Ask the Dietitians

How Can I Keep Halloween Fun for Guests with Food Allergies?

By Mary Parsons, MS, RD Question: How can I keep Halloween Fun for Guests with Food Allergies? With the wide assortment of treats getting passed around at school, at parties and on trick-or-treating night, it can be hard to be safe and still have fun like everyone else. Accommodating allergic guests can be intimidating for …

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What are the Healthiest Choices for Grilled Chicken?

By Mary Parsons, MS, RD When surveying a restaurant menu with healthy goals in mind, we often gravitate toward two words: grilled chicken! Its reputation as a reliable healthy choice is well-deserved: chicken breast is a good source of lean protein, and grilling is a go-to cooking technique for creating great flavor without relying on …

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Is Organic Really Better Than Regular Produce?

Question: Organic produce is so expensive! Is it really better than regular produce? What a great question! Organic foods have become mainstream staples at grocery stores across the country. Many stores now carry an array of fruits and vegetables in the organic section. Organic foods stretch beyond the produce aisle, too. You will see products ranging …

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What are the Best Choices for Healthy Nails?

By Mary Parsons, MS, RD Question: What nutrients are important for nail health? If I have nail issues, am I missing some nutrient? Nearly all nutrient deficiencies, including iron, magnesium, zinc, selenium, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin D, and the B vitamins, have manifestations in the fingernails. The wide range of possible conditions makes diagnosis a difficult …

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Should I Be Worried About Mercury at Seafood Restaurants?

By Mary Parsons, MS, RD Mercury enters the ocean ecosystem from both industrial pollution and naturally-occurring ore deposits, and it can accumulate in fish to levels that can be potentially harmful to humans. Mercury contamination in seafood is a risk, but with a little knowledge and attention, the risk is manageable. The high-quality protein and healthy …

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