Weekly Wellness
Issue 312
Featured Article
Seasoned Popcorn Some fun ways to zip-up the flavor of popcorn without adding calories or fat.
Fitness Tip
Pre-Workout Stretching
Stretching feels good because it actually causes tiny, harmless tears in your muscles, which prompts your body to release painkilling endorphins. However, experts say pre-workout stretching -- long thought of as an absolute must -- is not only unnecessary but may increase your risk of injuries. This is due to the fact that you’re stressing muscles that aren’t warmed up yet. Doing three to ten minutes of cardio at a pace that allows you to easily have a conversation is all the warm-up you need. Stretching after your workout, however, can keep your tired muscles from shortening and feeling sore the following day. It can also make you more limber the next time you work out, so injuries are less likely.
Nutrition Tip
Frozen Vegetables
Some frozen vegetables may actually be better than fresh. Produce headed for the freezer case usually goes directly from the field or orchard to the processing plant. It doesn't languish in railroad cars or tractor trailer trucks, waiting to be shipped cross-country to end up at your supermarket a week later. The nutrients in frozen fruits and vegetables are nearly as high as fresh-picked and are often better than in produce that has undergone temperature changes, exposure to light and other rigors of travel.
Quip or Quote of the Week
Quip:
It's hard to judge the calories in food. A can of regular soda can have more sugar than a slice of cake!
Quick Recipe
Fresh Grape and Nut Snack
Mix 1/2 cup grapes, 12 lightly salted almonds (about 1-tablespoon) and a dash of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. 110 calories per single serving.
Tidbit(s)
Rx Weight-Loss Drug Orlistat Approved for OTC Sales
FDA has approved orlistat as an over-the-counter (OTC) weight-loss aid for overweight adults. FDA first approved the drug in 1999 as a prescription treatment for obesity. Orlistat still will be dispensed by prescription for obesity at a higher dose than the OTC version, which will be sold under the name Alli. Orlistat helps produce weight loss by decreasing the intestinal absorption of fat.
Food Fixes
Potatoes will roast in half the time if they are boiled for five minutes, then put into a hot oven.
If you double a recipe, increase the cook time by approximately 30 percent. If you halve a recipe, reduce the cook time by 30 percent.
Saffron threads, the most expensive spice, can add wonderful flavor to a dish. Make the most of your saffron by crumbling the threads with your fingers before adding them to your recipe. The crumbling will release flavorful oils and maximize the flavor. See also: Saffron Substitutes