Balanced Living in Austin, TX: A Dietitian’s Picks for Activities, Brunch Ideas, Coffee, and Local Products

November 6, 2023

the Austin, TX skyline with a boat in the foreground
Whether you are a long-time Austin local or a newcomer to this vibrant city, this guide aims to uncover hidden gems and well-loved spots that promise a blend of health and enjoyment. Let’s embark on a journey through Austin’s dynamic health scene, discovering activities that invigorate, meal options that nourish, coffee shops that offer respite, and handpicked dietitian-recommend products.

Things To Do

Movement and spending time outdoors can improve your brain health, help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles, and boost your mood!
    • It’s Running Season! Come join the fun social running club: Cooldown Running (for all levels).
 
    • Barton Springs: Open year-round! Come have a swim or do an inexpensive cold plunge, entrance fee is $5 dollars.
 
  • Enjoy all the benefits of yoga year-round at Black Swan Yoga (make sure to check out Kennon’s class)!
  • Tennis/pickleball: It’s a great way to stay active, socialize, and meet new people. Whether you choose to take classes at Rippner Tennis or use one of the many city courts for tennis or pickleball.
  • Ocean’s Lab: Date night or solo experience, come try a float therapy or sauna/ice bath session.
  • Lady Bird 3-mile loop: Bring yourself, bring your friends, bring your pets, walk around Lady Bird, or run if you’re feeling super energetic. (3-mile loop takes about an hour of walking)
  • Best Trio: Zilker Park + Picnic + Board Games: get your favorite drinks and snacks + your favorite board game (UNO, Catan, Rumi, Mancala) and come to Zilker Park to spend some time outdoors from a busy day looking at screens.

Where To Brunch and Munch

The most important thing to focus on when we think of “health” is BALANCE. Make sure all your meals have carbs, fat, and protein. Carbohydrates give your body energy, protein helps rebuild and repair your body’s tissues, and fat is important for satiety, hormone balance, and helping your body absorb certain vitamins. We need ALL three.

  • Check out Swedish Hill Bakery after a morning yoga class. My favorite thing on the menu: Bagel and Lox.
a person is holding a bagel sandwich with smoked salmon and lettuce

Photo Credits IG: @sweadishhillaustin

a plate of food with scrambled eggs toast and avocado on a table

Photo Credits IG: @hillside_farmacy

  • If you want a very “Austin” brunch spot, check out Hillside Farmacy. My favorite thing on the menu: Big brekkie with avocado.
  • Perfect place to end your morning walk at Lady Bird: Veracruz All Natural. My favorite thing on the menu: Migas taco on corn tortilla.
a person is holding a taco with avocado on it

Photo Credits IG: @veracruztacos

three plates of food on a table including eggs avocado and fruit

Photo Credits IG: @travelingfoodgirls

  • Can’t find a brunch spot? Eberly is your go-to spot. My favorite thing on the menu: The Eberly Breakfast.
  • Make sure to stop and grab a bite at Two Hands when exploring SoCo. My favorite thing on the menu: Two Hands seasonal scramble.
a table with plates of food and a mug that says two hands

Photo Credits IG: @twohandsrestaurant

All Things Coffee

Coffee, when consumed in moderation, offers a range of health benefits. Its rich source of antioxidants can help protect cells, while the caffeine content provides a natural boost in alertness and cognitive function. Here are my favorite coffee shops in Austin, order your usual and I am sure you will love it:

Can’t Live Without

Here is a list of some of Austin’s local brands, products, and stores that I love as a dietitian.

  • Sap’s – not your average electrolyte drink. Sap’s has zero added sugar, includes adaptogen, refreshing, hydrating, anti-inflammatory, immunity, and great flavors.

  • Booda Blends is a wellness-focused brand renowned for its plant-based, adaptogenic elixirs and functional beverage. They are committed to enhancing health and vitality through carefully crafted, all-natural blends.

  • Thom’s Market– your local neighborhood grocery store. The store has multiple locations across Austin. It offers a curated selection of natural and organic foods, wines, local and craft beers, essential staples, and fun gifts. Make sure to check it out and support locally.

  • Siete Foods – family-owned, Austin local brand known for its delicious and health-conscious Mexican-inspired foods, offering a range of grain-free and gluten-free options.
 
  • JuiceLand – is a popular Austin-based chain specializing in fresh, cold-pressed juices and smoothies made from locally sourced, organic ingredients. They are dedicated to promoting wellness through delicious, nutrient-packed beverages.

Conclusion

Incorporating these health-conscious activities/ideas into your Austin lifestyle can pave the way to a vibrant and balanced well-being. Whether is staying active, savoring nutritious meals, finding solace in local coffee shops, or embracing recommended products, these simple recommendations can lead to a more fulfilling and energized life. Cheers to a journey towards a balanced and happier you in the heart of Texas.

 For more ideas on how to stay active in ATX, make sure you check out: My 5 Favorite Ways to Stay Active (and Have Fun!) in the Austin Heat as a New Dietitian in Austin, TX

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  1. https://www.aicr.org/cancer-prevention/
  2. Oncology Nutrition For Clinical Practice – Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

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ADDITIONAL DIETITIANS

Diana Figueroa, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, RD, LD

Diana Figueroa

RD, LD
Habla Español
Licensed in TX

Clinical Manager & Provider Outreach Coordinator

ADDITIONAL DIETITIANS

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