The SparkPeople Blog - Everyday Tips on Healthy Living

SparkPeople Community Coordinator

Denise's first introduction to SparkPeople was January 1, 2004, as a member. It took her eight months to lose 40 pounds and reach her goal weight, which she's maintained for many years thanks to regular walking, yoga, and fitness videos. Losing weight and exercising inspired Denise to change her life. She went back to school and earned a bachelor's degree in wellness at Lincoln University in Missouri and become an ACE-certified personal trainer. Now a SparkPeople employee, she helps others achieve their health and fitness goals, including the 13- to 17-year-old members of our sister site, SparkTeens.com, where Denise works as the Community Leader. At SparkPeople, you'll find her throughout the Community, answering questions, leading SparkTeams and challenges and providing support to members.

Vegetarian Recipes for the Slow Cooker

Looking for some new ways to spice up your slow cooker recipes? We've rounded up a variety of vegetarian recipes for the slow cooker that are quick, easy, and full of flavor!

Moroccan Slow Cooker Stew

Chef Meg's Slow Cooker Vegetable Curry

Slow Cooker Sloppy Jane's

Slow Cooker Lentil & Quinoa Stew

Posted 11/2/2010 4:30:44 PM By: : 37 comments 38,618 views

12 Spooky Recipes for Halloween

Need some ideas for some Halloween-themed recipes? Whether you are staying home, having a party, or need to take a dish to a party, you will be sure to find a fun and spooky recipe here!

Pizza Mummies

Sarah's Fall Chili

Vegan Cornbread

Cheese-Finger Food

Posted 10/26/2010 12:00:00 PM By: : 15 comments 20,212 views

12 Healthy Pizza Recipes

Think you don't have room for pizza in your healthy lifestyle? Think again! We've rounded up a variety of healthy and delicious pizza recipes for you to try.

Spinach Feta Personal Pizza

Vegan Pizza with artichokes and avocado

Pineapple Onion and Bacon Pizza

Mini Eggplant Pizzas

Posted 10/19/2010 6:00:00 AM By: : 41 comments 44,777 views

9 Super Fall Salads

Think salads are only for summer? Think again! You’re sure to find a new favorite among these fresh recipes for fall.

Spinach Salad with Dried Fruit and Raspberry Dressing

Pear, Walnut, and Roquefort Cheese Salad

Autumn Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette

Posted 10/5/2010 5:29:41 AM By: : 40 comments 56,060 views

Figure-Friendly Desserts for Fall

Looking for fall desserts that are figure-friendly? We've rounded up some healthy and delicious fall dessert recipes for you to try.

Pear Ginger Crumble

Carrot Pumpkin Bars

Pear with star anise and cinnamon

Posted 9/28/2010 5:00:42 PM By: : 32 comments 23,879 views

10 Healthy Squash Recipes for Fall

Looking for some new squash recipes this fall? We've rounded up some healthy and delicious squash recipes that are perfect for the fall season.

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Butternut Squash Casserole

Maple Apple Acorn Squash Bake

Broccoli Acorn Squash Soup

Posted 9/21/2010 6:00:10 AM By: : 37 comments 27,617 views

8 Healthy Apple Dessert Recipes for Fall

Now that fall is almost here, are you looking for some new apple dessert recipes that won't break your calorie bank? We've rounded up some healthy and delicious apple recipes for you to try.

Apple Crisp

Fresh Apple Cake

Chef Meg's Mini Apple Tarts

Posted 9/14/2010 4:24:30 PM By: : 53 comments 206,910 views

12 Healthy Game Day Recipes

Now that football season is here, are you looking for some game day recipes? We've rounded up a variety of healthy game day appetizer and snack recipes that everyone will enjoy!

Chef Meg's (Leftover) Chicken Nachos

Spinach Brownies

Authentic Guacamole

15 Minute Black Bean and Corn Salsa

Posted 9/7/2010 12:00:39 PM By: : 19 comments 43,441 views

Healthy Labor Day Cookout Recipes that Will Please a Crowd

Wondering what to take to the neighborhood barbecue this weekend? We've rounded up a variety of healthy and delicious recipes that everyone will love.

Spicy Turkey Burgers

Black Bean Salad

Mediterranean Chicken Thighs

Macaroni Salad

Awesome Marinated Kabobs

Colorful Italian Pasta Salad

Posted 8/31/2010 4:30:32 PM By: : 25 comments 28,775 views

Healthy School Lunch Recipes Your Kids Will Love to Eat

Need some ideas for packing healthy school lunches? We've rounded up some healthy and delicious recipes that your kids will love.

Posted 8/24/2010 4:00:00 PM By: : 32 comments 166,084 views

12 Delectable Ways to Use Eggplant

Looking for some new ways to use eggplant? We've rounded up a variety of healthy and delectable recipes for you to try.

Spicy Eggplant Dip

Eggplant Lasagna

Mushroom and Eggplant Skewers

Mini Eggplant Pizzas

Posted 8/17/2010 4:15:20 PM By: : 56 comments 63,670 views