Half Thoughts, With Whole Heart

Whitney Andrus Whitney Andrus

Halloween Candy Collection

This Halloween, join Half Belly Health in spreading joy to troops around the world by donating your leftover candy! We're collecting individually wrapped Halloween candy at Causey Med Aesthetics in Baton Rouge and Jewell Med Spa in Denham Springs to support our military overseas. Plus, when you donate and register, you'll be entered to win a Half Belly Health prize pack valued at over $500! It’s the perfect way to practice Halloween candy mindfulness, enjoy your treats, and give back. Visit [insert registration link] to learn more.

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Recipes, Holiday Tips Whitney Andrus Recipes, Holiday Tips Whitney Andrus

Halloween Protein Bark

Looking for a way to enjoy your Halloween candy while staying on track with your protein goals? Try this High-Protein Candy Bark! Made with Greek yogurt and protein powder, this delicious treat lets you indulge in a sweet snack while packing in some serious protein. Simply mix your yogurt and protein powder, spread it out, and top it with your favorite chopped Halloween candy. Freeze it, break it into pieces, and you’ve got a balanced treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without the sugar crash. It's a fun, high-protein way to enjoy Halloween candy in moderation!

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Halloween Candy, Holiday Tips Whitney Andrus Halloween Candy, Holiday Tips Whitney Andrus

Tips to Stay Mindful with Halloween Candy

Halloween can be a candy-filled whirlwind, but it’s possible to enjoy the treats while staying mindful. Start by setting a candy limit for yourself before diving in—whether it’s one or two pieces after dinner, having boundaries helps prevent mindless snacking. When you do indulge, savor your favorite candy slowly and mindfully, focusing on the flavors and textures.

Balance is key, so make sure to fuel your day with high-protein, fiber-rich meals to keep sugar cravings in check. Try the three-bite rule to enjoy just enough of your favorite candy without overdoing it. You can also involve your kids by creating a candy plan for the whole family, teaching them how to enjoy treats in moderation. Shift the focus from candy to other fun Halloween traditions like dressing up or pumpkin carving, so sweets don’t take center stage.

Staying mindful means you get to fully enjoy the holiday while feeling good about your choices!

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Be a Beginner : Fitness Whitney Andrus Be a Beginner : Fitness Whitney Andrus

The Power of a Beginner Mindset in Fitness

A beginner mindset is key to long-term fitness success—it encourages curiosity, patience, and self-compassion. Gyms that embrace this mindset create inclusive spaces where everyone, from newbies to seasoned athletes, feels welcome. By representing all skill levels and body types in their marketing, gyms can attract diverse communities, reduce intimidation, and promote body positivity. Fitness is for every body, and gyms that reflect this truth build supportive environments where personal growth thrives, making the journey as important as the destination.

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Whitney Andrus Whitney Andrus

75 Heart Challenge: Thrive Through the Holidays

The 75 Heart Challenge helps you thrive through the holiday season with daily goals, community support, and local meetups. Part of Half Belly Health’s Blue Zone Initiative, this challenge focuses on sustainable habits like joyful movement and balanced nutrition. For just $10, you'll not only improve your health but also support free nutrition education for students Pre-K to Seniors and low income areas. Join us to thrive, not just survive, this holiday season!

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Whitney Andrus Whitney Andrus

Eat the Cucumber

Cucumber salads have taken social media by storm, and it's easy to see why! These hydrating, nutrient-rich salads are light, refreshing, and versatile enough to suit any occasion. Packed with over 95% water, cucumbers are a fantastic source of hydration and vitamins like K and C. But why stop there? By adding a protein boost, you can turn this simple dish into a satisfying meal.

Try our Kani-inspired cucumber salad featuring Greek yogurt, sesame oil, and your choice of imitation crab or boiled shrimp. Greek yogurt adds probiotics and a protein punch, while shrimp offers essential nutrients and up to 20 grams of protein per serving. Or, for your next tailgate, bring a sweet and spicy cucumber salad with a pepper jelly vinaigrette, topped with crunchy pork skins for added flavor and texture. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a crowd-pleasing dish, these protein-packed cucumber salads are a must-try!

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Whitney Andrus Whitney Andrus

What is a Blue Zone?

At Half Belly Health, we’re on a mission to create more Blue Zones—communities where people live longer, healthier lives. By fostering strong social connections through alcohol-free community events, promoting joyful movement, and offering simple, balanced nutrition that includes all macronutrient groups (yes, even carbs!), we aim to build lifelong health. Join us as we create a space for connection, wellness, and sustainable habits that make vibrant living achievable for everyone.

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Whitney Andrus Whitney Andrus

The 411 on GLP-1

GLP-1 receptor agonists are gaining popularity for their role in managing weight and blood sugar. These medications mimic the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone, reducing appetite, enhancing feelings of fullness, and improving blood sugar control. While effective, GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide and liraglutide should be paired with healthy lifestyle changes for long-term success. Whether you’re managing diabetes or seeking sustainable weight loss, understanding how these medications work can be a game-changer in your health journey. Read more to see if GLP-1 might be right for you!

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