Totum Blog

You don't need a complicated “fitness snack” to fuel your workout. In many cases, a simple snack made with foods you already have at home can provide the energy you need to get moving. The best pre-workout snack for you depends on when you're training, how long and intensely you're exercising, how hungry you are, and how your body responds to different foods. As a general guide, snacks eaten before exercise tend to work well when they provide carbohydrates for energy, with a

If you're searching for a dietitian in Miami and wondering whether your insurance will cover it, you're asking the right question before you book, and the honest answer is: it depends, but more plans cover it than most people expect. Does Insurance Typically Cover a Dietitian? Often, yes. Many insurance plans cover nutrition counseling or Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT), especially if you have a diagnosis like diabetes, kidney disease, high cholesterol, or another chronic con

If your doctor has ever mentioned "medical nutrition therapy" and you weren't quite sure what that meant, you're not alone. It's a specific, evidence-based type of nutrition care and understanding how it works can help you decide if it's the right next step for managing your health. What Is Medical Nutrition Therapy? Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is an individualized, evidence-based nutrition treatment provided by a Registered Dietitian (RD or RDN) to help manage a specific

If you're managing a chronic health condition and searching for a dietitian, you've probably noticed there's no shortage of generic meal plans and one-size-fits-all advice online. What's harder to find is someone who actually looks at your specific diagnosis, your labs, your goals, and your life and builds a plan around that. That's exactly what a virtual dietitian specializing in chronic conditions can offer, and it's more accessible than most people realize. What Is a Virtu

If you've ever typed "insurance covered dietitian" into a search bar at 11 p.m., trying to figure out whether you can actually afford professional nutrition support, you're not alone. Between managing a health condition, navigating a new diagnosis, or simply wanting expert guidance on eating well, cost is often the biggest barrier standing between you and a dietitian's office. The good news: dietitian support covered by insurance is more common than most people realize, you j

If you've ever hit 4 p.m. starving even though you "just ate" a few hours ago, you're not alone, it's one of the most common things we hear from patients. Usually it's not about willpower. It's about what's actually in the snack. A snack that's mostly carbs (think: crackers alone, or a handful of pretzels) digests fast and leaves you hungry again soon after. Pairing protein + fiber is what actually helps you feel satisfied between meals, and that's the idea behind every snack

Nutrition care should be more than a list of foods to eat and avoid. It should help you understand your body, manage your health, feel confident in your choices, and create habits that fit your real life. At Totum Nutrition, we provide complete, personalized nutrition therapy through secure, one-on-one telehealth appointments with licensed dietitians. Your care is developed around your medical needs, health goals, lifestyle, culture, schedule, and food preferences, not a gene

Every year, millions of people invest in things that improve their lives. We buy new phones, upgrade our homes, purchase better cars, and work hard to build successful careers. While there's nothing wrong with enjoying these things, there's one investment that often gets pushed to the bottom of the list: our health. The truth is simple. Your body will be with you longer than any job you'll ever have, longer than any smartphone you own, and longer than any expensive handbag si

If you've ever felt frustrated because the scale isn't moving as quickly as you'd hoped, you're not alone. In a world full of promises like "lose 10 pounds in a week" or "get results overnight," it's easy to believe that faster is better. The truth is, healthy and sustainable weight loss isn't about finding the quickest solution, it's about creating habits that you can maintain for life. While that process takes time, it's also the approach that leads to lasting success. Quic

Maintaining good digestive health is about more than avoiding stomach discomfort—it's an important part of supporting your overall well-being. One of the most powerful nutrients for a healthy digestive system is fiber, yet most people don't consume enough of it. In this article, we'll explore what fiber is, why it matters, and simple ways to include more fiber-rich foods in your daily routine. What Is Fiber? Fiber is a type of carbohydrate found naturally in plant foods. Unli

Emotional Eating vs Physical Hunger: How to Tell the Difference Have you ever found yourself reaching for food even though you recently ate? Or felt an intense craving for a specific comfort food after a stressful day? Understanding the difference between physical hunger and emotional hunger is an important step toward building a healthier relationship with food. While both can lead you to eat, they come from very different needs and recognizing those differences can help you

Protein is often associated with athletes and bodybuilders, but the truth is that it plays a vital role in everyone's health. From maintaining muscle strength to supporting metabolism and helping manage hunger, protein is an essential nutrient that deserves a place at every meal. The Role of Protein in Your Body Protein is made up of amino acids, often called the building blocks of life. Your body uses these amino acids to build and repair tissues, produce enzymes and hormone

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects millions of people worldwide, causing uncomfortable symptoms like heartburn, sore throat, and chest burning. While medications can ease symptoms, managing GERD effectively often depends on diet and lifestyle changes. The good news is you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or enjoyment in your meals to keep reflux under control. With thoughtful choices and simple habits, you can enjoy delicious food that soothes your stomach and suppo

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects about 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. It can disrupt energy levels, fertility, weight, skin health, and mood. While PCOS can feel overwhelming, nutrition offers a powerful way to ease symptoms and support hormone balance naturally. This post explores how specific foods and eating habits can help manage PCOS and improve overall well-being. How Nutrition Influences PCOS PCOS often involves insulin resistance, which means the body stru

February is Heart Month, a perfect time to focus on protecting one of the most vital organs in our body: the heart. Many traditional Hispanic foods offer natural benefits that help reduce risks associated with high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and chronic inflammation. By making small, daily changes in the kitchen, you can support your cardiovascular health while enjoying delicious meals rooted in Hispanic culture. Heart-Healthy Superfoods in Hispanic Cuisine Hispani

Ozempic has become a household name, buzzing through social media and conversations about weight loss. While its effects on shedding pounds are undeniable, it's crucial to understand what this medication is, how it works, and whether it's the right choice for you. This is not a magic bullet, but a powerful medical tool that should be used with knowledge and caution. What is Ozempic, Really? First things first, Ozempic (semaglutide) is an FDA-approved prescription medication.

Being a teenager is a whirlwind of growth, school, social life, and often, sports. For active teens, nutrition isn't just about looking good; it's about performing at their best, recovering faster, staying focused in class, and building a strong, healthy body for life. This isn't just kid's play; proper fueling is crucial! Are you a parent wondering how to keep your young athlete energized? Or a teen looking to boost your game? This guide is for you. Why Nutrition Matters Eve

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions worldwide, but even though many people have heard of it, it’s not always well understood. At Totum Nutrition, we believe education is the first step toward positive change. That’s why we want to explain, in a clear and simple way, what diabetes is, the different types, and how it can be managed with the right medical and nutritional support. What is diabetes? Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body turns

If you're constantly battling cravings, you're not alone—and you’re not without solutions either. One of the best ways to naturally reduce appetite and promote satiety is by incorporating high-protein meals into your day. Protein helps stabilize blood sugar levels, keeps you full longer, and supports muscle maintenance and metabolic health. Here are our top 5 protein-packed meals that taste amazing and help you stay on track with your nutrition goals. Greek Yogurt Parfait wit

Preparing for Surgery Starts Before the OR Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool for long-term weight management and health improvement but success starts long before the procedure. One of the most important steps in preparing your body (and mind) for surgery is following a pre-operative nutrition plan. A carefully designed pre-op diet doesn’t just set the tone for recovery; it can actually reduce surgical risks, make the procedure safer, and help you build habits that support