Basics

These drinks keep it simple, low-cal and delicious.

1. Vodka and Sprite Zero: Choose a nice vodka, mix it with diet Sierra Mist or Sprite Zero and a twist of lemon or lime for a tasty, refreshing drink.
2. Rum and Diet Coke: Often referred to as a "skinny bitch," this combo tastes best with a spiced rum like Captain Morgan.
3. Gin and Tonic: You'll watch your waistline and still have a classy drink when you order this combo. Look for diet tonics when available.
4. Vodka and Cranberry: This common combo tastes great and won't have you packing on the pounds.
5. Maggie McQuade: If you're looking for low-cal, you'll find it in this drink that mixes diet ginger ale and vanilla vodka.
6. White Wine Spritzer: Perfect for a balmy summer day, this cocktail blends white wine with a bit of club soda for sparkle.
7. Classic Martini: Choose either gin or vodka to make this classic drink that will not only make you look sophisticated, but will help you watch your figure as well.

Low-Cal Versions of Classics

You don't necessarily have to give up on classic drinks to cut back on calories. Try these versions instead.

8. Skinny Girl Margarita: Instead of using a pre-made, sugary mix, this recipe relies on fresh lime juice to mix up a tasty margarita.
9. Low-Cal Coffee Mudslide: With only 83 calories a serving, this drink is a super tasty way to have a cocktail and get your chocolate fix.
10. Low-Cal Long Island Iced Tea: A traditional Long Island can have as many as 700 calories, but this version knocks that down by about 80 percent.
11. Sugar Free Whisky Sour: Whiskey, lemon juice, water and artificial sweetener combine to make this yummy drink.
12. Lynchburg Lemonade: The regular version of this drink is loaded with sugar (up to 40 grams) but this twist lets you cut it down to almost nothing with 3 g carbs and 107 calories.
13. Low-Cal Pina Colada: There are few drinks out there as unhealthy for you as a pina colada. If you can't resist the coconutty goodness, try out this recipe that packs a much smaller nutritional punch instead.
14. Slim Screwdriver: Instead of using orange juice, this recipe uses orange vodka and diet soda.
15. Skinny Arnold Palmer: Weighing in at just 70 calories, this drink is a delicious low-cal treat.
16. Mimosa Lite: OJ can be filled with sugar and calories, so use light tangerine juice instead to make this low-cal drink.

Whiskey/Bourbon

If you're a whiskey drinker, consider one of these cocktails.

17. Alabama Slammer: Pick up some whisky, amaretto and gin to make this boozy shot. Cut it with water or ice for a sipper.
18. John Collins: This classic bourbon drink is pretty low-cal at 168 per glass, and better yet, it's super simple to make.
19. Uomo del Mondo: This sexy drink uses Campari, bourbon and orgeat syrup.

Rum

Enjoy a tropical cocktail without hurting your waistline with one of these drink recipes.

20. Mojito: This refreshing minty drink gets a low-cal twist by using diet soda and Splenda.
21. Strawberry Daiquiri: With this recipe, you can get a beach-inspired drink without the hefty calories– just 144 per serving.
22. Strawberry Kiss: Rum, strawberries, orange liqueur and lemon juice get shaken and poured into an ice-filled glass for a fruity treat with only 197 calories.
23. Caipirinha: Finding this Brazilian rum may not be easy, but when you do you'll be able to appreciate this simple and delicious drink.
24. Rumbling Papaya: Even in the dead of winter, you'll feel tropical when drinking this cocktail of coconut rum, papaya juice and raspberries. With just 133 calories, you'll be ready for the beach when summer comes around.
25. Island Limeade: With 182 calories per serving, this tangy cocktail will become one of your summertime favorites.
26. Hot Pomegranate Toddy: Brandy or rum can be used to make this classic drink with a twist.

Vodka

This low-cal spirit mixes well with just about anything, as these recipes will show.

27. Sour Apple Martini: For a great 160-calorie treat, try this delicious martini made with sour apple liqueur and vodka.
28. Watermelon Martini: Use fresh watermelon to help mix up this tasty twist on the martini.
29. Spiked Strawberry: Pick up some strawberry vodka, diet lemonade, fresh lemon and strawberries to make this sweet and sour drink.
30. Blended Raspberry Cocktail: If you prefer frozen drinks, this one is for you, combining low-cal raspberry cooler with vodka.
31. Bloody Mary: Get in a serving of veggies with your drink by mixing up this low-cal, low-carb version of this breakfast favorite.
32. Moscow Mule: Vodka, diet ginger ale, lime and some ice will give you this basic but delicious drink.
33. Cosmopolitan: Vodka and cranberry with a splash of orange and lime make up this drink.

Gin

Here are some great recipes for low-cal gin cocktails.

34. Blueberry Lemon Breeze: Gin and champagne pair up with blueberries and lemon juice to make this yummy drink with just 205 calories.
35. Gin Sour: Keep things simple with this gin drink that mixes gin with lemon juice and sugar for a 122 calorie cocktail.
36. Grapefruit Basil Martini: This super fresh-tasting combo will only cost you 161 calories.

Tequila

Get the party started right with these cocktails made with tequila.

37. Bombay Magic: Putting together Cointreau, tequila, lemon juice, club soda and mint will yield this delicious drink with only 109 calories.
38. Pomerita: This twist on a traditional margarita replaces some of that lime with pomegranate juice for a 196-calorie cocktail.
39. Tequila Sunrise: Using low-cal and diet versions of the juices that go into this drink will cut down on the calorie count.
40. Cran-tini: Tequila and cranberry juice mix to make this twist on a classic Cosmo.
41. Jalisco Bramble: While a bramble is usually made with gin, this adaptation takes it south of the border and mixes things up by using tequila instead.
42. Salty Chihuahua: Whether you're watching your weight or not, this drink is a delicious mix of tequila, orange liqueur and grapefruit juice worth trying.
43. Blueberry Lime Margarita: Blend up some blueberries and lime juice to make this yummy frozen drink.

Other

If your tastes lean more towards wine, champagne or liqueur, check out one of these recipes.

44. Fruity White Sangria: If you're a committed wine drinker, consider mixing up some sangria with your next bottle. Depending on the kind of fruit you use, the drink may have as little as 94 calories a glass.
45. Grown Up Hot Chocolate: With just 132 calories a mug, this hot drink is perfect for a rainy day or snowy day.
46. Bellini: You'll be happy to know that this classic drink is super low-cal, packing only 83 calories per serving.
47. Kir Royale: Creme de Casis and champagne make up this tasty cocktail.
48. Choco-lite Cocktail: Need dessert and a drink? Do both with this drink using Godiva chocolate liqueur.
49. Elderflower Sparkler: Champagne and elderflower concentrate make up this drink. If you can't find elderflower concentrate, you can substitute an elderflower liqueur like St. Germain, though it might up your calorie content.
50. Golden Sparkler: Use champagne or sparkling white wine to give this drink its sparkle. With only 68 calories per serving, you can afford to have more than one!

1. Living with Crohn's Disease: This Crohn's disease sufferer discusses the disease and battling Crohn's as a runner, soccer player, father, husband, and professional.
2. Journey Through Crohn's: You can read about one woman's Crohn's journey on this blog.
3. SCD Lifestyle: Read this blog to find out how you can be successful on the Specific Carbohydrate Diet.
4. The Bright Side of Crohn's: This woman takes a look at the bright side of kicking Crohn's disease butt.
5. In Sickness and In Health: In Sickness and In Health is a great blog for couples deal with illnesses like Crohn's.
6. Organically Autoimmune: Organically Autoimmune discusses treating autoimmune diseases with an organic and Specific Carbohydrate Diet.
7. A Chronic Dose: Read this blog about chronic illness, healthcare, and writing.
8. Crohn's Help Now: Find a helping hand for Crohn's on this blog.
9. Gluten Free Girl and the Chef: Gluten Free Girl has food, stories, recipes, and tips for eating gluten free.
10. Dr. David Klein's Colitis & Crohn's Health Recovery Center Blog: Dr. David Klein discusses self healing and staying well the natural way.
11. Know Your Gut: Galina blogs to encourage Crohn's patients to better understand digestive wellness.
12. Undercoverostomy: This blogger discusses undergoing an ostomy.
13. My Crohn's Disease: William shares his ongoing battle with fibrostenotic Crohn's disease.
14. Jpouch Life: Learn about the Jpouch surgery, life without a colon, Crohn's, and related diseases on this blog.
15. Stronger Than Crohn's: Angela is determined to show that she in stronger than Crohn's disease by participating in races to raise money for the disease.
16. Crohns TeamChallenger: Find out about the fight against Crohn's on this blog.
17. The Digestion Blog: The Digestion Blog shares news and reviews for Crohn's and related disorders.
18. Heal Crohn's Now: This blog discusses how you can heal Crohn's disease naturally.
19. Crohn's Disease Blog: Kelly R. writes to build a Crohn's community.
20. The Crohn's Baby: Rosie was diagnosed with Crohn's at the tender age of 17, and has now been living with the disease for 10 years.
21. Advocacy for Patients with Chronic Illness: This blog advocates for chronic patients, including those with Crohn's.
22. Adapt Cookbook: This blog covers Crohn's friendly cooking.
23. My Crohn's Disease Journey: Read this blog to find out how to live with Crohn's.
24. The Dietary Adventures of Jilluck: Jilluck writes about her experience with Crohn's and management with the Specific Carbohydrate Diet.
25. But You Don't Look Sick: This blog offers a resource for anyone with an "invisible" disease like Crohn's.
26. Eating SCD: This blogger is treating Crohn's with the Specific Carbohydrate Diet.
27. Crohn's Lives With Me: On this blog, you'll read about the personal experiences of a Crohn's sufferer-and their favorite bathrooms.
28. The SCD Girl: The SCD Girl shares diet and cooking ideas with all conditions that can benefit from an SCD diet, including Crohn's.
29. Awesome Life of Crohnsboy: Crohn's boy takes a no BS approach to Crohn's disease.
30. How We Can't Eat Anything: This blogger discusses the battle between Crohn's and her attentions.
31. A Life of Sugar and Spice: This blogger celebrates not what she can't eat, but what she can.
32. No More Crohn's: Erin discusses following the Specific Carbohydrate Diet on this blog.
33. Bits & Pieces: Jenni shares the lingering effects from Crohn's disease on this blog.
34. Chronically Me: Chronically Me covers life with a chronic illness.
35. Crohn's Disease and My Experience: Read this blog about Jason's experience with Crohn's disease.
36. Crohn's Disease Relief: Read this blog to learn about this woman's personal story as a person with Crohn's.
37. ChronicBabe: ChronicBabe offers an online community for young women with chronic health issues.
38. Engaged: A Blog on the Bog: See how this blogger negotiates endlessly flaring Crohn's disease on Engaged.
39. Crohn's/IBD News: Check in on this blog to find the latest news for Crohn's and IBD.
40. Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America: Check out this blog for updates on Crohn's and Colitis, and what you can do about it.

The Fundamentals

These classic snacks are fun to eat, kid favorites, and easy to pack in bags and lunch boxes.

1. Peanut butter: Packed with protein and the good fats your kids need to keep them running around all day, it's an easy add-on to sandwiches, breakfast toast, as a veggie dip and with fruit. Spoon a few dollops into a small plastic container for dipping.
2. Popcorn: Pre-pop a bag of popcorn or Kettle corn — particularly the kind without loads of extra salt and butter — for a fiber-rich snack that's fun to eat.
3. Nuts: Great for active kids who need extra calories but limited junk, nuts are easy to eat and pack. Choose unsalted nuts and nut mixes for less sodium.
4. Raw Veggies: Cut up carrots, celery, bell peppers, cucumbers and other raw veggies for kids to munch on as they break for lunch or head to practices and games after school.
5. Peaches: Peaches have a lot of vitamin C, so throw a pack of diced peaches into your child's backpack for cold-fighting power.
6. Strawberries and citrus: These fruits are also high in vitamin C and great for transporting. Oranges don't even have to be cleaned before eating — teach your kids how to peel an orange or clementine they can eat any time.
7. Healthy energy bars: Your grocery store's energy and snack bar aisle is probably pretty overwhelming, but don't' grab any old box. Pick bars with more than 3 grams of protein and fiber, heart-healthy fats, whole grains, and limited sugar.
8. Sugar-free Jell-o: Jell-o now makes sugar-free, low-calorie gelatin snacks in all types of flavors, already pre-packaged for backpacks.
9. Lean lunch meat: Pierce rolled up pieces of lunch meat with toothpicks for a snack.
10. Trail Mix: Assemble your own trail mix according to your kids' tastes and nutritional needs. Throw in dried fruit, sunflower seeds, nuts, low-sugar cereals, and even the occasional piece of candy for something sweet.

Fun Recipes

When you have the time to experiment, surprise your kids with these fun recipes.

11. Carrot Wraps: Cheeses, nuts, and apricots spruce up regular carrots.
12. Cherry Hungry Caterpillar: Cherries and cream cheese are turned into a friendly caterpillar with this recipe.
13. Kabobs: Low-fat meats and cheeses, cherry tomatoes, and fruit are fun to eat when pierce with a kabob stick.
14. Tuna salad roll: Scoop out a whole-grain roll, then stuff it with tuna salad made with chopped apples and celery. Use low-fat mayo.
15. Apple bites: Great for Halloween or a surprise, you'll stick silvered almonds in apple wedges that your kids will love to share.
16. Tomato Basil Pizza Snack: Even as chilled leftovers, these are a great snack kids will look forward to all day.
17. Cream cheese hearts: Use fruit spread and cream cheese with whole-wheat bread, and then cut the sandwiches into heart shapes.
18. Awesome applesauce: Make your own applesauce to serve your kids at school.
19. Honey Ginger Carrots: Give baby carrots more flavor with grated ginger, lemon zest, butter and lemon juice.
20. Yogurt on the Go: Add sunflower seeds, raisins and strawberries to light yogurt.
21. Pizzadillas: Don't forget to pack the dip for this sensible snack that packs in spinach, fiber, calcium, lots of vitamins, and protein.
22. Wraps: Wraps are an easy way to get your kids to eat spinach or lettuce, especially when they're surrounded by low-sodium meats and low-fat cheeses.
23. Egg tortilla: Scramble eggs to roll in a wheat pita or tortilla.
24. Confetti quinoa: Introduce your children to this fiber- and protein-rich food by whipping up this mix, packing it into a containers, and serving it at room-temperature or cooled for lunch or later.
25. Super Strawberry Bars: Make your own bars with rolled oats and strawberry jam.
26. Sweet-Potato Sticks: Made with sweet potatoes and egg whites, this yummy snack is surprisingly easy.
27. Quesadillas: Slip a leftover quesadilla made with low-fat ingredients into your kids' backpack for portable snacking.
28. Polka Dots' Tomato Spots: These cherry tomato, cheese and tuna snacks will fit nicely in a plastic container and are easy to pop into little mouths.
29. Polka-Dot Waffle Sticks: Kids get extra iron and vitamins with this recipe.
30. Cheesy Apple Butter Snack: Add cottage cheese and grape nuts to apple butter.
31. Balls of Energy: These little balls are packed with nutrients from bananas, peanut butter, peanuts and wheat germ.

Keep Chilled

Throw an ice pack into your kids' snack bag to keep these nutritional snacks fresh.

32. String cheese: A favorite kid snack for years, this fun-to-eat cheese stick is perfect for throwing into side pockets and lunch boxes.
33. Yogurt: Protein, vitamin D and calcium are just some of the nutrients kids can easily get from yogurt, a product that's well-marketed in kid-friendly packaging and flavors.
34. Fruit salad: Depending on the season, you can pack chopped and assorted fruits in a hard container for your kids' backpacks, with kiwi, blueberries, watermelon, strawberries and grapes for a colorful, tasty variety.
35. Milk: Fill up a thermos with milk instead of buying sugary juices and sodas for their lunch.
36. Low-fat pudding: Use nonfat milk if you make your own, or buy low-fat pudding already pre-packaged for healthy desserts.
37. Last night's chicken: If you have left-over lean chicken, chop up chilled pieces for a salad topper or a snack for your kid's backpack.
38. Hard-boiled eggs: Give your child a dose of protein power by hard-boiling a couple of eggs and putting them in plastic containers.
39. Cubed cheeses: Pack an assortment of cubed cheeses for easy, portable snacking, and lots of calcium and protein.

Crumble-Proof

Lots of snacks seem like a great idea, until they're smashed at the bottom of a bulky backpack. These crumble-proof foods last all day.

40. Raisins: Higher in calories than regular fruit, raisins do fight cavities and gum disease, and it's an effective power-boosting snack to eat before workouts and active sports.
41. Pickles: Low-calorie pickles are a kid-favorite because of their tart, sour taste. Buy pickles with no added sugars or artificial flavors.
42. Pita and hummus: Either as a snack or lunchtime sandwich, pita is pretty durable, even in a backpack, and whole-wheat varieties have a lot of dietary fiber.
43. Salsas: Pack salsas in a hard container — either a store-bought kind or something you make yourself — for healthy dipping and extra incentive to gobble up veggies.
44. 100% juice boxes: Avoid juices that are mostly made with sugar.
45. Apples: They might bruise after a few days, but a washed apple is one of the easiest snacks a kid can dig out of his pack.

Snacks to Share

Pack extras for your kids to share with their friends, inspiring even more kids to eat healthy.

46. Baked chips: Not all chips are totally bad for you, especially when they're baked, wheat-based, and shared with friends.
47. Rice cakes: Buy lightly flavored (but low-sugar) varieties, or include a small container of peanut butter for your kids to share with the carpool gang.
48. Cheese and crackers: Pack cheese spreads or slices along with wheat crackers.
49. Whole Grain Cereal: Mix different types of whole grain cereal together for your kids to pass around with friends.
50. Oatmeal cookies: Instead of throwing little boxes of junkier cookies into your child's bag, encourage them to share oatmeal cookies instead.

General

These blogs will teach you the basics of good nutrition for kids.

1. Nourishing Thoughts: Parents can learn how to teach their kids about nutrition, what kids should be eating and much more on this great blog. Recommended post: "Pyramid Power vs the Junk Food Bandits- Animated Videos Promoting Eating Healthy Foods."
2. Dayton's Children: This pediatrics blog is a great place to read not only about nutrition, but a whole host of other issues related to children's health. Recommended post: "Habits for a Healthy Lifestyle."
3. Super Kids Nutrition Blog: You'll get a ton of great ideas to encourage kids to eat right with the help of this site, including recipes, ways to make good food fun and healthy choices you can make as a parent. Recommended post: "Starting a Family Garden."
4. Healthy Kids Challenge: No matter where your kids are getting a meal, at school, at home or at a friend's house, this blog will help you challenge them to eat better and be healthier. Recommended post: "3 Steps Schools Can Take Today for Healthy Meals."
5. Meals Matter Blog: If you have trouble getting healthy meals on the table, this blog may be able to help. It's packed with meal-planning advice that can make healthy eating much easier for busy families. Recommended post: "Meals Matter Moms- Insider Advice on Feeding Families."
6. Nutrition for the Future: This blog will help you feed your kids the foods they need to grow up healthy, strong and with a good sense of what to eat. Recommended post: "Fun Ways to Enrich Family Mealtimes: At Restaurants."
7. Food Fun Health: Want your kids to want to eat healthy? Take some advice from this blog, dedicated to helping parents get their children hooked on real foods. Recommended post: "5 Reasons Why Family Meals Matter."
8. Little Stomaks: If you've got picky toddlers or fussy young children, this blog is a great place to look for healthy recipes and stories. Recommended post: "Surprising Easy Solution for Preventing Childhood Obesity."
9. Healthy Kids, Healthy Families: This blogging mom has a PhD in nutrition and shares her thoughts on getting kids to eat right for optimal health. Recommended post: "Veggies First."
10. SchoolMenu.com: Want to see what your kids are eating for lunch? This site will help you do that and help you stay educated about children's nutrition issues. Recommended post: "Apricots for March."
11. Momma Data: From exaggerated claims to clear biases, sometimes children's health news isn't all it's cracked up to be. Read this blog to get the true story behind these news articles. Recommended post: "Best Parenting Books of 2009: The First Annual Momma Data Book Awards."

Family Focused

These blogs help you find ways to get your whole family eating right– not just your children.

12. Family Health and Nutrition: Visit this blog to read about the latest nutrition news and get ideas on what you can cook that your whole family will enjoy. Recommended post: "It's WE TRIED IT! Friday. This Week: Green Smoothies."
13. Dinner Together: From healthy meal ideas to the studies showing dinner together as a family truly is beneficial, this blog is an excellent resource for parents. Recommended post: "Involving Kids in the Kitchen: A Developmental Perspective."
14. Family Feeding Dynamics: This blog addresses a wide range of nutritional questions parents might have. Recommended post: "Is it OK to put a fat baby on a diet, but not a lean one?"
15. Nourish Family Nutrition: Find a range of recipes and news items here for whole family nutrition. Recommended post: "Tricky Veggies for Kids."
16. Whole Family Nutrition: A blogger shares what he's eating and what he's making for his kids here. Recommended post: "Embarrassingly Healthy School Lunches."
17. Nutri-Savvy: This blogger, dietician and mom believes that eating right shouldn't be a chore. Learn how to prepare delicious and nutritious meals for your family here. Recommended post: "Kids Eat Right: Family mealtime."
18. Real Mom Nutrition: Busy moms and dads will find a number of great ideas and strategies they can use to put together healthy meals on this blog. Recommended post: "Tied to My Apron Strings."

Recipes

If you're looking for recipes your kids won't turn their noses up at, these sites are for you.

19. Meal Makeover Moms: These moms will show you how to cook meals that are not only healthy, but kid-friendly as well. Recommended post: "School Lunch Reform: An Interview with Chef Ann Cooper (Podcast #120)."
20. Just the Right Byte: Both you and your kids will appreciate the tasty meals and recipes posted to this blog. Recommended post: "Alphabet Soup! B is for Vitamin B Complex."
21. Keep Your Diet Real: Whether you're cooking for adults or little ones, these recipes use whole foods and healthy ingredients to create healthy meals you'll want to eat. Recommended post: "10 Healthy Breakfasts in 10 minutes or Less."
22. WeeklyBite: This blogger shares stories about her life, but also amazing recipes that use fresh-picked, seasonal foods. Recommended post: "Easy Blueberry Muffins."
23. Simple Bites: Here you'll get access to recipes that focus on using whole foods to create meals that are family friendly (and tasty to boot). Recommended post: "How to Make the Best Zucchini Bread Ever."
24. Fix Me a Snack: Short on healthy snack ideas for your kids? Pay this blog a visit for some great recipes. Recommended post: "Homemade Polka Dot Fruit Roll Ups."
25. Vegan Dad: If you're a parent trying to raise your kids without eating animal products, then get some quick and easy recipes for dinner and more here. Recommended post: "Creamy Mac and Cheeze."
26. Raise Healthy Eaters: Maryann is a mom and a registered dietician, so she knows the score when it comes to getting kids to eat right. On her blog, you'll find a range of recipes and meal plans that can be a big help in feeding your family. Recommended post: "10 of the Best Cereals for Kids."
27. A Life Less Sweet: If you feel like your family is eating far too much sugar and not enough of the good stuff, check out this blog for some great healthy recipes and more. Recommended post: "Cowboy Pizza."

Dieticians

Get some advice from the professionals on these blogs.

28. Inspired RD: Whether you want to get in shape or focus on keeping your kids healthy (or maybe both), this blog is full of great ideas, suggestions and tutorials. Recommended post: "Lessons I Have Learned as a Mom."
29. My Kitchen Nutrition: Julie Negrin aims to teach both parents and kids how to eat right through her work and her blog. Recommended post: "Kudos to Cooking Dads!"
30. Mommy Dietitian: Angela Lemond is a dietician and a mother of two. On this blog, she shares ideas on eating right as a parent and helping keep your whole family healthy. Recommended post: "Wellness Lock-In: A 'Must Do' For All Families."
31. Carrots and a Cupcake: This dietician and mom shares ways that parents can help their kids eat right most of the time, with a few indulgences now and then. Recommended post: "Sweet on Sweet Potatoes."
32. Dietician Mom: Elizabeth Ward's blog on USA Today is one of the best blog resources for parents looking for creative ways to help families eat better. Recommended post: "2010 Dietary Guidelines: What They Mean for You and Your Family."
33. Emma Fogt: From healthy after school snacks to the basics of children's nutrition, this dietician provides some seriously great information for nutrition-conscious parents. Recommended post: "Should Parents Hide the Veggies?"
34. Nourish My Kids: Registered dietician Christina Fitzgerald doesn't just provide healthy eating advice for adults– she also shares some helpful ideas that can make dinnertime a healthy, fun experience for families. Recommended post: "Dieting and the Drive for Thinness – Eating Disorder Awareness Week."
35. Nurturing Nutrition: Who better to educate you on children's nutrition than a pediatric dietician? That's just what you'll find here, with ideas on getting your kids the balanced meals they need. Recommended post: "Your Kids Calories."

Natural

Learn how to nurture your little ones the natural way from these bloggers.

36. Pure Mamas: These mamas will show you how to use natural ingredients to create amazing, healthy meals your whole family will enjoy. Recommended post: "Homemade Muesli & a Play Doh Party!"
37. Hounds in the Kitchen: These bloggers try to make as much of their food as they can, and you can learn a whole lot about eating the old fashioned way from their urban homestead blog. Recommended post: "Kids Cook Green Monster Smoothie and Kale Chips."
38. Healthy Child, Healthy World: Here, you can learn ways to reduce the amount of chemicals your kids eat– hopefully making them happier and healthier as they grow. Recommended post: "Our Intimate Relationship with Food: A Complex Truth."
39. Nature Moms Blog: Learn how to raise all natural kids and cook all natural food from this blog. Recommended post: "Save Money on Healthy Organic Foods."

Safety

These blogs address food safety issues, including helping your children avoid foods to which they might be allergic.

40. Food Safety News: You'll find everything you need to stay in-the-loop when it comes to any and all food safety issues, from BPA bottles to restaurant inspections. Recommended post: "Students Still Get Too Many Sugary Beverages."
41. Food Insight: The International Food Information Council maintains this blog that is an excellent resource for families who want to learn more about food safety issues. Recommended post: "Red Isn't Just for Roses on Valentine's Day: The Role of Colors in Our Favorite Red Foods."
42. Food Politics: This blog will help you learn about food safety issues as well as focusing on exposing the truth behind claims, advertising and more. Recommended post: "Chocolate toddler formula?"
43. Please Don't Pass the Nuts: This blog is a great place to read about food allergies, especially those related to nuts– essential for any parent with an allergic child. Recommended post: "Food Allergies, Bullying."
44. The Allergic Kid: Parents will find some amazing advice on raising a healthy kids with allergies on this site. Recommended post: "Mini Meatball and Fruit Kebab Lunchbox."

Pregnancy and Baby

Good nutrition starts before your baby even enters this world. These blogs will help you care for yourself and your unborn child and provide for the little tyke in the first few months following birth.

45. Beyond Prenatals: Learn what you can do to get the right nutrition you need beyond taking vitamins if you're pregnant or hoping to conceive. Recommended post: "Vitamin D in Pregnancy and Beyond."
46. Expect the Best: This blog will help moms eat healthy before, during and after their pregnancies. Recommended post: "Quick Healthy Meals for Your Family."
47. Fresh Start Nutrition: This site is full of great advice and ideas for parents and little ones alike. Recommended post: "How to Choose a Fish Oil Supplement."
48. Cassandra Forsythe: Check out this blog for stories and help for pregnant women on what to eat, how to stay fit and how to feed your baby. Recommended post: "Whole Grains are GREAT."
49. Your Baby Eats WHAT?: If you're on a mission to make your own baby food and baby meals, this blog is a must-read. Recommended post: "Futari– pumpkin and yam stew for baby led weaning."
50. Mama Knows Breast: For newborns, there's little better for them to eat than breast milk. Learn more about the benefits of breastfeeding here. Recommended post: "The IRS and Breast Pumps."

1. Bill Walton: Bill Walton was never one to stick to the mainstream when it came to his personal life, but on the court he is remembered as a great player, winning three straight College Player of the Year Awards during his time at UCLA and named an MVP during his time in the NBA. This Hall of Famer didn't do it with the help of animal protein, however. A committed vegetarian, Walton is still active off the court today as an announcer.
2. John Salley: John Salley isn't just a basketball legend — he's also an outspoken advocate for vegetarianism, often doing work for PETA. The first player in NBA history to play on three different championship-winning franchises, Salley calls vegetarianism "best damn way to eat– period" and one might be inclined to agree with him after seeing his performance on the court.
3. Edwin Moses: Track and field star Moses won two gold medals in the Olympics and set the world record in his event an amazing four times. His powerful performance on the track was fueled by pure vegetable goodness, as Moses was a longtime vegetarian.
4. Tony Gonzalez: Atlanta Falcons superstar tight end Tony Gonzalez isn't a strict vegetarian — but it isn't necessarily all his doing. Gonzalez experimented with veganism and vegetarianism, but was talked into having a few servings of chicken or fish a week by the team's nutritionist. The bulk of Gonzalez's diet, however, is veggie-based, and this football star holds the record for most single season receptions and most career reception yards.
5. Martina Navratilova: Tennis champ Navratilova has 18 Grand Slam singles titles and 31 doubles titles to her name — an all-time record — leading Billie Jean King (another vegetarian) to call her "the greatest singles, doubles and mixed doubles player who ever lived." Throughout her career, Navratilova has been committed to vegetarianism and is an active spokeswomen for organizations such as PETA.
6. Carl Lewis: It's hard not to have heard of this Olympic great, a man who was called, "the greatest athlete to ever set foot on track or field." Lewis has won ten Olympic medals over the course of his career, nine of them gold. Lewis isn't just a vegetarian– he's a vegan– and began this diet before the 1991 World Championships. His new diet didn't seem to hurt his performance as he, and others, felt he ran some of the best races of his career at that meet.
7. Robert Parish: One of the greatest NBA players in the history of the game, Robert Parish is a Hall of Famer inducted in 2003. While well-known for this jump shot, Parish is also is famous for his vegetarianism– just showing that even a huge, athletic individual doesn't have to eat meat to fuel the body.
8. Mike Tyson: Mike Tyson is a recent convert to an animal-free diet, committing himself in early 2010 to a fully vegan diet. It seems to have done wonders for the prize-winning fighter, as he's slimmed down and says he's happier now than he has been in years– a turnaround for a man famous for ear biting, crazy tattoos and jail time.
9. Joe Namath: Anyone who knows football has heard of this legendary player, inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1985. This Super Bowl Champion once said, "It shows you don't need meat to play football," and his success on the field makes that abundantly clear.
10. Prince Fielder: Prince Fielder decided to be a vegetarian after reading about how chicken and cattle are treated on farms, a decision that made national news and caused many to speculate that it might affect his performance on the field. Yet Fielder is a home run champ, and has hit over 110 home runs in the years since he went veggie.
11. Tony La Russa: While La Russa might be more famous for his work as a coach than as a baseball player, his accomplishments in the field of athletics are nothing to shrug off. La Russa is a star manager in both the National and American leagues, becoming only the sixth manager in history to win pennants with both and one of only two mangers to win the world series in both leagues. He's also a committed vegetarian stating that he decided to stop eating meat after seeing a PBS program on how veal comes to the table.
12. Ed Templeton: Those familiar with the skateboarding world will know this skater and artist's name well. Templeton owns and operates a skateboarding company and is a well-known skater in his own right. He's also a vegan and has been since 1990, citing the influence of his friends and readings about the meat and dairy industry as his reasons for making the change.
13. Scott Jurek: If you've never heard of the sport of ultramarathoning, the name alone should alert you to the fact that it's a pretty intense sport. This hardcore athlete made the change to a vegan diet in 1999 and hasn't looked back, finding new and innovative ways to fuel his body for several marathons and loads of training every year. It seems to have done his body good, as Jurek is one of the sport's leading champions.
14. David Zabriskie: Cyclist Zabriskie has won the US National Time Trial Championship a whopping five times and has placed well in the Grand Tour, making him an incredibly accomplished road bicycle racer. Along with his love of cycling, Zabriskie also has a passion for veganism and converted to the diet recently after learning about the impact the meat industry has had on the environment. He admits that it was a struggle, but believes that ultimately, it will be the best thing for his body and his training.
15. Salim Stoudamire: Salim Stoudamire is an imposing man, standing at 6'1'' and weighing in at almost 200 pounds. He's also a vegan. This point guard has stated that he became a vegan simply because he always wanted to and doesn't mind if his teammates tease him over his meal choices, stating that the new diet has improved his endurance and energy on the court.

General

These are ideas you can use all month long.

1. Define good nutrition: Learn about what good nutrition really is.
2. Think about making calories count: Rather than labeling foods good or bad, consider the vitamins, minerals, and fiber available in foods.
3. Always have water available: Make sure that there's always water ready and waiting for you to drink.
4. Set reasonable goals: Start making small changes you can live with.
5. Be optimistic about food: Think about food as nourishment and fun.
6. Consider supplementing: Although you may be reaching all of your nutritional goals, a vitamin or mineral supplement can help ensure that you're getting everything you need.
7. Be patient: Instead of settling for food with immediate gratification, take your time and enjoy what you eat.
8. Indulge: Don't forget to allow yourself to indulge when appropriate.
9. Plan ahead: The more you plan, the better you can control your nutrition.
10. Eat frequently: Becoming a frequent eater will allow you to eat more often in smaller portions.

Activities

Take part in these activities and make nutrition month a fun experience.

10. Take a cooking class: Spend some time properly learning how to prepare foods with a cooking class.
11. Write down everything you eat: This month, take the time to track everything you're eating, so you get a better idea of what exactly you're taking in.
12. Join a food club: Have fun with food and friends in a food club.
13. Play with your food: Dress your food up into edible art for a little fun.
14. Watch Super Size Me: Consider how fast food can affect your body with Super Size Me.
15. Join a CSA: Becoming a part of a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) will enable you to eat well and support community farmers.
16. Eat something fresh: If you've never tried anything but canned pineapple, try a fresh one.
17. Read about good nutrition: Find books that celebrate healthy nutrition.
18. Visit a farmer's market: Find fresh, local, and even organic produce and other items at a farmer's market.
19. Pack a bento box lunch: Have fun with lunch by creating a bento box at least once a week this month.
20. Attend a nutrition class: Learn more about good nutrition with a class.
21. Look at labels: Before you buy or eat food, take a good look at its nutrition facts.
22. Enter a diet contest: Submit a recipe to a contest.
23. Create an emergency food kit: If you're out and about and become hungry, you're likely to turn to whatever's available-make sure you've got a healthy food kit ready to go.
24. Go on a picnic: Eat great food in the great outdoors.
25. Visit a farm: See where your food comes from by visiting a farm.
26. Watch Food, Inc.: Learn more about the way your food is made with Food, Inc.
27. Make a healthy menu: Plan meals ahead of time for the entire month, so you'll have great nutrition all month long.
28. Enter a cooking contest: Participate in a cooking contest in your community.
29. Eat local: Practice sustainability and a connection with your food by eating local.

Shopping

Celebrate nutrition this month by taking these ideas to your grocery store.

30. Buy fresh food: The fresher the food, the more nutritious, so buy as fresh as possible.
31. Try a new grocery store: Get a new perspective on available foods at a new store.
32. Avoid shopping when you're hungry: Avoid impulse buys by shopping when you're full and rational.
33. Look for whole foods: Choose simple, whole foods that are the closest to nature for more nutritional bang for your buck.
34. Purchase organic products: Try some organic products, like milk, meat, or produce.
35. Stay away from ingredients you don't recognize: If you can't recognize, pronounce, or spell an ingredient, don't buy it.
36. Stick to the outer aisles: You can find produce, meats, fish, and eggs in the outer aisles of grocery stores.
37. Find produce in season: Get fresher produce by shopping in season.
38. Read labels: Although most foods with great nutrition won't require labels, be sure to look at the ones that do to be an informed consumer.
39. Don't buy desserts or munchies: Treats are fine, but make them worth it by making them from scratch yourself.
40. Shop for colorful foods: Get a variety of phytonutrients with colorful produce.
41. Don't believe everything: "All natural" or "fat free" labels can be deceiving.
42. Write a list out: Before you head to the store, make sure you've got a list ready to go.
43. Learn to recognize all forms of sugar: Refined sugar can come in many forms so look for corn sugar, fructose, caramel, syrups, and more.

Eating Out

While you're dining out, you can use these tips to celebrate nutrition.

44. Visit a new restaurant: Go to a new restaurant you've been meaning to check out.
45. Find out how your food is prepared: Consider whether your food is baked, fried, or prepared in another way.
46. Add a new fruit or vegetable to every meal: Try something new each time you cook.
47. Educate yourself before going to a restaurant: Go to the restaurant's website to learn about the nutrition for the items available on the menu, so you can make a healthy, informed choice.

At Home

Nutrition can take center stage at home with these tips.

48. Make a healthy eating plan: Create a plan for eating a balanced diet at home.
49. Buy a new cookbook: Find a new healthy cookbook to spur interest in new recipes.
50. Get an illustration of the food pyramid: With a food pyramid, you'll have an easy reminder to eat a balanced diet.
51. Balance it out: Eat a good balance of foods for good nutrition.
52. Practice family mealtime: Eat together, and teach children a healthy attitude toward food.
53. Create a rainbow on your plate: Find a rainbow of foods to make a plate rainbow.
54. Try a new recipe once a week: Find a new recipe to check out each week of National Nutrition Month.
55. Measure with a tablespoon: Instead of a knife, use a tablespoon to measure and spread on condiments.
56. Cook with your kids: Get kids interested in nutrition by having them help you cook.
57. Increase the amount of times you eat at home: At home, you're better able to control what you're eating, so aim to increase the frequency of your mealtimes at home.
58. Go meatless once a week: If you're a big meat eater, consider going meatless at least once a week.
59. Prewash your vegetables: Buy vegetables washed, or wash them when you get home from the grocery store, and you'll be more likely to grab and go veggies as a snack.

Daily Habits

Try to work these daily habits for good nutrition into your routine this month.

60. Get a better night's sleep: When you're well rested, you're less likely to turn to junk or comfort foods.
61. Find a tip a day: Get a tip a day nutrition calendar, or sign up for email alert every day.
62. Take a vitamin: Make sure you're reaching all of your nutritional needs with a vitamin supplement.
63. Stick to serving sizes: Read the nutrition facts to find out the proper serving size for the food you're eating.

Gardening

Put nutrition on your windowsill or in your backyard with gardening.

64. Teach kids about nutrition in the garden: Kids can get an understanding of gardening for health with your help.
65. Start a garden: Plant vegetables, fruits, and herbs, so you can enjoy your very own harvest.
66. Garden with meals in mind: Plant items that can be used over and over again in the meals that you plan to cook.
67. Plant a row for the hungry: Set aside a section of your garden to donate to your local food bank or soup kitchen.

Community

Use these ideas to make food and nutrition a social affair.

68. Explore food science: Learn about the science of food to appreciate it more.
69. Find a new food blog: Check out a new food blog every week this month.
70. Cook for friends: Invite people over to enjoy dinner at your home.
71. Plan a foodie trip: Plan a trip to a fun food festival.
72. Blog about National Nutrition Month: Let others know that you're celebrating National Nutrition Month by posting about it.
73. Visit festivals: Seek out food, wine, or beer festivals to enjoy more gourmet food.
74. Share recipes: Start a recipe exchange with friends and family.
75. Give away your produce: Share extra produce from your garden.

Exercise

76. Get active once a day: Manage your body weight by being active for an hour every day.
77. Take part in a fun activity: Join a race or adventure dash to get exercise in a fun way.
78. Introduce weight training: Become lean to put your nutrition to good use.
79. Take a walk as a family: Spend time together as a family and get active with a walk around the neighborhood.
80. Meditate: Give yourself time to collect yourself and focus inward with meditation.

For home chefs wanting to use store-bought products, checking the labels for any sneaky dairy products is absolutely essential when filling the grocery cart. Many of the following recipes include margarine on their ingredients list, for example, which can possibly come blended with butter or other milk solids. When in doubt, pick up the vegan version for greater peace of mind and gastric health.

Appetizers and Sides

1. Chickpea and Lental Paratha: Vegans and those avoiding soy, gluten, nuts and (of course) dairy should consider this lively, flavorful dish and its accompanying fenugreek-cilantro chutney as a lovely starter or side.

2. Spinach and Strawberry Salad: This healthy, light eat comes packed with antioxidants and proves that salads don't need heavy, creamy dressing to be palatable.

3. Roasted Eggplant Bruschetta: A perfectly roasted eggplant boasts an earthy flavor and creamy texture without any dairy whatsoever. This recipe works well for vegans (depending on the type of bread used) and the soy-free.

4. Quinoa Tabouli: Enjoy common Mediterranean flavors in this lovely little vegan dish — also suitable for those with other assorted food allergies.

5. Applesauce: There's nothing fancy about this simple, satisfying applesauce recipe. Eat it as a snack, dessert or nice accessory to pork chops.

6. Parmesan-Artichoke Dip: Vegan cheese and milk alternatives allow the dairy-free to enjoy this piping hot classic without fear. Even those without dietary restrictions may want to give it a try, as it is healthier than the original.

7. Guinness Chicken Wings: Startle friends and partygoers with these unexpectedly sweet, sticky chicken bits marinated in soy sauce, sugar and the eponymous Irish stout.

8. Jicama with Chili and Lime: A common staple in Mexican cuisine, jicama makes for a terrifically refreshing lactose-free, vegan treat. Nothing more than a simple mix of chili and lime is needed to make it pop.

9. New Orleans-Style Crab Cakes: Dairy-free, reduced-calorie margarine allows individuals and families with lactose problems a chance to enjoy decadent crab cakes safely.

10. Homemade Hummus: Try this versatile Mediterranean and Middle Eastern staple as a sandwich spread or a dip for vegetables or a favorite unleavened bread.

Drinks

11. Lemonade: Both kids and adults, regardless of their ability to competently digest dairy, can delight in this refreshing summer classic.

12. Rose Petal Iced Tea: Give the standard iced tea a fragrant, flavorful makeover by infusing the delicate floral taste of roses into the mix.

13. Tofu-Based Buttermilk Alternative: Replicate the flavor of a dense, flavorful buttermilk using healthier — and of course, lactose-free — ingredients.

14. Soy Milk Chai: Interestingly enough, this chai contains no tea whatsoever, but still wonderfully replicates the satisfyingly spicy, milky taste of a hot or cold cuppa.

15. Strawberry-Orange Slushie: Cool off with this fruity treat that proves milkshake and malt drinkers don't have to have all the fun.

16. Potato Milk: Whip up homemade potato milk — complete with almonds for the calcium — and drink it up whenever cravings for the lactose-laden version strikes.

17. Wassail: Even though it possesses an association with the winter months, this aromatic, spicy apple cider can be enjoyed any time of year.

18. Honey and Orange Blossom Lemonade: Whether lactose intolerant or sensitive, vegan, Celiac or other gluten-free restriction or a raw foodist, honey and orange blossom lemonade certainly satisfies a thirsting palate without stirring up trouble.

19. Quinoa Chocolate Milk: Vegans and those with lactose, gluten, nut and soy restrictions can still enjoy a frothy cup of tasty chocolate milk using a combination of quinoa and cocoa powders blended with water.

20. Peanut Butter and Banana Smoothie: Enjoy all the fun of a satisfying smoothing boasting a nostalgic childhood taste without worrying about what it might do to the digestive tract.

Breakfast

21. Pumpkin Bread: Imagine a thick slice of warm, comforting pumpkin spice bread with a favorite tea, coffee or milk alternative starting off the day.

22. Polenta and Fruit: When time is not an issue, settle in for a dairy-, egg-, soy- and gluten-free "cereal" of wholesome polenta and flavorful fruits. The effort will not go wasted.

23. Turkey Sausage Patties: Carnivorous members of the dairy-free community will love noshing on these nourishing breakfast sausages packed with protein and spices.

24. Vegan Crepes: Enjoy these thin, eggy pancakes…without eggs. Or any other dairy products for that matter! The best part is customizing them with a favorite topping.

25. Vegan Coconut-Banana French Toast: This creamy, delicious and dense breakfast classic gets a tropical vegan twist suitable for plenty of different dietary restrictions.

26. Granola: Splash some granola into a bowl of milk substitute or throw it into a fruit smoothie for a beautifully nourishing breakfast.

27. Potatoes O'Brien: When pan-fried in olive oil, potatoes, onions and bell peppers create an excellent, heavy start to an incredibly busy day. These taste especially amazing with a splash of vinegar-based hot sauce.

28. Asparagus Frittata: Both gluten- and dairy-free, a tasty, healthy asparagus frittata (or any of these excellent egg dishes) is sure to delight parents and kids alike.

29. Vegan Lemon Pancakes: Individuals on strict dietary regimens don–t have to miss out on one of breakfast's most enduring staples!

30. Blueberry Muffin: Baking with soy milk probably raises a few eyebrows in those unfamiliar with the art, but it's a nice way to ensure the lactose-free can enjoy some of their favorites sans anxiety.

Lunch

31. African Peanut Soup: Warm up a cup of this unique, satisfying soup either alone or with a nourishing (lactose-free, of course) sandwich for a quick lunch from home.

32. Mock Tuna Salad: Enjoy the texture and flavor of a classic lunchtime staple without any animal products whatsoever — perfect for vegans and the lactose-free alike.

33. Bagel and Lox: Pick up a package of guaranteed dairy-free bagels and substitute the traditional cream cheese with avocado for all the texture with none of the digestive disrupts.

34. Mock Egg Salad: Replacing the mayonnaise with its vegan counterpart renders this deliciously messy dish a tasty, far healthier alternative to the real thing.

35. Jalapeno Chicken Salad: Add a delicious (if not outright spicy) kick to one of lunchtime's absolute staples — and using vegan mayonnaise ramps up its nutritional value.

36. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: When the hankerin' for a hunka (grilled) cheese descends, the lactose-free and vegans of the world don't have to miss out on its comforting flavor and texture!

37. Barbecued Pulled Pork: Slow cook this meaty delight ahead of time and fashion quick sandwiches for work and school all week. If using commercial rather than homemade sauce, be sure to check for any milk solids that may have wormed their way into the recipe.

38. Chicken Spring Rolls: The beauty of this simple, classic Asian recipe is the fact that the chicken can be replaced with turkey, tofu, shrimp, beef or pork to suit any particular dietary need or preference.

39. Vegetarian or Chicken Pitas: Pick either of the provided fillings and stuff them in a pita with pistachios for a lunch as healthy as it is quick. Both the vegetarian and chicken recipes also make for nice wraps.

40. Lettuce Wraps: Omit the beef for a healthier stuffing to this crisp, refreshing, Asian-inspired meal. These may be a smidge unwieldy and messy for lunchtime at the computer, though.

Dinner

41. Fettuccine Alfredo: Regardless of whether or not one includes the chicken with this recipe, he or she can still enjoy a traditionally creamy entree entirely sans dairy.

42. Crock Pot Chicken Vindaloo: Enjoy a world-renowned dish from the Goa region of India straight from a simmering stint in the crock pot, with or without chicken depending on taste and dietary needs.

43. Grilled Salmon: Soy sauce and brown sugar are all it takes to bring out the rich, oily flavors to be found in a slab of grilled salmon.

44. Winter Squash with Apricot Stuffing: Serve up this vegan dish when a chill starts snapping through the air. Family and friends, regardless of whether or not they consume animal products, will come to consider this an essential comfort food.

45. Pork Stew with Rosemary and Lemon: This dense meal concludes the day with flavor, warmth and absolutely no dairy products whatsoever.

46. Quinoa and Black Beans: Fans of black beans and rice looking for a venerable interpretation of an old classic may want to experiment with quinoa.

47. Pad Thai: Thailand's most popular dish abroad should be a flavorful cornerstone of every dairy-, soy- (though not every recipe will be as such) and gluten-free diet. A couple of tweaks can make it vegetarian as well.

48. Wasabi Grilled Tuna: One of the most infamous condiments on the planet accompanies fresh slabs of grilled tuna in this sumptuous pescatarian entree.

49. Pot Pie: Don't think of every meat or vegetable in pot pie as absolute. Depending on dietary preferences and needs, both can be adjusted rather easily.

50. Shishlik: Fire up the grill and mix and match different meats and vegetables for the Israeli skewer treatment. Wrap the finished products into pita sandwiches or eat them straight off the stick for a dairy-free meal.

Dessert

51. Caramel Corn: In spite of the name, this Amish-style caramel corn does not utilize store-bought candies that may or may not have been produced with dairy.

52. Vanilla Walnuts: Close out a meal with these sweet, spicy and crunchy treats, which also make for an excellent homemade gift.

53. Strawberry Shortcake: This recipe uses no dairy or egg products for those with allergies or other conditions. It can also be adapted to bake delicious scones as well!

54. Ashure: Traditionally served during Eid in Turkey, ashure takes a while to make, but the rich, flavorful results easily satisfy the sweet tooth of the lactose intolerant.

55. Raw Brownies: Vegans, raw foodists and — of course — individuals unable to consume dairy products can still enjoy the chewy, chocolatey delight of a brownie without ever having to prepare their ovens.

56. Tres Leches: Almond milk and cream of coconut form the base of a dairy-free alternative to the wildly popular Latin American dessert.

57. Cranberry-Pistachio Biscotti: Close out an evening with a steaming mug of (obviously lactose-less) hot cocoa, coffee or tea and a couple of crisp, blissful biscotti.

58. Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies: Parents hoping to share the joy of baking with their children will find flourless peanut butter cookies a nice starter project.

59. Vegan Marshmallows: Vegan or not, marshmallows are not the easiest sweets to make. Try this recipe when looking for a challenge or a unique personal gift to friends and family who can't eat dairy.

60. Basil-Lime Sorbet: Step outside on swarthy summer nights with a unique frozen dessert featuring some unexpected, but ultimately complimentary, flavors.

Breakfast

Help your young ones start off the day on the right foot with these yummy meals that are so good you might just want to make them for yourself as well.

1. Baked Oatmeal: Give a tasty twist to traditional oatmeal with this hearty vegan recipe.
2. Healthy Breakfast Cookie: Think cookies can't be for breakfast? Think again. This recipe will have your kids thinking they're getting away with something while still eating healthy.
3. Wonderful Waffles: Cut out the dairy and enjoy these yummy waffles for breakfast.
4. Hearty Hash Browns: Turn a couple of boring potatoes into a breakfast bonanza with the help of this recipe.
5. Vegan French Toast: With a couple of tweaks you can make a breakfast classic vegan.
6. Vegan Pumpkin Pancakes: Instead of settling for plain old pancakes, give this recipe a try to spice them up in a way even your little ones will love.
7. Breakfast Burrito: Take breakfast south of the border by trying out this fabulous vegan breakfast burrito recipe.
8. Tofu Scramble: Not being able to eat eggs doesn't mean you can't enjoy a good breakfast scramble. As this recipe demonstrates, tofu can be a good substitute.
9. Eggs Benedict: Hollandaise sauce is generally pretty non-vegan, but this recipe makes a few tweaks that keep it animal-free and tasty.
10. Breakfast Home Fries: Your kids will love eating these tasty fries for breakfast.
11. Buckwheat Pancakes: Amp up the nutrition in these breakfast staples by using buckwheat.
12. Banana Bread Pudding: Indulge in the deliciousness of this recipe for a great start to your morning.
13. Breakfast Quinoa: Quinoa isn't just a dinner or lunchtime grain. With the help of some spices and fruit, it can be a great breakfast for kids as well.
14. Glazed Donuts: This donut recipe can be a great treat for hungry kids and is simple to make as well.

Lunch

Whether they're eating at home or bringing lunch to school, give kids delicious vegan options by using these recipes.

15. BBQ Delight: Bread, lettuce, tomato, soy cheese and BBQ sauce blend to create this simple lunch sandwich.
16. Low Fat Vegan Egg Salad: No eggs? No problem! Learn how to make a faux egg salad that won't have you or your kids missing the real deal.
17. Mock Tuna Salad: You don't need to eat fish to enjoy the flavor of tuna salad when you use this recipe.
18. Vegan Grilled Cheese: Learn to fully master the art of this kid-friendly classic using vegan ingredients.
19. No Mayo Vegan Potato Salad: A perfect side for any sandwich, this potato salad gets creative with ingredients to keep it vegan.
20. Peanut Tofu Wrap: Even picky kids will love this take on tofu that wraps it all up and tops it off with a tasty peanut sauce.
21. Rice and Lentil Salad: Use leftover rice and lentils to throw together this salad that's a perfect side or main dish.
22. Chickpea of the Sea Sandwich: Turn chickpeas into a tuna substitute using this recipe from The Kitchn.
23. Quinoa and Smoked Tofu Salad: Fancy enough to please adult palates but simple enough for little ones to love, this salad is a great way to keep your family healthy and full.
24. Tempeh BLT: Sub out real bacon in favor of a tempeh alternative to create this classic dish kids will love.
25. Elise's Sesame Noodles: Simple to make and tasty to eat, this recipe blends noodles, veggies, sesame seeds and sauce to create an enviable lunch.
26. Broccoli Latkes: Give your potato pancakes a boost of nutrition by throwing in some broccoli for a healthy meal your kids will love.

Main Courses

Make dinner a breeze around your home with these recipes that are sure to please.

27. Vegetable Maki Sushi: Kids and adults alike will have a blast making this veggie sushi.
28. Vegetable Pot Pie: Pot pies might not scream vegan, but this recipe will show you can do a great job making a vegan alternative that will please your picky eaters.
29. Homestyle Vegan Meatloaf: While this recipe doesn't use any real meat, it does create a delicious dinner for your family.
30. Black Bean Zucchini Quesadillas: Simple, healthy and delicious, this meal will be a winner for any parent out there, vegan or not.
31. Hurry Up Alfredo: This quick meal gives a vegan take on a traditional alfredo pasta.
32. Pan-Fried Gnocchi with Morels and Fiddleheads: This recipe looks like it's from a fairytale which might please kids, but if they're put off by the veggies, simply sub in others instead.
33. Sweet Potato Falafel: These tasty falafels are hard to resist and are a perfect treat for a fall dinner.
34. Chili Mac: Few meals are more classic than chili mac, and with this recipe you'll be able to whip it up without using a single non-vegan ingredient.
35. Barbecued Seitan Ribz: Seitan is a versatile substance, and in this recipe you'll learn how to use it to craft delicious BBQ ribs for your family.
36. Italian Layered Vegetable Casserole: Eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes and beans form the base for this delicious dish.
37. Simple Fried Rice with Japanese Seven Spice: Give traditional fried rice a vegan spin with this amazing recipe from Vegan Yum Yum.
38. Breaded "Chicken" Nuggets: Many kids out there love things that come in nugget form, so bread up some tofu and get those kids noshing on this healthy treat.
39. Vegan American Hamburger: If your family wants to enjoy some yummy burgers, try out this recipe to do it vegan style.

Sides

If you're looking for something to pair with a hearty vegan main dish, these recipes may be just what you're looking for.

40. Vegan Mac and Cheese: You won't meet many kids who'll pass up on mac and cheese, so learn to make it the vegan way to keep you and your kids happy at the same time.
41. Basic Vegan Mashed Potatoes: Enjoy delicious, creamy mashed potatoes with your main dish when you use this recipe.
42. Vegan Gravy: Looking to top those taters? This gravy recipe has you covered.
43. Wild Rice Dressing: Whether you're having it for a holiday meal or just a weeknight side, this recipe is super healthy and super easy to make.
44. Baked Beans: Perfect for that summertime BBQ, this recipe helps you create amazing baked beans with vegan ingredients.
45. Edamame Fried Rice: Those delightful soybeans are put to good use in making this irresistible rice dish.
46. Italian Sauteed Vegetables: It doesn't get much simpler than this great recipe for a veggie side.
47. Farmer's Market Quinoa: Take advantage of those fresh veggies by whipping up this dish, subbing in the veggies your kids like best.
48. Roasted Corn and Black Bean Salad: This summery salad makes a great side to any Mexican dish, burgers or just about anything else.
49. Mediterranean Chickpeas: Chickpeas are packed with the protein you and your little ones need to stay healthy, so whip up this recipe to try a tasty way to prepare them.
50. Fingerling Potatoes and Paprika: This simple dish will help to round out any family meal.
51. Whipped Sweet Potatoes: Sick of regular old potatoes? Use sweet potatoes instead as this recipe suggests.
52. Vegetable Tempura: You don't have to go out to get great tempura. Make this fried side as a treat for any Asian-inspired meal.

Soups and Chilis

If you want to warm up with something tasty, these soup recipes are totally veggie and don't skimp on flavor.

53. Roasted Pumpkin-Apple Soup: This recipe will soon become a fall favorite in your home.
54. Quick and Easy Potato Soup: If you're looking to make dinner in a hurry, try out this family-friendly soup recipe.
55. Garden Vegetable and Bean Soup: Check out this highly nutritious recipe for dinner.
56. Cream of Tomato Soup: Paired with a grilled cheese, this soup will be one of your kid's favorites.
57. Quick Edamame Soup: If your little ones love edamame, they're bound to enjoy this tasty Asian soup.
58. Leek Potato Soup: Less pungent than onions, leeks are a great choice for picky eaters.
59. "Chicken" Noodle Soup: Who says you can't enjoy a great chicken noodle soup just because you're vegan? Give this recipe a try for that homemade taste.
60. Zesty Wheat Berry-Black Bean Chili: Amp up the health of your chili by trying out this recipe.
61. Classic Chili: Whether you're watching the big game or just hungry for a filling meal, this recipe has got you covered.

Desserts

Just because you're eating vegan doesn't mean you can't indulge your sweet tooth now and then. Kids and adults alike will love these recipes.

62. Mint Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookies: Double the chocolate means double the deliciousness with this recipe.
63. Pineapple Creamsicles: They're creamy without the cream, the ideal vegan dessert.
64. The Ultimate Vegan Brownie: These brownies are so rich and chocolatey, one just might be enough.
65. Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies: This basic cookie recipe gets a vegan update here.
66. Vanilla Cupcakes: Bake up a batch of tasty cupcakes for a party or just for fun using this recipe.
67. Apple Pie: With help on making a vegan crust, you'll have no trouble whipping up this classic pie for dessert.
68. Vegan Truffles: Got a kid with a hankering for chocolate? Make these chocolate candies that are dairy-free.
69. Blueberry Hand Pies: Individual pies are a great way to mix up the traditional dessert.
70. Sassy Shortbread Cookies: Shortbread cookies are a great snack or dessert and this recipe will show you a great way to make them.
71. Strawberry Rhubarb Pie: Your kids might not know what rhubarb is but they'll know they love it after trying this recipe.
72. Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes: Make eating cupcakes even more fun by cooking and serving them in ice cream cones.
73. Peanut Butter Bombs: These globes of goodness are sure to satisfy even the most discriminating sweet tooth.
74. Sugar Cookies: This vegan recipe will help you make those Christmas or holiday cookies you grew up with.

Snacks

If your kids are begging for a snack between meals, these options are easy, tasty and sometimes healthy ways to appease them.

75. Oaracopuwape Balls: The name may be hard to say but these snacks are worth the tongue twisting to make.
76. Vegan Lassi: Learn how to make this classic Indian yogurt drink the vegan way with help from this recipe.
77. Fat Free Vegan Smoothie: Tweak the ingredients of this smoothie recipe to fit the tastes of your kids.
78. Hummus: Few snacks are healthier or tastier than hummus, and you can easily make your own at home.
79. Vegetable and Mint Summer Rolls with Peanut Sauce: Kids will love these fun, see-through spring rolls as a snack.
80. Easy Green Sprout Roll-Ups: Healthy and appealing to kids, these rolls are the perfect snack.
81. Vegan Corn Fritters: If you're willing to put in a bit more effort, these fritters are a delicious appetizer or snack– especially when corn is in season.
82. Homemade Applesauce: Sure, you could buy applesauce, but it'll be that much more delicious when you do it yourself.
83. Mozzarella Sticks: These breaded soy cheese sticks will be a big hit with your kids.
84. Puppy Chow: This chow-down classic gets an update with this recipe, becoming the perfect, though not quite healthy, snack for kids.
85. Breaded Tofu: Jazz up tofu with some breading and pan frying.
86. Simply Nachos: It's hard to go wrong with nachos, so learn how to make them as a tasty vegan treat for your kids using this recipe.
87. Raisin Walnut Balls: These snacks are tasty, but are also packed with protein and nutrients your kids need.

Baked Goods

Baking doesn't have to involve eggs, butter and milk. These vegan recipes prove that you can make delicious baked goods completely animal product-free.

88. Blueberry Scones: Blueberries add a hint of sweetness to these yummy scones, perfect for breakfast, dessert or tea time.
89. Coffee Cake: You'll want to eat this coffee cake all day, not just paired with a cup of joe.
90. Vegan Wheat Bread: You could buy bread at the store, but this recipe makes it much more satisfying to make it at home.
91. Cinnamon Raisin Bread: The cinnamon-goodness of this bread will have your kids eating it up.
92. Vegan Cranberry Nut Bread: This bread is pretty healthy and tasty enough for even picky eaters to love.
93. Banana Bread: This classic bread is a great way to use up old bananas while making a yummy snack.
94. Vegan French Bread: Pair your favorite pasta or sandwich toppings with this fabulous vegan take on traditional French bread.
95. Raspberry Applesauce Muffins: These muffins are a perfect start, or end, to the day when raspberries are in season.
96. Croissants: Ideal for breakfast or just a special treat, these buttery pastries are even better when made vegan.
97. Vegan Strawberry Pop Tarts: Vegans may not be able to eat store-bought pop tarts, but they can make their own that are just as tasty at home.
98. Cinnamon Buns: Your little ones will love snacking on these amazing cinnamon rolls on a lazy Saturday morning.
99. Blueberry Muffins: Try out this recipe to enjoy a vegan version of this classic muffin.
100. Pannetone: You can still enjoy this traditional holiday sweet bread when you follow this vegan recipe.

Food & Supplements

These foods and supplements are great for a mood boost.

1. Natural sweeteners: Sweeteners like agave nectar or maple syrup are great alternatives to refined sugar, which has been linked to depression.
2. Poultry: Tryptophan and B6 help produce serotonin and other amino acids are good antidepressants.
3. Water: Dehydration can cause fatigue and depression, so be sure to drink enough water.
4. Eat lightly and often: Prevent dips in blood sugar that can bring down your mood by eating often and lightly.
5. Cheese: The tyrptophan in cheddar and swiss cheese can release serotonin.
6. Walnuts: Try walnuts as a snack for omega 3 fatty acids and uridine that can elevate your mood.
7. Spinach: Turn to spinach for a good source of folic acid, which can help you maintain proper physical and mental health.
8. 5HTP: The 5HTP supplement can be a precursor to increase serotonin levels.
9. Whole wheat: Wheat bread with whole wheat can help you produce healthy amounts of serotonin.
10. Sushi: Fish oil offers a way to increase omega-3 fatty acids in your system, which can help fight depression.
11. L-tyrosine: L-tyrosine is a precursor to norepinephrine, and it's good for those who don't respond to most antidepressant drugs.
12. Eat lean protein: Protein offers a great feeling of alertness, as well as productivity.
13. Oranges: The Vitamin C offered in oranges and citrus fruits can help your body produce dopamine.
14. Dark chocolate: Boost your spirits with a dark chocolate treat.
15. Red pepper: Red peppers have good Vitamin C for producing dopamine.
16. Limit refined carbs: Soda, white flour, cookies, and other foods high in carbohydrates can cause you fatigue and depression.
17. St. John's Wort: Researchers believe that St. John's Wort may be able to help lift depression.
18. Phenylalanine: This amino acid can help the body make norepinephrine, an essential neurotransmitter for the brain and happiness.
19. Calcium citrate: Prevent a calcium deficiency, which can cause irritability, insomnia, and anxiety, with calcium citrate.
20. Vitamin B-12: B-12 can give you great energy and a mood lifter.
21. Sam-e: This coenzyme enhances cognitive function, and can treat depression as well as other psychiatric illnesses.
22. Fish oil: Some instances of depression can be from a deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids, and fish oil can help treat the nutritional roots of this deficiency.
23. Folic acid: A deficiency in folate can cause depression and other mood disorders, so make sure you're getting enough of this supplement.
24. Kanna: This medicinal herb is part of a class of compounds that can treat depression, anxiety, and more on an as-needed basis.
25. Ginseng: Ginseng can improve your energy levels and cope with stress.

Activities

Try these activities to lighten your mood this winter.

26. Read inspiring quotes and jokes: Keep a list of inspiring jokes and quotes to refer to whenever you need them.
27. Maximize light: Use natural daylight or full-spectrum lighting to inspire happiness.
28. Call a friend: Reconnect with a favorite friend for an uplifted mood.
29. Aerobic exercise: Aerobic exercise can offer a natural mood lift.
30. Get some sunshine: Spending time in the sunshine can help you get the Vitamin D you need to increase serotonin in the brain.
31. Fake a smile: Pretend you're happy, and it just might happen.
32. Light Therapy: Light Therapy with bright lights like a fluorescent light unit can be used to treat Seasonal Affective Disorder.
33. Avoid stress: Staying away from prolonged periods of stress can help you avoid imbalances that lead to depression.
34. Reminisce: Look through old journals or albums for an uplifting walk through memory lane.
35. Vital energy exercise: Exercise like yoga, t'ai chi, or dance can offer a natural mood lift.
36. Meditation: Meditation's health benefits include improving mood, as well as reducing anxiety and stress.
37. Gardening: The act of gardening, as well as friendly bacteria in soil, can increase levels of serotonin and improve your mood.
38. Make something: Using your creative mind can feed your soul and make you happier.
39. Acupuncture: Acupuncture may be able to improve your mood, and depressive symptoms.
40. Inspiring music: Music that inspires you can give you a better mood.
41. Eat a healthy diet: Taking in enough protein, carbs, vitamins, and minerals can keep your nutrition on track to a positive mind.
42. Cheer someone else up: Do something thoughtful for someone else, and you just might feel better yourself.
43. Take a bath: Use essential oils to kick back and enjoy a bath for a natural happiness boost.
44. Burn frankincense: Frankincense can create a peaceful environment and activate channels in the brain that help depression.
45. De-clutter: Take on a small de-cluttering job for a sense of accomplishment that can make you happier.
46. Get some good sleep: Well rested people tend to lower their risk of depression.
47. Laugh: Having a good laugh can reduce stress hormones that typically cause depression.
48. Exercise: Getting active can boost your mood and reduce the risk of depression, as well as trigger positive feelings with endorphins.
49. Taking a time-out: Meditation can reduce the likelihood of depression, allowing you to treat your thoughts as just thoughts.
50. Consider depression's source: Using depression to make you stronger and solve problems can improve your outlook overall.

Diabetes

Science & Medicine

Inventors, doctors, and other people of science achieved greatness in the face of diabetes.

1. George R. Minot: This Nobel Prize Winner for anemia was one of the first patients treated with insulin.
2. Lois Jovanovic: Lois is a pioneer in the work of diabetes and pregnancy.
3. Cynthia Ice: Cynthia Ice — who lost her eyesight to diabetic retinopathy — became IBM's Lotus Accessibility Lead.
4. Thomas Edison: The prolific American inventor and businessman managed to create an amazing amount of patents while suffering from diabetes.
5. Albert Ellis: Albert Ellis was a cognitive behavioral therapist who was diagnosed with diabetes at 40. Despite this and other health problems, he lived to be 93.

Business & Politics

Presidents and CEOs alike have suffered from diabetes.

6. Yuri Andropov: Among other medical conditions, Soviet politician Yuri Andropov suffered from diabetes.
7. Ray Kroc: Ray Kroc overcame diabetes and arthritis to create McDonald's.
8. Janet Jagan: Guyanese President Janet Jagan has been treated for diabetes.
9. James Farmer: Civil rights legend James Farmer lost his sight and legs to severe diabetes.
10. Fran Carpentier: A diabetic, Fran Carpentier is also Parade Magazine's Senior Editor.
11. Mikhail Gorbachev: Mikhail Gorbachev, former USSR leader, manages his type 2 diabetes with medication.
12. Tom Foster: Tom Foster, former head of Foster Poultry Farms, died from complications of diabetes at 49.
13. Fiorello LaGuardia: Former New York mayor and namesake of LaGuardia airport, Fiorello LaGuardia was a diabetic.

Athletes

Despite the health challenge presented by diabetes, these athletes won titles and set records.

14. Scott Coleman: Scott Coleman is known as the first diabetic to swim the English Channel.
15. Ty Cobb: Legendary baseball player Ty Cobb suffered from diabetes as well as cancer.
16. Smokin' Joe Frazier: Former Olympic and World Heavyweight boxing champion suffered from diabetes.
17. Ayden Byle: A runner for diabetes research, he was the first insulin-dependent diabetic to run 6,521.5 kilometers across North America.
18. Billie Jean King: One of the greatest women tennis players of all time is a diabetes sufferer.
19. Ron Santo: This Chicago Cubs icon was not expected to live past 25 due to his diabetes condition.
20. Sugar Ray Robinson: The World Welterweight Champion was diagnosed with diabetes and Alzheimer's disease.
21. Jackie Robinson: A member of the Baseball Hall of Fame, Jackie Robinson unfortunately kept his diabetes diagnosis hidden.

Entertainment

Although suffering from diabetes, these people offer TV, movies, music, and more for our entertainment.

22. Dick Clark: Entertainer, creator of American Music Awards Dick Clark suffers from diabetes.
23. Damon Dash: The co-founder of Roc-A-Fella Records has type 1 diabetes.
24. Della Reese: Singer and actress Della Reese is an American Diabetes Association spokeswoman.
25. Walt Kelly: Part of the animation team at Disney, Walt Kelly died due to complications of diabetes.
26. Ella Fitzgerald: The "First Lady of Song," Ella lost both her legs and ultimately her life to diabetes.
27. Mary Tyler Moore: The TV sitcom actress is the international chairwoman of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
28. Bret Michaels: The lead singer of Poison has found a way to balance diabetes and his lifestyle.
29. Randy Jackson: Randy Jackson is an American Idol judge and a part of the American Heart Association's The Heart of Diabetes campaign.
30. James Cagney: The Academy Award winning tough guy actor died of a heart attack combined with complications from diabetes.
31. Miles Davis: This jazz musician received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award despite diabetes.
32. Bo Diddley: Despite fighting diabetes, hypertension, and stroke, Bo Diddley was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, won a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Rhythm and Blues Foundation, as well as a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
33. Nick Jonas: Nick Jonas of the Jonas brothers is determined to not let diabetes slow him down.
34. Halle Berry: Halle Berry is the first African American woman to win an Oscar for Best Actress and an avid volunteer for the Juvenile Diabetes Association.
35. Tony Bennett: Grammy Award winning jazz singer and a member of the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame, Tony Bennett achieves beyond diabetes.
36. Rick James: Funk legend Rick James had various health issues, including diabetes and the need of a pacemaker.
37. Jerry Lewis: The comedian, actor, director, and all around entertainer has had two heart attacks, prostate cancer, and pulmonary fibrosis in addition to type 1 diabetes.
38. James Brown: A member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, James Brown also suffered from prostate cancer and pneumonia.
39. Elvis Presley: The King was a sufferer of diabetes.
40. Wilford Brimley: Wilford Brimley is an actor and diabetes spokesman.
41. Luther Vandross: Luther Vandross struggled with diabetes, weight problems, hypertension, and stroke.
42. Larry King: Talk show host Larry King manages his diabetes with medication, checkups, and exercise.
43. Johnny Cash: The "Man in Black" suffered from diabetes and drug addiction. He was diagnosed with autonomic neuropathy, associated with his diabetes.

Arts

Writers and other artists worked past their diabetes to create beautiful works of art.

44. Ken Kesey: Ken Kesey's LSD-shaped work carried on despite diabetes diagnosed late in life.
45. Ernest Hemingway: Nobel Prize winning author Ernest Hemingway had high blood pressure, liver problems, and diabetes for years.
46. Mario Puzo: The author of The Godfather had diabetes.
47. Anne Rice: Anne was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes following a coma and blood sugar level around 800.
48. Paul Cezanne: Impressionist Cezanne died of pneumonia and complications of diabetes.
49. HG Wells: The creator of The War of the Worlds was diagnosed with "mild diabetes."
50. Laura Ingalls Wilder: This author of the Little House on the Prairie died from diabetes and a weak heart.