Even when we’re dieting, it can be hard to resist having dessert every now and then. The key isn’t cutting out dessert completely; it’s about changing the desserts you decide to indulge in. These decadent-tasting recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth without ruining your diet.

Frosted Cake
Perfect for birthday parties or family dinners, this sweet frosted cake tastes just like the original, without all of the added sugar. By using things like low-fat cream cheese and skim milk, this cake becomes a smart alternative to the traditional bakery variety.

Tropical Fruit Compote
Because it has a fruit base, this fresh and summery dessert is a much smarter option for an after-dinner treat that’s also low in calories.

Crunchy Pumpkin Pie
Serve this traditional treat for Thanksgiving dinner and your guests won’t be able to tell the difference from its high-calorie original. Whole wheat flour and ground almonds make for a healthier crust, while canned pumpkin is a nutrient-rich base for its creamy middle.

Mousse a la Banana
If you’re looking for a delicious dessert that’s also low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium, this is just the thing. At under 100 calories per serving, this sweet banana mousse is one dish that won’t make you feel guilty for indulging. 

For more healthy dessert recipes, visit the NIH website here.

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Those new to the South quickly realize that Texans have a healthy obsession with turquoise jewelry.  At the Turquoise Door in Austin, you'll find just that and more. This popular boutique has served Austin with artisan jewelry and art for over twenty years, and is dedicated to supporting these artists' livelihoods.

You may find yourself lured into the boutique by the fanciful window displays, especially in October for the Day of the Dead. Inside, expect brightly colored Native American necklaces and bracelets, Baltic amber jewelry, and Chilean earrings. There is a lot to look at, so pick a leisurely day to visit if you want to see the whole selection. Products make great costume jewelry pieces or small gifts for loved ones.

The Turquoise Door is open daily, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., closing at 6 p.m. on Sundays. 

The Turquoise Door
1208 South Congress Avenue
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 804-0618
http://theturquoisedoor.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-turquoise-door-austin

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/erink photography

Navigating the supermarket can be a challenge, especially when you’re shopping for healthy foods for the whole family. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute developed the terms GO, SLOW and WHOA to categorize foods that are lower in fat and calories and more beneficial all around. Use these categories the next time you go grocery shopping to help make smarter and healthier food decisions.

GO foods are the most beneficial.
These foods are lowest in fat and calories, making them less harmful to your waistline. They contain much less sugar than other foods, and they’re full of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients your body needs. GO foods include things like fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats.

SLOW foods should be eaten in moderation.
Though these foods aren’t necessarily unhealthy, they’re higher in fat and calories and should be eaten in smaller amounts. Many SLOW foods provide some vitamins and nutrients, but their high calorie or sugar contents will make you gain weight if eaten in excess.

WHOA foods are the most harmful.
This category includes things like cake, cookies, and other desserts. These foods are the highest in fats and added sugar, and they’re much more calorie-dense than others. Because they provide little to no nutrients, they should only be saved for special occasions.

Choosing Foods for Your Family [National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute]

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