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What Is A Tiffany Plate & Is It Healthy? Dietitians Weigh In

What Is A Tiffany Plate & Is It Healthy? Dietitians Weigh In

Yahoo4 days ago
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."
Girl dinners peaked in popularity two years ago, but their cultural impact has far from faded. Plates of miscellaneous ingredients have become the meal du jour on TikTok. Some of the meals, playfully dubbed "adult Lunchables," highlight trendy specialty ingredients or lean on artistic plating techniques. But across the snack plate spectrum, there's a pervasive theme: health.
The arrangement of snacks isn't just meant to offer variety—it's an exercise in portion control. The components are often designed to meet macronutrient goals or achieve a greater wellness-related purpose. One specific formula, dubbed the "Tiffany Plate," has become the latest darling of the TikTok diet space.
Coined by influencer Tiffany Magee, the trend features a variety of raw fruits and vegetables, chicken sausage, and, most notably, cottage cheese and mustard. Alongside her other weight loss content, Magee shares her daily Tiffany Plates with her millions of followers. Fans have taken to TikTok to attempt the 15-day Tiffany Plate Challenge and share their own renditions.
Magee claims that her eponymous meal was born after a doctor recommended an anti-inflammatory diet. Proponents of the Tiffany Plate claim that it's helped them lose weight and feel better overall. But just how nutritious is it, really? Should we all start integrating the Tiffany Plates into our meal plans? I consulted dietitians and nutrition experts to break down everything you should know.
What Are The Benefits Of The 'Tiffany Plate'?
Experts agree that the Tiffany Plate comes with some nutritional pros. For one, its emphasis on fresh produce is a major perk. "The big win here is that it's making vegetables feel fun and approachable—and honestly, getting more people to eat plants is a step in the right direction," says Elisa Kosonen, R.H.N., C.H.C.
According to Intuitive Eating Dietitian Emily Van Eck, the vegetables can offer "fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and phytonutrients," which can contribute anti-inflammatory benefits.
Protein intake has dominated diet discourse over the past few years, and the Tiffany Plate makes it easy to meet that macronutrient goal. "It can be a solid foundation—especially for people who feel overwhelmed by cooking or are looking for easy, buildable meals," Kosonen says. "It reminds me a bit of 'girl dinner,' but with a bit more protein and structure."
The protein from the cottage cheese and sausage "plays a key role in satiety, blood sugar stability, and even healing," says Angela Graham, R.D.N. Compared to a simple arrangement of vegetables and packaged snacks, the Tiffany Plate offers something more substantial.
Are There Any Nutritional Drawbacks?
Despite the positive aspects of the Tiffany Plate, it's not necessarily the nutritional powerhouse it claims to be. Most notably, the anti-inflammatory benefits are tenuous at best.
"Calling it inherently 'anti-inflammatory' is where the messaging gets a little murky," Graham says. Van Eck adds that "inflammation is a complex process influenced by overall diet, stress, sleep, and social conditions, not just individual foods." But even within the plate itself, experts argue that there is room for improvement to minimize the inflammation it's purported to counteract.
"The plate is relatively low in added sugars and ultra-processed ingredients compared to the average snack plate, but some versions of chicken sausage can contain both," Graham says. Chicken sausage, like other processed meats, has large amounts of sodium. Depending on the brand you buy, a single link can contain anywhere from 20% to 35% of your daily recommended sodium intake.
Beyond that, chicken sausage may also come with significant levels of saturated fat—which triggers an inflammatory response in the body. Kosonen clarifies that while chicken sausage isn't inherently bad, these nutritional shortcomings can "counteract some of the benefits from the veggies on the plate."
There are also some glaring omissions from the Tiffany Plate formula. "Many Tiffany Plate versions lack sufficient protein, iron, B12, and calories for a full meal, especially for those folks with higher energy needs," Van Eck explains. "Without grains or starches, it may also be low in complex carbohydrates, which are important for energy and blood sugar stability."
Kosonen adds that in order to yield long-term anti-inflammatory benefits, "we want to see more variety in both protein and fiber sources—things like fatty fish, tofu, legumes, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and whole grains—all of which are shown in the research to support anti-inflammatory pathways and gut health."
Is The Tiffany Plate Healthy?
A Tiffany Plate can be part of a balanced overall diet, but on its own, Van Eck says it's not a nutritionally sound meal for most people. "Calling it a meal as-is may reinforce low-calorie, low-fat diet-like ideals that can backfire, especially for people prone to trendy diets and who are healing their relationship with food," she explains.
The lack of measuring and calorie counting is an upgrade from other fad diets, but the Tiffany Plate is not without its flaws. "The trend highlights a common pattern: someone feels better after changing their diet and credits one specific factor, when really it's the shift to more whole foods and intentional eating that's doing the heavy lifting," Graham says.
There's also some questionable subtext associated with the Tiffany Plate's purported healing abilities. Magee created the concept as a solution for the symptoms associated with her Lyme disease diagnosis, but there's no scientific evidence that supports the claim that Lyme disease can be cured through your diet. As the trend persists, it risks the spread of misinformation and, according to Van Eck, "reinforces the harmful idea that chronic illness can be fixed with clean eating alone and that it 'should' work for everyone."
While your diet certainly plays a major role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, experts advise against leaning on this trend as a panacea for weight management or treating chronic health issues. "At best, a Tiffany Plate can be a fun, veggie-forward part of a meal or a quick lunch without any cooking that can be integrated into a full, balanced diet," Van Eck says.
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I Was Told I Might Never Walk Again—so I Hiked a Volcano in Guatemala
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Yahoo

time3 minutes ago

  • Yahoo

I Was Told I Might Never Walk Again—so I Hiked a Volcano in Guatemala

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2 years after brain swelling scare, Shorewood toddler is back to her spunky self
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2 years after brain swelling scare, Shorewood toddler is back to her spunky self

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A Dietitian Reveals the Truth About Sugar-Free Candy
A Dietitian Reveals the Truth About Sugar-Free Candy

Yahoo

time11 minutes ago

  • Yahoo

A Dietitian Reveals the Truth About Sugar-Free Candy

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."When you walk down the candy aisle, it's hard not to notice the array of sugar-free treats promising all the sweetness with none of the sugar. Whether you have a type of diabetes or are simply cutting added sugar. Maybe you've wondered: Are these candies too good to be true? What's really inside those shiny wrappers, and are they really 'better-for-you?' As a dietitian, I'm here to peel back the label and get honest about the truth about sugar-free candy. If you've ever been curious about the ingredients, how they affect your body, or how to separate fact from fiction, here's everything you need to know about the type of food. What is sugar-free candy, and is sugar-free candy truly sugar-free? Sugar-free candy is exactly what it sounds like: Sweet treats made without traditional sugar. Instead of using sugar, these candies typically rely on alternative sweeteners like stevia, erythritol, or sucralose to deliver that familiar sweet taste. They're often favored by people looking to cut back on their sugar intake, whether for health reasons like managing blood sugars or simply for reducing calorie consumption. You'll find sugar-free versions of everything from chocolates to gummies, all designed to satisfy a sweet tooth without the added sugar. But here's the kicker. 'Sugar-free' doesn't always mean a total absence of sugar. The term is regulated, and sugar-free candy can contain tiny amounts of sugar as long as it's under 0.5 grams per serving. Additionally, while these candies skip traditional sugar, they sometimes include sugar alcohols or other sweeteners, which may still affect your body differently. For example, sugar alcohols often have a lower impact on blood sugar compared to regular sugar, making them appealing for people watching their glucose levels. However, eating too much can sometimes cause digestive issues like bloating, gas, or even diarrhea in some individuals. For most people, they're a helpful option for enjoying sweets in moderation, but it's important to read labels carefully to understand exactly what you're getting. It's important to note that sugar-free candy doesn't always mean it's free of carbohydrates. For example, Werther's Original Sugar-Free Hard Candies contain 14 grams of carbohydrates per serving, even though they contain zero sugar. Not all carbohydrates used as ingredients are considered a sugar, and may impact blood glucose levels. What do they put in sugar-free candy? The sweetness in sugar-free candy comes from several possible substitutes. Here's a closer look at the most common ones: 1. Artificial sweeteners Artificial sweeteners, like sucralose, aspartame, or saccharin, are popular in many sugar-free products. These compounds deliver a sweet taste without contributing the same number of calories as sugar and typically don't have a significant impact on blood sugar. Because they are much sweeter than sugar, only very small amounts are needed. Most artificial sweeteners pass through the digestive system with minimal absorption, so their caloric contribution is limited. Some studies have looked at possible effects on gut health and sweet cravings, but research in these areas is still ongoing. 2. Sugar alcohols Ingredients like maltitol, xylitol, and erythritol are classified as sugar alcohols. They occur naturally in some foods but are often manufactured for use in sugar-free candies. Sugar alcohols are lower in calories than sugar and are only partially absorbed by the body, meaning they may have a less drastic effect on blood sugar. It's worth noting that eating large amounts of sugar alcohols may cause digestive discomfort, like bloating or diarrhea, because they are not fully absorbed and are fermented by gut bacteria. 3. Other additives Sugar-free candies can include additives such as thickeners or fats to mimic the texture of traditional candy. These ingredients can influence the final product's calorie and nutrient content, so sugar-free doesn't always mean low in calories or fat. Reading the ingredient list can help you better understand what's in your sugar-free candy and how it fits within your personal preferences and needs. Is sugar-free candy good or bad for you? Sugar-free candy seems like a dream come true for anyone aiming to cut back on sugar. But, whether it's 'good' or 'bad' for you really depends on your individual needs. Here's a quick breakdown to help you decide if sugar-free candy deserves a spot in your snack stash. Potential advantages Cutting back on added sugar If you're managing your sugar intake, sugar-free candy can be a nice alternative for satisfying your sweet tooth without the added sugars of traditional treats. It can be a win for those trying to manage their sugar levels or simply avoid the sugar rush crash. Just remember that sugar-free doesn't always mean calorie-free or carbohydrate-free! Lower calorie option Many sugar-free candies have fewer calories than their regular counterparts, making them appealing if you're keeping an eye on calorie consumption. It's a little indulgence that doesn't feel like it's overdoing it. Better for blood sugar Unlike regular candy, which can cause blood sugar spikes in some individuals, sugar-free options are less likely to have this effect. This makes them a better choice for those managing diabetes or aiming to maintain steady blood sugar levels. However, it's still important to manage your portion sizes, as overindulging in sugar-free candy may also affect blood sugar. Potential drawbacks Digestive issues Here's the not-so-sweet side: many sugar-free candies use sugar alcohols like erythritol or sorbitol, which may cause bloating or discomfort if you eat too much. It's kind of like your stomach waving a little white flag after one too many pieces. Still an ultra-processed food with low nutritional value Don't forget, sugar-free doesn't always mean 'healthier.' These candies are ultra-processed foods and often come with a list of added ingredients like thickeners or oils. Also, just like regular candy, most of the sugar-free options do not contain any vitamins or minerals, so they should be enjoyed in moderation as a treat rather than a nutritious snack. Sugar-free does not always mean carbohydrate-free For those watching their carbohydrate intake, sugar-free candy may still contain carbs. So it's important to consult the nutrition label to get the full picture. Is sugar-free candy good for your blood sugar? When it comes to blood sugar, sugar-free candy generally has less impact than candy made with standard sugar. This is because the sweeteners used, such as sugar alcohols or non-nutritive artificial sweeteners, are absorbed more slowly or not at all. The role of carbohydrates As mentioned previously, not all 'sugar-free' candies are carb-free. Some sugar-free candies, especially those with sugar alcohols like maltitol, still contain carbohydrates that can modestly affect blood sugar. Sugar-free candies may be better for your blood sugar management, but depending on the variety you choose, your sugar-free sweet treat may still impact your blood sugar, depending on the ingredients used to make it and the portion you consume. Studies on artificial sweeteners vs. sugar Artificial sweeteners should not cause blood sugar spikes—but there is ongoing research about their potential long-term effects, including possible impacts on gut bacteria or insulin response, but no conclusive evidence for major health risks when consumed in moderation. Everyone processes carbohydrates and sweeteners a bit differently. If you have specific health concerns, such as monitoring blood glucose or experiencing digestive sensitivity, you may want to pay attention to ingredient lists and portion sizes. The bottom line Sugar-free candy can satisfy a craving for something sweet without added sugars, but it's not inherently 'better' or 'worse' than other treats. The truth about sugar-free candy is that it's one option among many, and its value ultimately depends on your unique context, whether that's medical needs, personal taste, or individual response. A few things to keep in mind: Read labels: Check for sweetener types and other ingredients so you know what you're getting. And if you are watching your blood glucose, consider the amount of carbohydrates in the sugar-free food you're eating. Pay attention to your experience: Notice how different sweeteners affect your cravings, digestion, or overall satisfaction. Enjoy as part of your routine: Including sugar-free candy, like any food, is about choice and balance, not about restriction or 'good' versus 'bad' foods. At the end of the day, sugar-free candy is just one way to enjoy sweetness in your life. Whether you choose it or not, the most important thing is finding what works best for your body and brings you joy. You Might Also Like Can Apple Cider Vinegar Lead to Weight Loss? Bobbi Brown Shares Her Top Face-Transforming Makeup Tips for Women Over 50

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