I had the good fortune of dining at the Umstead in Cary, NC last Saturday and I was pleasantly surprised to see mocktails on their bar menu. At this stage of life, I enjoy relaxing socially with a beverage, but do not care for the side-effects of alcohol. I want to enjoy the following day also! Last Saturday I chose a delicious basil limeade, but the hibiscus spritzer was a definite contender! I mention this because I have many clients confess they enjoy an evening cocktail, especially during summer months, but find lowered inhibitions with food as well as undesirable sluggishness in the morning. Therefore, I am offering some ideas for beverages that will allow you to unwind with friends and family but will not impede your healthy lifestyle. Enjoy your summer with these guilt-free mocktails from Experience Life!
Category Archives: products
Making Pizza Work by Lisa Johnson, RD
Who doesn’t love pizza! It has become one of America’s favorite comfort foods. The problem with comfort foods, however, is that they won’t leave you comfortable very long! Pizza’s are high in fat; therefore, they are high in calories. And because the fats come from animal sources like cheese and meats, they are high in… Continue Reading
It’s Time to Give Bean Pasta a Try! by Cari Culp, RD
Legume pasta is all the rage these days and rightfully so! I have been having so much fun with it in the kitchen. I am frequently asked if veggie (tri-colored) pasta or whole wheat pasta is better than regular pasta. Well the answer is, not really. There is not much difference in the ingredients, total… Continue Reading
What is the best protein bar to choose? by Cari Culp, RD
Despite our best efforts, let’s face it, we all get stuck in a pinch and need grab-and-go nourishment at times. Although whole food is always the best choice, it never hurts to have a good quality protein bar on hand for those times when life gets chaotic. The question is, with so many options, what… Continue Reading
Gluten Free with BFree Foods by Lisa Johnson, RD
This is a promising new line for the gluten-free consumer. BFree offers whole grain, high fiber breads, wraps, and pastas without the allergen, gluten. Everyone loves the convenience and satisfaction of breads, wraps, and pastas; yet sadly GF products usually compromise texture and flavor. These are soft and pliable, and packed with healthy nutrients and… Continue Reading
Better Snacks by Cari Culp, RD
Every household has those staple foods they love. Today I want to share my favorite staple snacks and foods items that are also packed with nutrition! Hope these items give you more healthy eating options! Love Beets: Pre-cooked and peeled beets that can be enjoyed on a salad, in a smoothie or juice or simply… Continue Reading
Healthy Bites For This Busy Holiday Season and Beyond, by Lisa Johnson, RD
By the time you read this, the doors have swung open and the race is on! The last few weeks of each year tend to be the most frantic as we aim to complete deadlines, strategize for the coming year, and celebrate where we’ve come with an abundance of food and giving. It’s a wonderful… Continue Reading
Chopped salads-a game changer! by Christie Hunter, RD
I do love a good salad! Most people will agree that the best salad is the one that someone else makes. I have heard it time and time again but I’m not really sure what the magic is about someone making it but it does make salad taste different. While I like the variety a… Continue Reading
A Better Approach to Comfort Food – Getting Comfort and Quality! by Cari Culp, RD
As we whiz into fall and chillier weather approaches, most people find themselves wanting more warm, comforting foods. I especially like comfort foods when it is a little chilly and rainy outside. With all the rain we will be getting this week and most people hunkering down indoors, I thought I would share some of… Continue Reading
Are there any healthy ice cream options?
With the temperatures of summer with no end in sight, people are still enjoying ice-cold sweet treats. So why not enjoy your favorite sweet treats, but swap them for a healthier option? Some of the more popular, trendy ice cream treats include Halo Top, Bryers Delights, and Outshine bars. The Halo Top and Byers Delights… Continue Reading