Over the past couple of years there has been a lot of buzz around sugary beverages. Most people know that pop or soft drinks are loaded with sugar and are considered to be empty calories – meaning that they do not provide any nutrients.

Elevated blood cholesterol levels, or a low HDL to LDL ratio, is a risk factor for heart attack and stroke, which are the leading global cause of death! The good news is that, for most people, blood cholesterol levels can be lowered through life style changes including a heart healthy diet and exercise.

Snacks are a great opportunity for us to re-energize and provide our body with nutrients. I am also a big advocate for snacks when it comes to weight management, because they keep you satisfied and reduce the chance of overeating at meals. Here are 5 quick and nutritious snacks you can easily prepare!

Lentils are high in protein and can be a great, low-cost protein source on your plate. They are easy to prepare and can be used in many different ways.

When it comes to weight loss, the effect of exercise should be further explored. You may have heard of the energy in equals energy out idea. While this works to some extent, its effect isn’t similar for every one and there doesn’t seem to be a dose-dependent response.

My go to snack is “overnight oats” – I either have them as breakfast (specially when I’m on the run) or as an afternoon/evening snack.

On hot summer days, it is hard to avoid the temptation of purchasing the cold drinks that are marketed to us at every coffee shop and fast food chain. Often, summer drinks are very high in sugar. Here are some of the “healthier” choices you can pick.