So you’ve just received your fourth invitation to a holiday party, and you, of course, want to bring a memorable appetizer to share. There is nothing like a great tasting appetizer that’s also healthy. This one offers great flavor from the artichokes and Parmesan with a kick of spice from the garlic and cayenne (the recipe says it’s optional but I highly suggest adding it!). Blended with the creamy low fat cream cheese and yogurt, this warm low fat dip, which is high in Vitamin A, is sure to be a welcomed addition to the appetizer table at any gathering.
Author: Carroll

Holiday Grief
For many who have recently lost a loved one, the thought of the upcoming holiday season is a lot to bear. Remembering past celebrations with your loved one can bring you both happiness and pain, and thinking about what the holidays would have been like if your loved one were here can also be difficult.

Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are to die for, and seriously, they are healthy too! Well, as healthy as a chocolate chip cookie gets! By using half the fat of a traditional chocolate chip cookie and adding low fat yogurt and oats, this version comes in at only 83 calories and 4 grams of fat. They are moist and full of chocolate flavor. Try using a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips to boost your antioxidants.

Medical Misconception: Allergies in Winter
Each month we set the facts straight regarding a popular health and wellness myth.
This month’s misconception: Allergies only exist in spring and summer.
It’s the middle of winter. You have a stuffy nose and you are sneezing. You must have a cold, right? Not so fast. You may be experiencing allergy symptoms in winter.

Skinny Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
Looking for something more hearty than a bowl of cereal for breakfast on a chilly fall morning? This make-ahead breakfast casserole is great as a holiday morning treat as well. Whole wheat bread, turkey sausage and egg whites take a traditionally high fat breakfast to one that is guilt free. Add some additional veggies like onions, peppers, broccoli or asparagus to make an even more positive nutritional impact!

Chicken and Gnocchi Dumpling Soup
Here is a great recipe for when you are craving a big bowl of chicken and dumplings but don’t want all the fat. Its use of whole wheat gnocchi makes it higher in fiber and simplifies the recipe. It makes a great Sunday dinner, and the leftovers are even better the next day!

Understanding Hospice Care
November is National Hospice & Palliative Care Month. Regina Bodnar, executive director of Carroll Hospice, answers some frequently asked questions about hospice care.

Self-Care During the Holidays
While the holiday season can be a joyous time, it can also be a time of heightened emotional stress and triggers for emotional challenges related to mental health, substance use and grief. Be sure to care for yourself these next few months; that may include reaching out for support and treatment.

Burger Steaks with Mushroom Gravy, Sweet Potato Wedges and Haricots Verts
This recipe has it all! A juicy, flavorful gravy-covered burger with sweet potato wedges and tender green beans. Mushrooms are a great source of B vitamins; sweet potatoes are packed with Vitamin A and C; and green beans are a great fiber source. And best of all, it’s an entire meal ready in under 40 minutes!

Health Benefits of Apples
Fall is synonymous with apple season! Did you know that this tasty fruit also has numerous health benefits?