Weekly Wellness
Issue 163
Featured Article
Fitness Tip
Four Quick Energy Boosters
- 1. Sniff some peppermint. It may increase alertness - even in tired truck drivers.
- 2. Visualize your energy. Think of a time when you felt highly energized and try to recapture that feeling.
- 3. Drink something cold. It may shock you into alertness. The same may be true of splashing your face with cold water.
- 4. See red. Focus your eyes on a vibrant shade of red -- it may have an energy-boosting effect on the body. Some believe the color may spur you into action. While there is no scientific evidence behind this claim, it can't hurt to try it.
Nutrition Tip
Nuts for Diabetes Prevention
Those who consumed nuts at least five times a week had a 30-percent
lower risk of diabetes than those who almost never ate nuts. It is not clear
whether nuts lower the risk of diabetes because they are high in magnesium,
unsaturated fats, or fiber or whether something else about nut-eaters lowers
their risk. It is worth adding small servings of nuts to your diet. Just keep
in mind that they are calorie dense, so you cannot eat them without removing
something else. The author's of the study suggest cutting out some refined
grains and red meat and replacing it with nuts. You will get 150 to 185
calories in a one-ounce serving of dry-roasted nuts. That is just 22 almonds,
three tablespoons of cashews, 28 peanuts, 47 pistachios or 1 walnut halve.
See also: Eat Peanuts!
Nutrient of the Week
Arginine (Non-Essential Amino Acid)
Studies have shown that arginine has improved immune responses to
bacteria, viruses and tumor cells; promotes wound healing and
egeneration of the liver; causes the release of growth hormones;
considered crucial for optimal muscle growth and tissue repair.
Quick Recipe
Quick Chicken Stir-Fry
In a large, nonstick skillet or wok, heat 3/4 cup Asian-style broth and
add five cups cut-up fresh vegetables (such as celery, carrots, broccoli,
green onions or others). Bring to a boil; cover and cook five minutes or
until vegetables are softened. Mix two tablespoons cornstarch with
remaining broth and add to skillet. Cook until mixture oils and thickens,
stirring constantly. Add one package (8 to 10 ounces) cooked, carved
chicken breast and cook until chicken is heated through. Spoon over
leftover rice or boil up some minute rice. Top with a splash of reduced-
sodium soy sauce, if you like. Serve-with suggestion: Crusty bread.
Tidbit(s)
Tips to Get Kids to Like Healthy Foods
Today's children may become the first generation with shorter
lives than their parents, largely due to obesity. How do we instill
healthy eating habits at a young age - before they're three? Dr.
Christien Wood, a pediatrician, was asked by Juice Juice to
create Building Blocks of Children's Nutrition: A Guide for Parents.
It offers tips such as how to pick healthy snacks and how to get
kids to eat vegetables and fruits.
Food Fixes
Duo-Tone Sandwich: Mix white bread with whole wheat; or wheat with rye; or sourdough with pumpernickel. Use your imagination -- the combinations are endless!
Run your hands under cold water before pressing Rice Krispies treats in the pan -- the marshmallow won't stick to your fingers!
When plastic wrap won't stick when you cover a dish, moisten the outer edge of the dish before you wrap it.