Healthy snacking should be a daily part of your growing child’s life. In fact, studies show that snacking is vital for growth and development during childhood because, not only do little ones burn through energy much quicker than adults; they also get hungry again much sooner between meals as the body demands calories, nutrients, and hydration between meal times. That means the snacks you feed your growing child should focus on a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Here are a few healthy snack options to satisfy a busy child: 1. Pears and cottage cheese Most kids are used to eating pears from an early age as this fruit is a common addition to baby foods. So it’s likely that they’ll be drawn to this sweet treat as they grow. Sliced pears offer a great source of fiber, add some cottage cheese and place the pear slices on top for a delicious source of calcium and protein to support growing bones and muscles. 2. Ants on a log Even the most picky eaters will love this creatively named snack. While doctors used to advise not feeding infants nuts just in case of allergies, newer research shows that introducing nuts at an early age actually reduces the risk of nut allergies in kids.

Everyone knows that the liver’s main function is to filter blood, but what many people don’t know is that the liver also has a hand in creating one of the most common sources of heart disease and that is cholesterol. This waxy, fat-like substance doesn’t just exist in the food you eat (i.e., meat, eggs, dairy, etc.), it’s also created naturally by your body. And despite common misconception, it isn’t always bad for you. Some cholesterol is needed by the body to help your organs do their jobs. The problem is when you have too much of it. More accurately, it’s when you have too much LDL cholesterol and not enough HDL cholesterol. The latter is sent to your liver where it’s distributed throughout your body. The former blocks your arteries instead. That’s why it’s important to regulate your cholesterol levels by using the following natural methods: 1. Quit smoking Cancer isn’t the only thing smoking gives you, it also reduces good cholesterol while increasing the bad kind. Lower cholesterol isn’t the only reason to quit smoking. Deep wrinkled and leathery skin are more common in smokers. They’re more vulnerable to colds and the flu. Going through chemotherapy because of lung cancer isn’t fun either.

There is little doubt that you’ve at least heard of the keto diet, or ketogenic diet, which challenges dieters to consume a very low-carb, high-fat diet and protein-rich. While keto may seem linked to many health benefits (i.e., fast weight loss), the diet has also been linked to a few negative side effects. Many don’t realize that the keto diet has long been recommended for patients with diabetes, cancer, and epilepsy. However, just because it helps you lose weight, doesn’t mean keto is for everyone for the following reasons: 1. Ketosis isn’t for everyone The purpose behind the keto diet is to put the body in a state known as ketosis, or fat burning mode. Most dieters do this by adapting to an eating regimen that focuses on high protein and high fat foods like cheese, eggs, meat, fish, dairy, and poultry while significantly restricting high carb foods such as breads, pasta, potatoes, legumes, carrots, and of course, alcohol, and refined and natural sugars. In the end, participants reach ketosis by limiting carbs to just 5% while fat and protein intake is boosted to 75% and 20%. So while the pounds are coming off with keto some people have reported negative and uncomfortable side effects.

There is plenty of controversy around what to feed your dog. From the raw canine diet to a gluten free diet and beyond, everyone has an opinion about what to feed your beloved 4-legged friend. Plus, dogs also have specific tastes and health issues to consider when it comes to what’s in their bowls. Just remember that dogs are mainly carnivores that also eat some veggies (omnivores) and grains in their diets for balanced nutrition (i.e., think meat, fish, veggies, and rice).  To help you make healthy feeding tips for your canine, here are a few tips:  1. Feeding by age Age has a big impact on what, how much, and how frequently you should feed your pet. During puppyhood, puppies require a specific balance of protein, fat, and vitamin and nutrient for growth, immune support, and development.  Also, small meals are good for growing dogs. While adult dogs (which can range from 12- to 24-months depending on breed) tend to eat less frequently at 2 meals per day maximum. Senior canines, especially those with weight, oral, or other chronic health issues (i.e., arthritis) require protein and fibre-rich diets in their golden years.  2. Portions and meal times The size portions and frequency you feed your dog should depend on their size, breed, and amount of physical activity he or she gets.

Many cat owners like sharing their food with their pets. While there is always a danger of overfeeding kitty and encouraging feline obesity (and feline diabetes), many human foods are toxic for cats. The good news is that there are plenty of foods that are safe for cats to eat, many even contribute to stronger bones, and healthier teeth and coats. Read on for some safe and affordable human foods that you can feed your cat: 1. High protein meats Any unprocessed, unsalted or flavored and fully cooked meat like tuna, salmon, boiled chicken, turkey, and eggs provide plenty of protein for healthy teeth and bones. Just remember, these meats should be fully cooked, contain no bones, and be free of salt and other seasonings. 2. Pumpkin If your cat happens to be a bit overweight, your vet may recommend adding plain pureed pumpkin to their food. Not only do many cats love pumpkin, this veggie is rich in fiber for relieving bouts of kitty constipation. 3. Avocados Like pureed pumpkin, avocados are a versatile fruit that can be mashed and added to your kitty’s food. Plus, cats often enjoy the taste and consistency of avocados. Not to mention they are rich in essential vitamins A, C, E, and B6 to support kitty’s skin and shiny coat.