Shanthi Appelo

Shanthi Appelö is a registered dietitian and health and wellness spokesperson for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan based in Detroit. Passionate about the science of nutrition and behavior, Shanthi has experience working in clinical nutrition, public health and teaching in the university setting. In her free time, she enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, exploring the outdoors, working on art and spending time with family.
Home and Family

Navigating Conversations with Children About Obesity 

Building healthy habits at home is a great way to teach children and teens behaviors that they can carry with them for the rest of their lives.

shanthieats

Cilantro Lime Dressing

Cilantro lime dressing is a zesty and flavorful condiment that not only enhances the taste of your favorite dishes but also offers several health benefits.

shanthieats

Mexican-Inspired Shrimp Bowl

One way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month is by exploring the Hispanic nations’ cuisine. Here is a recipe to get started.

Recipes

Winter Holiday Simmer Pot

Don’t be surprised if you hear, “Is someone baking apple pie?” with this blend of simmer pot ingredients on the stove. 

Recipes

Fall Holiday Simmer Pot

  This delightful blend of colorful fruits, herbs and spices brings a scent of warmth to your home, whether you’re expecting company or spending a cozy day at home.  

Shanthi Appelo preparing three healthy apple recipes
Food and Recipes

3 Healthy Apple Recipes

Apples are often referred to as nature's toothbrush and offer a plethora of health benefits. Here are three simple and healthy apple recipes to savor the goodness of this super fruit this fall.

Drizzled Apple “Donut” Snacks
Recipes

Drizzled Apple ‘Donut’ Snacks

This donut-shaped snack packs in both flavor and health value. This easy-to-make recipe takes under 15 minutes: simply slice the apples, core them, and then drizzle and add toppings.

Fall Spiced Yogurt Dip with Apple Slices
Recipes

Fall Spiced Yogurt Dip with Apple Slices

The fall-spiced Greek yogurt provides a creamy source of protein, while the crisp apples add a fantastic source of fiber and contrast.

Apple Crumble For Two
Recipes

Apple Crumble For Two

When you find yourself with only one or two apples in your pantry, don't worry! This delicious apple crumble is made with just a few ingredients.

Food

3 Healthy Labor Day Party Dip Ideas

Whether you’re using them with crisp veggies to whole-grain crackers, dips can add tang and flavor to your spread.

Food

Herb and Greek Yogurt Whipped Feta

This dip is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine and blends bold flavors with creamy textures.

Food

Classic Fresh Salsa

Not only is salsa delicious, but it's also a nutritious powerhouse, filled with vitamins and antioxidants from the fresh ingredients.

Food

Baked Salmon Rice Cups

Transform this nutritional powerhouse salmon into a delightful school lunch option by creating baked rice cups.

Food

Mini Black Bean Quesadillas

This Tex-Mex dish is packed with plant-based protein from black beans.

Food

Healthy Out-of-the-lunch-box Ideas for Kids

Different food groups provide vital nutrients to fuel a child’s day. Here’s how to get at least three of the five groups into your child’s lunch.

Vegan Lemony Hummus Sandwich
Food

Vegan Lemony Hummus Sandwich

This vegan sandwich features creamy hummus, fresh lemon juice, roasted red pepper, oregano and peppery arugula.

Southeast Asian Mother Making Sandwich For Her Son Breakfast
Food

3 Actually Healthy Sandwich Ideas

Check out these healthy sandwich ideas that will elevate any lunch.

Salmon Burger with Lemon Dill Sauce Sandwich
Food

Salmon Burger with Lemon Dill Sauce Sandwich

The seared salmon patty is made with canned salmon, an egg to bind, panko breadcrumbs for texture and plenty of flavor.

Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Whipped Feta
Food

Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Whipped Feta

This recipe leans on grilled chicken, a protein superior to deli meats for a sandwich.

Peach Shaved Ice
Food

Peach Shaved Ice

This shaved frozen fruit treat relies on the natural sweetness of ripe seasonal peaches.

Peach Bruschetta
Food

Peach Bruschetta

This summery recipe combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with tomatoes and fragrant basil.

Grilled Peach Salad
Food

Grilled Peach Salad

Grilled peaches take this summer salad to another level.

Food

3 Unique Ways to Use Peaches

While peaches taste great on their own, they are also delicious when incorporated into both savory and sweet recipes.

Shark Week Snacks
Food and Recipes

Shark Week-friendly TV Snacks

Enhance your Shark Week viewing routine with these nutritious themed snacks.

Woman at a restaurant reading the menu
Food

How to Communicate Your Dietary Restrictions with Others 

Millions of people have food allergies and other dietary restrictions. Here are some ways to communicate these with others.

Roasted Tomato Ricotta Crostini
Food and Recipes

3 Summer Recipes Featuring Juicy Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes taste most sweet at their peak summer ripeness, so it’s best to use them at this stage in refreshing recipes.

Creamy Tomato Orzo
Food and Recipes

Creamy Tomato Orzo

This one-pan recipe comes together in 30 minutes and is perfect for a summer weeknight.

Seared Crispy Halibut with Cherry Tomato Piccata
Food and Recipes

Seared Crispy Halibut with Cherry Tomato Piccata

Elevate any summer evening with this refreshing dish. This recipe features lightly pan-seared halibut that has a crispy edge without frying.

Vegan cherry ice cream
Food and Recipes

Michigan Cherry and Chocolate Vegan Ice Cream

Looking for a delicious way to cool down on a hot summer day? We’ve got you covered with this vegan ice cream recipe featuring Michigan cherries.

sliders
Food and Recipes

Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Jicama Slaw

If you’re firing up the grill this Fourth of July, try these savory Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Jicama Slaw.

Roasted Tomato Ricotta Crostini
Food and Recipes

Roasted Tomato Ricotta Crostini

In this summer favorite, sweet cherry tomatoes are roasted in olive oil, dry white wine, garlic and herbs.

Fourth of July
Food and Recipes

4 Small Plates for the Fourth of July

If you are looking for food ideas for your Fourth of July celebration, we’ve got you covered – from grilled sliders to a refreshing dessert.

Sundried Tomato Italian Pasta Salad
Food and Recipes

Sundried Tomato Italian Pasta Salad

This pasta salad recipe packs in nutrients from a variety of vegetables and adds a nice crunch from bell peppers and cucumbers.

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