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  • Preparing for the PT test

    After a COVID hiatus, the PT test is back. So, what are some strategies you can do to get yourself good to go for the test? The most important thing to work on is body fat. The abdominal circumference (AC) component is gone, but excess fat affects every test component. For example, 99.7% of Airmen

  • Weight loss success with smart and sustainable changes

    Two main factors affect weight loss – energy in and energy out. As the Health Promotion dietitian, I will focus on discussing the energy in component. I will speak in general terms here, but nutrition therapy is tailored to each person’s needs and goals. For any Airman or individual interested in

  • The Human-Animal Bond

    Not all Soldiers walk on two legs and carry a rifle. The U.S. Military has partnered with canine warriors in every conflict since the Revolutionary War. Chip, a canine sentry of the U.S. Army, was the most decorated dog in World War II. He served with the 3rd Infantry Division in countries like

  • Mindful Eating in the New Year

    As we embark on a new year with the whirlwind of 2020 behind us, this can be a time of reflection on the past year but also a time to look forward to what the upcoming year will bring. Along with considering the forthcoming year comes the tradition of making New Year’s resolutions. For many people

  • Alcohol and Driving: Why it’s Not Safe to Drink and Drive

    During the holidays there always seems to be a renewed focus on preventing drunk driving…this year is no different. In 2018, 10,511 American lives were lost due to drunk driving. In 2019, New Mexico recorded 107 drunk driving fatalities (5th highest in the nation). Deaths from drunk driving are

  • Transitioning to Plant-based Eating

    Plant-based diets exclude animal products to varying degrees and promote a way of consuming food that is primarily focused on plants. The term “plant-based diet/nutrition” refers to what foods are encouraged for the majority of food intake which is whole/minimally processed vegetables, fruits,

  • Body Fat and PT test performance

    With the Air Force physical fitness assessment on hold until October 2020, and the abdominal circumference (AC) component delayed until 2021, there may be a temptation for some Airmen to exercise less and eat more, assuming they can still pass. That’s not a good idea as 99.7% of Airmen who fail the

  • Getting back into the gym

    Gyms are opening up again, and exercise-starved Airmen are eager to lift more than furniture or performing endless push-ups/sit-ups. It’s important to be cautious and patient when transitioning back to the gym, in order to avoid injury and reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19.