On average, Americans eat less than the recommended amounts of vegetables and fruits according to the latest Department of Agriculture study. So, where does that leave local farmers and most importantly, how does that impact your health? A diet high in fruits and vegetables helps prevent chronic diseases and may decrease obesity prevalence according to… Read More »
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Go Healthy!
Headed out for a weekend getaway? You don’t have to eat unhealthy when you are traveling or eating out with friends and family. With a little planning and thoughtful choices, you can maintain a healthy diet. Here are five ways to make healthier choices when eating out: 1. Plan ahead. Before you go, think about… Read More »
Graham Cracker Frozen Treat!
In the mood for a sweet treat? Try this low calorie recipe. Just two ingredients and minimal preparation will satisfy your sweet tooth. This frozen treat can take the place of ice cream for only 95 calories per bar. Ingredients: 4 graham crackers (cinnamon or chocolate) ½ cup whipped cream Directions: Spread whipped cream between… Read More »
Be Kind to Your Kidneys
Your kidneys play an important role in your body to contribute to your overall health. They filter your blood, removing wastes and extra water to make urine. They also help control blood pressure and make hormones that your body needs to stay healthy. According to the National Kidney Disease Education Program, diabetes and high blood… Read More »
Reducing Health Risks
If your employer offers a wellness program, don’t take it for granted! Your screening numbers can lead to vital insights into your overall health. Samantha Guidry, Registered Nurse & Health Coach Manager for Our Lady Health System, believes that annual health screenings are valuable to every employee. She says, “Screenings can provide a summary of… Read More »
Improve Your Health IQ
Calculate Your Maintenance Calories Maintenance calories are simply the number of calories you require to maintain your weight. Women require 10 calories per pound of body weight. Men require 11 calories per pound of body weight. Why is this important? For females: 200 lbs. x 10 calories /lb. = 2000 calories to maintain her weight.… Read More »
Every Bite Counts!
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is encouraging everyone to “Bite into a Healthy Lifestyle” with informed food choices throughout the year. The academy encourages you to adopt a healthy lifestyle that is focused on eating fewer calories, making informed food choices and getting daily exercise in order to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.… Read More »
Screen Early!
Healthy Lives member Stachia Marioneaux is on the path to better health. She completed her first wellness screening last month and learned that she was just eight pounds shy of a healthy BMI. “I’ve always been physically active but life gets busy. The wellness screening results help me to refocus on my health.” Stachia is… Read More »
Monthly Workout: Plank Variations
The Plank is one of the best exercises you can do for your core. It builds isometric strength to help sculpt your waistline and improve your posture. And depending on the type of Plank you try, you can also engage your back, arms, shoulders, buttocks, and hamstrings. Hold Times Exercise Beginner Intermediate Advanced Forearm Plank… Read More »
Kick Your Chair Habit!
Research shows that sitting for long periods of time increases your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure. According to Dr. James Levine, author of “Get Up!: Why Your Chair is Killing You and What You Can Do About It,” sitting has become like eating. It is bad for your health… Read More »