The term "gluten-free" is tossed around a lot these days, but many people do not actually know what gluten means. This not-so-new diet is much more than just skipping bread.

Based on my research and experience, I'm against snacking for fat loss and fast metabolism. Snacking has become a multibillion-dollar industry where manufacturers push an ever-widening array of Frankenfoods loaded with high-fructose corn syrup and trans fat.

Plus, what you can do to avoid them.

This year, I carefully planned which companies I wanted to visit at Natural Foods Expo West in each of the six huge exhibit halls. Here are my finds of the day, which are all made from whole foods with minimal ingredients.

Some people can eat three meals a day and be completely satisfied. Many others, however, need that snack to hold them over to the next meal. If you are one of the many out there that need a snack to curb hunger, why not boost your metabolism while enjoying that healthy snack?

Let's be honest -- you don't really want to gorge yourself while watching your favorite fit celebrities strut their stuff on the red carpet. It's a surefire way to feel not so good about yourself. But you can watch the Oscars in style while keeping it skinny.

Love is in the air. Whether your Valentine's Day is sealed with an extra special kiss from your sweetie or a night on the town with your single girlfriends, you want to feel great in your own skin. Here are my favorite ways to give back to yourself (yes, chocolate is included).

Pizza has the potential to be ridiculously healthy -- it covers all the food groups! Hold the delivery this year and get creative in the kitchen. Try one of my favorite healthy spins on the not-so-greasy good stuff.

They still have dips, chili and desserts, but they put a spin on these classics.

Food and fashion aren't so different. Throughout the years, we've seen the good, the bad and the ugly. Sometimes, we look back and say to ourselves, "What was I thinking?" This year is no different. Let's take a look at healthy trends that are in and the not-so-healthy trends that I hope to see on the way out!