Weekly Wellness
Issue 361
Featured Article
Obesity and Prostate Health How obesity can have a negative effect on prostate health.
Fitness Tip
Improve Endurance
Endurance training allows you to move at a steady pace for longer without becoming winded or tired. This one is simple -- to exercise longer, you must exercise longer. Gradually increase exercise time with a manageable new goal -- for example, five extra minutes per session, per week. Pace can stay the same, or even slow somewhat; you just need to keep moving. In addition to health benefits of exercise, endurance can provide a mental boost. Whether you successfully add time to your walk or complete a milestone event, like a 10K run, achieving such goals builds confidence that affects other areas of your life.
Nutrition Tip
Chewing Gum for Better Health?
You've heard that gum can double your pleasure, but can it help your health? The Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company has invested in research t otry to prove gum is good for you. It's been known for years that chewing sugarless gum after meals can cut your cavities, but now there is more to the story. Recent studies by Wrigley as well as by independent researchers show that chewing gum before or during a stressful event can improve memory and concentration and ease anxiety. And if you're trying to lose weight, chewing gum can also help you cut down on snacking.
Quip or Quote of the Week
Quip:
According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, people who consumed more whole grains consistently weighed less than those who consumed less whole grains.
Quick Recipe
Bacon Wrapped Breadsticks
Wrap one slice bacon in spiral-fashion around each of four (7-inch) breadsticks. Place on double-thick layer of paper towels on microwaveable plate. Microwave on high for two minutes. Roll immediately in 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese until evenly coated. Makes 4 servings, 1 wrapped breadstick each.
Tidbit(s)
Laugh Your Way to Better Health
Laughter relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow -- the exact opposite of what your blood vessels do when you are stressed. In a small study of healthy men and women with normal blood pressure, watching a funny movie increased blood flow by about 22 percent. If funny movies aren't your style, spend time with the people who tickle your funny bone.
Food Fixes
To freeze antioxidant-packed blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, or cherries, wash and let dry completely, then place them in a single layer on a tray in the freezer until solid. Transfer to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer.
Check the pungency of dried herbs like basil and thyme by rubbing them between your fingers before adding to a dish. If they release a strong armoa, they're still good to use.
Tasty Tidbit...
Top a cup of fat-free or low-fat yogurt with sliced fresh fruit.
More Quick Cooking Tips Online!