Blog

Being Fit Earlier in Life Means Reduced Cancer Risk Later

by Caitlin H,

Jan 15, 2024

Life gets complicated as we age. Our time becomes more limited as the responsibilities pile up, we have kids, we focus on building our careers, you name it.

The more complicated it becomes, the more challenging it can be to fit in exercise and focus on taking care of our physical health. You may have prioritized fitness, working out at least four or five days a week in your younger years, only to have it fall by the wayside as you age. You know that science says fitness can prevent cancer and other diseases, but it feels nearly impossible to do it consistently.

If that rings true to you, there may be some good news.

The Science on Mindfulness and Weight Loss

by Caitlin H,

Jan 8, 2024

You’re starting a weight loss journey. You’ve probably researched and read up on how to do it successfully. You’ve thought about the essential things you need to do to meet your goals.

One thing you may not have even considered is the importance of mindfulness. 

This journey is about more than just what you eat and how you exercise. Incorporating mindfulness can play a vital role in ensuring your success lasts for life

10 Weight Loss Affirmations to Keep You Going Strong

by Caitlin H,

Dec 18, 2023

When you start out on a journey to lose weight, it can feel daunting. You have to change your eating and drinking habits, get educated, set a timeline, and measure your success along the way. You may even incorporate fitness into the mix, which brings a whole new level of complication. But no matter how difficult the journey seems, it’s always worth it in the end.

Getting there is challenging, but one very effective way to keep going when the going gets tough is through positive affirmations.

Need a mantra to keep your mind motivated? Don’t worry, we have some ideas for you! 

Tips to Stay on Track While You Travel

by Caitlin H,

Dec 11, 2023

The busy holiday traveling season is right around the corner.

And, if you’re like the millions of Americans who plan on hopping on a plane and heading home for the holidays or on a vacation, it doesn’t mean you have to give up on your weight loss goals.

It’s not impossible to stay committed to your healthy eating and fitness routine event when your bags are packed and you’re ready to go.

7 Realistic, Can-Do Tips for a Healthier Holiday Season

by Caitlin H,

Dec 4, 2023

A quick Google search will yield all sorts of articles sharing all the ways you can stay healthy and keep your diet going strong during the holidays.

But how realistic are they?

The truth: not very — at least not if you want to enjoy your time with friends and family without severely restricting yourself (and possibly driving yourself mad).

With that in mind, we put together a list of seven realistic, can-do tips to enjoy the holiday season with as much healthfulness as possible — but not too much to make it miserable!

Top 2 Ways To Help Manage Type 2 Diabetes

by Caitlin H,

Nov 27, 2023

If you are living with Type 2 diabetes, there’s a good chance you know how critical a healthy lifestyle is to manage the condition.

We’d like to talk about two highly effective methods of managing your Type 2 diabetes, and to share information on our award winning Balance Diabetes meal plan.

We’re here to help!

New Research Indicates How Cholesterol Types Impact Heart Disease Risk

by Caitlin H,

Nov 20, 2023

Cholesterol is one of the primary factors analyzed when researching heart disease — HDL (healthy) cholesterol to indicate protection, and LDL (lousy) cholesterol to indicate a higher risk. A recent review of previous studies shows that it’s actually more complex than knowing your numbers.

People who may be at risk for heart disease should ask their doctors for a blood test measuring for LDL and HDL cholesterol, non–HDL-cholesterol, and cholesterol particle size. By learning your cholesterol details, you can work with your doctor to create a plan to lower your chances of getting the disease.

But what else can you do to mitigate your risk of getting heart disease?

How “Skinny Dave” Lost 45 lbs with Diet-to-Go

by Caitlin H,

Nov 13, 2023

When 56-year-old healthcare administrator David Rockwell went to see his doctor for an annual checkup in May, he knew walking in that he might not get good news. Sure enough, his bloodwork showed he faced many health issues, including high cholesterol and blood sugar. His doctor immediately talked about prescribing him several medications.

David decided before he settled for a regiment of medications he told his doctor he was going to make a concerted effort to make a major lifestyle change.

Find out how Diet-to-Go helped him to shed those pounds and improve his quality of life.

Treadmill Fails That Are As Hilarious As They Are Alarming

by Caitlin H,

Nov 6, 2023

Ah, the treadmill — this stationary piece of equipment gives fitness enthusiasts the ability to walk or run anytime — rain, snow, or shine.

But let’s face it. The treadmill can be pretty damn boring. Add in that its functionality clearly baffles some people, and you have a recipe for some hilarious blunders.

You know you want to see our top 10 Treadmill Fails…

10 October Fruits & Veggies with Recipes to Match!

by Caitlin H,

Oct 30, 2023

People embrace October for all sorts of reasons — cooler temperatures, the stunning golden, brown, and red fall colors, the comfort of returning to a steady routine after the hustle and bustle of summer, and, of course, the seasonal produce!

Fall is the peak season for a wide range of fruits and vegetables — affording plenty of opportunities to enjoy the crisp deliciousness raw or as the star in healthy, scrumptious recipes for all meals.

We thought we would highlight 10 of our favorite fall fruits and veggies (5 fruits and 5 veggies) and throw in a few recipes for each one! Which one will you try to add to your shopping list this week?

5 Practical Steps to Keep Loneliness at Bay

by Caitlin H,

Oct 23, 2023

If you’ve ever felt lonely, you know how challenging navigating it can be. Many things cause loneliness, including some that you may not even realize are to blame. Reasons could include anything from life events to social media, your personality type to mental health challenges. And it’s important to note that it’s possible to feel lonely not only when you’re along, but when you’re surrounded by family and friends.

Loneliness is a very powerful emotion that can have detrimental effects on your mental and physical health, including your weight loss journey.

So what exactly can you do to combat loneliness?

Size 10 Again: Retired Teacher Drops Over 40 Pounds

by Caitlin H,

Oct 16, 2023

When Lara took her retirement trip to Kauai she loved it, but at 200 pounds she felt uncomfortable and was self-conscious.

“I was mad at myself for being so big during this special thing.”

That was one catalyst that pushed Lara to make a change. She had tried dieting in the past, but ultimately decided to try Diet-to-Go. And when 55-year-old Lara recently fit comfortably into a pair of size 10 pants she’d held onto for years, it was a powerful moment for her.

Examining the Link Between Stress and Weight Gain

by Caitlin H,

Oct 9, 2023

Traffic. Work. Groceries. Bills. Stress is a part of life — and most of us face it daily. Thankfully, we tend to be proficient in managing all those common day-to-day stressors.

But when stress gets overwhelming, it can make maintaining a healthy weight very challenging.

What exactly is the link between stress and weight gain?

Living with Type 2 Diabetes? Foods to Eat and Foods to Avoid

by Caitlin H,

Oct 2, 2023

Healthy eating plays a significant role in whether you may develop type 2 diabetes — and a recently published study confirms that.

According to the study, a considerable rise in people living with type 2 diabetes globally directly results from poor diet. The study demonstrates just how essential it is to improve the quality of your food. If you have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, changing your diet is critical to improving your health.

So, what should you be eating?

How Do the Most Popular Diets Rank for Heart Health?

by Caitlin H,

Sep 25, 2023

Skim any social media feed related to weight loss, and there’s a good chance you’ll see it chock full of everyone from fitness influencers to celebrities touting a diet that helped them shed pounds in record time. Here’s the thing: Many of those diets — such as very-low-fat and very-low-carb — may indeed help you lose weight, but that doesn’t mean they’re good for you.

What makes a diet heart healthy and where does Diet-to-Go stand in the rankings?

Financial Analyst Loses 30 Pounds in Six Months with Diet-to-Go

by Caitlin H,

Sep 18, 2023

8 Healthy Recipes to Level Up Your Grilling

by Caitlin H,

Sep 11, 2023

Summer may be ending, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop using your grill! Cookouts might always make you think of burgers and brats, potato salad, brownies, and lemonade. As delicious as all those things can be, they’re far from the only barbecue options. In fact, you can add variety to your menu by grilling proteins like steak, chicken, pork, and fish — particularly when they star in some delicious, unique, and healthy recipes that everyone will rave about.

Why don’t you add a new recipe to your cookout grilling menu plan?

U.S. News & World Report Names Diet-to-Go #1 for Best Vegetarian Meal Delivery Service Overall

by Caitlin H,

Aug 21, 2023

Being a vegetarian can definitely mean eating healthier. In fact, studies show that vegetarians tend to eat less saturated fat and cholesterol and enjoy more nutrients, like dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, folic acid, and vitamins C and E.

But trying to lose weight as a vegetarian can also be challenging, especially if you’re unsure where to begin.

That’s where we come in. Diet-to-Go’s No. 1 rated Vegetarian Meal Plan has been helping people lose weight for over 30 years. Our dietitian-approved menu delivers restaurant-quality flavors and balanced potions of delicious, chef-crafted meals. And the best part? You just heat and eat.

Ready to learn more?

U.S. News & World Report Names Diet-to-Go #1 for Best Weight Loss Prepared Meals

by Caitlin H,

Aug 7, 2023

Diet-to-Go has been crafting balanced, nutritious, tasty meals that help people eat healthy and lose weight since 1991.

Along the way, we’ve adapted our menus to align with sound scientific research and healthy eating trends that purport actual results that ultimately lead to a long-lasting lifestyle change for our tens of thousands of customers across the U.S.

Want to learn more about healthy eating?

A Deep Dive into Intuitive Eating

by Caitlin H,

Jul 24, 2023

Remember when you were a small child, and you ate when you were hungry and stopped when you were full? Even if you faced challenges surrounding eating, such as temptations from sweets or rules about finishing everything on your plate, there truly was a time when your body told you what it wanted to eat and how much — and you listened.

That’s the core message of intuitive eating, a method that dates back to 1995 but has recently gained momentum in mainstream healthy living culture.

28 Healthy Ground Beef Recipes – The Real Food Dietitians

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Add these Tahini Miso Covered Cauliflower Steaks to your menu!

You can enjoy these Tahini Miso Covered Cauliflower Steaks as an entree with a side of protein, greens, and maybe some grains/carbohydrates or as a side dish — regardless of how you enjoy it, the star of the show is really the tahini miso sauce.

What Is Miso?

Let’s talk about this fermented umami paste made from soybeans and mold called koji (Aspergillus oryzae from soybeans, barley, or rice). Miso is traditionally used in Japanese cooking and used for its health benefits and delicious umami taste.

Additionally, there are nutrients and things that make you feel good in this delicious paste! Miso contains probiotics, phosphorus, manganese, copper, vitamin K, and a variety of B vitamins.

Miso can be fermented for weeks and sometimes years depending on the brand and type, which lends itself to containing bacteria: probiotics. We know probiotics (good bacteria) are so important for creating a healthy microbiome and digestive function.

The great thing about miso is you can use it in so many ways from adding it to a simple salad dressing, a broth to make you feel good, a paste for roasting vegetables with, marinade, hummus, and the list goes on. I love adding miso to dressings and sauces because it creates this creamy texture without doing anything laborious to achieve it.

One thing to keep in mind when you’re purchasing miso is the color, in a nutshell, the darker the color miso the bolder the flavor which is great for hearty soups and stews. This is due to the time it’s been fermenting versus the lighter-colored misos which are slightly sweet and perfect for dressings, sauces, and even desserts.

FOUNDATIONAL FIVE

Learn how you can nourish your body at each meal by creating a Foundational Five Nourish Meal.

Our Foundational Five system supports you in nourishing your physical body so you can learn what to eat, which is the first step in mindful eating. The remainder is knowing how to eat and to experience your food positively.

Eating in this way supports your physical body on a cellular level ensuring you’re consuming the nutrients you need to have a sharp focus, calm digestion, lasting energy, sound sleep, and vibrant long-term health.

Here are the following Foundational Five Elements in this recipe:

1 • Non-starchy Carbohydrate

2 • Starchy Carbohydrate

Serve with grains, legumes, or potatoes

3 • Healthy Fat

4 • Protein

Serve with a protein of your choice

5 • Flavor Factor

Miso
Garlic
Salt and pepper
Lime juice
Ginger
Gluten-free soy sauce

It’s almost Valentine’s Day and love is in the air. We’ve gathered the best skin care gifts to help you celebrate the most heartfelt day of the year. Whether you’re going on a date night, gifting your friends or treating yourself, read on to find out how to make the occasion extra special. 

Fall In Love With These Date Night Gift Ideas

We recommend prepping for the most romantic night of the year with the Monoi Age Corrective Exfoliating Cleanser. The exotic scent of monoi will help set the mood, and the combination of physical and chemical exfoliants will refine the skin’s texture to reveal a fresh, youthful-looking complexion. In fact, 93% of users saw refined skin in just two weeks!*

Next, spoil your sweetheart with the best-selling Apricot Body Oil, a gift that’s sure to heat up your date night. This aromatic oil can be used for body massage, as well as all-over moisturization, to deliver a big dose of hydration. A few drops will leave the skin feeling irresistibly soft and smooth. 

Our heavenly Mangosteen Body Lotion is a treat any day, but extra blissful on Valentine’s Day. Formulated with a unique Lactic Acid Complex, this lightweight formula absorbs quickly and gently resurfaces to reveal bright, radiant skin.      

The Arctic Berry Radiance Peptide Radiance Cream is the gift that keeps on giving. An all-powerful daily moisturizer, this cream helps reveal radiant, smooth, even and luminous skin long after the special day. One customer, Stephanie Q., left a review on our website saying: “You will absolutely notice a difference after using this product. It’s called a ‘radiance cream’ and says it will ‘reveal your radiance naturally and discover smooth, even and luminous skin’ … and that is exactly how I would describe my skin the morning after using this product. It’s magical.”

Product Picks

Best Friends Forever: Gift Your Friends With Great Skin

Showing love to your friends is always a fun way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, and why not spread joy with a thoughtful gift that will help them love themselves and their skin? 

One great way to do that is with a product or two that will have them glowing. Our Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Serum will do that and more. Made with our Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Complex to deeply hydrate for visibly smoother and softer skin, this lightweight gel-cream works on all skin types, giving an extra boost to dry and dehydrated skin. 

And while we’re on the topic of glowing skin, let’s shine a light on the Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil. After three weeks of use, 87% of users experienced a healthier-looking skin glow.** This replenishing face oil melts into the skin, leaving the complexion rejuvenated and softened. Camellia oil is highly moisturizing and, when combined with marula oil and hemp seed oil, can revitalize skin that looks dull or fatigued. Give the gift of soft, radiant skin. That’s what friends are for. 

If a luminous and silky-looking complexion is on your BFF’s list, we recommend gifting the Turmeric Energizing Treatment. Formulated with turmeric, citrine gemstones and zeolite, this powder-to-mousse formula works as an exfoliant, a warming powder and a mask that awakens the skin and draws out impurities. 

Finally, if you want to give a gift that includes a bit of everything and lets your friends discover their Eminence Organics favorites, the Must Have Minis Starter Set is packaged perfectly for gifting. It features miniature versions of five of our best-selling products packed into a convenient zippered faux suede pouch that’s perfect for travel. This starter set includes a mini cleanser, exfoliant, moisturizer, facial concentrate and eye serum. It’s a complete skin care routine that’s suitable for all skin types.

Product Picks

Treat Yourself This Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day doesn’t always have to be about spoiling somebody else. Why not pamper yourself and feel beautiful in your own skin? If you’re spending the night in, do it with a routine that will send you off to sleep feeling great. 

The Birch Water Purifying Essence is a nice place to start. After cleansing your skin, dispense a couple of drops in your hands or on a cotton pad and pat the lightweight essence onto your face. As well as restoring moisture levels, birch water purifies the skin while botanical collagen improves the look of elasticity and protects the skin’s barrier function. This first step in your self care routine helps the skin better absorb and retain the benefits of subsequent products. 

For the next step in your night of pampering, treat your skin with a blend of results-oriented actives and ingredients that impart intense moisture and protection. Our Rosehip Triple C+E Firming Oil is a deeply hydrating facial oil that fights the signs of aging, smooths the look of wrinkles and infuses the skin with Vitamins C and E. Plus, it’s perfect for all skin types.  

Next, bring comfort and serenity to dry, dull-looking skin with a rich slow-absorbing mask. A luxurious step in your routine, the Kombucha Microbiome Leave-On Masque contains ginger and pre, pro and postbiotics† to visibly renew the appearance of the skin while supporting your moisture barrier. Ideal for all skin types, this mask helps the skin appear vibrant, hydrated and healthy.

To finish off your routine and drift into a luxurious night’s sleep, slather your body with the with the ultra-rich Monoi Age Corrective Night Body Cream and wake up to softer, smoother and more youthful-looking skin.

Do you need help choosing gifts for your loved ones or yourself? Visit your nearest Eminence Organics Spa Partner for all of your Valentine’s Day shopping needs! 

*In vivo results after 14 days

**Associated with a significant decrease in transepidermal water loss after 21 days of twice daily application

†Does not contain live probiotic cultures

Whether it’s how you start your day, end your day, or somewhere in between, I believe taking a shower is a great time to practice some self-care – and I just might have perfected it. Here’s a little advice for taking your shower experience to the next level in 2024.

How To Enhance Your Shower Experience

Above and beyond the normal steps you do in the shower (shampoo your hair, wash your face and body, shave, etc.), you can elevate your wellness and beauty experience by doing the following:

Set The Mood

Aromatherapy can go a long way when it comes to a nice shower. Investing in some soothing fragrances or a eucalyptus essential oil shower mist can feel as though you’ve transported yourself to a steam room at a luxurious spa. You can also hang a bundle of eucalyptus in your shower for a refreshing and invigorating experience or put a few drops of eucalyptus oil into your hands and smell them by doing deep inhalations. Aromatherapy supports relaxation or giving energy, as well as mental clarity.

P.S. I love to use skincare products that tap into an awakening scent, like Mint Renewal Cleanser.

Queue Up Some Relaxing Music Or Sounds

Nothing says relaxation like the sound of rainfall or ocean waves. Nature sounds have been linked to healing the body, including improved health, decreased stress, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive performance. Or maybe you prefer some calming tunes? Whatever it is, setting up a playlist beforehand can be great for both the mind and body.

Upgrade Your Showerhead

Consider a showerhead with different settings, such as rainfall or massaging jets, for a more spa-like experience. I also recommend using a filtered showerhead. These remove any potentially harmful minerals and chemicals to ensure that your skin is safe and protected from irritation. A filtered showerhead is also beneficial for your hair! They help hair retain natural oils and moisture, resulting in shinier, softer, and cleaner hair. 

Turn Up The Temp

Do you ever find yourself short on sleep and searching for a way to reduce under-eye puffiness? Taking a hot shower can be a great solution to this problem for two reasons: lymphatic drainage and circulation. The heat from the water dilates (relaxes and opens) lymphatic vessels to help assist with fluid drainage (wastes and toxins). When you wash your face in the shower and water hits your skin directly, this encourages excess fluids to move out of the eye area. Heat also helps with circulation, while your vertical position standing in the shower helps drain fluids out of the face.

Incorporate Exfoliation

Use a gentle exfoliating scrub for the face, like Triple Berry Smoothing Scrub, to remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin soft and refreshed. For the body, I like making this scrub that focuses on areas like dry elbows, knees, feet, and anywhere else you’d like to lift away unwanted discoloration.

Extend The Experience

Continue having some “me time” post-shower with your full skincare routine. Throw in a lymphatic drainage massage for some extra self-care!

All in all, taking a shower doesn’t have to be a brainless task. Take some time for yourself for a bit of self-care and mindfulness. I hope you found these tips helpful, and as always, #obeyrenee!

The Science on Mindfulness and Weight Loss

by Caitlin H,

Jan 8, 2024

You’re starting a weight loss journey. You’ve probably researched and read up on how to do it successfully. You’ve thought about the essential things you need to do to meet your goals.

One thing you may not have even considered is the importance of mindfulness. 

This journey is about more than just what you eat and how you exercise. Incorporating mindfulness can play a vital role in ensuring your success lasts for life

10 Weight Loss Affirmations to Keep You Going Strong

by Caitlin H,

Dec 18, 2023

When you start out on a journey to lose weight, it can feel daunting. You have to change your eating and drinking habits, get educated, set a timeline, and measure your success along the way. You may even incorporate fitness into the mix, which brings a whole new level of complication. But no matter how difficult the journey seems, it’s always worth it in the end.

Getting there is challenging, but one very effective way to keep going when the going gets tough is through positive affirmations.

Need a mantra to keep your mind motivated? Don’t worry, we have some ideas for you! 

Tips to Stay on Track While You Travel

by Caitlin H,

Dec 11, 2023

The busy holiday traveling season is right around the corner.

And, if you’re like the millions of Americans who plan on hopping on a plane and heading home for the holidays or on a vacation, it doesn’t mean you have to give up on your weight loss goals.

It’s not impossible to stay committed to your healthy eating and fitness routine event when your bags are packed and you’re ready to go.

7 Realistic, Can-Do Tips for a Healthier Holiday Season

by Caitlin H,

Dec 4, 2023

A quick Google search will yield all sorts of articles sharing all the ways you can stay healthy and keep your diet going strong during the holidays.

But how realistic are they?

The truth: not very — at least not if you want to enjoy your time with friends and family without severely restricting yourself (and possibly driving yourself mad).

With that in mind, we put together a list of seven realistic, can-do tips to enjoy the holiday season with as much healthfulness as possible — but not too much to make it miserable!

Top 2 Ways To Help Manage Type 2 Diabetes

by Caitlin H,

Nov 27, 2023

If you are living with Type 2 diabetes, there’s a good chance you know how critical a healthy lifestyle is to manage the condition.

We’d like to talk about two highly effective methods of managing your Type 2 diabetes, and to share information on our award winning Balance Diabetes meal plan.

We’re here to help!

New Research Indicates How Cholesterol Types Impact Heart Disease Risk

by Caitlin H,

Nov 20, 2023

Cholesterol is one of the primary factors analyzed when researching heart disease — HDL (healthy) cholesterol to indicate protection, and LDL (lousy) cholesterol to indicate a higher risk. A recent review of previous studies shows that it’s actually more complex than knowing your numbers.

People who may be at risk for heart disease should ask their doctors for a blood test measuring for LDL and HDL cholesterol, non–HDL-cholesterol, and cholesterol particle size. By learning your cholesterol details, you can work with your doctor to create a plan to lower your chances of getting the disease.

But what else can you do to mitigate your risk of getting heart disease?

How “Skinny Dave” Lost 45 lbs with Diet-to-Go

by Caitlin H,

Nov 13, 2023

When 56-year-old healthcare administrator David Rockwell went to see his doctor for an annual checkup in May, he knew walking in that he might not get good news. Sure enough, his bloodwork showed he faced many health issues, including high cholesterol and blood sugar. His doctor immediately talked about prescribing him several medications.

David decided before he settled for a regiment of medications he told his doctor he was going to make a concerted effort to make a major lifestyle change.

Find out how Diet-to-Go helped him to shed those pounds and improve his quality of life.

Treadmill Fails That Are As Hilarious As They Are Alarming

by Caitlin H,

Nov 6, 2023

Ah, the treadmill — this stationary piece of equipment gives fitness enthusiasts the ability to walk or run anytime — rain, snow, or shine.

But let’s face it. The treadmill can be pretty damn boring. Add in that its functionality clearly baffles some people, and you have a recipe for some hilarious blunders.

You know you want to see our top 10 Treadmill Fails…

10 October Fruits & Veggies with Recipes to Match!

by Caitlin H,

Oct 30, 2023

People embrace October for all sorts of reasons — cooler temperatures, the stunning golden, brown, and red fall colors, the comfort of returning to a steady routine after the hustle and bustle of summer, and, of course, the seasonal produce!

Fall is the peak season for a wide range of fruits and vegetables — affording plenty of opportunities to enjoy the crisp deliciousness raw or as the star in healthy, scrumptious recipes for all meals.

We thought we would highlight 10 of our favorite fall fruits and veggies (5 fruits and 5 veggies) and throw in a few recipes for each one! Which one will you try to add to your shopping list this week?

5 Practical Steps to Keep Loneliness at Bay

by Caitlin H,

Oct 23, 2023

If you’ve ever felt lonely, you know how challenging navigating it can be. Many things cause loneliness, including some that you may not even realize are to blame. Reasons could include anything from life events to social media, your personality type to mental health challenges. And it’s important to note that it’s possible to feel lonely not only when you’re along, but when you’re surrounded by family and friends.

Loneliness is a very powerful emotion that can have detrimental effects on your mental and physical health, including your weight loss journey.

So what exactly can you do to combat loneliness?

Size 10 Again: Retired Teacher Drops Over 40 Pounds

by Caitlin H,

Oct 16, 2023

When Lara took her retirement trip to Kauai she loved it, but at 200 pounds she felt uncomfortable and was self-conscious.

“I was mad at myself for being so big during this special thing.”

That was one catalyst that pushed Lara to make a change. She had tried dieting in the past, but ultimately decided to try Diet-to-Go. And when 55-year-old Lara recently fit comfortably into a pair of size 10 pants she’d held onto for years, it was a powerful moment for her.

Examining the Link Between Stress and Weight Gain

by Caitlin H,

Oct 9, 2023

Traffic. Work. Groceries. Bills. Stress is a part of life — and most of us face it daily. Thankfully, we tend to be proficient in managing all those common day-to-day stressors.

But when stress gets overwhelming, it can make maintaining a healthy weight very challenging.

What exactly is the link between stress and weight gain?

Living with Type 2 Diabetes? Foods to Eat and Foods to Avoid

by Caitlin H,

Oct 2, 2023

Healthy eating plays a significant role in whether you may develop type 2 diabetes — and a recently published study confirms that.

According to the study, a considerable rise in people living with type 2 diabetes globally directly results from poor diet. The study demonstrates just how essential it is to improve the quality of your food. If you have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, changing your diet is critical to improving your health.

So, what should you be eating?

How Do the Most Popular Diets Rank for Heart Health?

by Caitlin H,

Sep 25, 2023

Skim any social media feed related to weight loss, and there’s a good chance you’ll see it chock full of everyone from fitness influencers to celebrities touting a diet that helped them shed pounds in record time. Here’s the thing: Many of those diets — such as very-low-fat and very-low-carb — may indeed help you lose weight, but that doesn’t mean they’re good for you.

What makes a diet heart healthy and where does Diet-to-Go stand in the rankings?

Financial Analyst Loses 30 Pounds in Six Months with Diet-to-Go

by Caitlin H,

Sep 18, 2023

8 Healthy Recipes to Level Up Your Grilling

by Caitlin H,

Sep 11, 2023

Summer may be ending, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop using your grill! Cookouts might always make you think of burgers and brats, potato salad, brownies, and lemonade. As delicious as all those things can be, they’re far from the only barbecue options. In fact, you can add variety to your menu by grilling proteins like steak, chicken, pork, and fish — particularly when they star in some delicious, unique, and healthy recipes that everyone will rave about.

Why don’t you add a new recipe to your cookout grilling menu plan?

U.S. News & World Report Names Diet-to-Go #1 for Best Vegetarian Meal Delivery Service Overall

by Caitlin H,

Aug 21, 2023

Being a vegetarian can definitely mean eating healthier. In fact, studies show that vegetarians tend to eat less saturated fat and cholesterol and enjoy more nutrients, like dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, folic acid, and vitamins C and E.

But trying to lose weight as a vegetarian can also be challenging, especially if you’re unsure where to begin.

That’s where we come in. Diet-to-Go’s No. 1 rated Vegetarian Meal Plan has been helping people lose weight for over 30 years. Our dietitian-approved menu delivers restaurant-quality flavors and balanced potions of delicious, chef-crafted meals. And the best part? You just heat and eat.

Ready to learn more?

U.S. News & World Report Names Diet-to-Go #1 for Best Weight Loss Prepared Meals

by Caitlin H,

Aug 7, 2023

Diet-to-Go has been crafting balanced, nutritious, tasty meals that help people eat healthy and lose weight since 1991.

Along the way, we’ve adapted our menus to align with sound scientific research and healthy eating trends that purport actual results that ultimately lead to a long-lasting lifestyle change for our tens of thousands of customers across the U.S.

Want to learn more about healthy eating?

A Deep Dive into Intuitive Eating

by Caitlin H,

Jul 24, 2023

Remember when you were a small child, and you ate when you were hungry and stopped when you were full? Even if you faced challenges surrounding eating, such as temptations from sweets or rules about finishing everything on your plate, there truly was a time when your body told you what it wanted to eat and how much — and you listened.

That’s the core message of intuitive eating, a method that dates back to 1995 but has recently gained momentum in mainstream healthy living culture.

U.S. News & World Report Names Diet-to-Go #1 for Best Mediterranean Prepared Meals

by Caitlin H,

Jul 10, 2023

Here at Diet-to-Go, our team of nutritionists and chefs work tirelessly to ensure Mediterranean plan meals adhere to this diet’s cultural and nutritional guidelines. That means delivering high-quality, tasty meals packed with healthy fats, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables.

It’s hard work, but it pays off. Diet-to-Go is thrilled to announce that U.S. News & World Report named us No. 1 for Prepared Meals on its 2023 “Best Mediterranean Diet Meal Delivery Services.”

A hearty and comforting one pot meal, this creamy Instant Pot Chicken Stew is made with chicken thighs, carrots, garlic, green beans, and spices like rosemary, thyme and sage.

Why I Love This Recipe

A thick savory stew is the perfect meal to cozy up with during the cold winter months.

This Instant Pot Chicken Stew is comforting, hearty, and satisfying on its own or when paired with a crusty slice of bread. It’s creamy, packed with flavor, and loaded with lots of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, sage, and parsley. 

Made with chicken thighs for protein, tons of veggies like carrots, celery, green beans and potatoes, and heavy cream for creaminess and a boost to its satiety factor, this stew is a meal the whole family will love.

I love making this stew in the Instant Pot because it saves time and energy. Set it, and forget it! It tastes as if you’ve been simmering it all day long, when it really only took you less than an hour from start to finish.

If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can easily make this in the slow cooker or on the stove top. However you make it, you’ll have a one pot meal that’s warm, cozy, nourishing, and delicious. 

Ingredients You’ll Need

Notes on Ingredients

boneless, skinless chicken thighs: I like using chicken thighs since they’re more flavorful than breasts, but you can use either. You could also make it vegetarian or vegan by substituting the chicken with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils and swapping the chicken broth with vegetable broth.

butter: aromatic flavor enhancer used to coat the veggies for sautéing.

yellow onion: adds aromatic flavor. 

celery: part of the aromatic foundation for the broth. 

carrots: adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the flavor of the broth.

garlic: packs in the flavor. 

white wine: deglazes the pan which maximizes the overall flavor of the stew. 

baby potatoes: potatoes are a good source of fiber, potassium, vitamin C and B6. Feel free to substitute for other potato varieties as needed. 

dried rosemary: adds a piney, peppery flavor. 

dried thyme: provides a subtle minty, sweet, and earthy flavor.

dried sage: provides a full, earthy flavor that is slightly lemony and minty.  

dried parsley: adds a fresh, bold flavor.

bay leaf: adds another layer of flavor to compliment the dried herbs.

salt and pepper: essential flavor enhancers.

chicken broth: can substitute for vegetable broth but the flavor might be different. 

frozen cut green beans: green beans are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and calcium. I like using frozen green beans here for added convenience. 

heavy cream: for creaminess and contributes to the rich flavor. 

cornstarch: used to thicken the stew. You can swap with flour or arrowroot starch if needed

Equipment You’ll Need (affiliate links – if you make a purchase I receive a small commission)

Instant Pot

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Sear chicken thighs. Heat olive oil on high Sauté setting and once hot, add chicken thighs and sear until browned, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
Sauté aromatics. Set Instant Pot to normal Sauté and melt butter. Once melted, add onions, celery and carrots and cook until onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, then add wine to deglaze the pan, scraping the bottom as needed. 
Add ingredients. Turn Sauté off and add chicken back into the pan followed by the potatoes, rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Stir ingredients together.
Cook. Secure cover onto Instant Pot (make sure set to sealing) and set to Pressure Cook for 10 minutes. Allow for natural pressure release for 10 minutes before using quick release.
Shred chicken. Remove chicken from the pot to shred then add it back in. 
Add heavy cream and green beans. Stir in heavy cream and green beans. Remove bay leaf.
Make cornstarch slurry and add to pot. Whisk cornstarch and 3 tablespoons water in a small bowl until combined. Add cornstarch slurry to pot, stir to incorporate, and set to Sauté until soup begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes. Serve hot! 

Expert Tips

Be sure to cut the potatoes small enough (think bite-sized pieces) so that they cook all the way through to fork tender.
Allow heavy cream to come to room temperature before adding to soup to prevent curdling.
Green beans can be swapped for any frozen vegetable of your choice. Corn, bell peppers, peas, broccoli or cauliflower would all work well.
If you’re making in the slow cooker:

Add all ingredients (except olive oil, butter, green beans, heavy cream, and cornstarch) to slow cooker and cook until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F and potatoes are tender, about 3-4 hours on high and 7-8 hours on low.

Stir in green beans, heavy cream, and cornstarch slurry to help thicken.

Recipe FAQs

Is stew better in the slow cooker or pressure cooker?

Both definitely work and will taste delicious, so it depends on your preference, which appliance you have, and how much time you have. Pressure cookers are great in a pinch whereas slow cookers run all day. A slow cooker is great for hands off cooking, while a pressure cooker involves a few more steps that require your attention. In terms of overall taste, some people feel that flavor is better retained in a pressure cooker, but again this is subjective. 

How do you make a stew thicker?

The key to achieving a thick, creamy stew is creating a cornstarch slurry. I typically mix 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons water and stir until combined. With the Instant Pot set to Sauté, add the slurry and let the stew come to a simmer, allowing it to thicken, stirring occasionally, about 3-5 minutes. 

Can other vegetables be added to the stew?

Why not!? I recommend sticking to frozen veggies here because they require no prep and are super quick to add in at the end. Corn, bell peppers, peas, broccoli or cauliflower would all work well.

Can you put raw chicken in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can put raw chicken in the Instant Pot. The cooking time for chicken varies depending on the size of the breasts/thighs but 8-10 minutes on high should do the trick. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees before you eat it, and if you’re not sure that it’s cooked through, test with a cooking thermometer.

Storage and Preparation 

Instant Pot Chicken Stew leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat on the stovetop, use a small saucepan and heat over medium-low until reaches desired temperature. To reheat in the microwave, use a microwave-safe bowl and reheat for 1-3 minutes, depending on the microwave. 

Leftovers can also be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Recipes That Pair Well

Air Fryer Garlic Bread

Beet Salad with Feta

Air Fryer Cauliflower

Holiday Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate

Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

For more instant pot inspiration, check out my other recipes below!

Instant Pot 15 Bean Soup

Instant Pot Sweet and Sour Chicken

Easy Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili 

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Risotto

Instant Pot Guiness Beef Stew

If you like this recipe, please be sure to comment and give it a 5 star rating below. If you make it, share it on Instagram and tag me @karalydonrd and I’ll re-share it with my followers! If you want to save this recipe for later, be sure to pin it on Pinterest!

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Simple No Bake Protein Balls with Peanut Butter – The Real Food Dietitians

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Balanced eating can seem like such an abstract concept — what does balance really mean and look like when it comes to food?

While balance will look different for each of us at every meal, there is one important takeaway to understand about finding and maintaining balance, and that’s what I’m sharing in this video.

The Spectrum of Eating Habits

Imagine a spectrum.

On one end of the spectrum, we have the all-in mentality of rigid diets, plans, and food rules that feel restrictive and require you to regulate yourself. This is the place where you eat “super clean” and avoid all “bad” foods.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is not paying attention to your nutritional needs.

Sometimes this can look like eating anything you want, whenever you want. This usually happens when someone believes that the best way to have balance is to never say no to foods that they previously labeled as “off-limits” or “bad.”

It can also look like not being mindful about ensuring you’re getting a balance of nutrients or not feeling confident in knowing what your body needs to be nourished without the guidance of being on a specific diet.

If you just let go of the diets but you don’t also learn how to focus on your nutritional needs in a more supportive and sustainable way, you eventually won’t feel well, you may get further from your well-nourished weight, or your physical health may suffer. And all of these things may lead you to feel pulled back to wanting to go on a diet, which swings you right back into the other end of the spectrum.

You need to nourish your body well in order for you to simply feel your best and also to care for your health and wellbeing.

Remember, nutrition is the catalyst for all areas of our health and it’s what allows us to enjoy and experience life. You deserve to find a way of nourishing yourself that supports you without it requiring you to regulate or restrict yourself.

What Balanced Eating Looks Like

What we’re aiming for is a happy medium — balance.

What some people think when they hear happy medium is spending some time on one end of the spectrum and some time on the other end of the spectrum, swinging back and forth between the two.

An example of what this may sound like is you saying you’ve been “good” all week, so now you’re going to eat whatever you want all weekend.

Or it could be the reverse, where you say that you’ve been so “bad” all week, so next week you need to make up for what you ate and eat super clean.

But that’s not really balanced. That’s cycling between two extreme states.

Not only is that not supportive of your wellbeing, but it’s also not giving you a sense of ease, peace, and enjoyment with food that’s so important.

Rather than swinging from one end of the spectrum to the other, what balance really looks like is hovering right in the middle of the spectrum with a little give and take on a daily basis.

 

This is where you’re making very intentional choices that allow you to nourish yourself well without needing to restrict or regulate yourself, and also have the flexibility to enjoy foods you like without ignoring your nutritional needs.

Balance takes many forms and can look different for each person, every day, at every meal!

This can look like enjoying a slice of pizza with a side salad.

It can look like choosing to have dessert one night because you really want it, you have your favorite dessert on hand, and you’ve given your body the nourishment it needs.

It can look like opting to make a more nourishing version of your favorite comfort food so that you’re able to sneak in more whole foods into your day while also making it a meal that’s really enjoyable.

The purpose of finding balance with your food choices is to bring awareness to what you want and need, and make an intentional choice that helps keep you in the happy medium — no matter what it may look like.

This balance allows you to honor your wants and needs, build confidence in your ability to make the best choice for yourself, and experience much more ease and peace around food so it no longer is a source of stress or something that preoccupies your mental energy.

How to Find and Maintain Balance

In order to find this balance and stay in this happy medium rather than swinging from one end of the spectrum to the other, have to form new, more supportive practices and mindsets that allow you to hover in this middle, balanced state for the long-term.

If you’re curious about what those practices are, sign up for our free workshop. In it, I share the three important pillars to focus on in order to reclaim balance with the way you nourish yourself. You’ll walk away knowing what those pillars are and why they’re so important if you want to have this balance with your eating habits that give you the flexibility you need to feel at peace and at ease with food for life.