories and salt.
VIDEO: Making Tomato Basil Soup with Chicken
Chef Nancy Hughes shows you how to make one of this month’s featured recipes from her cookbook 15-Minute Diabetic Meals. It’s delicious, healthy, and only takes 15 minutes to make!
Easy Steps to a Happy and Healthy Holiday
Solutions to the typical holiday dilemmas. Don't let stress take over the holidays this year. Diabetes or not - you can still enjoy family, fun, and food!
On-The-Go Tips
Here are some quick tips to help you stay on the healthy track when you are on-the-go this holiday season.
VIDEO: Smart Appetizer Ideas
Michael Marks, Your Produce Man brings healthy appetizer ideas to life. Try one of these delicious ideas instead of bringing high-calorie spinach artichoke dip or fried finger foods to the party this year.
VIDEO: Sweet Potatoes – A Seasonal Favorite
Did you know that sweet potatoes are on the American Diabetes Associations superfoods list? Michael Marks gets us thinking about how this seasonal favorite fits into a diabetes meal plan.
Fitting In Comfort Food This Holiday Season
After all of the running around during the holiday season, nothing tastes better at the end of the day than our favorite comfort foods. But how do these rich dishes fit into a diabetes meal plan?
On-The-Go Tips: Holiday Drink Makeover
There is nothing more comforting than a holiday-themed coffee drink this time of year. Check out our holiday drink makeover to see how you can fit them in this year!
VIDEO: Classic Mac ‘n Cheese
Chef Robyn Webb explains how she makes her healthy version of mac ‘n cheese. She’ll also taste-test her recipe against its store-bought competitors!
VIDEO: Healthy Holiday Side Dishes
Michael Marks shares some healthy side dish ideas that are perfect for holiday gatherings. Check them out and try them yourself!
VIDEO: Supersize Your Salads
Salad greens are one of the lowest-carb foods out there. It’s easy to create colorful, fresh salads to enjoy as entrees or side dishes this winter!
Eating Healthy On a Budget – It Can Be Done!
The holidays have finally passed, and many of us are looking to save rather than spend. This month, we’re bringing you a whole bunch of tips to help you do just that.
On-the-Go and On a Budget
See how you can stay healthy and spend less when you eat out. Also, check out additional budget-savvy tips for when you're on the go!
VIDEO: Canned Beans Are Budget-Friendly
The theme this month is low-budget. Michael Marks shows us how canned beans fit into a low-cost meal plan.
VIDEO: Dried Beans – A Good Way to Go
Dried beans are a low-cost, nutritious option without the sodium to worry about. See how to prepare dried beans in your own kitchen – it may be easier than you think!
VIDEO: Let’s Talk Canned Vegetables
Michael Marks explains how canned vegetables can fit into your diet and still provide the nutrients you need. He’ll even give you a few meal ideas!
VIDEO: Using Frozen Vegetables
Frozen vegetables are a good alternative to fresh - they can also be cheaper sometimes, especially when certain vegetables are out of season. This plus more meal ideas from Michael Marks!
Diabetes and Heart Health - What's the Connection?
How you can eat heart-healthy and follow your diabetes meal plan at the same time. It's easier than you think!
On-The-Go Tips
Try out nuts this month - they're a heart-healthy, fool-proof snack.
VIDEO: Dessert on V-Day
Michael Marks shows us how to put a healthy spin on dessert this Valentine's Day.
VIDEO: Enjoy Winter Vegetables!
Fill your plate with more non-starchy vegetables that are in season! Non-starchy veggies are heart-healthy foods and can help you fit in a delicious dessert on special occasions.
8 Quick Snack Ideas – Lean Protein Included!
Are you constantly on-the-go? Here are some quick and easy snack ideas, all of which include a source of lean protein.
A Guide to Choosing Protein Wisely
Your Complete Guide to Choosing Protein Wisely, with over 50 meal and snack ideas.
VIDEO: Cajun Shrimp and Pepper Pasta - How to Make It
Nancy Hughes shows us how to prepare one of this month’s 15-minute recipes: Cajun Shrimp and Pepper Pasta. She’ll also share some valuable cooking tips with you!
VIDEO: Dried Beans – A Good Way to Go
Beans are a great source of lean protein and they are also a money-saver. See how to prepare them in your own kitchen!
VIDEO: Picking Out the Best Berries
Michael Marks shares tips you'll want to know as berry season approaches and for making this month's featured recipe Morning Waffles with Vanilla Blackberries.
What About Protein?
With diabetes, carbohydrates tend to get a lot of attention. But the protein choices you make are also important for your overall health. Find out why and then check out our Guide to Choosing Protein Wisely.
No Time To Cook?
Cooking healthy doesn't have to take an excessive amount of time. Here we give you some creative ideas to help you fit eating healthy into your busy schedule.
On-The-Go: A Guide to Frozen Meals
Think that frozen meals are totally off-limits? They don’t have to be if you make the right choices. Check out our guide to choosing the best among the many options in the frozen food aisle.
VIDEO: Crudités
Crudités are bite-sized raw vegetables served with dip. They make a healthy snack and can be ready to eat in less than one minute. Your Produce Man shares some tricks for cutting up vegetables and everything you need to know about crudités.
VIDEO: Frozen and Canned Fruit
This month’s meal plan utilizes convenient canned and frozen fruits. It’s good to have both on-hand for a quick snack or smoothie. Michael Marks shows you some examples in this video.
VIDEO: Frozen Vegetables – Convenient and Healthy
Michael Marks talks about how frozen vegetables are a good alternative to fresh. They are quick to cook and you can buy them already cut, so little prep is involved. Plus more meal ideas!
Big-Time Burritos: A Popular To-Go Option
Many fast-food restaurants are now specializing in the football-sized burrito. Learn how to build a healthier burrito at these popular to-go restaurants which include Chipotle, Qdoba, Moe’s, and others like them.
Do Latino Foods and Diabetes Mix?
Getting ready to celebrate Cinco de Mayo? Here are some tips that you can use any time of the year to incorporate delicious Latino-style meals into your meal plan.
Spice Up Your Cooking - A Guide to Hot Peppers
Peppers are non-starchy vegetables, so you can add them to your meals for very few calories and carbohydrates. They'll add color, flavor, and a bit of heat to your favorite Latino dishes!
VIDEO: Bell Peppers – How to Prepare Them and More
Find out everything you need to know about using bell peppers in the kitchen. Learn a new, easy way to cut bell peppers and how you can incorporate them into a lower-carb meal!
VIDEO: Spice it Up with Hot Peppers
Latino food is our theme this month, so Michael Marks will show us how to spice up meals with different hot peppers and he’ll share some preparation tips too!
VIDEO: Tropical Mangoes in Your Meal Plan
Find out how to ripen mangoes so that they are perfect for eating. Michael Marks also shares tips for cutting around a mango pit and how you can use this tropical fruit in the kitchen.
8 Quick and Easy Summer Snacks and Meals
Hectic days can make it hard to stay on track. But you don't need to give up your healthy habits. Here are 8 quick and easy summer snacks and meals.
Fill up on Fresh Summer Produce
Right now you’re in luck – a colorful array of fruits and vegetables are in season during the summer months, making it even easier than ever to include them in your daily meal plan. Learn what is in season and get some great meal ideas!
VIDEO: It’s Berry Season! Picking out the Best
Michael Marks shares tips to help you pick out the freshest berries at the store. He'll also share some portion size pointers.
VIDEO: Molasses Drumsticks with Soy Sauce
Watch chef Nancy Hughes make one of this month’s featured recipes, Molasses Drumsticks with Soy Sauce. It’s truly quick, easy, and only calls for four ingredients!
VIDEO: More on Berries!
Berries are considered a diabetes superfood and they are in season during these summer months! Find more info and meal ideas from Michael Marks here!
Grilling Basics
Here are a few very important tips to help keep your family and friends as healthy and safe as possible when grilling out this year.
Grilling Out - Beyond Burgers
Think that burgers and brats are your only option when cooking on the barbie? Think again! Mix it up this summer and start grilling some new, healthy meals. It’ll be a nice change from the usual barbecue grub!
On-the-Go with Fro Yo
Tips to help you incorporate this refreshing, creamy treat into your meal plan this summer.
VIDEO: Grilled Summer Veggies
Non-starchy vegetables are low in calories and carbohydrates. In this video, Michael Marks shares some insights about mixing it up and cooking them on the grill this summer.
VIDEO: Watermelon - The Perfect Summer Treat!
Nothing says summer like freshly cut watermelon. It’s great as a side dish, snack, or in a fruit salad. Learn a quick and easy way to cut a whole watermelon into bite-size pieces, without making the usual mess.
Seafood – A Smart Choice For Diabetes
It's a great time of year to enjoy some fresh seafood. We'll give you the skinny on omega-3's and some guidelines for how much seafood to eat. Also, learn what side dishes pair well with seafood and find other meal planning tips.
Tuna Salad - Take it to Go!
Tuna, a great source of protein and healthy fats, is a great seafood choice that's easy to take with you on the run. Check out our tips for making a quick and tasty meal using this super convenient food!
VIDEO: All About Zucchini and Yellow Squash
Michael Marks shows us the many ways you can prepare and use non-starchy zucchini or yellow squash. He’ll also share a great idea for using them in your meals!
VIDEO: Melons - A Sweet Summer Choice!
Summer is the season for melons. Here are a few tips for preparing and using fresh melons in the kitchen.
VIDEO: Using Fresh Herbs to Flavor Foods
An introduction to different types of herbs and examples of how you can use them in your own cooking.
On-the-Go on Game Day – The Stadium Food Dilemma
Going to the big game this Saturday or Sunday? Stadium foods like pizza and nachos don't exactly classify as healthy. Here are some tips for planning ahead and what to look for when you get hungry on game day.
Stay Healthy This Tailgating Season!
Don’t let the traditionally fatty foods and alcoholic beverages consumed on game day take the fun out of your celebration. This month, we’re bringing you tailgating tips to help you navigate the food and drink situation more easily.
VIDEO: Chili - The Perfect Football Food
Tricks to making a savory veggie chili that even your most macho football-loving guests will love.
VIDEO: Kale – A Trendy Veggie
Kale is very popular right now. Michael Marks gives us an introduction to using kale in the kitchen and also shows us how to make a healthy, low-carb snack that everyone will love: kale chips.
VIDEO: Tailgating Food - The Healthy Way!
It’s finally football season and most of us will be attending a tailgating party or two. Here are some tailgating party foods you can bring this year that are on the healthier side, but still perfect for the occasion.
A Lesson In Asian Cuisine
Tired of eating the same healthy foods everyday? Try something new and change it up with some traditional Asian cuisine. Not familiar with Asian cooking? We'll give you the basics right here.
On-the-Go: Dinner in No Time
Is time tight now that school is back in full swing? Stir-fry is a quick and easy solution to getting a healthy dinner on the table on busy nights.
VIDEO: Asian Flavors
Some of the healthiest cooking on earth comes from Asian countries. Find out which vegetables, fruits, spices, and herbs make up this healthy way of cooking. Michael Marks will also share some Asian-inspired meals with you!
VIDEO: What to do with Tofu?
Your Produce explains what tofu is, how it is made, and what to do with it in the kitchen. A staple in many Asian countries, it’s a great source of vegetarian protein and is low in carbohydrate.
VIDEO: What’s Edamame?
Ever tried edamame? Edamame is the Japanese name for green soybeans. They’re delicious and they’re packed with nutrients! Here are just a few ways that you can include edamame in your meal plan.
Fitting In Dessert this Thanksgiving
It’s a special occasion; so it’s perfectly fine if you want to enjoy a small portion of your favorite holiday dessert. We'll show you how to make it fit with your Thanksgiving meal so you don't have to worry about disrupting blood glucose control.
Navigating the Thanksgiving Feast
If you have diabetes or are trying to manage your weight, don’t let food stress you out this year. You can still enjoy the Thanksgiving feast and even some dessert (since it’s a special occasion). It just requires a little extra planning and we're here to help!
On-The-Go: Save time with Thanksgiving leftovers
Leftovers can be an important time-saver as you kick off the holiday season. Here are some creative ways to transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into new meals that are both tasty and healthy!
VIDEO: Enjoying Holiday Desserts
Sweets are best saved for special occasions – and Thanksgiving certainly qualifies as such! The best desserts contain fruit and other nutritious ingredients, so check out this delicious apple tart recipe.
VIDEO: Healthy Holiday Side Dishes
Find some great tips for controlling portion size at your holiday feast. Plus festive side dish ideas to help you fill half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables this Thanksgiving.
VIDEO: Sweet Potatoes – A Delicious Holiday Treat!
Sweet potato season is in full swing! Believe it or not, sweet potatoes have a great natural flavor, so it’s not necessary to add all the extra butter and sugar that your sweet potato casserole recipe calls for.
New Year's Resolutions: Three Steps to Success
What was your New Year’s resolution for 2013? If it had something to do with eating healthier, exercising more, or losing weight, set yourself up for success by using these three simple steps.
On-The-Go: Sticking to Your New Year's Resolution When Time is Tight
After the holidays, we all return to the usual hustle and bustle of every day life. Don't let your busy schedule get in the way of achieving your health goals to eat healthier and exercise more.
VIDEO: Bringing Back Brussels Sprouts
Give Brussels sprouts a chance – how you cook them makes all the difference! Michael Marks shares cooking tips on how to enjoy this flavorful non-starchy vegetable.
VIDEO: Supersize Your Salads
Salad greens are one of the lowest-carb foods out there. It’s easy to create colorful, fresh salads to enjoy as entrees or side dishes this winter!
Keep Up Healthy Eating This Winter
By the time February rolls around, a lot of us start to lose our motivation to eat healthy and stay active. To help you out, we’ve got some great ideas for simple and healthy winter cooking, plus links to some of our best winter recipes.
Quick and Delicious Meals at Home
Find quick and delicious meals that you can treat your loved ones to this Valentine's Day instead of dealing with crowded restaurants whose menus are often loaded with unhealthy options.
VIDEO: Dessert on V-Day
Michael Marks shows us how to put a healthy spin on dessert this Valentine's Day.
VIDEO: Let’s get back to our Roots
Root vegetables are packed with nutrients. Find out which vegetables are considered root vegetables and how you can use them in your own kitchen.
Meal Makeover: Build a Better Sandwich
Packing lunch is a great idea, but a homemade lunch can be just as unhealthy as going out to eat if you're not careful. We'll show you how to build a better sandwich. Find new ideas beyond the traditional turkey sandwich!
Natural? Organic? What does it all Mean?
There's a lot of confusion around natural and organic foods. We'll explain it all here and what it means to you if you've got diabetes or are just trying to eat healthier.
VIDEO: Cabbage – A St. Patrick’s Day Staple
Michael Marks introduces us to a few different cabbage varieties. Also, find out how to pick out the best cabbage at the store for a healthy St. Patty’s day meal.
VIDEO: To Buy Organic or Not?
Michael Marks explains the difference between organic and conventionally grown fruits and vegetables to help you decide if going organic is right for you.
Spring is Here - Grocery Shop for the Season!
Learn about the benefits of buying seasonal produce and check out our spring produce guide. Plus we’ll share dozens of meal ideas to show you how tasty spring produce can give your meal plan a nutritious boost.
VIDEO: All About Artichokes
Michael Marks gives us a crash course in fresh artichokes. See how you can incorporate this tasty veggie into a delicious meal!
VIDEO: How to Pick, Store, and Prepare Asparagus
Find out the secret to buying the best asparagus at the grocery store. Also, find tips on how to store it and learn the many ways it can be cooked.
