Childhood obesity is on the rise in the United States. Even the prevalence of pre-diabetes and diabetes is increasing in children. Families are busier than ever, while also more sedentary than previous generations. School lunch choices are mostly processed, fatty, sugary foods.

Melinda Wivell, RDN, LD, a registered dietitian with the Lake Health Integrative Medicine team, discusses how a plant-based diet for elementary aged children can be a healthy alternative to the traditional American diet:

Myth: I should look for foods with “protein” on the packaging because it is probably better for me. 

It might be time to upgrade your game-day offerings and go beyond potato chips and fruit chews. So if you're next on snack duty for your child's sports team, don't sweat it!  Melinda Wivell, RDN, LD, a registered dietitian at Lake Health, shares her short list for healthier, shareable snacks that can fuel your young athlete: 

Valentine's Day celebrates sweethearts - and sweet treats! Special treats can fit into a healthy diet, especially with a few simple swaps. Alyssa Tyler, MS, RD, LD, a registered dietitian at Lake Health, gives her favorite ideas for healthier Valentine’s Day treats to share with your loved ones. 

Ice cream cones, popsicles, lemonade and more come to mind when the weather gets hot! However, summer drinks and treats can be loaded with calories and sugar. Alyssa Tyler, a registered dietitian at the Lake Health Wellness Institute, has some refreshing ideas for healthier treats to help cool you down this summer: 

We all know the challenges of eating healthy while balancing work, family, sports and more. Busy schedules can make it hard to eat healthy on the go, but there are a few simple tips to keep in mind that can help!