Family * Travel * Food

Nourishing Your Thyroid: A Nutritionist's Guide to Optimal Health

When it comes to maintaining your overall health, the thyroid gland plays a vital role that often goes unnoticed. This butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck produces hormones that regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, energy production, and even your body temperature. To keep your thyroid humming along at its best, it's essential to nourish it with the right foods and supplements. In this guide, we'll explore the best foods to support thyroid health and recommend some supplements to consider adding to your routine. 

1. Iodine-Rich Foods:

Iodine is a crucial element for thyroid function because it is a key component of thyroid hormones. Without sufficient iodine, your thyroid cannot produce these hormones effectively. Include the following iodine-rich foods in your diet:

  • Seafood such as seaweed, fish, and shellfish.
  • Dairy products like yogurt and milk.
  • Eggs.
  • Iodized salt (in moderation).

2. Selenium-Packed Choices:

Selenium is another mineral that is essential for thyroid health as it helps convert inactive thyroid hormones into their active form. Incorporate the following selenium-rich foods into your meals:

  • Brazil nuts (but consume them in moderation due to their high selenium content).
  • Sunflower seeds.
  • Whole grains like brown rice and whole wheat bread.
  • Lean meats such as turkey and chicken. 

3. Zinc-Containing Foods:

Zinc plays a role in thyroid hormone production and is crucial for overall immune function. Some foods rich in zinc include:

  • Oysters.
  • Legumes like chickpeas and lentils.
  • Nuts and seeds, such as pumpkin seeds and cashews.
  • Whole grains.

4. Antioxidant-Rich Fruits and Vegetables:

Free radicals can damage the thyroid gland over time. Antioxidants help combat this damage and protect thyroid health. Incorporate these fruits and vegetables into your diet:

  • Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries).
  • Leafy greens (spinach, kale, and Swiss chard).
  • Colorful vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes.

5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation that may affect the thyroid. Sources of omega-3s include:

  • Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines.
  • Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil.
  • Walnuts.
  • Chia seeds.

Supplements to Consider:

While a balanced diet can provide most of the nutrients your thyroid needs, some individuals may benefit from supplements to ensure optimal thyroid health. Always consult with a healthcare provider or nutritionist before starting any new supplement regimen. Here are some supplements to consider:

Iodine Supplements: If you have an iodine deficiency, your healthcare provider may recommend iodine supplements. However, these should only be taken under professional guidance to prevent overconsumption.

Selenium Supplements: For individuals with selenium deficiencies or those looking to support their thyroid, selenium supplements can be considered.

Vitamin D: Adequate vitamin D levels are crucial for overall health and may indirectly support thyroid function. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

Omega-3 Fish Oil: If you struggle to consume enough fatty fish, omega-3 supplements can be beneficial for reducing inflammation and supporting thyroid health.

Maintaining optimal thyroid health is essential for overall well-being. By incorporating iodine-rich foods, selenium-packed choices, zinc-containing foods, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids into your diet, you can support your thyroid's functions naturally. Additionally, consult with a healthcare provider or nutritionist to determine if supplements are necessary to address any deficiencies or specific health concerns. Prioritizing your thyroid's health today will contribute to your long-term vitality and wellness.

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Try Mary's Gone Crackers for Healthier, Plant-Based Snacking

About a month ago, I had a real awakening in regards to my health. I made a drastic change in my diet which included eliminating meat, eggs and dairy. While I am still working out the little kinks here and there, a plant-based diet has been a necessary shift that I am committing myself to.  My family decided together that we will all take part on this journey to better health. 

One of the biggest changes for us has been what we snack on. I think snacks have been the trickiest for us since we all love our share of junk food. We have really cleaned up our act and have discovered some new things we love. Mary's Gone Crackers are a delicious, savory snack that really does cure your craving for something a little salty and crunchy. 


Mary’s Gone Crackers products are minimally processed from consciously and sustainably sourced ingredients. These healthy choices are not only good for our bodies, but also healthy for the planet. It's comforting to read the ingredients on the box and actually recognize all of them. 

What do they taste like? The real thin crackers have a unique texture, crunch and taste that make them irresistible. The olive oil and cracked black pepper variety is my family's top pick. If you like the taste of freshly cracked pepper, you will love these. We were all so surprised that these gluten-free crackers don't taste like dried out cardboard as many GF snacks do. 

Mary's Gone Crackers snacks come in so many varieties and flavors. They are perfect for everyday snacking, charcuterie boards and for when you are on-the-go. Organic, vegan, cruelty-free, and Non-GMO certified, these crispy, crunchy, and delicious crackers will go great with your favorite cheeses and jams. 

If you are on the hunt for healthier plant-powered snacks for yourself or your family, you must try these crackers. I want to try all of their amazing varieties. Learn more here. Many thanks to Mary's Gone Crackers for the product samples to try. We love them! 

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How To Experience VIVA: The Fastest, Freshest Chicken in Greenville!

VIVA Chicken joined the Greenville scene last August and has since received dazzling reviews for its lively environment, fun and friendly staff, and crave-worthy charcoal-fired chicken. With over a hundred people sharing their testimonials of how VIVA Chicken has increased the flavor game in Greenville through the hottest, freshest chicken around, VIVA wants to teach you How To VIVA!


Download The App

VIVA Chicken offers a VIVA App to access their loyalty program, VIVA Points. Earning points via VIVA Points allows users to receive free VIVA and be the first to know about special marketing promotions. Joining the app will earn you a special 10% off during your second visit in addition to easy ordering to pick up from your favorite location either in-store or curbside. Curbside pickup is as easy as selecting “I’m here” within the app and receiving delicious food at your convenience! 


Order What VIVA Insiders Love

VIVA Insiders love VIVA and we don’t blame them! The top menu items VIVA Insiders love are: 
  • VIVA’s staple: Pollo a la Brasa (Peruvian rotisserie chicken) which is imported from Peru, marinated in Chef Bruno's family recipe, and cooked in charcoal-fired ovens which gives the chicken a special and unique flavor. 
  • Tacu Bowl - Dynamic and delicious flavors join together in this bowl with cilantro rice, pulled rotisserie chicken, canary beans, salsa Criolla (lime-marinated onions and tomatoes), avocado and topped green onions.
  • Arroz Chaufa - Peruvian cuisine has a lot of Chinese influence, starting with Arroz Chaufa! This dish is Peruvian fried rice that includes veggies sauteed in soy sauce and ginger. 
Bring the Whole Family 

On Thursdays, it’s all about the family on Chef Bruno’s Big Chicken Day, where you can feed the whole fam for $19.95! Forget the stress of cooking tonight, VIVA Chicken provides an option that is fast, fresh, and a great deal for the family to enjoy. This meal includes a whole chicken and 3 large sides with quick and easy pick up to suit the needs of your busy lifestyle.


Get Lost in the Sauce 

VIVA has got the sauce, all of which are inspired by the best flavors of Peru. Each sauce served at VIVA Chicken has a unique flavor and adds value to any meal. VIVA’s sauces are made in-house daily and have gained quite the fanbase for their delicious taste, so it’s up to you to discover your favorite! They’re all delicious, ranging from:
  • Aji Amarillo — Mild, yellow, and made with garlic aji pepper
  • Huacatay — Medium, green, and made with cilantro, jalapeno, and black Peruvian mint
  • Rocoto — Red, hot, fiery, smoky, and made with rocoto pepper
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Ways to Give Your Breakfast A Healthy Boost

If you are a parent, you probably have found yourself asking a family member if they had breakfast. We all know how important breakfast is to start our day and sometimes it's hard to eat healthy things. The following items are great to add an extra boost of healthy nutrition that you can feel good about.

Viki's Granola

Available in 5 varieties: Original, Blueberry Almond, Maple Cranberry, Banana Walnut, and Apple Cinnamon

This granola is simple. There are no unnecessary ingredients at all, just wholesome all-natural goodness. It's not coated with sugar or artificial ingredients like many popular brands and are a great addition to your breakfast or snacks.
Viki's Granola is Gluten Free, Non-GMO Verified, Cholesterol Free, Zero Trans Fats, Sodium free, Dairy Free, and Kosher Pareve. I tried the Blueberry Almond variety and it tasted as it should. It was not sweet and was well balanced. A big difference from what I have been used to. It is great on top of yogurt, ice cream, applesauce or as is for a snack. Get some recipe inspiration on the Viki's Granola site and purchase them here.

Carrington Farms Organic Chia

Chia seed is an excellent source of nutrition that can be added into almost anything. My son LOVES it on his oatmeal every morning and that makes me happy. He was even eating a rice dish the other day and requested a sprinkling on top. It helps that chia seeds make you feel fuller longer which aids in weight loss. My husband and I enjoy chia seeds on salads and in baked goods.

Carrington Farms Organic Chia Seeds are:

  • 100% Organic
  • A sought after, nourishing “superfood”, loaded with beneficial properties that support a healthy lifestyle
  • Contains the richest plant source of Omega 3’s, containing more Omega 3’s than salmon
  • High in fiber, has more calcium by weight than milk, high in iron, potassium, folate, phosoporus, magnesium and manganese
  • One of nature’s highest plant based sources of a complete protein and are extremely high in antioxidants
  • Naturally gluten free
  • Can be added to salads, cereal, yogurt and smoothies
  • Perfect to make the popular Chia Seed Pudding


They come in 5 flavors: Blueberry Acai Flax, Peach Chia Vanilla, Maple Pear Quinoa, Raspberry Coconut, and Apple Quinoa Cinnamon. 


This Ready-to-eat Oatmeal Fruit Squeeze is perfect for busy families. You get the goodness of whole grain, gluten free oats and delicious fruit bites in one convenient squeezable pack. No more excuses of having no time for breakfast since they are portable. They are available for purchase in Publix Supermarkets, Whole Foods, Earth Fare and more


Any of these products are convenient ways to boost your breakfast in a healthy way. 
I received product samples for review and all opinions stated are my own as always. Thanks for reading! 

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bistroMD’s Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes

Thanksgiving will be here in a matter of weeks and many of you may be menu-planning already. Here are some healthy Thanksgiving recipes courtesy of bistroMD. I'ms sure we all could 'healthify' one of the most decadent meals of the year. Even if it's just a couple dishes. Check it out...

bistroMD’s Roasted Turkey Breast with Cranberry Chutney Recipe

Nutrition Per Serving (serving includes: 5 oz Turkey Breast + ¼ cup Cranberry Chutney + ½ cup Butternut Squash and Wild Rice Blend + ¾ cup Broccoli):

Calories: 300
Protein: 29 grams
Net Carbohydrate: 27 grams
Ingredients:

Roasted Turkey Breast:
5-6 lb Turkey Breast, bone-in, skinless
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
4 Garlic Cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Sage, fresh, chopped
1 teaspoon Thyme, fresh, chopped
1 tablespoon Rosemary, fresh, chopped
1 teaspoon Dry Mustard
1 teaspoon Sea Salt
½ teaspoon Black Pepper

Cranberry Chutney:
1 lb Cranberries, fresh
½ cup Raspberries, frozen
¼ cup Water
½ cup Celery, finely chopped
Juice and Zest of 1 Orange
1 tablespoon Honey
¼ teaspoon Cinnamon

Roasted Butternut Squash and Wild Rice Blend:
1 cup Wild Rice Blend (we like Lundberg Wild Blend)
1 Butternut Squash, cubed
1 Fennel Bulb, sliced
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
¼ teaspoon Sea Salt
¼ teaspoon Black Pepper

Instructions:
Roasted Turkey Breast:
Pre-heat oven to 325 °F
In a small bowl combine the olive oil, garlic, herbs, sea salt and black pepper to make a paste. Then rub the mixture into the turkey breast, coating all sides.
Transfer to a roasting pan and roast for about 1 ½ hours to 1 ¾ hours, until an instant read thermometer registered 165 °F when inserted into the thickest part of the breast.
Remove from oven, cover with foil and allow to rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Cranberry Chutney:
Heat a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add water, orange juice, orange zest, honey and cinnamon and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to medium-low and add cranberries. Continue to cook until they become soft and burst, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add raspberries and celery, cook an additional 10 minutes, until raspberries begin to burst.
Reduce heat to low and cover until ready to serve.

Roasted Butternut Squash and Wild Rice Blend:
Pre-heat oven to 425 °F.
Cook rice according to package directions.
Spread butternut squash and fennel evenly, in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil, sea salt and black pepper over the squash mixture and toss with your hands to coat.
Roast for 20-30 minutes, until squash is turning golden around the edges. Stir squash mixture halfway through cooking.
Once rice is complete, fluff with a fork and transfer to a serving bowl. Combine butternut squash and fennel with the rice, toss and serve

bistroMD’s Gluten Free Pumpkin Pie Tartlets

Nutrition Per Tartlet (Serves: approximately 15 tartlets):

Calories: 150
NET Carbohydrate: 12 grams
Protein: 4 grams

Ingredients:
Pie Crust:
1.5 cups Almond Flour
1 Egg
2 tablespoons Butter, unsalted

Pie Filling:
1 can (15 oz) Pumpkin Puree
½ can Coconut Milk, unsweetened
½ cup Honey
2 Eggs
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
½ teaspoon Ginger, ground
¼ teaspoon Cloves, ground
½ teaspoon Sea Salt

Instructions:

Pie Crust:
Preheat oven to 350 °F.
Add all ingredients to a food processor or blender until a smooth dough forms.
Spritz muffin pan with non-stick olive oil spray or use muffin liners.
Press approximately 1 tablespoon of dough into each cup and press to evenly fill the bottom.

Pie Filling:
Add all ingredients to a medium sized bowl and mix using a hand mixer until smooth. Or add all ingredients to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
Divide filling amongst muffin cups.
Bake approximately 10-15 minutes or until center is set.
Allow to cool at least 10 minutes before removing from pan

bistroMD’s Quinoa and Pumpkin Seed Stuffed Acorn Squash

Nutritional Information: (for each serving, serves 8):

Calories: 219
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Ingedients:

4 medium acorn squash, halved lengthwise with the seeds removed
3 cups of water
2 cups quinoa
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 ½ cups diced onion
1/2 cup diced carrots
1/2 cup diced celery
1 tablespoon minced cardamom
1/8 tablespoon of turmeric
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/3 cup diced apples
1/4 cup dried currants
1/3 cup toasted pumpkin seeds
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1 cinnamon stick
1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Adjust rack to the middle shelf.
Simmer the quinoa in 3 cups of water to make fluffy, this should take 15 to 20 minutes.
While the quinoa cooks, add the onions and 1/2 teaspoon of salt and cook until softened, stirring frequently, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the carrots, celery, cardamom and turmeric.
Using fresh apples, cut into small dices and soak with lemon juice.
Cover the pan and simmer the vegetables for 5 minutes until they are tender.
In a big bowl, toss together the quinoa and vegetables. Stir in the dried fruit, diced apples, pumpkin seeds, nutmeg and season with salt and pepper.
Brush the skin of the squash lightly with olive oil. Place the squash, cut side down, in a baking pan.
Pour 1/2-inch of boiling water into the pan and bake for 20 minutes to soften the squash. Move the squash to a plate and set aside until cool enough to handle.
Stuff the squash halves with the quinoa mix, return them, stuffing-up to the pan, and bake until the flesh can be easily pierced with the tip of a paring knife. This should take 30 minutes or less.

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Fuel Up For Your Next Adventure With Nature Valley Simple Nut Bars #simplesnacking ($15 Paypal Giveaway)


**Closed**
Winner is Charlene Davis- Congrats! 

Are you getting ready to hit the road with your family or even stay close to home and explore your local parks, zoo or other attractions? If you are like me, I'm sure packing extra snacks and drinks is on your list. With a family of 5, I look for convenience as well as nutrition. One of the newest snacks on our list of favorites is Nature Valley Simple Nut Bars. They are simple because they only have 7 ingredients! Just nuts, seeds, tapioca syrup and sea salt.
Look at all that nutty, wholesome goodness! Be sure to check out these and other varieties of Nature Valley Nut Bars. 
I just love that they are not sweet. It has just the right amount of salt and a great chewy and crunchy texture that is very satisfying. These bars come in: 
  • Almond Cashew Sea Salt
  • Roasted Peanut Honey 
They are perfect for road trips, hikes, camping or even to keep stashed in your purse or desk at work for a quick, wholesome snack. You can even enjoy it with a cup of your favorite yogurt as a quick breakfast or lunch on-the-go.

Right now you can download and print a high value coupon for .75 cents off one box of select varieties of Nature Valley Bars from Publix, while supplies last (hurry!). You are going to want to stock up with back-to-school just around the corner!

To give you a little help with stocking up on Nature Valley Simple Nut Bars or any other of their nut bars, I have a $15 PayPal prize up for grabs. It's easy to enter!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway ends August 10, 2015 and is open to U.S. and Canada Residents. Be sure to follow the instructions in the Rafflecopter widget for all entries to count. Good luck!
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Made in Nature Organic Dried Fruit Review & Giveaway (2 winners)

I have a confession. I'm not a fruit lover. I'm very particular when it comes to fruit texture. Oddly enough I prefer to eat fruit dried over fresh. I received some samples of Made in Nature Organic dried fruit in Bananas, Cranberries and Black Mission Figs. Made in Nature organic fruit has no added sugar, are non-GMO, nut-free and are unsulfered. I don't think you can get more natural than that! 
I tried the bananas first. They aren't the prettiest looking things, but boy do they taste amazing. I felt like I could eat them like candy. The texture was so chewy and I just loved how naturally sweet they were. The cranberries were nothing like what I am used to from the usual brand I use. Apparently I have been buying the wrong kind for years. Oh boy, the cranberries were perfectly sweet-tart and packed with flavor. I admit, I wasn't too thrilled about the figs. I went for it. You know what? They were actually very good-- surprisingly sweet with a chewy texture. I browsed the Made in Nature site and didn't realize how many recipes you can add dried fruit into.


Eating dried fruit is a very good option for me since my body is in need of the extra potassium and fiber. My husband really enjoyed snacking on all of the varieties of dried fruit with organic pecans. They keep him energized during the workday and I feel good that he's eating something really healthy, without added sugar. We look forward to trying some of the other fruit varieties, especially the apricots, apples and plums. As a matter of fact, I think the plums or apricots would be amazing in a zesty lamb or beef stew.

Giveaway: Two lucky Mom Files readers will win a gift pack including three varieties of Made in Nature Organic dried fruit in Bananas, Cranberries and Black Mission Figs. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on July 11, 2014. Please follow giveaway rules in Rafflecopter widget. Two winners will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

I received product samples in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 
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Get Weight Watchers approved items from Publix #myblogspark (Giveaway)

**CLOSED** Winner is Angel L. Congrats! 

The information and prize pack have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

Right now Publix is offering some great deals on Weight Watchers approved items. They include:
  • Progresso Light Soups: BOGO 
  • Green Giant Frozen: BOGO
  • Yoplait: 20/$10
You can check out the Publix everyday savings site for printable coupons to save even more. This is a great time to stock up on these foods. I have purchased a lot of Yoplait yogurt for the kids. They have been grabbing them for breakfast most mornings. I also stocked up on Green Giant frozen veggies for future meals. I like to incorporate green beans, broccoli or carrots in my son's mac and cheese for lunch. 

One Mom Files reader can win a prize pack that includes a cool collapsible salad container, water bottle, snack container and a $25 Publix gift card. Both the salad and snack containers can be put in the freezer before food is added to keep food fresh and chilled when on the go. All items are BPA-free. Enter below in the Rafflecopter widget. Good luck! 


This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on January 21, 2014. One winner will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email to claim prize. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes or for fulfillment of prizes. Good luck!

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A Healthy Alternative to the Traditional Chips and Dip: Smart Fries

I have a confession: I am a compulsive snacker. I snack all day long and even at night in bed. When I received a box of samples of all natural Smart Fries from Gourmet Basics for review, I was happy for a healthy snack alternative. The first thing that stood out to me was the word "fries". I love fries. Of course, I know they are not something you can eat everyday because they are not healthy. Smart Fries are different. They are the "Better for You" potato snack treat which is Air-Popped in an innovative healthy cooking process that preserves the all natural goodness and delicious taste. Smart Fries contain as little as 1.5-2 grams of fat per serving (depending on flavor), and are 100% natural with no artificial additives, no MSG, and 0g trans fats and are sure to satisfy your potato chip craving. 
The first flavor I tried was the Vintage Cheddar. I was so pleased with the light crispy, crunchy texture and the surprisingly delicious cheese flavor. The full size bag contains 3 servings and it is quite possible that I ate half the bag at one time. At least I did not have to feel guilty about it!
They are absolutely delicious and really satisfy my craving to snack, especially at night. The crunchiness is addicting! It's nice to have the feeling of eating a potato chip-like snack without the disgusting oily taste.
I have tasted a few of the other flavors and so far the Honey Mustard Onion is my favorite. If you like spicy, the Jalapeno Trio is sure to please! I really love how much flavor is packed into each "fry" without being salty. I feel like I now have snacking freedom!

Stay connected to Smart Fries on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Smart Fries can be purchased at Amazon.com. They come in single serving sizes and full size bags. The case of 24 single serving bags would be perfect for when I have snack duty for my kids' class or sports team. It's a good things to have in the workplace too for when the munchies strike.

I received samples of Smart Fries for review purposes. No other compensation was received and all opinions are completely mine. 
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What I do with my homegrown garden cucumbers

One thing I have learned over the years is to not over-plant vegetables. In the past, we ended up with so many veggies that we couldn't even give it all away before they went bad. This time around, we planted only one or two plants of each vegetable we like and stuck to containers. One of the veggies my husband insists on each year is cucumbers. We went with pickling cukes since we prefer the crunch of them.

I love to pluck them right off the vine and give them a good rinse. I slice them up with the skin on and add sea salt, cracked pepper, vinegar and a squeeze of sriracha. Toss them up and you have a great side dish for your savory meals.

You can't get any better than eating something fresh that you grew yourself. Did you plant anything this year or do you plan to? Have you made anything yummy with your harvest?
Shelly, Mom Files
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Eating Light Magazine | Recipes with 400 calories or less!




Kick start your New Year’s resolution to shed those unwanted pounds with help from your favorite magazines!  Good Housekeeping, Redbook, Country Living and Woman’s Day bring you Eating Light, the latest Hearst Special. Eating Light provides a 13-week quick and easy eating plan sure to eliminate all of your diet stresses and guide you on your journey to better health. Each week of the plan features six 400 calorie or less dinner recipes, slim-friendly restaurant suggestions (because a girl’s gotta eat out sometimes) and various ideas for the best breakfasts, lunches and snacks to satisfy your appetite. What’s inside?

*Comfort food recipes with a healthy twist—including pizza, chicken pot pie and chicken fingers!
*Guilt-free “sweet treats” that will make your taste buds pop
*Cheat sheet for restaurant dining without losing control
*Quick tips and guidelines to answer your dieting FAQ’s

Eating Light is available for $9.99 and can be purchased at your local supermarket, newsstand or bookstore. A digital edition is also available at Zinio.com or Nook.bn.com.

I have picked out a few recipes that I will be making soon and I will be sure to post about them. I was so impressed with the variety and love how many vegetarian recipes are in there. This will come in handy for making meals that will please my entire family and helping my husband shed some weight at the same time.

For even more photos and inspiration, check out their Facebook  and Pinterest page.

I received a review copy of the magazine. All opinions expressed are my own.

Shelly, Mom Files
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Get Simply-fied with Simply Potatoes | Review & Giveaway

**Closed** Winner is karenmed409
I can't believe it is already November and the holiday season is just about knocking at our door! One thing that goes for most of us is that we become time crunched. I do my best to make sure my family has everything they need and that includes cooking up fresh, yummy meals. 
One of my favorite staples during the holiday season is the Simply Potatoes line of products. We are big potato lovers in our house and you can't beat having them already peeled, chopped or shredded! I do a few breakfast/brunch gatherings each year and I love the easy, no fuss preparation of Simply Potatoes Shredded Hash Browns. 
It is so easy to cook. All you do is heat up your pan, add a little oil and cook according to the simple package directions. I love to add a little bit of Cajun seasoning and cracked black pepper to give it a little kick. The neat thing is that you can add anything you like to make it your own.
We are big on having breakfast for dinner and Simply Potatoes hash browns is the best part! I have cooked up 2 bags at one time on my big cast iron griddle and it really makes it crispy and brown. There are so many varieties of Simply Potatoes items to choose from. Besides the line of cut and shredded potatoes there are also mashed potatoes, Steamables and side dishes. These are truly a great convenience since you can use them in recipes or prepare them straight out the package.
One lucky Momfiles reader will win a coupon good for one FREE Simply Potatoes product. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on November 9, 2012. One winner will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

I received FREE product coupons to facilitate my review. All thoughts/opinions are always my own.
Shelly, Mom Files
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#UNJUNK and Have an UNREAL Halloween!

I received some fabulous UNREAL candy to share with friends and family at a house party I was asked to throw. It turned out that only one person could show up because it was a super busy weekend for those I invited. There were so many activities going on in my city ( fall break for college students, The State Fair, fall-related festivals and some had to work) so I decided to take my party to the streets. The streets? Yes, I packed up my candy bags and took them up to my daughters' high school for their annual "Trick or Trunk" event that helps raise funds and collect food to donate to the community.

I figured it was a great way to share the UNREAL candy and talk about it with a lot more people. What is UNREAL candy you ask? It is candy made with only REAL ingredients. Nothing artificial. Check out this video with some famous faces and see for yourself...


The taste? YUM. I. Am. Hooked. I can't believe that UNREAL candies were better than the leading brands. You can taste the ingredients and they were less sugary. My family agreed and prefer them too. I was shocked. Not my sweet candy loving children!!


I went to the high school armed with loads of UNREAL candy bags to hand out. I was a but nervous and was unsure of how well it would go over. Telling a bunch of teenagers and their parents that they should UNJUNK and GETREAL was going to raise some eyebrows. It's Halloween after all!


I chatted with so many people in small groups and they were stunned that candy that is made without fake ingredients can possibly taste good. As I walked around throughout the grounds I kept getting stopped by smiling faces. They were so pleased with how delicious the candy was and wanted to know where to find them. I told them CVS, Staples, Kroger and so many more retailers carry them for the same cost as a traditional candy bar.


My oldest daughter even said that one of the student activities leaders (a teacher) was inquiring about possibly selling UNREAL candy for fundraising! How cool is that? Not a bad idea to swap out the fake, sugary stuff with the real deal at the SAME cost! I am so happy that everyone enjoyed the candy and got to learn about the UNREAL movement. It made me think, shouldn't all candy be real? I sure hope they start making treat sizes for my kids' lunch boxes. They would love that!

Check out UNREAL on the web, Facebook and Twitter. Have you tried UNREAL candy yet? What did you think?

I received free products to share and was compensated for my time. All thoughts/opinions are completely my own.
Shelly, Mom Files
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