Fran Benedict

Integrative Nutrition Counselor

Fran Benedict is a certified health and integrative nutrition counselor and the founder of SimplyMindful.com. She has been on a path of health promotion and behavior for more than 20 years and loves discovering new ways to bring attention and intention into everyday life. She believes in the extraordinary power of the mind to create a quality of life every person deserves, emphasizing the relation to oneself as the foundation for everything else.

A member of the American Association of Drugless Practitioners, Fran, holds a particular interest in the mind+body connection with an emphasis on the gut-brain relationship and its impact on mental health, inflammation, hormones, and the nervous system. She believes Food is Medicine and helps people reconnect to food as a positive source of energy and life. She has led a range of health-promotion initiatives and workshops at Pinterest, Active.com, Feeding America, The Boys and Girls Club, and Stanford University Continuing Studies. She also leads health-promotion planning efforts with global gatherings such as Wisdom 2.0 and Dreamforce, the annual conference for Salesforce, to promote mindfulness in the digital age.

Fran loves friends, family, nature, organic gardening, cooking, running, yoga, meditation, swimming, camping, exploring, photography, dancing, and not taking herself too seriously. 

Articles by Fran Benedict
Vitamin “F”: Forgiveness—and the Power of Letting Go
If you need to forgive in your life, take some vitamin F. It’s good for the brain and heart, literally and figuratively.Read More
What Should You Eat During a Pandemic?
Food can be both comforting and taxing, especially during times of uncertainty. Keep yourself grounded, centered, and healthy with these recommendations on what to eat during the COVID-19 pandemic.Read More
5 Ways to Prevent Yourself from Overindulging During the Holidays
Discover how cultivating mindfulness can help you enjoy the special treats of the holiday season and still avoid overeating.Read More
4 Reasons to Be Thankful for Your Family This Thanksgiving
You likely spend Thanksgiving with your family. Although you are related to each other, that doesn’t mean you’re close. Whether they are your boon companions or people you tolerate, there are important reasons to be grateful for them.Read More
How to Incorporate More Omega-3s Into Your Daily Diet
You've probably heard a lot about omega fats and their importance, but what about their unique makeup is so special? Let's explore why these particular fats are critical for an optimal body and brain, and then let's find ways to add more of them into your daily diet.Read More
15 Nutrient-Dense Foods to Add to Your Diet
Your diet is supposed to include so many vitamins and minerals and anti-inflammatories and antioxidants and more! If you want to elevate your way of eating for higher energy and vibrant health, you'll need to select some powerhouse food choices. Follow this guide to learn where to start.Read More
Healthy Fat vs. Unhealthy Fat: What's the Difference?
Fats are one of the essential building blocks you eat (in addition to proteins and carbohydrates). But that doesn’t mean that all fats are created equal.Read More
Which Foods Are High in Fiber?
Fiber is one of the basic nutrients that your body needs. This roughage helps keep your digestive system running well, your microbiome humming along, and may even improve your mood!Read More
How to Develop a Mindful Eating Practice
Keeping up with a modern, fast-paced lifestyle can leave little time for tuning into your needs. Learn how to better meet them by practicing mindfulness while you eat.Read More
Intention in the Kitchen: 5 Ways to Nourish Your Body, Mind and Soul
In a highly connected, chaotic world, cooking can be a wonderful tool to become grounded and centered—something that seems more important than ever. Learn how to be fully present in the kitchen and reap the benefits.Read More
How to Fight Oxidative Stress with Plant Foods
Stress can take quite a toll on your mind and body. Learn how to fight against oxidative stress through proper nutrition.Read More
Sustainable Seafood: Fish to Eat and Fish to Avoid for Optimal Health
With so many options for seafood, it’s hard to know how to enjoy it in ways that benefit your health and the environment. Follow these tips when shopping for fish and you’ll be well on your way.Read More
5 Ways to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint with Gardening
Humans are contributing to global warming through the emission of 15 million tons of carbon dioxide each day. Want to reduce your carbon footprint in every way possible? Here are five ways you can reduce emissions in the garden.Read More
3 Healthy Pestos for Summer Soirées
If you're looking for a fresh way to bring flavor to your summer dishes, check out these three pesto recipes. They're not only delicious—they're also healthy for you.Read More
3 Edible Seeds with Wondrous Benefits
Edible seeds are filled with micronutrients, essential fatty acids, protein, and fiber. Try adding one of these three seeds to your next meal for an extra nutritional boost.Read More
Calm Chronic Inflammation with Cherries and Berries
Cherries and berries not only taste delicious—they have strong anti-inflammatory properties, too. Here's why you should incorporate more of them into your diet—and a delicious cherry”“berry smoothie recipe to get you started.Read More
Balance Your pH for Better Health
Maintaining a balanced pH may have a greater impact on your health than you realize—from reducing inflammation to enhancing immune function. Follow these tips to help alkalize your body and you may reap the benefits.Read More
Health Benefits of Cooking with Cast Iron
Food is not the only factor to consider when you prepare a healthy meal—your cookware can affect your health, too. Cast iron pots and pans offer inexpensive, healthy alternatives to your standard non-stick cookware. Explore the following benefits of cooking with cast iron.Read More
Seasonal Decadence: 3 Healthy Holiday Desserts
Ever feel guilty about eating too many desserts during the holidays? The good news is that sweets aren't always bad for you in moderation. These three recipes not only taste delicious; they are also full of ingredients with great nutritional benefits that will leave you feeling satisfied.Read More
Pumpkin Power: 4 Recipes Featuring America’s Favorite Squash
‘Tis the season for America's favorite winter squash. From lattes to soups, pumpkin is popping up on menus everywhere. Bring it back to your kitchen and whip up your own pumpkin delights with these four recipes.Read More
5 Creative Ways to Feed the Hungry
It's estimated that 48.1 million Americans live in food-insecure households. With a handful of simple, yet innovative, actions you can help reduce this number.Read More
Trick or Treat: 7 Halloween Sweets, Snacks, and Treats
It's not unusual for adults and kids to eat several pounds of sugar on Halloween. Scary! If this has been your October 31 ritual in the past, these unique treat ideas will help you create healthier traditions.Read More
5 Nutrition Tips for a Healthy Fall—Plus 3 Recipes
As the leaves fall and temperatures drop, many people become challenged to maintain a healthy diet. Use these tips and recipes to stay balanced and nourished.Read More
4 Types of Gluten-Free Noodles for a Healthy Noodle
The noodle is far too versatile to be left to one variety. How do you choose the healthiest and tastiest variations? Try these four ultra-healthy options—sweet potato, soba, zucchini, and spaghetti squash noodles—that put a new spin on what it means to love noodles.Read More
Goodbye Sodium: 7 Herbs That Taste Better Than Salt
Every time you reach for the salt, a favorite go-to meal topper, you pass over an array of other tantalizing flavors. Swap in these herbs for healthier, less sodium-filled meals.Read More