INDIANAPOLIS — Making healthier choices doesn’t have to mean complicated recipes or unrealistic lifestyle changes. Advanced Practice Nurse and lifestyle author Mary Ann Wietbrock is sharing practical ways to improve overall health through simple meals, nutrition and everyday activities.
Wietbrock joined Life.Style.Live! in the kitchen to prepare two recipes from her newest book, “The Practical Weight Loss Lifestyle: When Life Happens,” which was self-published in 2026 and can be found at ThePracticalLifeStyles.com .
The book is inspired by stories and challenges Wietbrock has heard from patients in her practice. It addresses common barriers to weight loss, including stress eating, food triggers, food insecurity, childhood experiences and busy schedules.
Wietbrock said her goal is to help people find realistic strategies that work in everyday life rather than expecting them to follow complicated plans or make drastic changes.
During the segment, she prepared blueberry bran muffins and an egg bake, both featured in her new book and are family favorites.
The blueberry bran muffins combine oat bran, blueberries and honey for a simple breakfast or snack. Wietbrock explained that oat bran and blueberries provide soluble fiber, while the recipe uses honey instead of traditional sugar.
She also demonstrated using baking soda and cream of tartar as a leavening alternative to baking powder.
She emphasized the importance of choosing nutrient-rich foods that provide energy while helping people feel satisfied. Pairing the muffins with a source of protein or healthy fat, such as eggs, walnuts, cheese or yogurt, can help create a more balanced meal.
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For the second recipe, Wietbrock prepared an egg bake featuring eggs, green chilies and cheese. The dish can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for people who have difficulty fitting breakfast into their busy schedules.
She said simple meal preparation can help people avoid skipping meals and make healthier choices throughout the day.
Wietbrock also shared the importance of eating slowly and incorporating movement after meals. She encouraged viewers to take a short walk or move around for about 10 minutes after eating as part of an active lifestyle.
In addition to her newest book, Wietbrock is the author of “Unraveling Weight Loss,” originally published in 2024, with a second edition released in 2026.
Through Cardinal Elements, Wietbrock provides individualized lifestyle coaching and helps people establish realistic health goals involving nutrition and physical activity. Her practice in Cumberland serves individuals and families, including children and seniors.
Wietbrock said her one-on-one sessions are covered by 100% by insurance, including many commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid plans. More information about accepted insurance plans and available services can be found through her website at https://cardinalelements.com/ .
Her books are designed to give readers practical tools they can use at home, including recipes, lifestyle strategies and guidance for navigating common weight loss challenges.
“The Practical Weight Loss Lifestyle: When Life Happens” is available in paperback, e-book and Kindle formats.
To learn more about Wietbrock’s books, recipes and lifestyle services, visit ThePracticalLifeStyles.com
Additional information about her five-step program, which includes 100 recipes and 50 workouts, is available at5-Steps-Online.
Follow her on social media @PracticalLifestyles
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