Healthy and Happy


A woman with a city background blurred: Dr. Margaret Barrow, CEO and Founder, It's Nola
Jan 05, 2026
The FDA is opening new pathways for plant-based, non-dairy infant formulas, giving families more inclusive and healthier feeding options. This shift supports parents navigating allergies, intolerances, and values-driven choices, and reflects a growing understanding that infant nutrition must evolve to meet modern needs. Advocates like Else Nutrition have helped push for these changes, which signal meaningful progress toward a more flexible, compassionate, and whole-food approach to nourishing babies from the very beginning.
Photo of Dr. Margaret Barrow, Founder of It's Nola. She is smiling and facing the camera wearing a dark blue suit and white shirt.
Jan 01, 2026
In this reintroduction to It’s Nola, we share the story behind the brand, its mission, and the founder who brought it to life. Born from a personal desire to prioritize health and create better food, It’s Nola is more than granola—it’s a lifestyle rooted in care, intention, and connection. Learn how our commitment to mindful snacking, community mentorship, and audaciously flavorful granola snack bites came together, and meet Dr. Margaret Barrow, the founder whose journey from her kitchen to your pantry continues to inspire healthier, happier living.
Photo of woman, Dr. Margaret Barrow, CEO and Founder of It's Nola
Dec 05, 2025
For decades, lactose-intolerant children and those who avoid dairy have had no accessible alternatives, leading to health challenges, discomfort, and significant waste from unopened milk cartons in schools. Recently, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed a bill allowing public school students to choose non-dairy milk at lunchtime, marking a major step toward food equity in the National School Lunch Program. Driven by advocacy from Switch4Good founder Dotsie Bausch and supported by organizations like the Center for a Humane Economy, the new legislation allows schools to offer plant-based milks such as soy, oat, almond, and pea. The bill recognizes the diverse dietary needs of millions of students and supports a more inclusive, compassionate, and practical approach to school nutrition. Overall, this shift ensures that children receive nourishment that respects their bodies, their identities, and their well-being.
Sustainable Holiday Gifts and Tips
Dec 01, 2025
The holiday season doesn’t have to mean wasteful wrapping, last-minute shopping, or gifts that end up forgotten. This guide highlights creative, sustainable ways to celebrate—from nature-inspired presents like planter kits and upcycled containers to homemade treats, DIY candles, and handcrafted self-care gifts. It also encourages giving experiences, donating in someone’s name, and supporting local shops, B-Corporations, fair-trade companies, and secondhand stores. For online shoppers, choosing just one ethical retailer can help reduce your carbon footprint. And when it comes to wrapping, opt for eco-friendly alternatives like brown paper, maps, reusable jars, baskets, or even fabric gifts that double as the wrapping. With a little intention, your holiday giving can be thoughtful, meaningful, and planet-friendly.
10 Seasonings and Spices to Spice Up the Holiday Season
Nov 01, 2025
With holiday cooking and baking in full swing, you may be looking for simple ways to elevate your dishes and impress your guests. The right seasonings and spices can bring warmth, depth, and unforgettable flavor to your fall, winter, and holiday recipes. Here’s a helpful guide to the best spices to use throughout the season.
How AI-Based Virtual Coaches Are Revolutionizing Health and Wellness
Oct 01, 2025
Artificial intelligence is showing up in nearly every part of life, and one place where it’s proving especially useful is in self-care and wellness. AI-powered virtual health coaches can now offer personalized guidance on nutrition, fitness, and mental well-being, making it easier for users to stay on track with their goals. Here are some of the key ways AI-driven coaching is helping people improve their diet, exercise routines, and overall wellness more effectively than ever.
How to Create a Desk-Side Pantry
Sep 01, 2025
As back-to-school season brings a return to routines and fuller work schedules, it’s easy to find yourself hungry between back-to-back calls or meetings. To stay energized on busy days, stock a convenient desk-side pantry with quick, shelf-stable meals and snacks. Here are some simple essentials to keep within reach this season.
Tips for Taking Workouts Outdoors for Summer
Aug 01, 2025
Summer’s warm weather and fresh air naturally draw us outdoors for BBQs, gatherings, and relaxation, but the season can also feel hectic and overwhelming. Instead of letting a packed schedule derail your fitness routine, embrace the change of scenery and take your workouts outside. Here are seven easy ways to make the most of outdoor exercise this summer.
Cooling Foods for the Dog Days of Summer
Jul 01, 2025
When the summer heat peaks, staying cool isn’t just about fans and frozen treats—it’s also about what you eat. In this post, we explore three categories of cooling foods inspired by Ayurvedic tradition: alkaline-rich fruits, naturally hydrating water-based veggies, and electrolyte-boosting ingredients that help your body beat the heat from the inside out. Whether you’re blending smoothies, tossing salads, or prepping a picnic basket, these food tips will help you feel energized, refreshed, and deliciously in balance all summer long. Bonus: We even include snack pairings with our favorite It’s NOLA bites—because wellness should taste amazing too.