Stay Sharp at Work with a Little Self-Care
FROM THE BLOG
STAY SHARP AT WORK WITH A LITTLE SELF CARE
Meghan Steckowski, Nutritionist & Certified Wellness Coach
Director of Client Services and Health Promotion
Here’s How Eating Healthy and Being Healthy Can Pad Your Wallet
FROM THE BLOG
HERE'S HOW EATING HEALTHY & BEING HEALTHY CAN PAD YOUR WALLET
Director of Client Services and Health Promotion
Can eating healthy SAVE you money?
Not All Heroes Wear Capes
FROM THE BLOG
NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES
Meghan Steckowski, Nutritionist & Certified Wellness Coach
Director of Client Services and Health Promotion
Looking to make a difference in 2019? Donate blood. According to the Red Cross, every two seconds, someone in America needs blood. Blood donors save lives.
Did you know...
• There is no substitute for blood. Every transfusion received was because of a generous blood donor.
• You can donate blood every 56 days.
• One donation can potentially save up to three lives.
• A single car accident victim can require as many as 100 pints of blood.
What can I expect when I donate?
Once you are checked in, you will be asked confidentially for your health history, medications and any travel outside the U.S. Your vital signs will be checked including blood pressure and temperature. Blood donation takes 8-10 minutes and you will be seated or laying down. You will donate approximately a pint of blood and afterwards will be given a snack and beverage. You will leave with the satisfaction that your donation may help to save up to three lives. Click here to find a blood drive in your area.
What happens to my blood after I donate?
According to the organization OneBlood, a sample is sent to a state-of-the-art testing facility. A variety of tests are run to ensure blood is safe for transfusion. Within 24 hours of your donation the results are reported. If approved, your donation is prepared for distribution to a hospital. Red cells can be refrigerated for up to 42 days. In most cases, donated blood will be transfused within two to three days of donation.
The need for blood donations is constant and the Red Cross works 365 days a year to get your donation to your neighbors, near and far. Not all heroes wear capes. Donate today!
Join the Red Wave
JOIN THE RED WAVE
Meghan Steckowski, Nutritionist & Certified Wellness Coach
Director of Client Services and Health Promotion
Are you seeing red? It must be Friday, February 1st. The country goes red from sea to shining sea on the first Friday in February to raise awareness for cardiovascular disease. We wear red as a reminder to ourselves and others to take action to prevent heart disease.
Wearing red raises awareness not only for heart health but promotes preventative testing so we and those we love, know our individual risks of heart related conditions. Armed with the knowledge of our own risks, we can take action to improve our heart health. Heart disease is largely preventable. We can lower our risk by being active for 30 minutes a day, quitting smoking, eating a heart healthy diet and asking your doctor to check your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose regularly.
According to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. Every year, 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease.By spreading the word about heart disease and how to prevent it, communities, health professionals, friends and family can work together to encourage those they love to live heart-healthy lives.
Wearing red raises awareness is a good first step but let’s not stop there. Take action. Save lives.
Healthy Super Bowl Food & Drinks
HEALTHY SUPER BOWL FOODS & DRINKS
Meghan Steckowski, Nutritionist & Certified Wellness Coach
Director of Client Services and Health Promotion
Game day is almost here and we want to help you keep your healthy eating goals during the big game. With all the tempting chips, dips, wings and pizza around, it’s easy to overdo it. According to the Calorie Control Council, people could consume 2,400 calories during the big game. Luckily, there are plenty of delicious ways to re-create game time favorites while staying on track with your recommended eating routine. The best part is, many of these dishes can be made ahead so you don’t miss a single play or commercial during game time.
APPETIZERS
Slow Cooker Turkey Chili. This warm and satisfying turkey based chili is a great low carbohydrate option especially when it’s packed with veggies and a few beans. This is easy to prep ahead and will keep fans happy and full!
http://www.diabeticlivingonline.com/recipe/turkey/turkey-and-bean-chili
Deviled Avo-Eggs. This familiar appetizer replaces the heavy yoke and mayo combo with a light and healthy fat filled scoop of avocado. Traditionalists, don’t forget sprinkle with paprika and for renegades try a dash of dill.
https://www.skinnytaste.com/guacamole-deviled-eggs/
Basil, Tomato, Mozzarella Skewers. These are quick to make and easy to eat so you don’t miss a single play or commercial during the big game.
http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-recipes/a13678/tomato-mozzarella-bites-recipe-ghk1212/
Tzatziki Dip. This yogurt and cucumber based dip helps everyone stay cool, calm, and collected during the tough plays of the Super Bowl. Dip away with fresh vegetables for a low sugar and delicious appetizer.
http://foodguymagazine.com/2010/04/04/tzatziki-dip-with-fresh-vegetables/
Dry Rubbed Baked Chicken Wings. What football game spread would be complete without chicken wings. Instead of breading and frying, try this flavorful spice filled dry rub. Don’t forget the celery, bleu cheese and napkins! These are sure to be a hit.
https://lowcarbyum.com/spicy-dry-rub-hot-wings-baked-recipe/
Have only a little bit of time on the clock before guests arrive? Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus and Shrimp Cocktail are always a fan favorite.
http://allrecipes.com/recipe/73565/asparagus-wrapped-in-crisp-prosciutto/
DRINKS
If you are hoping to toast to the winning team, choose a spirit and mix with club soda or seltzer. Add a squeeze of lemon, lime or both for some flavor! Avoid the flavored sodas and juiced that are packed with sugar. Please, check with your treating physician to see if any alcohol is safe for you before consuming.
https://www.farmwifedrinks.com/vodka-club-soda-lime/
For a festive drink without the buzz, try club soda with some muddled mint and your choice of fruit on ice. Blueberries and raspberries are a great option for a low sugar but tasty beverage! There’s no wrong way to make this drink, so creative!