DailySpark Blog http://www.dailyspark.com/ The DailySpark is a blog brought to you by SparkPeople.com. Topics included in the blog include the latest news in nutrition, fitness, and health, food features, and more. DailySpark.com http://www.dailyspark.com/images/dsp_logo.jpg http://www.dailyspark.com/ 9 More 'Healthy' Foods To Skip http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=9_more_healthy_foods_to_skip We're saying "healthy" because there's a lot more to making nutritious choices than meets the eye. Lots of foods present themselves as healthy when they're anything but. Wed, 16 May 2012 14:00:00 EST Make Cooking Dinner a Family Affair http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=make_cooking_dinner_a_family_affair Turn cooking into a family affair by promoting your kids to assistant chefs. Here are some quick and easy ways to get them involved.<br /> Wed, 16 May 2012 10:00:00 EST Changing My Corner of the World, One Sidewalk at a Time http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=changing_my_corner_of_the_world_one_sidewalk_at_a_time One of my biggest pet peeves is people who complain about things, but never do anything to change them. So I'm doing something, even though it's not easy for me. Tue, 15 May 2012 18:00:00 EST 10 Tips to Stay on Track When Life Gets Tough http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=10_tips_for_maintaining_a_healthy_lifestyle_in_times_of_stress Times of stress can easily undo even the best of intentions when it comes to your well-being, but that does not have to be the case if you have access to some helpful tips. Tue, 15 May 2012 10:00:00 EST 16 Ways Experts Cope with Stress http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=16_ways_experts_cope_with_stress Even the professionals who dole out advice on how to handle anxiety and worry aren't immune to daily pressures. Try their tricks and you too can keep your cool. Tue, 15 May 2012 06:00:00 EST Have You Started Your Experiment of One? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=have_you_started_your_experiment_of_one There is not a standard approach for any of us to follow when it comes to embracing habits of healthy living, but the approach that works best for you. Mon, 14 May 2012 22:00:00 EST What is Miso Paste? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=what_is_miso_paste Miso is a healthy ingredient that adds flavor to your favorite dish. Learn how to use miso from Chef Meg. Mon, 14 May 2012 14:00:00 EST Is Tuna Scrape the New Pink Slime? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=is_tuna_scrape_the_new_pink_slime Meat is back in the news, but this time it isn't from animals that roam on land--it's those that swim in the sea. Learn more about tuna scrape and if there is reason for concern. Mon, 14 May 2012 10:00:00 EST End Digestive Problems for Good http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=end_digestive_problems_for_good Find out surprising info that’ll keep tummy troubles at bay.<br /> Mon, 14 May 2012 06:00:00 EST Food Showdown: Which Veggie Packs More Nutrients? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=food_showdown_broccoli_vs_cauliflower Which cruciferous veggie has the most nutrients: broccoli or cauliflower? Sat, 12 May 2012 10:00:00 EST Giveaway: Win a Tai Cheng DVD Workout Set! http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=giveaway_win_a_tai_cheng_dvd_workout_set Enter our giveaway to win a Tai Cheng DVD workout kit! Fri, 11 May 2012 18:00:00 EST Sneak Peek: 'The Weight of the Nation' Documentary Series http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=weight_of_the_nation_children_in_crisis Check out our thoughts about Part 3 of HBO's series "The Weight of the Nation" and how it relates to teaching your kids healthy messages. Fri, 11 May 2012 14:00:00 EST Perspective: Why YOUR Health is So Important http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=perspective_why_your_health_is_so_important Beth shares her own perspective as why your health is so important to your overall well-being. Fri, 11 May 2012 10:00:00 EST Coach Nicole's Half Marathon Running Music http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=coach_nicoles_half_marathon_running_playlist Need some motivation to get out the door and run? Here are 25 upbeat songs that got Coach Nicole through her most recent half marathon! Fri, 11 May 2012 06:00:00 EST How 'Life after Death' Can Change Your Life Today http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=how_life_after_death_can_change_your_life_today The Slowest Loser's beloved 79-year-old mom just passed away. Or did she? Thu, 10 May 2012 18:00:00 EST A Dietitian's Take on 5-Hour Energy Drinks http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=5hour_energy_a_dietitians_take_on_the_secret_sauce What does Dietitian Becky think about the infamous 5-Hour Energy drink? Thu, 10 May 2012 14:00:00 EST Poll: Should States Ban Junk Food at Schools? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=poll_should_states_ban_junk_food_at_schools California schools are starting to see a trend of students consuming fewer calories with the help of a ban on junk food. Do you think states should ban junk food at schools? Thu, 10 May 2012 10:00:00 EST The Three Pounds that Control Me http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_three_pounds_that_control_me By focusing my brain on positives, I am more successful which will help me continue to move in the right direction. Thu, 10 May 2012 06:00:00 EST Food Labeling 101: Understanding Label Claims http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=food_labeling_101_understanding_label_claims The supermarket aisles are flooded with health claims. It's not surprising that most consumers are left wondering what to believe and what it all means. Wed, 9 May 2012 22:00:00 EST A Delightful Brunch Menu for the Mom in Your Life http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=a_delightful_brunch_menu_for_the_mom_in_your_life Still trying to decide what to get Mom for Mother's Day? How about a delicious home-cooked brunch? Wed, 9 May 2012 18:00:00 EST Calling All Teens: How To Change Your Life This Summer http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=calling_all_teens_how_to_change_your_life_this_summer Dr. David L. Katz shares some strategies for teens to take control of their health during the summer months. Wed, 9 May 2012 14:00:00 EST You Snooze, You Lose: Sleep More to Weigh Less http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=you_snooze_you_lose_sleep_more_to_weigh_less Is your lack of sleep harming your weight-loss efforts? Find out what the studies say. Wed, 9 May 2012 10:00:00 EST 2 Must-Do Moves for a Better Butt http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=2_mustdo_moves_for_a_better_butt Can you guess which moves are the very best for targeting and toning your butt? The answer may surprise you! Wed, 9 May 2012 06:00:00 EST Simple Steps to Organize Storage Spaces http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=simple_steps_to_organize_storage_spaces Follow these easy tips to de-clutter your kitchen pantry, linen closet and mudroom. Tue, 8 May 2012 22:00:00 EST Bedtime? But It's Still Sunny Outside, Mom! http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=bedtime_but_its_still_sunny_outside_mom As summer vacation draws near and the days grow longer, bedtime becomes a struggle in many families. How do you get kids to sleep when it's still sunny outside? Tue, 8 May 2012 18:00:00 EST The Stress of Managing Aging Parents http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_stress_of_managing_aging_parents Coping with aging parents and all the decisions that must be made can be a huge stress to so many of us. Tue, 8 May 2012 14:00:00 EST Is Climate Change Causing Our Allergies? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=climate_change_could_be_impacting_seasonal_allergy_sufferers Most experts agree that more studies are needed to determine the link between climate change and allergies, but there is enough initial research to warrant further investigation. Tue, 8 May 2012 10:00:00 EST Spotlight on High Blood Pressure: The 'Silent Killer' http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=spotlight_on_high_blood_pressure_the_silent_killer Protect yourself against high blood pressure and stroke with these tips from Dr. Birdie. Tue, 8 May 2012 06:00:00 EST The Buck Stops Here http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_buck_stops_here Do you take personal responsibility for your actions or do you continue to blame others for the choices that you make or do not make? Mon, 7 May 2012 22:00:00 EST Be a Healthy, Happy Hostess http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=be_a_healthy_happy_hostess Entertaining--for an hour or a weekend--is easier than it seems with these tips and suggestions. Mon, 7 May 2012 14:00:00 EST Diet Friendly Dining: Outback Steakhouse http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=diet_friendly_dining_outback_steakhouse Whether it is an evening out with family or friends or Curbside Take-Away ordering, learn which healthier options are available for your next steakhouse visit. Mon, 7 May 2012 10:00:00 EST 75 Great Weight-Loss Tips http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=wds_top_75_weightloss_tips Discover sensible slim-down ideas that really work. Mon, 7 May 2012 06:00:00 EST Healthy Headlines from Around the Web http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=healthy_headlines_from_around_the_web We've rounded up links to some of the week's top healthy living headlines.<br /> Sun, 6 May 2012 06:00:00 EST Food Showdown: Cinco de Mayo Madness http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=battle_of_the_cinco_de_mayo_meals Which is the healthier Mexican fare: a taco salad or chicken fajitas? Sat, 5 May 2012 10:00:00 EST Giveaway: ElliptiGO Elliptical Bicycle http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=giveaway_elliptigo_elliptical_bicycle Enter to win an ElliptiGO elliptical bike! Fri, 4 May 2012 18:00:00 EST Just Don't Eat The Whole Cake http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=just_dont_eat_the_whole_cake Healthy eating is not about depriving us from the foods we enjoy, but learning to appreciate the food we do enjoy, without having to eat the whole cake. Fri, 4 May 2012 10:00:00 EST Don't Stop Dreaming http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=dont_stop_dreaming_2 Don’t let a temporary road block keep you from fulfilling your dreams. You can change, it just takes time. Thu, 3 May 2012 22:00:00 EST Make Cinco de Mayo Healthier, with 30+ of Our Best Mexican Recipes http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=make_cinco_de_mayo_healthier_with_30_of_our_best_mexican_recipes Just in time for Cinco de Mayo, we rounded up our favorite Mexican-inspired recipes. Let's get this party started! Thu, 3 May 2012 14:00:00 EST Operation Fit To Fight http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=operation_fit_to_fight Michelene shares what she learned in our Operation Fit to Fight workshop and how Staff Sergeant Ken Weichert became an inspiration to her. Thu, 3 May 2012 10:00:00 EST Poll: How Are You Challenging Yourself? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=poll_how_are_you_challenging_yourself Coach Denise recently stepped out of her comfort zone and took some fitness classes to challenge herself. Tell us how you are challenging yourself! Thu, 3 May 2012 06:00:00 EST Is Your Life Too Cluttered? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=is_your_life_too_cluttered In shedding clutter and getting rid of excess stuff in my life, I found more time and energy for the things that matter most. Is this the secret to balancing all that life brings? Wed, 2 May 2012 18:00:00 EST Have You Tried: Saffron? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=have_you_tried_saffron It’s hard to believe that a tiny part of a flower can also be a highly prized spice. Have you ever tasted the most expensive spice in the world?<br /> Wed, 2 May 2012 14:00:00 EST Share Your Memories of Cooking with Mom http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=sparkpeople_cookbook_giveaway_and_share_your_memories_of_cooking_with_mom Share your best memory of cooking with mom, and enter to win one of six copies of "The SparkPeople Cookbook"--the perfect Mother's Day gift! Wed, 2 May 2012 10:00:00 EST Preparing Your Teen to Babysit http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=preparing_your_teen_to_babysit Before your kid nabs a babysitting job, here's what you both need to know to make the most of the experience.<br /> Tue, 1 May 2012 18:00:00 EST Don't Tell Me I Can't http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=dont_tell_me_i_cant Overcoming obstacles can be one of the most amazing experiences we can ever go through even if we do not experience them ourselves, they can change our life's perspective. Tue, 1 May 2012 14:00:00 EST The Best Diet for Weight Loss http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_best_diet_for_weight_loss What’s worse: losing a bunch of weight quickly, only to gain it all back? Or losing weight slowly in a healthy way that’s going to help you keep it off for good? Tue, 1 May 2012 10:00:00 EST DVD Review: 'Canyon Ranch: Strong & Sculpted' http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=dvd_review_canyon_ranch_strong_sculpted Looking for an effective total-body strength training workout? Find out why this DVD is a great workout for you to try. Tue, 1 May 2012 06:00:00 EST What's for Dinner? Printable Monthly Menu for May http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=whats_for_dinner_printable_monthly_menu_for_may You asked for it, we answered! Here's a printable calendar with 31 healthy recipes and meal ideas, just in time for the month of May! Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST SparkPeople's First FREE E-Book, Just in Time for Mother's Day! http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=sparkpeoples_first_free_ebook_just_in_time_for_mothers_day Great news: Our second e-book is also available, and it's FREE! Get "Light and Easy Mother's Day Brunch Recipes from SparkPeople" today! Mon, 30 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST Celebrate Chef Meg's Favorite Hometown Holiday: Derby Day http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=celebrate_chef_megs_favorite_hometown_holiday_derby_day The Kentucky Derby is packed full of tradition: fancy hats for the ladies, mint juleps, Derby pie, asparagus, and, my favorite, Burgoo, a slow-cooked stew. Mon, 30 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST