Do you know the danger zone for food poisoning?
The danger zone for food poisoning is between 4 and 60 degrees Celsius. Keep cold foods cold, 4 degrees or lower and keep the hot ones hot, above 60 degrees.

Do you throw out all kinds of unused leftovers?
Do you throw out all kinds of unused leftovers at the end of the week? Let your freezer help. If you don't think you'll get back to your dinner leftovers, excess tomato sauce or even baked goods this week, pop them in the freezer. Most items keep well for up to 6 months.

Wonder why you don't seem to be gaining energy or losing weight?
Wonder why you don't seem to be gaining energy or losing weight despite lots of walking? Intensity may be the key. Don't just do what you always do. Work on interspersing faster walking, add hills or even throw in some easy jogging to stimulate your body to respond.

Which has more caffeine? Tea or Coffee?
Generally speaking, tea has one third of the caffeine of coffee. It has the added bonus of supplying antioxidant nutrients that may help protect cells from cancer. Instead of your usual coffee, take a tea break instead.

Seasonal Tips

The Scent of Christmas
To give your home a delicious, welcoming seasonal scent, in a saucepan combine 4 cups of water, 3 tbsp cinnamon, 2 tbsp cloves, 1 tsp nutmeg, 1 tsp ginger and 1 tbsp anise seed (optional). Bring to a boil, stirring. Simmer on low. The fragrance fills the house. Store leftovers in refrigerator for later use.

A Lighter Pumpkin Pie
Instead of traditional crust, try grinding 1 cup of ginger snaps and pat into a pie plate. Modify your traditional filling recipe with canned pumpkin combined with egg whites in place of whole eggs. Use evaporated skim milk in place of heavier choices.

The Last Supper
Remember just because it is a celebration, don't approach a big meal like it is your last opportunity ever to eat. Just think about how uncomfortable it is when you're stuffed like a turkey. Enjoy the meal, but listen to your body for the signals of when you're getting full.