FAQ’s

Are you a Nutritionist?

I am a certified nutritionist and nutrition counselor.  I am not, however, an R.D. I received my education from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition here in New York City with a continuing education degree in Nutrition from SUNY (State University of New York).  I currently work with clients all over the country on their nutritional needs, as well as work as a Private Chef, teach Cooking Classes, Workshops, Public Speaking events, Food Store Tours, Cooking Parties, etc.  I love my job and I love working with and meeting new people each and every day.  Contact me at thehealthyapple@gmail.com for a free consultation.

What magazines do you read?

Years ago I worked at Conde Nast Publications here in New York City, therefore I have a passion for the magazine and publishing world as I am the Publisher of Easy Eats online gluten-free magazine.  I currently read Body & Soul, Everyday Food and Eating Well.

What products do you love?

I have created a page especially for this question.  Check out my Favorites page and let me know what you think of my favorite products after trying them.

What kind of tea do you drink and recommend?

I love tea; that is an understatement.  I probably have about 20 boxes of tea in my kitchen.  I love Celestial Seasonings teas–they have an amazing line of flavored green teas as well as delicious herbal teas such as red and yellow zinger.  I love Yogi Green tea product line as well for my morning pick me up.  Another great brand it Traditional Medicinals; I love their Roasted Dandelion Root. Pukka makes a delicious Detox Tea and Harney & Sons has a great variety of teas, as well.  My favorite after dinner tea is “Passion” from Tazo; it’ s divine.

What do you purchase on a weekly basis from the food store/health food store?

I spend a ton of money on food shopping at the farmers markets, food stores and health food stores in NYC.  Each week I buy a ton of frozen and fresh vegetables and lean proteins.

Where do you do your food shopping in NYC?

I shop in any food store here in NYC for all of my generic needs, however, I buy most of my food from Whole Foods Market. Check out my Foodspotting Page for gluten-free and healthy restaurants and food stores in NYC.

Do you have any ideas for vegetarian dinners?

Yes, many! I am not a vegetarian, however, I definitely have been known to create vegetarian meals and they are quite delicious.  Check out my Recipes page; I am still working on adding new recipes so keep checking for updates.

“My job is non-stop all day and I barely have time for a break to eat.  Do you have any tips for snacks and meals for my hectic working days?”

Yes, I have numerous snack ideas.  Please see my numerous posts titled, “On-the-go-Snacks” where I share various ways to incorporate great snacks into your everyday needs whether it’s a sweet, savory, or salty craving you are looking to satisfy.

• On The Go Snacks
• More Snacks
• More Snack Ideas

Do you have a favorite vegetable?

I love Brussels Sprouts, Kale, Rainbow Swiss Chard, Zucchini and Broccoli the best…although I eat every vegetable and love them all…it’s quite hard to pick my favorites.

What is the easiest way to cook chicken?

Hmm…I would have to say, the best and easiest way to cook chicken is to put it into a pot with a few tea bags, root vegetables and a bit of olive oil.  Cook on the stove top with a covered lid on medium to low heat and check every 10 minutes until chicken is completely cooked.

Any ideas for a healthy dessert?

O, there are so many delicious dessert ideas.  You could choose fruits or rice ice creams, organic sorbets, dark chocolate, candied ginger, a toasted English muffin with peanut butter, dark chocolate chips and honey drizzled on top, apple or banana with nut butter and sprinkled with chopped nuts and coconut.  I have many clients who enjoy bars such as Larabars for their dessert.  Moreover, numerous clients find that a dates stuffed with almond butter does the trick.  You could even make your own trail mix with your oatmeal, dried fruit, nuts and dark chocolate.

What kind of grains can you recommend?

All grains are wonderful in their own special way; check out my numerous posts on grains where I show how you can easily use grains in your breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Quinoa, buckwheat and amaranth are great gluten-free grains that are fun to use.

“I know you believe in eating clean,unprocessed and natural foods, however, sometimes it is difficult to access these foods.  Can you recommend any good snacks that I can purchase in the store that will not go bad in my desk drawer or gym bag?”

Although I do like to stay away from packaged goods, there is always a time and place when you need nourishment and you need it fast! In those cases or when traveling or eating on the run, stash home-made trail mix, Larabars, dried fruits, nuts, fiber crackers, fruit, etc.  Take a look at my post titled, “On-the-Go Snacks” for more ideas on what to pack when you are on the run.

How do you feel about fake sugars?

I do not consume “fake sugars” because of the added chemicals and negative press they have received from studies showing how harmful these substances are to our health.  I use stevia when I need a little ‘sweetness’ in my life.