Question: Carla, how did your approach to food evolved if you have navigated different phases of life?
Carla Hall: As I get older, I have become more deliberately about how I eat. I have always loved food, but now I look through the lens of a long service life, endurance and brain health. When I was younger, delicious meals were exactly that, fun and filling. But now I wonder how the food serves me and my health.
I still enjoy comfort food, but I have learned to give them a functional turn. Instead of a beef burger, I go for turkey or a vegetarian hamburger on a whole -grain sandwich with lots of vegetables. And instead of sugary milkshakes, I make a smoothie with Greek yogurt, berries, spinach and protein powder. It’s all about finding joy in food and making smart swaps that still feel satisfying.
Question: What does a typical day of food look like for you now?
Carla Hall: My days are busy, so I eat to raise. I usually go for six smaller meals during the day to stop my energy, especially when I’m in production mode. I could start with savory oats made with chia seeds, sunflower milk and nuts – I absolutely love oats! Lunch can be a whole -grain bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables and turkey breast. I snack on hummus and carrots, especially between dessert tastings. The dinner can be something fast from the air fryer or grill, combined with full grains. At night, especially when I’m training, I have a protein shake to help with recovery.
Question: How do you approach meal planning and preparation?
Carla Hall: I concentrate on simplicity and taste. With the help of whole ingredients I can control the salt, sugar and fat content in my meals. I improve dishes with fresh herbs and citrus to reduce sodium without sacrificing the taste. This approach makes meal preparation both healthy and pleasant – and the new meal planner from MyfitnessPal really helps. It was a fantastic addition to my cooking philosophy. Meal planner helps me organize my meals for the week, to ensure that I get a good balance of nutrients and yet keep things exciting in the kitchen.
Question: Have you applied specific food adjustments to support your health the older?
Carla Hall: Absolute. I am more focused on getting enough proteins and fibers, and I started to pay more attention to how food influences my energy, mood and digestion. Learning I wear a gene that is related to dementia, really shifted my perspective. It made me more aware of my overall well -being, including more intentional thinking about foods that can help support general brain health. I am also aware of portions and timing. It’s about supporting my body for the long term – I intend to live up to 104!
Question: What advice would you give to others who want to adjust their eating habits for better health?
Carla Hall: Start listening to your body. Don’t be afraid to develop your habits when your needs change. Food is fuel And Joy – it’s not/or. Use herbs, herbs and citrus to keep meals exciting without trusting sugar or salt. And don’t forget to give yourself grace. Following my meals with myfitnesspal has really opened my eyes for what my body needs.
Question: How did menopause influence your food choices and overall food?
Carla Hall: The menopause caused important changes in my body, including digestive problems and shifts in energy levels. To manage this, I concentrated on integrating nutrients that absorb dense foods such as leafy vegetables, full grains and lean proteins. I also paid attention to hydration and included foods that are rich in calcium And magnesium To support the health of the bone.
Question: How do you ensure variation and excitement in your meals while you focus on health?
Carla Hall: Herbs, herbs and seasonal ingredients are my go-tos. I like to play with taste to keep things interesting without trusting added sugars or fats. And I often combine the familiar with the unexpected – it is a great way to relieve people to try new things.
I have been using MyfitnessPal since in front of the pandemic – back when I didn’t even know what a macronutrient was – and it helped me to stay focused on what my body needs. That is why I am enthusiastic about working with MyFitnessPal on a recipe collection for their meal planner.
In my experience as a chef this is one of the most practical tools there are. With meal planner you can now plan your meals for the week based on your nutritional goals and nutritional preferences, and it even generates a shopping list, making shopping easy. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just start, it is a great way to enjoy varied, healthy meals without spending hours sorting out.
For me it is about balancing creativity with nutrition – and this tool helps that balance to make everyone feel feasible.
Question: What role does mindfulness play in your eating habits?
Carla Hall: Mindfulness is the key. I pay attention to how food feels – both physically and emotionally. This consciousness helps me make choices that match my health goals while the joy stays with eating.
At the age of 61 I learned that it is not just about counting calories; The point is that we concentrate on the nutrients that our body really needs as we get older. Calcium For strong bones, egg white To maintain muscle mass, fiber for digestive healthAnd potassium For heart health. That is why following my food intake with MyfitnessPal has been so impactful.
For me, mindfulness is about honesty – being your own lawyer and really understand what your body needs. Following my intake helps me to stay intentionally.
It’s all about balance and coordination. For me, tracking has been a useful tool – not for obsession, but for consciousness. Food is meant to enjoy, and with a little mindfulness we can give our bodies the love and nutrition they deserve.
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