Healthy Versions of Your Favorite Comfort Foods

Guest Bio: Joy Bauer, MS, RDN

Joy Bauer, MS, RDN, is one of the nation's leading health authorities. She is the nutrition and health expert for NBC’s TODAY show, the founder of Nourish Snacks, a monthly columnist for Woman's Day magazine, a member of Nike’s Global Wellness Counsel, and the official nutritionist for the New York City Ballet. 

Joy is also the creator of JoyBauer.com, the women’s health expert for About.com and the author of 12 New York Times bestselling books. Her newest book, From Junk Food to Joy Food, is based on her popular TODAY show series, in which co-hosts Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb challenge Joy to turn fattening favorites into delicious, diet-friendly fare for the honor of the coveted "two carrots up." The book is also the inspiration behind Joy’s brand new PBS special, which is currently airing nationwide.

In the earlier part of her career, Joy was the Director of Nutrition and Fitness for the Department of Pediatric Cardiology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, as well as the clinical dietitian for their neurosurgical team. One of Joy's most rewarding experiences was creating and implementing “Heart Smart Kids,” a health program for underprivileged children living in Harlem and East Harlem. Prior to making the jump to media, she taught Anatomy & Physiology and Sports Nutrition at NYU's School of Continuing Education, as she worked to build what would soon become the largest private nutrition center in the country.

Passionate about delivering scientifically sound, realistic information to millions, Joy has received countless awards including the National Media Excellence Award from two of the most esteemed organizations, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the American Society of Nutrition Science.

When she's not dishing out health info or sharing delicious recipes on TV, you'll find Joy making a mess in her kitchen or spending quality time at home with her husband, three kids, and cuddly canine companion, Gatsby.