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How to Talk to Your Kids About Nutrition Without Creating Anxiety
Talking to children about nutrition can feel tricky. Parents want their kids to eat well, grow strong, and develop healthy habits, but they also want to avoid turning food into a source of stress or conflict. Striking the right balance means guiding kids with care, patience, and understanding. This post offers practical advice for parents who want to encourage healthy eating without creating anxiety or power struggles around food. Avoid Using Food as a Reward or Punishment On
Shaina Duvall, MPH, RDN, LDN, CLC
1 day ago3 min read


Benefits of Staying Active While Pregnant and Debunking Common Myths
If you are wondering whether you can still work out while pregnant, the answer is yes—in most cases, staying active during pregnancy is both safe and beneficial. Exercise during pregnancy is not about pushing your limits or achieving peak fitness. Instead, it supports your body, nurtures your baby, and helps you feel strong throughout the different stages of pregnancy. As your body changes, your exercise needs will change too. From gentle prenatal yoga to daily walks and modi
Shaina Duvall, MPH, RDN, LDN, CLC
4 days ago4 min read


Transforming Mealtime: How a Dietitian Can Help Your Picky Eater Thrive
Picky eating can turn family meals into a daily challenge. Many parents find themselves frustrated when their child refuses to try new foods or sticks to a very limited diet. This struggle often leads to stress at the table and worries about whether the child is getting enough nutrients. Fortunately, a dietitian can offer personalized nutrition guidance that transforms mealtime into a more positive and nourishing experience for both children and parents. Understanding Picky E
Shaina Duvall, MPH, RDN, LDN, CLC
5 days ago2 min read


Why the Kitchen is Closed Rule Could Harm Your Picky Eater's Relationship with Food
Many parents use the “kitchen is closed” rule to create boundaries around mealtimes. The idea is simple: once the meal is over, no more food is available until the next scheduled eating time. While this strategy can help reduce grazing and bring more structure to the day, it can backfire when applied rigidly—especially for picky eaters or children with growth concerns. The Role of Trust in Feeding Food is not just fuel; it’s also a source of comfort and security for children.
Shaina Duvall, MPH, RDN, LDN, CLC
Nov 252 min read


Essential Nutrients for Vegan Moms During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnancy and breastfeeding are times when your body needs extra care and attention. For vegan moms, meeting these nutritional needs can feel challenging but is absolutely achievable with the right knowledge. Why Folate Matters More Than Ever Folate is a vital nutrient during pregnancy because it supports rapid cell growth and development, especially in the early stages. Unlike synthetic folic acid, natural folate is found in many whole foods such as leafy green vegetables, b
Shaina Duvall, MPH, RDN, LDN, CLC
Nov 252 min read


Navigating Pregnancy Nutrition: What Foods Are Safe and What to Avoid
Pregnancy is a time filled with excitement, anticipation, and, let’s be honest, a lot of questions about food. It can feel like suddenly everything in your fridge comes with a warning label! But don't worry—most of the foods you love are still safe, and we can make smart choices about the few that aren't. Caffeine: How Much Is Safe During Pregnancy? Many expectant mothers worry they must cut out caffeine completely. That’s not the case. You can still enjoy your morning coffee
Shaina Duvall, MPH, RDN, LDN, CLC
Nov 243 min read


The Role of an Online Pediatric Dietitian Nutritionist in Supporting Your Child's Health
When it comes to nourishing little ones, every parent wants to make the best choices. But with so much information swirling around, it can feel overwhelming. That’s where a pediatric dietitian can step in, offering expert guidance tailored just for your child’s unique needs. And the best part? You can access this essential support from the comfort of your home through virtual child nutrition counseling . Let me share why this approach is a game-changer for families. Why Virt
Shaina Duvall, MPH, RDN, LDN, CLC
Nov 183 min read


Nourishing Your Way to Parenthood: The Essential Role of Nutrition in Fertility
Nutrition influences nearly every part of our health, including the ability to conceive. Fertility depends on more than timing; it is closely linked to the nutrients our bodies receive daily. The foods we choose affect hormone balance, egg quality, sperm health, and overall reproductive function. Understanding how to nourish your body with fertility-supportive foods can improve your chances on the path to pregnancy. Why Your Overall Eating Pattern Matters When focusing on fer
Shaina Duvall, MPH, RDN, LDN, CLC
Nov 133 min read


Transforming Selective Eating: Gentle Strategies That Replace Ineffective Advice
Picky eating can be tough for many parents, often causing frustration and stress during meals. Common advice like "Just try one bite," "If you eat broccoli, you get dessert," or "You can't leave the table until you finish your food" might seem helpful at first. Yet, these approaches often backfire, increasing anxiety and resistance in children . Instead of easing the struggle, they turn eating into a battleground. This post explores why typical advice can harm more than help
Shaina Duvall, MPH, RDN, LDN, CLC
Nov 103 min read
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