Melissa Rifkin Nutrition

Dietitian, Weight Management & Expert

Melissa Rifkin Nutrition

How I’m Incorporating Serenity Kids’ Toddler Formula into Max’s Meals

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My little guy is full of energy these days, playing with toys around the house, running around outside and LOVING our neighborhood playground. I love that he is so active, but, boy, does he keep me on my toes!

As a mom, and even more so as a dietitian, I think about Max’s nutrition constantly. Is he eating enough? Is he eating too much? How is his digestion? Which new foods should I introduce next? While there is not a concrete plan to follow with feeding a toddler, and every child has different preferences and needs, one thing giving me peace of mind in ensuring Max is getting everything he needs is Serenity Kids’ new A2 Whole Milk Formula.

Max eats and/or drinks calories every couple of hours, and while we largely rely on homemade meals and snacks, using Serenity Kids’ toddler formula has been a great addition to his nutrition. It is free of soy, a common allergen for children, and provides 8 sources of healthy fats, like DHA to support brain and nervous system development. It also contains a wide variety of vitamins and minerals in easily absorbable forms to fill in any gaps we may be missing in Max’s food intake. And, one of the more unique features of Serenity Kids’ new A2 Whole Milk Formula is that it is contains prebiotics like Human Milk Oligosaccharides and galactooligosaccharides for the microbiome and is made with grass fed A2 whole milk which has only A2 beta casein protein that allow for easier digestion compared to traditional formulas made with A1 protein.

Believe me, Max is happy to have a cup of Serenity Kids’ toddler formula on its own, but I have also found unique ways to add it to his meals and snacks as well for extra nutrition and benefits.

  • Add to a fruit and veggie smoothie. The texture blends seamlessly!
  • Incorporate into oatmeal. Just add a little extra liquid to maintain a nice texture.
  • Mix a scoop into your next batch of energy bites. I make a variety of energy bites with a base of oats, nut butter and usually some sort of chocolate 🙂 , and will add a scoop of Serenity Kids’ toddler formula when making a batch for Max.
  • Blend into purees. Pumpkin and apple was a favorite of Max’s, but you could easily add a scoop to any of your little ones’ favorite fruit and veggie purees.
  • Make popsicles. Simply add a scoop to your favorite smoothie recipe, pour into popsicle molds and freeze for a refreshing afternoon snack.

These are only a few of the ideas I have tried, but there are so many additional ways to incorporate Serenity Kids’ new A2 Whole Milk Formula into your little guy or gals’ meals and snacks. Have fun in the kitchen and get creative with different ways to boost your toddlers’ nutrition!

5 Healthy Reasons Why Acai Is a Superfood That Is Here to Stay

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In recent years, acai has become a popular food item available in many different forms, from frozen fruit mixes to juice, powders, and a wide variety of other supplemental forms. Many may recognize its deep purple color and be aware that it provides numerous health benefits, but why exactly is acai considered such a healthful food? There is plenty to discuss on this topic as the assumed health benefits associated with acai reach far and wide. 

While discussing the benefits of consuming acai, however, it is important to recognize that while there is research, more studies are needed to confirm many of the benefits that are currently thought to exist. Let’s dive into everything acai has to offer, from origin and versatility to research-based health benefits. 

Click ahead to read the first tip from Melissa on how to set rules for your weight loss.

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Support your Immune System with Sun, Sleep and Supplements

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Have you ever noticed how in the fall and winter months everyone around you starts taking immune-boosting supplements and discussing ways to support their immune system? While the colder months are known to be flu and cold season, it is important to support your immune system year-round. Luckily, there are many ways in which you can build and support your immunity. Here are some of my top tips for creating a healthy immune system!

Spend more time outside

There are many documented benefits to spending time in the great outdoors, including improved mood, lowered stress and the production of Vitamin D, which is known to play a role in your immune system. Additionally, spending time outside often leads to more activity, which is another know immunity-booster. In fact, research indicates as little as 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day can provide added support to your immune system. A walk, casual bike ride and activities with your kids are great ways to build in outdoor time.

Adequate sleep

Current research indicates inadequate z’s can negatively impact your immune system. Studies show those who don’t get enough quality sleep are more likely to get sick after coming in contact with viruses’, like a common cold. While everyone may feel best with different durations of sleep, it is commonly thought that seven to eight hours is appropriate for adults. Ideally, this is uninterrupted sleep that results in good quality rest. If your duration and quality of sleep could use improving, try turning off electronics earlier in the evening, practicing meditation and using lavender aromatherapy to create a calming environment.

LifeSeasons Clinical Immunity Elderberry Drink

Supplements definitely play a role in your immune system. You may be familiar with products like Vitamin C and D, and while those can have a positive impact, elderberry can play a beneficial role as well. LifeSeasons Clinical Immunity Elderberry drink concentrates 300 health-boosting elderberries into one easy and delicious drink. Elderberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins to keep your cells healthy and able to better stand up to common viruses. This simple packet you add to water also contains Vitamins D and C, and zinc to maximize the immune-boosting effects. Also, because they are packaged in single-servings sticks, you can easily travel with them, keep some in your work bag and a stash at home as well. Bonus! You can use code “confession” to get 15% off your order!

Support your immune system year-round with simple habits. Small changes in daily choices, like daily supplementation, adequate sleep and active time outside can add up big time over weeks, months and years!

Oatmeal Banana Chocolate Chip “Nutella” Bread

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Print Recipe

Oatmeal Banana Chocolate Chip “Nutella” Bread

Course: Dessert
Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • 3 bananas
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup Nutella or Pyure Organic hazelnut spread
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup Pyure Organic honey
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 2 cups old fashioned oats
  • 1/2 cup chocolate morsels

Instructions

  • By hand or with a standing mixer, mix together all ingredients except chocolate morels. Mix in half the chocolate morsels.
  • Grease a bread pan and pour in mixture. Sprinkle the rest of the chocolate morsels on top.
  • Bake at 350°F for 5-40 minutes, or until cooked.

The Best Brownies I’ve Ever Made

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Print Recipe

The Best Brownies I’ve Ever Made

Course: Dessert
Servings: 9

Ingredients

  • 1 cup NOW Real FoodⓇ OrganicCoconut Sugar
  • 1 avocado ripe
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup NOW Real FoodⓇ OrganicCocoa Powder
  • 1/3 cup nut butter
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • chocolate morsels to taste

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl mash avocado. Add in sugar, eggs, cocoa, nut butter, and baking powder.
  • Fold in a handful of chocolate morsels.
  • Pour batter into a greased 8×8 pan. Sprinkle with chocolate morsels on top.
  • Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.

Easy Instant Pot Carrot Soup with Ginger & Coconut Milk

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Print Recipe

Easy Instant Pot Carrot Soup with Ginger & Coconut Milk

Course: Dinner
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs carrots about 8-10 peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup onion sliced
  • 1.5 tsp ginger grated
  • 1 cup macadamia milk unsweetened
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp cumin ground
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric ground
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients except macadamia milk into an instant pot steel insert. Stir and close lid with vent in sealed position.
  • Pressure cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Let pressure release naturally.
  • Open the pot and blend the soup smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender. If using a regular blender, you may have to cool the ingredients before blending. Get the contents back to the instant pot.
  • Stir in macadamia milk. Top with your choice of garnishes and serve.