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The summer before my twins started Junior Kindergarten, we decided to send them to a couple of week-long day camps to introduce them to the “full day” experience. Leading up to it, I hadn’t really thought about food and as the day approached, I realized that for the first time I needed to plan and pack enough food for a morning snack, lunch and an afternoon snack. It felt daunting, but I learned a lot over the season. So whether you’re packing lunches for the first time, or have been packing them for a while and are in a total rut for ideas, check out my tips below for camp lunch packing success!

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May is Celiac Disease Awareness Month. Celiac Disease (CD) is an autoimmune disease which includes an allergy to gluten. If someone has CD, then it is essential they follow a strict gluten-free diet. Gluten is a form of protein found in wheat, barley, rye, triticale, and many other grains. It is also found in many condiments via addition of grains such as most soy sauces, BBQ sauces, and salad dressings. Even trace amounts of gluten can evoke a negative reaction. Individuals have usually had less than optimal vitamin and mineral absorption prior to diagnosis so it is always good to have a proper assessment done and determine if any supplements are advised to help with any deficiencies. In terms of food preparation, here are a few tips to keep your home Gluten Free if a family member is diagnosed with CD.

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When we first realized that my son needed to be on a dairy-free diet, my biggest fears were around adequate protein and calcium in his diet. I know from being a dietitian that specializes in family nutrition that many other parents have faced this same concern. In honour of Allergy Awareness Week, I wanted to share a few tips with you if you have a child who needs a casein-free or casein-and-egg-free diet on ways to ensure nutritional adequacy. At the end, I’ve also included an Oatmeal Banana Flax Muffin recipe that’s a great nutrition boost for any time of day!

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It has been an exciting birthday month at Mabel’s Labels as they celebrate 15 years of making moms lives so much simpler, and in our home as my twins turned 6…such big boys now! As I planned the twins birthday party I was so excited to have such useful party gifts from Mabel’s and I thought it would be fun to share a few fun party tips and ideas with you for your next birthday bash!