What were your favorite foods growing up?
Would you believe turnip greens and green beans? My grandmother definitely knew her way around her tiny little Southern kitchen and could host a pot of vegetables that left you wanting nothing else, except another spoonful on your plate.

When did you decide you wanted to be a nutritionist/dietician?
Growing up I always had a love of food and an interest in nutrition, most of which was cultivated by my grandmother. She was always either whipping up something delicious in her kitchen or reading the latest book on any given nutrition topic (unique combination for the average grandmother, I know.) But it wasn't until the end of my sophomore year in college that I discovered I could actually make a career out of my interest in food and nutrition. I took my first "intro to nutrition" class the summer before my junior year... I've never looked back. It was unquestionably the right choice for me.

Where and when did your career in nutrition begin?
I landed my first job out of graduate school in the Test Kitchen for Oxmoor House books (publishers of cookbooks under such titles as Southern Living, Cooking Light, etc.) It was my dream job! I recall wanting the job so badly that I believe I told them I would do most anything to work there, including sweeping the floors. My food education soared in my brief tenure there (I soon interviewed for and landed an in-house assistant food editor position at Weight Watchers Magazine.) The talented women who worked in that test kitchen taught me more than I could have imagined.

If you didn't become a nutritionist, what would you be?
I've actually married the two jobs that I think I was most suited for... broadcast and nutrition/food. I've served as a spokesperson or been in the media doing food/nutrition work for over a decade now. If I hadn't made a career in nutrition, I probably would have worked in broadcasting.

What are foods that we should avoid? Why?
My philosophy on food really is an "all foods can fit" approach. That said, I believe in the principle of occasional foods vs. everyday foods. In terms of what we should be eating less of... highly refined, processed snack foods and sugary sodas top my list.

What foods are great for losing weight?
Wholesome, naturally nutrient-rich foods...as close to mother nature's table as you can get. For filling up: fiber-rich whole fruits, vegetables and whole grains; the fiber keeps you fuller longer. The old saying of an "apple a day" really dose have merit. For hunger control: protein-rich, low-fat dairy foods. I keep Cabot's 75% Reduced Fat Cheddar in my fridge at all times. It's made from 1% milk, so it's super lean, but yet has the great taste of a heavier cheddar (plus, there's a ton of evidence now that calcium from food may help your body burn fat better when you're trying to maintain a healthy weight.)

What is your opinion on Splenda or other artificial sweetners?
I drink the occasional diet soda that contain artificial sweeteners, so I wouldn't say that I'm 100% opposed to them. But I don't believe they should make up the majority of anyone's diet. When you focus more on wholesome, naturally nutrient-rich foods and less on processed foods, you really don't leave much room for artificially sweetened foods.

Do you practice what you preach, i.e. a very specific diet?
I guess since I basically preach "all foods can fit" I do! Seriously, though, I do work for balance and moderation in what I eat and what I serve my family. Do I succeed at every meal? No... Do I continue to try? Absolutely. I think the main thing is to take a bird's eye view of your overall eating plan and evaluate whether or not you're trending toward a healthier approach, based on MORE fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy. When you trend toward choosing those foods more often, you leave less room for all of the other "junk" that's not helping you achieve better overall health. I prefer to look at it this way...a more positive and empowering approach.

If you have to have a sweet, what's a treat that satisfies the craving without adding on extra pounds?
A small piece of dark chocolate--antioxidants never tasted so good!

What one of your food based guilty pleasures?
Wine. Wine. Wine... although with the body of research now that supports the antioxidant role wine can play in our diets, I consider it less guilty than maybe it once was. That said, alcohol calories can really add up fast... I know to avoid a "bottomless glass" if my waistline is to stay happy with me.

What is your least favorite food?
English Peas. I was forced to eat them as a child. I've never liked them. And dare say... never will.

What is your beverage of choice?
Definitely depends on the time of day. I'm totally addicted to coffee in the morning (although I do choose either half-caff or decaf these days), and I've already confessed to my love of a good glass of wine in the evening.

Where do you enjoy eating out?
If I had been asked this question pre-children, my answers would be much different. These days, just the act of going out to eat with my spouse or friends is itself enjoyable. Sure, I prefer that the food be showcase, but I can enjoy the opportunity of eating with friends much more now!

What is your best tip for someone looking to stay healthy?
Start listening to your hunger cues... eat when you're hungry, stop when you're full. That's one of the most essential ways to start gaining some sort of calorie control. We've become a nation of people who eat mega-portions, throughout the day...based on the clock and not what our bodies are telling us. It's a trend that begs to be reversed.

What do you eat when you are home?
Um....whatever I can sneak in when I'm not taking care of my two kids or working....?