Skip to content

Healthy Lifestyles BLog

Nourishing the Holidays: Intuitive Eating & Letting Go of Food Guilt

By: Georgia Vaughn, Clinical Dietician, Duke Pediatrics Healthy Lifestyles Program 

The holiday season—Thanksgiving, Christmas, and everything in between—is often filled with
family, fun, tradition… and a lot of food. For many teens, especially those working toward
healthier relationships with food and body image, this time of year can feel overwhelming. You
may hear mixed messages like “don’t overdo it” or “treat yourself, it’s the holidays!”—and it can
be hard to know what’s right for you. Read More

Why “One Size Does Not Fit All” When It Comes to Breakfast

By: Jenny Favret, M.S.,R.D.,L.D.N., Nutritionist, Duke Pediatrics Healthy Lifestyles Program 

We’ve all heard it before: “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” But what that breakfast looks like? That’s where things get personal.

Some people wake up ravenous and ready to eat. Others need a little time before their appetite kicks in. Some crave a hot, hearty meal like scrambled eggs or a steaming bowl of oats, while others prefer the chill of a protein smoothie. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to breakfast. Read More

Have a Healthy Halloween!

By: Georgia Vaughn, Clinical Dietician, Duke Pediatrics Healthy Lifestyles Program 

Halloween is full of spooky fun, festive activities, and of course—sweets! But indulging in treats doesn’t have to mean abandoning healthy habits. With a little creativity and planning, you can enjoy everything the holiday has to offer while still feeling great. Here are some tips to help you and your family have a healthier, happier Halloween! Read More

How to Motivate Your Adolescent to Make Healthy Lifestyle Changes

By: Georgia Vaughn, Clinical Dietician, Duke Pediatrics Healthy Lifestyles Program 

If you’re a parent of a tween or teen, you’ve probably discovered that getting them to make healthy choices isn’t as simple as telling them what’s good for them. Adolescents are at a stage where independence is key, and parents are often met with resistance. 

But don’t worry—there are research-backed, realistic ways to support your adolescent in building healthy habits that stick. The key? Collaboration, consistency, and a little creativity.  Read More