National Dessert Day 2011

October 14 is National Dessert Day! There is no known story as to the origin of this special holiday and there's no declared official record to establish it. But since food related holidays are usually referred to as "National" then let's just get along and celebrate this rich day to be filled with yummy treats. No, don't turn away just yet. You're probably thinking of the calories and high fat content in many desserts. But there's a way to enjoy this special day without feeling guilty.

Here's a couple of healthy fall dessert recipes that will definitely comfort you! They're low-calorie and low-fat, but utterly delicious and easy to make.

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Dark Hot Cocoa

This frothy treat takes only about 10 minutes to prepare and is the perfect drink to warm you up in no time after a refreshing moment outdoors.

Ingredients:
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup bittersweet chocolate pieces
4 cups fat-free milk
1 tablespoon honey or sugar

Directions:
In a medium saucepan, stir together cocoa powder and chocolate pieces. Whisk in milk and honey. Heat over medium heat just until boiling, whisking constantly. Pour into mugs to serve.

If you want to add a bit of spicy touch to it, just sprinkle freshly ground nutmeg or cinnamon on top of it.

Apple Cranberry Crisp

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The perfect seasonal treat after a busy day. This yummy crisp will only take 15 minutes for you to dish out something fresh from the oven.

Ingredients:
5 cups thinly-sliced peeled apples
1 cup cranberries
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 cup quick-cooking rolled oats
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons margarine
1/2 cup vanilla or lemon non-fat yogurt

5 Healthy Fall Ingredients

The chilly air of autumn is here! It's time to turn the oven back on for some warm autumn meals from the season's healthiest ingredients. Below are 5 autumn ingredients that are not only nutritious, but can also be cooked into delicious foods that you will definitely crave for and love at this time of the year. Listed are the nutrients and health benefits you will get from the following ingredients and a bonus autumn recipe for each.

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1. Brussel Sprouts

• Helps lower cholesterol, especially when steamed.
• Contains antioxidants such as thiocyanates, indoles, lutein, zeaxanthin, sulforaphane and isothiocyanates that fights against colon, prostate and endometrial cancers.
• Excellent source of vitamin C, as well as vitamin A and E that gets rid of harmful free radicals.
• Good vegetable source of vitamin K, responsible for bone formation and strengthening.
• Rich source of minerals like copper, calcium, potassium, iron, manganese and phosphorus.

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe

2. Pumpkin

• Recommended by dieticians in cholesterol controlling and weight reduction programs because it is one of the vegetables which is very low calories, rich in dietary fiber, anti-oxidants, minerals, vitamins.
• Contains high level of vitamin A, a powerful natural antioxidant essential in maintaining vision, healthy skin and proper immune function.
• Rich in B-complex group of vitamins such as folate, niacin, vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine), thiamin and pantothenic acid that help balance hormone levels and manage stress.
• Also a rich source of minerals like copper, calcium, potassium and phosphorus.

Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake Recipe 

National School Lunch Week 2011

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National School Lunch Week 2011 starts on Monday, October 10 until October 14. This year's theme “School Lunch – Let’s Grow Healthy” aims to  help students understand where food comes from while highlighting the overall benefit that school lunch helps kids grow strong and healthy. Organized by School Nutrition Association (SNA), this campaign provides opportunity to try something new and promote locally sourced foods.

Child Health Day 2011

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Today, being the first Monday in October, we are celebrating Child Health Day. It is a national observance created to promote awareness in the importance of protecting and developing our children's health. All agencies and organizations interested in child welfare, especially our dear parents, are called to unite in this day to promote and incorporate proper nutrition and regular exercise into our children's lives.

Last year, President Barack Obama issued the following Presidential Proclamation:

The health and well being of a child is one of our most challenging, yet important, responsibilities, and we have an obligation to ensure that all our children can live, learn, and play in safe and healthy environments.  On Child Health Day, we reaffirm the critical importance of the quality health care, nutritious foods, clean air and water, and safe communities our kids need to grow into strong and active adults.