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Thursday, May 23, 2019

Stay Physically Fit in an Unfit Economy

In these tough economic times when every penny counts, costly gym memberships are a common casualty. But that doesn’t mean you should neglect your health.
 
The longtime fitness guru notes that physical health should not be sacrificed to cost-cutting measures. Rather, Brown offers the following tips for those looking to stay, or get, physically fit:
 
Get Outdoors
Walking and jogging are great cardiovascular activities, especially for those new to regular exercise, and they are free. On days when weather isn’t cooperative, take your cardio workout indoors. Jumping rope and running on a treadmill are great traditional indoor exercises.
 
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Those who like to dine out or frequently order in can save substantial amounts of money in the current economy simply by eating healthier and often far less expensive foods at home and by eating less.
 

Eat Right, Breathe Better

You’ve heard about food allergies, but did you also know that some foods can help with airborne allergies?

Omega-3 fatty acids have “anti-inflammatory” properties. Look for these in cold-water fish, walnuts and flaxseed.
 
Spicy foods can help clear your sinuses.
 
Fruits high in Vitamin C are edible antihistamines and antioxidants too.
 
Black tea contains flavonoids, an antioxidant that can relieve your immune system. Green tea is also a source of antioxidants and reduces the production of histamine.
 
Don’t forget foods high in zinc, which feed antibacterial and antiviral effects.
 

Mental Health Month

This Month is Mental Health Month. According to Mental Health America, the 4 common mental health issues are: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Millions of Americans struggle with these illnesses every day. However, there is help available in the form of medications, therapy and support groups which are often combined for the best results. Read further for more information from Mental Health America about each of these illnesses:
 
Depression – 19 million Americans battle depression. Mental Health America describes some symptoms of depression as having “persistent sad, anxious or ‘empty’ mood; loss of pleasure and interest in activities once enjoyed, fatigue or loss of energy; feeling guilty, hopeless or worthless; and thoughts of suicide or death.” Depression is often treated with antidepressants and psychotherapy.
 
Anxiety – The most common mental illness in the U.S., 40 million people deal with anxiety. Mental Health America defines anxiety as “illnesses that cause people to feel frightened, distressed and uneasy for no apparent reason.” Anxiety is often treated with antidepressants, benzodiazepines and cognitive behavioral therapy.
 
Bipolar Disorder – Over 2 million Americans fight bipolar disorder, which appears in the teens or early twenties and has no cure, therefor must be kept under control for the rest of their life. Mental Health America calls bipolar disorder “an illness involving one or more episodes of serious mania and depression.” Bipolar disorder can be kept under control with medication and psychotherapy.
 
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder – PTSD affects 8 million Americans. PTSD is diagnosed when feelings of fear, guilt, shame, distress, anger or helplessness last over a month after a traumatic experience, according to Mental Health America. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is treated with a combination of psychotherapy and medication.
 
Visit MentalHealthAmerica.net for more information about reducing stress, coping and finding support for any illness you may have. Stay happy and healthy this month and all year long!

Source: MentalHealthAmerica.net

Chicken Salad Cravings

Pick a nice April-shower free day and take this delicious recipe on a picnic. Careful though, this stuff is addicting. It is super easy to throw together, and you may even substitute light mayo for the mayo in this recipe and serve without bread. Happy Picnicking!

Ingredients

  • 2 cans of chicken (or 3 cups diced, cooked chicken)
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup red grapes (or green) halved
  • 1 green onion, diced (optional)
  • 1 stalk celery, diced
  • 1/2 cup red apple, diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pecans or cashews (optional)
 
 Directions:
 
  1. In a bowl, combine all ingredients, mixing until well blended with all ingredients evenly distributed.
  2. Serve on rolls, bread, croissants, lettuce leaf or with Ritz crackers (or your personal favorite).
 
Source: Yummly.com
 

Health & Food