To a sports dietitian, nothing says “the holidays are here” like the sound of athletes pleading for a cheat code to holiday eating.  From sweet to savory or appetizer to dessert, food brings family and friends together to celebrate with gratitude for one another and the kindness in their hearts. 

As a former high school football player, football coach, and now occasional nutrition counselor for high school athletes, I have seen many sides of the high school athletes. One of the sides involves several nutritional challenges.

"Mainly, we are looking for the healthy fats, antioxidants and protein in the pistachios.  The mixture of the healthy fats and lutein helps to support the brain and eyes, the polyphenols help to decrease inflammation and the arginine effects circulation and recovery." -Becci Twombley, RD, CSSD

2018 showcased the continued growth in plant-based food innovation, interest, and sales. According to Innova Market Insights, consumers are drawn to plant-based foods based on the growing cross-sectional interest that drive its popularity: sustainability, health, and ethics from plant-based ingredients.