We all have some level of stress, right? It may be temporary (acute), or long-term (chronic). Acute stress usually won’t mess with your health too much. It is your body’s natural reaction tocircumstances, and can even be life-saving. Then, when the “threat” (a.k.a. “stressor”) is gone, the reaction subsides, and all is well. It's the chronic stress that's a problem. You see, your body has specific stress reactions. If these stress reactions are triggered every day or many tim

A little over a week ago, I attended the Health & Fitness Expo in Des Moines. Lucky for me, my booth was super close to the "Cooking Demonstration" stage (or as I like to call it - the "Free Sample Stage"). The good people at Fresh Thyme had a demonstration on chocolate filled strawberries. Let me tell you - there is something about chocolate and strawberries & this recipe nailed it. Fruit, chocolate & healthy ingredients - what's not to love?? One bite in and I KNEW I was go

There's nothing like the beginning of a new year to give you that desire for a fresh start. Whether you're someone who sets goals routinely or not, it's hard not to be motivated when everyone around you is setting goals to better themselves. Research even shows us there are a lot of benefits to goal setting...but it can be tricky. Have you ever known someone who *gasp* didn't achieve their New Year's Resolution?!!??! O.K., so that's most of us. But it doesn't have to be you t