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QUESTION: Carla, how did your approach to food develop when you navigated different life phases?
Carla Hall: As I became old, I became more deliberate about how I eat. I’ve always loved food, but now I look at it through the lens of longevity, endurance and brain health. When I was younger, the lenient meals were just that, fun and filling. But now I ask how the food serves me and my health.
I still enjoy the comfort of food, but I have learned to give them functional twists. Instead of beef hamburger I go to Turkey or vegetarian hamburger on a whole grain bun with lots of vegetables. And instead of sweet milk cocktails, you make a cocktail with Greek yoghurt, berries, spinach and proteins. It is all about finding the joy of nutrition and creating intelligent swaps that still feel satisfactory.
Q: What does a typical day of meals look like for you now?
Carla Hall: My days are busy so I eat to support myself. I usually go to six smaller meals throughout the day to keep my energy at the top, especially when I’m in production mode. I could start with spicy oats made by chia seeds, sunflower milk and nuts – I absolutely love oats! Lunch can be a wholemeal bowl with quinoa, roast vegetables and turkey breasts. Snack for hummus and carrots, especially among dessert tastings. Dinner could be something fast of an air deep fryer or grill, paired with whole grains. At night, especially if I train, I will have a protein cocktail to help you with recovery.
Q: How do you approach planning and preparing food?
Carla Hall: I focus on simplicity and taste. The use of whole ingredients allows me to control salt, sugar and fat content in my meals. I increase dishes with fresh herbs and citrus to reduce sodium without sacrificing taste. This approach causes food preparation to be healthy and pleasant – and the new MyFitness plan really helps. It was a fantastic complement to my cooking philosophy. The meal planner helps me organize her food for a week and ensure that I get a good nutrient balance while keeping things exciting in the kitchen.
Q: Did you make any specific diet adjustments that support your health, how old did you age?
Carla Hall: Absolutely. He focused more on enough protein and fiber, and I began to focus closer to how food affects my energy, mood and digestion. The learning I wear a gene associated with dementia has really shifted my gaze. This was more aware of my overall well -being, including intentionally thinking about foods that can help promote general brain health. I also realize parts and timing. It is about supporting my body on a long track – I plan to live on 104!
Q: What advice would you give to others who want to adapt their eating habits for better health?
Carla Hall: Start by listening to your body. Do not be afraid to develop your habits how your needs change. Food is fuel and Joy – it’s not or/or. Use spices, herbs and citrus to keep the food exciting without relying on sugar or salt. And don’t forget to have mercy. Watching my meals using myfitnesspal really opened my eyes what my body needs.
Question: How did menopause influenced your eating choices and overall nutrition?
Carla Hall: Menopause brought significant changes in my body, including problems with digestion and shifts at the energy level. To handle it, I focused on integrating foods with dense nutrients such as leafy vegetables, whole grains and slender proteins. I also paid attention to hydration and included food rich in calcium and magnesium to promote bone health.
Question: How do you ensure diversity and excitement in your food in focus on health?
Carla Hall: Spices, herbs and seasonal ingredients are my go-tos. I love playing with a flavor to keep things interesting without relying on added sugars or fats. And I often combine familiar with the unexpected – it’s a great way to calm people to try new things.
I have been using Myfitnesspal since the pandemic – a package when I didn’t even know what macronutrient was – and it helped me focus on what my body needs. Therefore, I am excited that I can cooperate with Myfitnesspal on a collection of recipes for my food planner.
In my experience as a chef, this is one of the most practical instruments. With a dining plan, you can now plan your meals for a week based on your nutritional goals and diet preferences and even generate a list of food, making shopping easier. Whether you are a seasoned cook or you are just starting, this is a great way to enjoy diverse and healthy meals without spending it all.
For me, it is about balancing creativity with nutrition – and this tool helps to cause the balance to feel reachable for all.
Question: What role does the mindfulness play in your eating habits?
Carla Hall: Mindfulness is crucial. I pay close attention to how I feel food – physically and emotionally. This awareness helps me to decide that they are in line with my health goals while maintaining food.
At the age of 61, I learned that it was not just calorie counting; It is a focus on nutrients that our bodies really need, as we age. Calcium For strong bones, protein maintain muscle mass, fiber for digestive health and potassium for heart health. Therefore, monitoring my food intake with Myfitnesspal was so impressive.
For me, the mindfulness of honesty is – having your own advocate and indeed understand what your body needs. Watching my income helps me remain intentional.
It’s all about balance and tuning. For me, monitoring was a useful tool – not for obsession, but for consciousness. Food should be used and a little mindfulness can give our bodies the love and nutrition it deserves.
A post as Carla Hall causes healthy eating joy to appear for the first time on the MyfitnessSpal blog.
