8
7
9
12 14
13
in this issue 4 Cover Feature: Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital
10 Cover Feature: Apple Cider Vinegar 12
Local activities to keep you healthy
7 How to care for your eyes as you age
13
Tips to keep your pet healthy in the heat
8 Five savings tips for budget-conscious consumers
14
Small changes for better living
9
Recipe
MAY 2018
|
HEALTHY LIFE CHOICES
|
3
Loma Linda
Indio Outpatient Pavilion Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital is now open in Indio.
Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Ensuring a healthy future for Coachella Valley kids By Alison Elsner
T
he Coachella Valley attracts residents and visitors alike for its iconic landscape and laid-back lifestyle. But behind the curtain of swaying palms, haute couture and cutting-edge cuisine lies one of the area’s most defining features: superlative healthcare. With the recent opening of the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital– Indio Outpatient Pavilion, near Indio’s downtown Civic Center, the quality of life for local families and communities has just been exponentially enhanced. For over two decades, families and medical professionals have been transporting children with medical needs to the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH) in Loma Linda, California, 50 miles east of the desert.
4
|
HEALTHY LIFE CHOICES
|
MAY 2018
Known for its exceptional medical care and top-trained physicians, LLUCH is often the first choice for the treatment of children’s medical care, being closer and easier to access than Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles (CHLA) and Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). LLUCH in Loma Linda has treated 18,000 pediatric patients from the Coachella Valley in the last five years, and it’s fair to say that Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital has been a major force in keeping kids and teens heathy and thriving throughout southern California. Now, many families will be able to share in the transformational experience that happens when their children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews receive life-saving care much
closer to home, dramatically impacting wellbeing for the entire family as well as businesses and schools. The new LLUCH Indio Outpatient Pavilion opened its doors in mid-March to young patients with a pediatric specialty clinic and pediatric urgent care and services from the SAC (Social Action Community) Health System, offering primary and specialty care to families throughout the area. The “care” furnished by LLUCH translates into treatments like bone marrow transplants, craniofacial surgery, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy, hemodialysis, pediatric and neonatal ICU, adolescent acute care, pediatric neurology…you get the picture. Clinics, support groups and special services offered by LLUCH include programs like
Loma Linda
Klasses 4 Kidz, an educational program for school-age children with cancer and blood disease; Teen Connection, a support/activity group for teenagers (age 11+) with cancer and blood diseases; Children’s Assessment Center, a one-stop center where victims of child sexual abuse can be forensically interviewed, medically examined, and referred for treatment; “Smile for Miles,” a support group for the craniofacial clinic; Diabetes Education; Total Care Birth Center (TCBC), a comprehensive center for obstetrics and infant care; Behavioral Medicine Center, designed to provide an integrated system of psychiatric and chemical dependency recovery services; and numerous others. The center became a reality with the help of a generous $3 million donation from east valley ranchers Jill and Barry Golden. The new 13,000 square foot facility was built in the space of a former USDA building across from the Indio Public Library. The clinic is also home to a bottomless bookshelf, courtesy of Scooter Golden, to encourage reading and literacy. Any child who receives care at LLUCH Indio will be able to take a book home. With over 135,000 children living in the Coachella Valley, the new facility helps fill a critical void in care. Given the severe shortage of pediatricians and primary care physicians in California, a problem exacerbated by onerous legislation that results in driving doctors out of our state and creating barriers to treatment for the already underserved and low-income populations, the new clinic is about more than convenience. It’s about turning lives around and providing healthcare that is accessible and available to those who need it most. It’s about saving young lives. Richard E. Chinnock, M.D., Chair, Department of Pediatrics at Loma Linda University Medical Center, said, “The Indio clinic will increase the availability for primary care pediatrics in the Coachella Valley. It will also improve access to pediatric subspecialists for children in the area, decreasing the travel time for patients, many of whose families have challenges with transportation. And, when the collaboration with SACHS (Social Action Community Health System) is fully developed, we will also have pediatric dentistry and behavioral health specialists there as well.” Loma Linda University’s goal is to serve the highest population of children in the Coachella Valley. Focus groups were conducted with residents and parents of children in the region, revealing the need for a dedicated pediatric urgent care and pediatric specialty services like pulmonology, neurology, cardiology and endocrinology, to name a few. Other services will be rolled out in the near future, growing the spectrum of care over time. The Indio clinic will be able to accommodate more than 60,000 unique pediatric visits each year. Aside from cultivating a healthier population of children in the valley, the new Pavilion, which includes an outpatient pharmacy and retail space, will create at least 40 new employment opportunities. Indio has the youngest population in the Coachella Valley and is attracting more families looking for quality of life and businesses that serve their needs. The new facility is a gamechanger on many levels, supporting the robust growth and health of the Coachella Valley. Most importantly, the new Pavilion instills parents with confidence and gives children hope for a healthy future. Loma Linda University Health is a not-for-profit entity which Continued on page 6 >>>
MAY 2018
|
HEALTHY LIFE CHOICES
|
5
Loma Linda >>> Continued from page 5
encompasses four hospitals that embrace basic principles such as serving those who live in poverty and are vulnerable, a commitment to improve and invest in the health of the community they serve and working in collaboration with community members, organizations and agencies for a shared goal of community health improvement. LLUCH is characterized by a combination of knowledge, expertise and compassion which, in this case, works toward restoring lives and families. The Children’s Hospital treats everything from broken bones to disabilities to life-threatening diseases. In addition to their physicians, LLUCH has more than 1,200 nurses, child life specialists and other staff who are dedicated to the health and healing of children. Together they provide a family-focused environment backed by state-of-the-art care, which is now being integrated in the desert. With developments such as LLUCH Indio, the Coachella Valley continues to offer a peek into utopian living with forward thinking and planning that puts people first. Consistent with this design, the expansion of much-
6
|
HEALTHY LIFE CHOICES
|
MAY 2018
needed children’s medical care by Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital is a milestone that will impact the entire region, extending far beyond the bounds of Indio proper. As Scott Perryman, LLUCH Senior Vice President said, “To us, providing hope to kids and their families is not just something we believe in — it is something we live.”
Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Indio Outpatient Pavilion 82-934 Civic Center Drive Indio, CA 92201 https://childrens-hospital.lomalindahealth.org/ about-us/locations/indio, 760-477-0733
Vision
How to care for your eyes as you age
A
s we age, our bodies don’t perform as well as they once did, and vision is no exception. However, early detection and treatment of eye problems and diseases through an eye exam is the best way to protect your eyes and overall health. To help keep your eyes healthy for years to come, consider the following tips.
Eat an eye-healthy diet
Fruits and vegetables, especially carrots and dark leafy greens, provide a hefty punch of key vitamins and a key vision protecting-substance called lutein. Find some new recipes to make filling up on these nutritious choices both delicious and fun.
Maintain a healthy weight
Did you know that by eating healthy portions, exercising regularly and doing your best to maintain a healthy weight, you can reduce your risk of cataracts? Conditions such as obesity and diabetes can lead to vision problems like cataracts.
Protect eyes from blue light
Most people today spend a lot of time in front of digital screens, such as smartphones, computers and televisions. These devices emit high-energy blue light, which causes digital eye strain that can lead to headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes and even neck pain. Ask your eye doctor about the best options to help reduce eye strain.
Get an eye exam
A yearly eye exam is one of the easiest and most important ways to reduce your odds of vision loss and protect your eyes. And it can also help you monitor and protect your overall health. Whether or not you wear glasses, be sure to schedule this crucial appointment. A routine eye exam can help detect signs of serious health conditions, like diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure glaucoma and macular degeneration. Because more obvious symptoms of some health conditions
don’t always appear until damage has already occurred, routine eye exams are a good way of keeping tabs on what’s happening in your body.
Make sure you have vision coverage
Do you have vision coverage through Medicare? Review your plan. Many people don’t realize that Traditional Medicare doesn’t cover routine eye exams, glasses or contact lenses. Check out such affordable options as VSP Individual Vision Plans, which offer comprehensive coverage with low out-of-pocket costs, savings on frames and lens enhancements such as progressives, and the ability to see the doctor you know and trust. Plans begin as low as $13 per month. For more information or to enroll, visit GetVSPDirect.com or call 877-988-4746. With a few key daily and annual habits, you can make eye health the priority it needs to be as you age.
MAY 2018
|
HEALTHY LIFE CHOICES
|
7
On a Budget Lower the cost of your meds A free program known as Inside Rx is a prescription savings card that provides discounts on prescription medications for eligible patients. And it’s amazingly effective. According to the data, eligible patients have saved an average of 40 percent on the more than 100 featured brand medications included in the program, and even more on generic medications. Inside Rx is a great option to help the uninsured, those facing high deductibles or anyone trying to save money on their meds. Inside Rx even offers prescription savings for pets for qualifying medications. And the Inside Rx card is free and easy to download, with no registration process or sharing of personal information.
Compare costs whenever possible
5
Savings Tips for Budget-Conscious Consumers
A
s Americans work hard to meet all the obligations that come with work, family and everyday life, many are challenged to find time to manage all the financial elements affecting their healthcare. If you’re among them you’re far from alone, since the multiple details associated with healthcare insurance can be confusing. At the same time, you want to be smart about your financial resources when making decisions about the quality healthcare you and your family need. Fortunately, by carving out time to research money-saving tips you may be able to minimize your out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Such out-of-pocket spending rose by more than 50 percent between 2010 and 2017, The Atlantic recently reported, partly because half
8
|
HEALTHY LIFE CHOICES
|
MAY 2018
of all health insurance policyholders in the U.S. are dealing with annual deductibles of at least $1,000. Whether you’re uninsured or simply facing a high insurance deductible, you can take several steps to better manage your healthcare budget. Consider how the following tips may offer you a better sense of control of rising healthcare costs.
Read bills with a critical eye Any bill can include administrative errors, and some estimates have indicated errors on as many as 80 percent of medical invoices issued, reports the Medical Billing Advocates of America. That statistic makes it well worth your while to examine and question your expenses before you settle up.
Some medical services can be difficult to compare on an apples-to-apples basis, but it’s worth doing your homework before making appointments for more standard services such as annual check-ups, lab work and testing, dental care or dermatology services. Check vendor websites, make phone calls and conduct web searches to find online databases, such as HealthcareBluebook.com, that suggest fair prices for various services. If you’re insured, your insurance provider can then clarify what portion of the bill will be covered.
Be bold about negotiations It’s OK to speak up. You have nothing to lose by politely asking your healthcare provider to work with you on the price of an upcoming service, especially when dealing with a private practice. Start the conversation by aiming for the Medicare rate or an amount close to that paid by commercial insurers. As an alternative, ask the office administrator to set up a manageable payment plan.
Consider paying cash up front Some vendors offer discounts for simply paying cash for your services without funneling everything through insurance. Even if you’re insured, you can still evaluate whether immediate cash payments will be lower than your post-insurance costs. Keeping a close eye on where you might be wasting money on healthcare can pay off in a big way - and the remedies don’t have to be complicated. Conduct your due diligence on such costs to protect your financial health as vigorously as your physical health.
Recipe
Rebalance your diet
S
triking a balance between work and home life, friends and family, and hobbies and errands can contribute to a healthy lifestyle. As you look to rebalance certain aspects of your life during the spring season, don’t forget to take your diet into consideration as well. Including grain-based foods as part of a balanced diet – along with proper exercise – can be an essential part of living a healthier lifestyle and can provide numerous health benefits. In fact, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend a 50-50 balance between whole and enriched grains per day for optimal health. Furthermore, research from the Grain Foods Foundation suggests whole and enriched grains supply a variety of key vitamins and minerals, like thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, zinc, selenium and magnesium, and important shortfall nutrients like dietary fiber, iron and folate. Incorporating grains into meals throughout the day, including these under-500 calorie recipes for Grilled Cinnamon French Toast with Granola Crunch and Roast Beef and Arugula Sandwiches featuring whole and enriched grains, can aid in maintaining a healthy weight. Additional benefits of consuming grains include lowering cholesterol and supporting digestion, while also providing anti-inflammatory nutrients and fiber, which helps fight belly fat.
Grilled Cinnamon French Toast with Granola Crunch Recipe courtesy of Oroweat on behalf of the Grain Foods Foundation Prep time: 20 minutes Servings: 2 • 1/2 cup orange juice • 1/4 cup light brown sugar • 2 tablespoons butter • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 1 cup strawberries, sliced • 1 banana, thinly sliced • 3/4 cup milk • 1 egg • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 4 slices whole-grain nut bread • 1/4 cup granola, for garnish To make sauce In saucepan, stir together orange juice, brown sugar, butter, vanilla, strawberries and banana. Simmer over medium heat 5-6 minutes, or until flavors have combined, stirring occasionally. To make French Toast In shallow bowl, whisk together milk, egg and cinnamon. Dip slices of bread into milk mixture and cook 2 minutes on each side over medium heat on flat griddle or grill, or until golden brown. Serve French toast with strawberry-banana sauce and top with granola. Find more nutritionist-developed, balanced and budget-friendly recipes at grainfoodsfoundation.org
MAY 2018
|
HEALTHY LIFE CHOICES
|
9
Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar Effective remedy or snake oil?
By Gary Willhide
D
oes it sanitize your toothbrush, whittle your waistline or cure hiccups? Apple cider vinegar is currently one of the most popular natural health products around. All you need to do is Google it to discover claims to all sorts of benefits, a few of which are supported by science. These include weight loss, reduced cholesterol, lower blood sugar levels and improved symptoms of diabetes. It is also reputed to clear dandruff, end acne and clear unsightly bruises. Apple cider vinegar has been used as a folk remedy for centuries. Since the 1970s, it has been promoted with a number of health
10
|
HEALTHY LIFE CHOICES
|
MAY 2018
claims, including that it can aid weight loss and prevent infection. Few claims of benefit are supported by good evidence, and medicinal consumption of apple cider vinegar may be hazardous, particularly if taken during pregnancy or consumed chronically.
Now to the good news CNN recently reported that Arizona State University Dietitian Carol Johnston has been studying the effects of the main component of any vinegar, acetic acid, on diabetic blood glucose levels since 2004. She’s conducted 10 small randomly controlled studies and published six papers on the subject.
Her studies indicate vinegar can help lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes; in those who are pre-diabetic, also called insulin-resistant; and even in healthy control subjects. The improvement was just slight for all but those at risk for diabetes, she says. “In pre-diabetics, it was too good to be true,” says Johnston. “It fell a good bit and stayed that way. It may be this is the group that could benefit the most.” Other studies done here and abroad show that apple cider vinegar’s most significant health benefit is lowering blood sugar in those identified as pre-diabetics. What about weight loss? A Japanese study showed a very modest weight loss of a third of
Vinegar a pound a week. There are more effective ways to lose weight. Using it for teeth cleaning and whitening? American Dental Association spokeswoman Alice Boghosian said that “it made me cringe, to be honest with you. What are people doing?” Putting acid on your teeth is “the last thing you want to do to promote oral health.” How about preventing heart disease and cancer? Studies in rats showed that apple cider vinegar can reduce blood pressure, triglycerides and total cholesterol. But similar studies haven’t been conducted on humans. While the antioxidant properties could provide some benefit, doctors say the best way to avoid heart
WHAT IS APPLE CIDER VINEGAR?
disease is to exercise and eat a low-fat, plantbased diet. Another thing to know is that apple cider vinegar can be purchased filtered (by far the most common) or unfiltered, which still contains what is called “the mother.” The “mother” contains some enzymes, minerals and probiotics that may be beneficial for health. Use at your discretion. So what’s the verdict? An effective remedy or snake oil? Well, neither, say most nutritionists. While many tout the positive effects of apple cider vinegar, the only one (and it’s an important one) to have substantial scientific backing is its ability to lower blood sugar in pre-diabetics. Some claims are actually harmful (like whitening teeth). Others are unproven
Apple cider vinegar (courtesy of Wikipedia) is made from apples, sugar and yeast. It is used in salad dressings, marinades, vinaigrettes, food preservatives and chutneys. It is made by crushing apples and squeezing out the liquid. Bacteria and yeast are added to the liquid to start the alcoholic fermentation process, and the sugars are turned into alcohol. In a second fermentation process, the alcohol is converted into vinegar by acetic acid-forming bacteria (acetobacter). Acetic acid and malic acid give vinegar its sour taste.
and can vary from person to person. Those who have studied it also say that any type of vinegar (not just apple cider vinegar) can produce the same results. And it also does a great job of cleaning the Mr. Coffee!
Important If you choose to try apple cider vinegar, it’s important to drink it in the correct way and quantity. Apple cider vinegar isn’t the tastiest drink in the world. Because of that, many people choose to get their daily dose by taking a shot of the liquid and quickly drinking or eating something else to get the taste out of their mouths. However, over time, this can be extremely harmful. Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic, and while this can help to balance your body’s pH level, it can also damage your tooth enamel and esophagus. The happy medium is mixing one to two tablespoons into eight ounces of water or some other liquid, like apple juice. If that drink is still too hard to choke down, try adding a little honey.
MAY 2018
|
HEALTHY LIFE CHOICES
|
11
Activities
Local activities to keep you healthy! M
ost everyone wants to stay fit and healthy, and fortunately the Coachella Valley lends itself well to this lifestyle. There are health-oriented activities all around us that also happen to be fun and beneficial to our bodies and our minds. Even though summer is just about upon us, we can’t get away with the excuse that “it’s too hot out.” There are numerous ways to ramp up your health while avoiding the intensity of the desert heat. Here are some of our favorites:
Lap or Recreational Swimming at Palm Desert Aquatic Center On a scorching hot day, nothing feels as good as plunging your heated body into cool water. And PDAC is the place to do it, with lap swimming in an Olympic sized pool, water slide, wading and recreational pools, diving boards, senior and adult exercise classes, kids’ swimming lessons, cardio boot camp, pool yoga and a slew of special events. Affordable fees, all-day hours, state-of-the-art design and palm tree-lined parking make this a top summer destination for lounging or working out. Palm Desert Aquatic Center, 73751 Magnesia Falls Dr., Palm Desert, 760-565-7467, pdpool.com
Ice Skating at Desert Ice Castle If you’re over 3 years old, this activity is for you. The rink has a wide variety of ice skating sessions available for fun and recreation for all ages, from open skate sessions, to summer camp, to adult hockey leagues to special events. If you’re not already a skater, it’s no problem because skating lessons are offered for every age range—beginner to advanced. This get you in shape and it’s a way to beat the summer sizzle. Desert Ice Castle, 68-800 Perez Rd., Cathedral City, 760-324-0400, deserticecastle.com
Indoor Rock Climbing at Desert Rocks Much more than a trend, rock climbing is an invigorating sport that builds strength and agility, sculpts muscles, increases flexibility and improves endurance. And you’ll meet
12
|
HEALTHY LIFE CHOICES
|
other climbers in this air-conditioned facility. All ages and abilities take part, from teens to super seniors, and there are even women-only training sessions. For those new to the climb, there are classes to get you shimmying your way up both the boulder and harness walls. Next stop: Half Dome? Desert Rocks, 19160 McLane St., North Palm Springs, 760-671-1101, climbdesertrocks.com
Golf Practice, Play or Lessons at Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort Sure, it’s summer, but that’s what makes the mornings so glorious. Head over to the 50 stall grass driving range at this scenic public facility with a world class view of the mountain. You can also take advantage of the chipping green, two large putting greens and PGA/LPGA golf instruction. The venue is ideal for newbies, pro level players and everyone in between. Clubs available for rental. When you’re done, keep it healthy with a turkey burger and craft beer in Traditions Café. Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort, 1885 Golf Club Dr., Palm Springs, 760-325-1008, tahquitzgolfresort.com
Hike the Trails Atop Palm Springs Aerial Tramway The ride up the mountain in the world’s largest rotating tramcar is an eye-opening adventure and it strengthens our appreciation of nature and wildlife. It’s an added treat to encounter 54 miles of hiking trails within 14,000 acres of pristine wilderness. After exiting the Mountain Station and descending a pathway to Long Valley, visitors are greeted by picnic tables, ranger station, flush toilets and numerous trails—from easy to intense. When you’re finished hiking in the fresh mountain air, you can stop off for an adult beverage at The Lookout Lounge, a delicious dinner at Peaks Restaurant or a snack at the more casual Pines Cafe. (Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, 888-515-8726, pstramway.com)
MAY 2018
Healthy Pet
Tips to keep your pet
S
healthy in the heat
pring is here, summer is approaching fast and it’s time to get outside and start taking advantage of the warmer weather. Dr. Jeff Werber, Emmy award-winning celebrity veterinarian, has a few tips and tricks on how to keep your pet happy and healthy in the heat. Before you start your jogging treks, hiking excursions or bicycle touring with your furry partner by your side, it’s important to understand these spring/summer safety measures to keep your pet happy and safe.
Easing into exercise After sitting around all winter, it is not a good idea to jump right into a full exercise regimen full speed ahead. The best approach to get your pet ready for more activities outside is a gradual introduction into exercise. A game of fetch is a perfect way to get your pet up and moving. The Chuckit! Launcher and Locator Sound Ball provides an easy way for your pet to increase their stamina, with the added entertainment of retrieving a ball that emits an audible pulse sound every few seconds to help pet parents and dogs locate the ball in any terrain after launch. If your pet enjoys chasing rabbits and squirrels, the Chuckit! RingChaser is a great option to satisfy their instincts. Again, short bursts of chasing and retrieving are a fun way to get your pup back into shape. It’s also critical to choose the best time of day to exercise - and noon is not it. The best time to enjoy your pet’s company is early in the morning or early in the evening. Keep in mind that in the evening after the sun is down, the pavement can still be pretty warm, as it retains heat for quite a while. Where possible, try to exercise on a grassy or dirt surface to avoid burning or irritating their paws.
and it’s important to be a good citizen. Remember to respect other pets’ “space” and boundaries, and don’t assume every dog is dying to play with yours. Wherever you and your pet decide to roam, be mindful of the local leash laws. You don’t want to turn a fun outing into an emergency room visit for you or anyone else. If you’re heading off to a park or hiking area, make sure you have everything you need for your trek. Travel treats and water bottles are always a good idea to keep with you, to make sure you and your pet are well fueled and hydrated. Keep essentials, like your keys, lip balm, waste bag, etc., all in one place with the Petmate Zipp Leash that features an expandable pouch built right into the leash to hold all dog-walking basics while on the go. Regardless of whether you choose to run, romp, hike or trek, spring and summer are great times of year to bond with your pets. I encourage all of you to get outdoors, enjoy the warmth and sunshine, and to include your four-legged kids in your activities. Just remember to play it smart and keep them safe.
Keeping cool and staying hydrated What we love so much about our dogs is how loyal they are and how much they want to please us. This can be a problem when it comes to potential overexertion, as they will keep going just to be with us, even though they may be overheating. Moreover, many dogs and cats can overheat from lying around the house or backyard as well. When leaving pets outside during the spring or summer, make sure that shade and fresh water are always available. There are many devices available that can provide water automatically or on-demand, like the Petmate Replendish Waterer, which provides a constant flow of fresh water throughout the day for pets even when the pet parent isn’t home. If you’re out and about with your pet, consider the Replendish To-Go Water bottle that conveniently includes a travel bowl for your pet. For longer excursions, or for hotter climates, wet a bandana and place it in the freezer the night before so it will remain nice and cool a little longer. Also, make regular stops in a shady area to allow both of you to catch your breath. Indoor dogs and cats also need to escape from the heat. Make sure the house isn’t kept too warm. Keep at least one room cooler by leaving the shades or drapes closed. Enough has been written about pets and parked cars, so I’m sure you are all aware of that potential deadly hazard. Don’t do it, not even in the shade or “only for a few minutes.” Enough said.
Limitless possibilities, while on a leash You and your pet are finally enjoying the great outdoors, and the fun activities with Fido are endless. Our pet nation has a huge population,
MAY 2018
|
HEALTHY LIFE CHOICES
|
13
Healthy Living
Small changes for better living
A
busy schedule doesn’t have to prevent you from taking steps toward a lifestyle that fosters overall well-being. There are many easy, small changes you can make toward better living that can make a noticeable impact.
1. Choose the long route
For many people, it’s an automatic move to find the closest parking space or shortest distance to the door. With your lifestyle goals in mind, consider taking a different approach. Look for ways to work in more physical activity. Seek out a spot in the back of the parking lot as an opportunity to increase your steps for the day, or choose the longer scenic route when walking your dog at the park for a more pleasant experience all-around.
2. Go for guilt-free snacks
Better living isn’t about giving up everything you like; it’s about balance and moderation. For example, Nonni’s Foods now makes a better-
14
|
HEALTHY LIFE CHOICES
|
for-you chocolate chip thin cookie that lets you enjoy the indulgence without the guilt. Made with real, premium ingredients like dark chocolate, crunchy California almonds and coconut oil, the individual portion packs are portable for the perfect on-the-go snack to satisfy cravings anytime, anywhere. Available in double chocolate, almond chocolate and toasted coconut varieties, each pack contains three cookies that are low in sugar, fat and carbohydrates with an average of only 100 calories total.
3. Take time to recharge
Even when you’re strapped for time, carving out a few minutes for yourself each day to focus on your mental well-being is important. This can include simply enjoying a few moments of silence or something more specific like meditating or journaling. Busy people tend to carry more stress, so looking for ways to inject these calming activities into daily schedules can help keep you refreshed and bring you more happiness.
MAY 2018
4. Practice self-care
Especially when you’re busy, it’s easy to slack on self-care, but combine that with elevated stress and you may be especially susceptible to not feeling your best. Give yourself a boost with a daily vitamin or try a warm bath with Epsom salt to soothe your senses.
5. Space out your meals
Waiting hours to eat can cause people to overeat at major mealtimes – especially dinner. Taking time to plan simple snacks throughout the day helps ensure cravings are met and overeating is avoided when the dinner bell rings. Consider keeping a snack like Nonni’s Artisan Thin Chocolate Chip Cookies on-hand for guilt-free snacking when hunger strikes. For more better-for-you snack ideas, visit nonnis.com