Adopting a plant-based or vegan diet is a significant decision, whether considering it for ethical, health, or personal reasons. It's important to approach this transition thoughtfully to ensure long-term success.

In this article, we'll explore the definition of a plant-based and vegan diet, the pros and cons, and offer recommendations for parents supporting their teenagers or young adults through this transition.

Karen Bluth, PhD

Research continues to validate exercise as a key method in alleviating depression symptoms. A recent meta-analysis revealed it’s impact to be as effective as medication or CBT, and in cases when combined with medication, to provide even greater symptom relief.

Eating Disorders: What every teen and college student should know. Featuring Mollie Schlapp-Gilgoff of the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA)

Loneliness has significantly increased among teens and young adults, impacting their overall well-being. Find out what commonly causes this disconnection and how to help turn loneliness into happiness.

Gym anxiety can be overwhelming for teens and young adults just starting on a fitness journey. But individual goal setting, gradual progression, a supportive network, and consistency are cornerstones to building greater comfort and confidence with less fear and anxiety.

An In / Out List is quick and easy to create.

Have your teen grab a sheet of paper, computer, tablet or phone. On the paper or screen, create two columns.

1). The In Column - On the left start with the adds and keepers. Title it “Ins”. What your teen wants to let into their life that is positive and good.

2). The Out Column - On the right create a second column titled “Outs”— what your teen wants to let go of or get out of their life.

By applying the ten principles, your teenager will experience a shift towards a healthier relationship with food and their bodies, promoting overall well-being and a more sustainable approach to eating.

Research studies are more consistently identifying the link between food and the beneficial impact on mental and neurological conditions. It's becoming more evident that what we eat affects who we are, in more ways than one. For teens who often struggle with moodiness, anxiety and depression, including brain-boosting foods into their diet is a great way to help improve or potentially reverse their condition.

Getting your teen to eat healthier doesn’t have to be about eliminating foods your teen likes and depriving. Instead, help by swapping out favorite foods with healthier options and, if necessary, reducing the frequency or amount of those foods.

Working with a fitness trainer provides the essential foundation to safely and effectively get the most out of your teen’s exercise experience, for long-term success.

Creating a healthy body and mind requires an understanding of the current situation, what change is wanted and needed, and leveraging inner motivation and commitment to make lasting lifestyle changes. Not an easy task for a teen or young adult.

That’s where the value of Health Coaching comes in. It’s a combination of body and mind work. Health coaching not only aids teen clients in improving health through changes in eating, self-care and exercise, but also takes in account their mindset, beliefs and environment. It’s a whole-life approach.

Gratitude practice helps teenagers step outside of themselves and see a wider view of the world around them. When times are difficult this enhanced perspective helps to focus on the fact that there is plenty of good in the world.

One of the greatest benefits is gratitude helps teenagers to look at what they have vs. what they don’t have.

Carbohydrates are a necessary and essential part of a teenager’s neurological, hormonal, and physical development. In this article we cover why carbohydrates are important for teenagers and how to make healthy choices.

It’s not uncommon for teens to suffer from lack of sleep. A night or two can be manageable but when consistently lacking, it can add up to adverse effects like weight gain, memory and learning loss, anxiety and depression. Read my latest blog on Teen Sleep Deficit for more info on why, how and 10 practical solutions.

The presence of sugar in the teen diet is pervasive and its impact is becoming more obvious as overweight, obesity and Type 2 Diabetes continues to dramatically increase among American adolescents.

Teen Weight loss: How to help your teen lose weight, improve body acceptance and build resilient self-confidence.

Measured Breathing is one of the most underrated and often forgotten treasures when it comes to helping us calm and relax. Breathing is what we do unconsciously and naturally, so it’s easy to overlook how powerful it can be.

If you suffer from anxiety or constant thoughts of self-judgement and negativity, these breathing techniques can make a world of difference.