Specialty: Nutrition
Hospital: StoneSprings Hospital Center in Dulles, Virginia
 
What’s your favorite way to sneak healthy food into your diet?
I eat pretty healthy most of the time, so I can’t say that I sneak in healthy foods. It’s more the opposite—I sneak in the not-so-healthy items. Dietitians love chocolate or cheeseburgers just like everybody else, which is why I’m a big believer in “everything in moderation.” My choices throughout the day include a variety of foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. But, if I know I want to go out with friends for tacos on Tuesday, I’ll eat sensible the days around it to be able to indulge.

What is your go-to weeknight meal?
I try to plan out my meals for the week every Sunday. Otherwise, we find ourselves scrambling, which can lead to “let’s order a pizza or takeout.” Of course, life happens and things don’t always go according to plan. When we do need a quick solution, we make a healthy stir-fry using leftover vegetables and meats and a variety of spices. It’s quick, easy, and it utilizes food we have on hand. Every time the results are different, which is part of the fun.

What is your favorite way to stay fit?
My first choice would be a run or walk with my family, enjoying our beautiful neighborhood or a fun trail hike. On days when we can’t do that, you can find me on the treadmill.

What was the last book you read?
Your Baby’s First Word Will Be DADA by Jimmy Fallon. It’s a children’s book. The last real adult book I read just for me? I’ve started Wild by Cheryl Strayed three times, but I have yet to finish it! Before that it was The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon.

What health trends are you watching these days?
I’m watching the smoothie/supplement trend closely. It’s amazing how many of my friends on social media are doing the next “number of days” fix or eliminating meals for shakes. I am not an advocate for programs that completely eliminate entire food groups or force changes for short periods of time. I encourage small changes that can last for a longer period of time.