2 products I just can't live without!

I am always scouring the grocery shelves for new good for you products, and you should too! If you tried one energy bar, and it was less than delicious in your book, try a different one next time until you find the perfect fit for your healthy lifestyle. Same goes with all kinds of products out there, from almond milk to soy butters, to energy bars, vegan cheeses, whole grain cereals, etc. It's fun to mix it up, and your body will thank you too! So next time you see the health food aisle, take a detour and try something new!

EAT. THINK. SMILE: one of my new favorites. a baked nutrition bar that includes the natural antioxidant power of cocoa in its list of ingredients. I love it as a quick fix to savor in between meals, and with its combination of whole grains, fruits and nuts, it's a real winner! Try the oatmeal raisin, orange cranberry or dark cherry flavors!

EARTH BALANCE SPREAD: I used to self-proclaim myself as the "dairy queen" well that is until my husband discovered he was "lactose intolerant". Now no longer to eat dairy at his whimsy, it only seemed fair, that I, being the one making most of the meals in our home, should also adopt this new lifestyle change. Of course, I still think that lowfat dairy in moderation is a wonderful thing, if you're not allergic to it, but whether you need to cut it out completely for allergy reasons, or you just want to lower those dreaded cholesterol numbers, substituting things like almond, rice or soy milk and butters are a great way to choose less dairy in your healthy diet. So next time you're in the health food aisle wondering which "buttery" non-diary spread to choose, try Earth Balance. Our family's personal favorite, as it works just like butter in your recipes, as well as on toast, and has a rich wonderful flavor. And as they say on their label: All of our products are plant-based, vegan, made without artificial ingredients or hydrogenated oils, and are free of gluten, lactose and eggs. Can't beat that!