How Carla Hall Makes Healthy Eating Joyful

Q: Carla, how has your approach to eating evolved as you’ve navigated different life stages?

Carla Hall: As I’ve grown older, I’ve become more intentional about how I eat. I’ve always loved food, but now I look at it through the lens of longevity, stamina, and brain health. When I was younger, indulgent meals were just that, fun and filling. But now, I ask myself how the food serves me and my health. 

I still enjoy comfort foods, but I’ve learned to give them a functional twist. Instead of a beef burger, I’ll go for turkey or a veggie burger on a whole-grain bun with lots of veggies. And instead of sugary milkshakes, I’ll make a smoothie with Greek yogurt, berries, spinach, and protein powder. It’s all about finding joy in nourishment and making smart swaps that still feel satisfying. 

Q: What does a typical day of eating look like for you now?

Carla Hall: My days are busy, so I eat to fuel up. I usually go for six smaller meals throughout the day to keep my energy up, especially when I’m in production mode. I might start with savory oats made with chia seeds, sunflower milk, and nuts––I absolutely love oats! Lunch could be a whole-grain bowl with quinoa, roasted veggies, and turkey breast. I snack on hummus and carrots, especially between dessert tastings. Dinner might be something quick from the air fryer or grill, paired with whole grains. At night, especially if I’m training, I’ll have a protein shake to help with recovery.

Q: How do you approach meal planning and preparation?

Carla Hall: I focus on simplicity and flavor. Using whole ingredients allows me to control the salt, sugar, and fat content in my meals. I enhance dishes with fresh herbs and citrus to reduce sodium without sacrificing taste. This approach makes meal preparation both healthful and enjoyable—and MyFitnessPal’s new Meal Planner really helps. It’s been a fantastic complement to my cooking philosophy. Meal Planner helps me organize my meals for the week, ensuring I’m getting a good balance of nutrients while still keeping things exciting in the kitchen.

Q: Have you made any specific dietary adjustments to support your health as you’ve aged?

Carla Hall: Absolutely. I’ve become more focused on getting enough protein and fiber, and I’ve started paying closer attention to how food affects my energy, mood, and digestion. Learning I carry a gene linked to dementia really shifted my perspective. It made me more mindful about my overall well-being, including thinking more intentionally about foods that can help support general brain health. I’m also mindful about portions and timing. It’s about supporting my body for the long haul—I plan to live to 104!

Q: What advice would you give to others looking to adapt their eating habits for better health?

Carla Hall: Start by listening to your body. Don’t be afraid to evolve your habits as your needs change. Food is fuel and joy—it’s not either/or. Use spices, herbs, and citrus to keep meals exciting without relying on sugar or salt. And don’t forget to give yourself grace. Tracking my meals with MyFitnessPal has really opened my eyes to what my body needs. 

Q: How has menopause influenced your dietary choices and overall nutrition?

Carla Hall: Menopause brought about significant changes in my body, including digestive issues and shifts in energy levels. To manage these, I focused on incorporating nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, whole grains, and lean proteins. I also paid attention to hydration and included foods rich in calcium and magnesium to support bone health.

Q: How do you ensure variety and excitement in your meals while focusing on health?

Carla Hall: Spices, herbs, and seasonal ingredients are my go-tos. I love playing with flavor to keep things interesting without relying on added sugars or fats. And I often combine the familiar with the unexpected—it’s a great way to ease people into trying new things.

I’ve been using MyFitnessPal since before the pandemic—back when I didn’t even know what a macronutrient was—and it helped me stay focused on what my body needs. That’s why I’m excited to partner with MyFitnessPal on a recipe collection for their Meal Planner.

In my experience as a chef, this is one of the most practical tools out there. With Meal Planner you can now plan your meals for the week based on your nutritional goals and dietary preferences, and it even generates a grocery list, making shopping easy. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, it’s a great way to enjoy varied, healthy meals without spending hours figuring it all out.

For me, it’s about balancing creativity with nutrition—and this tool helps make that balance feel achievable for everyone.

Q: What role does mindfulness play in your eating habits?

Carla Hall: Mindfulness is key. I pay close attention to how food makes me feel—both physically and emotionally. This awareness helps me make choices that align with my health goals while keeping the joy in eating.

At 61, I’ve learned that it’s not just about counting calories; it’s about focusing on the nutrients our bodies truly need as we age. Calcium for strong bones, protein to maintain muscle mass, fiber for digestive health, and potassium for heart health. That’s why tracking my food intake with MyFitnessPal has been so impactful. 

For me, mindfulness is about honesty—being your own advocate and truly understanding what your body needs. Tracking my intake helps me stay intentional.

It’s all about balance and tuning in. To me, tracking has been a helpful tool—not for obsession, but for awareness. Food is meant to be enjoyed, and with a little mindfulness, we can give our bodies the love and nutrition they deserve.

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