For years, I felt stuck—trapped in a cycle of fatigue, bloating, weight gain, and hormone chaos. PCOS was running the show, and I didn’t know where to turn. But once I stopped dieting and started nourishing, everything shifted. I lost 35 pounds the healthy way, balanced my hormones naturally, and stabilized my blood sugar without restriction or deprivation. In this post, I’m sharing exactly how I did it—with real food, a lot of fiber, and a whole new mindset around healing. If you’re ready to feel like yourself again… this one’s for you.

You’re the author of your life. Discover how to rewrite your wellness story and step into your next chapter: Strong. Happy. Unstoppable.

For years, I believed I was doing everything right when it came to “healthy eating.”
Egg whites, grilled chicken, low-fat dairy, protein bars, protein shakes… I was constantly trying to hit my daily protein target, thinking it would help me stay lean, energized, and in control of my body.

And honestly, I get why.
We’ve been told over and over again—by diet culture, fitness trends, and even some health pros—that more protein equals more success. But what if that high-protein path is quietly working against us?

Because it was for me.

If you're ready to fuel your body with meals that are delicious, nutrient-dense, and 100% plant-powered, you're in the right place. These are my tried-and-true favorites that I come back to week after week. And the best part? They’re satisfying, protein-packed, and filled with fiber and flavor. I’ve also linked to some incredible recipes (mostly from Love & Lemons—a plant-based goldmine) so you can try them out today!

If you’ve ever felt nauseous, bloated, fatigued, or just "off" around ovulation, you’re not alone. In fact, I know exactly how frustrating it can be because I’ve been there too!

For years, I struggled with headaches, mood swings, bloating, and fatigue during ovulation. I used to think it was just part of being a woman—but what I didn’t realize was that my hormones were shifting in ways that directly impacted how I felt.

And the worst part? Things like alcohol, lack of sleep, and poor nutrition made my symptoms even worse.

But once I learned how to support my body naturally, everything changed. If you’re tired of feeling sick mid-cycle, this post is for you! Keep reading to learn why ovulation can make you feel this way and how to balance your hormones with nutrition.

We’ve all been there—spending the week eating “clean” only to reward ourselves with a cheat day packed with pizza, cookies, and everything else we’ve been craving. It sounds reasonable, right? Stick to a healthy diet most of the time and let loose once a week. Unfortunately, cheat days might be doing more harm than good, keeping you stuck in the cycle of cravings, inflammation, and stalled progress.

In this post, we’re diving into why cheat days can sabotage your goals and how going all-in—100%—can help you break free and finally see results.

There’s something about a Starbucks run that feels like a mini escape, especially when you’re a busy mom juggling a million things. But let’s be real—the sugary drinks and pastries can add up quickly, making it tricky to stick to your health goals. As a nutrition coach and mom, I’ve mastered how to navigate that menu without sacrificing flavor or my well-being.

In this post, I’m sharing my favorite healthy Starbucks orders, including how I make it a fun experience for my daughter, Rosie—minus the sugar rush. Whether you need a quick breakfast on-the-go or a cozy drink for the car ride, these tips will keep you satisfied and on track.

We have some big news to share—our brand-new podcast, You Had Me At Healthy, is officially LIVE! 🎙️

If you’re passionate about healthy living, family, and life in the Midwest (with a side of fun and real talk), this podcast is for you. My husband and I are diving into everything from nutrition and wellness to parenting, sports, and navigating life’s adventures together—all while keeping it real, relatable, and refreshing.

Protein has become an obsession in modern nutrition. Walk down any grocery store aisle, and you’ll see protein bars, protein shakes, and high-protein everything. We’ve been conditioned to believe that more protein equals better health, more muscle, and faster weight loss. But what if that’s not true? What if we’ve been misled about how much protein we really need—and the dangers of over-consuming animal protein?

Research from leading nutrition experts like Dr. Joel Fuhrman and Dr. Michael Greger paints a very different picture—one that challenges the high-protein dogma and reveals the real risks behind excessive animal protein consumption.

If there’s one thing that’s a constant in my daily routine, it’s my big salad for lunch. It’s a staple in my nutrition plan—something I look forward to every day. But here’s the thing: salads should never be dull, bland, or unsatisfying. When built the right way, they can be a flavorful, nourishing meal that leaves you full, energized, and truly satisfied.

When I first changed my diet, my main goal was to improve my health. I wanted more energy, better digestion, and to feel good in my body again. But along the way, something incredible happened—changes I never even expected!

From hair regrowth to stronger lashes and fuller brows, the transformation wasn’t just internal—it showed on the outside too! And the best part? It all came from nourishing my body with the right foods.

If you love muffins but want a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor, you’re in the right place! These Whole Wheat Banana Walnut Muffins are everything you want in a breakfast treat—soft, fluffy, and naturally sweetened. Plus, they’re packed with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, hearty oats, and ripe bananas.

Ever get home after a long day and feel like you just need to get out of your clothes? Your waistband is digging in, your bra feels suffocating, and your body just feels... puffy.

It’s not just you. And it’s not just a ‘long day’ thing. It’s actually a food thing.

What if weight loss didn’t have to feel like a battle? What if the secret to a lean, energized body was as simple as nourishing yourself with the right foods every day?

Enter The Essential Seven—seven powerhouse foods designed to fuel your body, curb cravings, and promote long-term vitality. Think of them like your health wardrobe staples—just as your little black dress never goes out of style, these foods are timeless essentials for looking and feeling your best.

When you consistently eat nutrient-dense, whole foods, your metabolism naturally balances, energy levels soar, and weight loss becomes effortless. Plus, the benefits extend far beyond the scale—these foods are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you glowing and thriving for years to come.

Want to learn how The Essential Seven can transform your health? Read the full post now!

Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back—it’s about finding strength in the journey and embracing growth through every challenge. If you’re on a path to wellness and transformation, finding sources of inspiration can be invaluable. Here’s a list of five powerful reads that explore resilience, both through practical advice and inspiring stories. Whether you’re a fan of non-fiction insights or love losing yourself in a good novel, these books are sure to resonate.

A positive mindset is one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting health and wellness. As Olympic champion Mary Lou Retton says, "Optimism is a happiness magnet. If you stay positive, good things and good people will be drawn to you." Embracing optimism can drive your results, attract supportive people and opportunities, and build resilience to help you stay on track, even when challenges arise. In this post, discover how positivity can transform not only your health journey but your entire life—and learn three simple steps to start cultivating a positive mindset today.

Halloween is right around the corner, and for many, that means an influx of sugary treats and temptation everywhere you turn. But celebrating the spooky season doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your health goals! With a little planning, you can enjoy Halloween in a festive, balanced way, without feeling like you’re missing out.

Here are some healthy and fun alternatives to sugary snacks, perfect for Halloween:

Logging your food and exercise daily might seem like a small task, but it’s a powerful tool to keep your healthy habits front and center. Each time you make an entry, you’re reminded of your commitment to your health and wellness. Skipping a day here or there can lead to slipping back into old habits, so consistency is key!

In the hustle of daily life, we often forget that each meal is an opportunity to practice self-love. Positive eating isn’t just about following a diet—it’s about making choices that fuel both your body and your spirit.

As Maya Angelou wisely said, “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” Every time you choose nourishing, whole foods, you’re choosing to rise above the stress and challenges of life. It’s a powerful act of self-care that brings you closer to your healthiest, most vibrant self.

Believe in your strength and ability to transform. As R.S. Grey reminds us, “She believed she could, so she did.” Each step forward, no matter how small, is a victory.

Looking for a quick, healthy lunch option that doesn’t compromise on taste? This easy salad hack is perfect for busy days! I start with Costco’s organic kale salad mix, skip the processed dressing and toppings, and add my own twist: sweet purple grapes and crispy air-fried chickpeas. For the finishing touch, I use a homemade walnut balsamic vinaigrette made with whole foods, no oil, and no added sugar. It’s fast, nutritious, and delicious—perfect for keeping you fueled and satisfied!