In this long Quick Hits video, I discuss whether kids or teenagers (as my daughter oft reminds me) should follow the Atkins Diet as prescribed or a more moderate low carb or carb conscious plan. I respond by saying that for most teenagers a lower carb approach is probably best, especially not if the choice is not driven by the child themselves. I believe as parents we are called to teach our kids a healthy way of eating, and while acknowledging kids’ environment and choices, we should make and help them choose to eat wisely, which by almost any standard should not include “whites” – refined starches and sugars. There should be no requirement for breading or donuts to be healthy or happy. The challenge with kids and teenagers is therefore school lunch programs and their unhealthy nature. This is by no means a discouragement for teenagers, who may want to try Atkins Diet due to an internal desire to lose weight. I just want them to be aware of what their decision means.

In this video, Betty demonstrates how to make 3 different low calorie popcorn recipes. The flavors are Cheese Popcorn, Garlic-Herb Popcorn, and Brown Sugar-Cinnamon Popcorn. These are perfect for munching on while you watch a movie or ballgame. Or, you can enjoy it as a comfort food when you want to curl up on the couch! You can also have this popcorn guilt-free, because it is very low in calories! Ingredients (to make 1 bowl of each type of popcorn): 3 serving-sized bowls of popped popcorn, with unpopped kernels removed (For best results, use microwave popcorn, so you can keep track of calories per serving. Note: You will be able to find microwave popcorn that has only 15 calories per popped cup, if you check the nutrition information on the package. This is very low, but also very important in keeping this a low calorie snack. Just microwave the popcorn, according to package directions.) butter-flavored spray (or any oil spray that is fat free and has 0 transfats. I use Parkay spray.) for Cheese Popcorn: cheese flavored sprinkles, to taste (I find this with the herbs and spices at my grocery store.) for Garlic-Herb Popcorn: garlic herb seasoning blend (I find this with the herbs and spices at my grocery store. It is McCormick brand. If you cannot find this, use an Italian herb blend, or other herbs and spices of your choice.) for Brown Sugar-Cinnamon Popcorn: ¼ cup brown sugar ground cinnamon, to taste To make one bowl of flavored popcorn, place popped popcorn in your …