Thursday, March 31, 2011
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Friday, March 25, 2011
Casey Anderson - Grizzly Bear Expert Video
Video Link: CASEY ANDERSON GRIZZLY BEAR EXPERT
Friday, March 18, 2011
March is National Nutrition Month! Eat Right with Color
March is National Nutrition Month!
Splash some color on your plate! It's National Nutrition Month and the theme is "Eat Right with Color." This month the American Dietetic Association wants you to make healthy choices by incorporating a colorful variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and dairy into your meals every day.
"ADA encourages all Americans to take time during National Nutrition Month to look at their eating patterns and begin to make the small improvements that, over time, add up to significant health benefits, " says registered dietitian and ADA President Judith C. Rodriguez.
National Nutrition Month
National Nutrition Month is an annual campaign sponsored by the American Dietetic Association to promote nutrition awareness and education. It originated in 1973 as "National Nutrition Week" and expanded to the month-long observance in 1980 in response to growing public interest in nutrition. The theme changes each year, but it always focuses on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits.
Eat Right with Color
This year's theme, "Eat Right with Color," provides an easy way to focus on improving eating habits — simply include plenty of color on your plate!
"Adding a splash of colorful seasonal foods to your plate makes for more than just a festive meal. A rainbow of foods creates a palette of nutrients, each with a different bundle of potential benefits for a healthful eating plan," says registered dietitian and ADA Spokesperson Karen Ansel, who offers up this quick fruit and vegetable color guide.
In addition to National Nutrition Month, Registered Dietitian Day is also celebrated in March. It takes place this year on March 9. Registered Dietitian Day was created to increase the awareness of RDs as the food and nutrition experts and to recognize their commitment to helping people enjoy healthy lives.
Visit the Registered Dietitian Day section for ways to commemorate the occasion as well as to learn more about what Registered Dietitians do and reasons consulting an RD can benefit you.
Read more: EAT RIGHT WITH COLOR
"ADA encourages all Americans to take time during National Nutrition Month to look at their eating patterns and begin to make the small improvements that, over time, add up to significant health benefits, " says registered dietitian and ADA President Judith C. Rodriguez.
National Nutrition Month
National Nutrition Month is an annual campaign sponsored by the American Dietetic Association to promote nutrition awareness and education. It originated in 1973 as "National Nutrition Week" and expanded to the month-long observance in 1980 in response to growing public interest in nutrition. The theme changes each year, but it always focuses on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits.
Eat Right with Color
This year's theme, "Eat Right with Color," provides an easy way to focus on improving eating habits — simply include plenty of color on your plate!
"Adding a splash of colorful seasonal foods to your plate makes for more than just a festive meal. A rainbow of foods creates a palette of nutrients, each with a different bundle of potential benefits for a healthful eating plan," says registered dietitian and ADA Spokesperson Karen Ansel, who offers up this quick fruit and vegetable color guide.
For more tips visit the National Nutrition Month section. Plenty of resources are available, including recipes, interactive games, nutrition education resources and the NNM blog. Learn ways to promote the event in your own community and check out the NNM catalog for gifts and promotional items.
Registered Dietitian Day
Registered Dietitian Day
In addition to National Nutrition Month, Registered Dietitian Day is also celebrated in March. It takes place this year on March 9. Registered Dietitian Day was created to increase the awareness of RDs as the food and nutrition experts and to recognize their commitment to helping people enjoy healthy lives.
Visit the Registered Dietitian Day section for ways to commemorate the occasion as well as to learn more about what Registered Dietitians do and reasons consulting an RD can benefit you.
Read more: EAT RIGHT WITH COLOR
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
The Worst Reasons to Work Out
Stay Motivated by Exercising for the Right Reasons
We all have our own reasons for working out. And while all reasons have merit (and there is nothing wrong with wanting to feel good about the reflection you see in the mirror), some reasons for hitting the gym are definitely better and more motivating than others.
In fact, the goals you set and the reasons why you work out help set the tone for your entire lifestyle and can even play a role in your long-term health and success. Of course, it is recommended that you choose empowering and uplifting reasons to lose weight and work out.
Here are five common reasons people exercise that might seem positive at first glance but can actually be unhealthy or destructive. If you fall into one (or more) of these categories, don't despair! We have included better reasons to work out that will help you flip your thoughts into a more motivating direction.
The 5 Worst Reasons to Work Out
Because you feel fat. Do you hit the gym hard the morning after a night of unhealthy eating to help you undo the previous night's damage? While a good bout of exercise can get you back on track, what you don't want to do is punish yourself with exercise. Working out shouldn't feel like torture or used as a way to right your wrongs when it comes to food. When you do that, you're completely missing how awesome exercise is for your health and well-being—and you could be on a slippery slope that leads to more serious food and fitness issues (such as exercise bulimia).
By Jennipher Walters, Certified Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor
We all have our own reasons for working out. And while all reasons have merit (and there is nothing wrong with wanting to feel good about the reflection you see in the mirror), some reasons for hitting the gym are definitely better and more motivating than others.
In fact, the goals you set and the reasons why you work out help set the tone for your entire lifestyle and can even play a role in your long-term health and success. Of course, it is recommended that you choose empowering and uplifting reasons to lose weight and work out.
Here are five common reasons people exercise that might seem positive at first glance but can actually be unhealthy or destructive. If you fall into one (or more) of these categories, don't despair! We have included better reasons to work out that will help you flip your thoughts into a more motivating direction.
Because you feel fat. Do you hit the gym hard the morning after a night of unhealthy eating to help you undo the previous night's damage? While a good bout of exercise can get you back on track, what you don't want to do is punish yourself with exercise. Working out shouldn't feel like torture or used as a way to right your wrongs when it comes to food. When you do that, you're completely missing how awesome exercise is for your health and well-being—and you could be on a slippery slope that leads to more serious food and fitness issues (such as exercise bulimia).
Better reason: Exercise to feel strong and energetic. Instead of punishing yourself by overdoing your workouts, focus on how great exercise makes you feel. From feeling strong and energetic to perking up your mood and improving your health, moving your body is more than a way to burn calories—it helps you take care of yourself inside and out!To eat whatever you want. If your sole motivation to work out is to help make up for your regular fast food or dessert habit, it's time to re-examine your priorities. Sure, working out can allow you to offset the calories of indulging in more food, but it's much easier to overeat calories than it is to burn them off. In fact, it takes about an hour of jogging to burn off just one Big Mac (and that doesn't include the fries and soda). Not to mention that exercise can't always undo the negative health effects of a poor diet. Sweets and other junk foods don't give you all the vitamins and minerals you need to reach your fitness goals, either.
Better reason: Exercise to indulge occasionally in your favorite treats. Instead of exercising to eat whatever you want, think of it as a way to support your healthy lifestyle by boosting your health and happiness—not trying to outsmart a bad diet. You'll still be able to enjoy a treat now and again without worrying so much about the extra calories, but the key is to make those treats occasional—not the norm.To run away from your problems. We all come across problems and stress in our lives, and exercise can be a good stress reducer. But if you're using exercise as a way to escape and run away from all of your problems, you may be asking for trouble. Exercise alone won't solve everything; you must deal with life's struggles directly.
Better reason: Exercise to be better equipped to handle problems as they arise. Instead of running away from your problems, use your work out time to clear your head for a while or use the time to think through any issues you may be facing. Sometimes, when you're engaged in physical activity, a new solution or idea will come to you that you can then implement in your life to resolve issues. But remember to use exercise as an outlet for improving your life—not a way to stick your head in the sand to avoid your thoughts and feelings.To energize when you're lacking sleep. Exercise is known as a natural energy booster, but if you're using workouts as a way to get going when you're not getting enough sleep in the first place, you could be doing your body more harm than good. Without proper rest, you could experience the effects of overtraining, which can break down your muscles and make you weaker. Not to mention that too many sleepless nights have many adverse health effects; from weight gain to an elevated risk of heart disease. Add strenuous exercise on top of poor sleeping habits, and your body could view your workouts as yet another stressor.
Better reason: Exercise to improve your overall health, including the quality of your sleep. It's so important to respect your body and give yourself the rest it needs. Instead of amping yourself up with exercise, work out because you want to improve your overall health, happiness, and sleep. Research shows that exercise can improve sleep patterns, so start focusing on the positives instead of using exercise as a quick fix to get through your day. If you have to make a tough choice between sleeping a few extra hours or exercising, choose sleep most of the time so you can meet your body's daily 7-8 hour quota; choose the gym over adequate sleep too often, and your body may not benefit in the way you hope!To get skinny. There is nothing wrong with wanting to look good, and exercise can help you get there. But if you view exercise as nothing more than a means to fit into a certain size, you could be sabotaging yourself. Regardless of body size or weight, working out is a must for everyone! If you view exercise as a temporary fix, a chore to achieve your dream body, or if you're exercising in extreme amounts or intensities in order to "get skinny", you must change your mentality. These are unhealthy reasons to exercise that are simply not sustainable. If you choose to go this route, the only thing you'll end up with is a major motivation problem.
Better reason: Exercise—at any weight—because it's good for you. Exercise isn't just for people who need to lose weight—even "skinny" people need to work out for their health and well-being! So, instead of focusing your workouts on looking a certain way or being a certain size, refocus on finding workouts that you enjoy—you will then stick with them for the long haul. This goes for intensity, too. If you can't keep up with long workouts five days every week, switch to something that you can maintain as part of your healthy lifestyle. There is nothing wrong with working out to feel more confident about your body—but it's not the only reason to do it. Come up with a list of exercise benefits that matter to you, and think of them when your motivation is low—or when your body isn't responding the way you'd like. Because even then, you will still benefit and reach other fitness goals.Working out for the right reasons will not only help your body reach optimal health, but your emotional health will benefit too. So, the next time you head to the gym because you "feel fat" or want to undo some hefty eating, think about the real reason you're working out—to improve the quality and longevity of your life!
By Jennipher Walters, Certified Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor
Friday, March 11, 2011
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Remember to Turn Your Clocks Forward!
On Sunday, March 13, 2011, at 2am Daylight Saving Time Begins.
"In 1895, Daylight Savings Time was first proposed by George Vernon Hudson in order to reduce evening usage of incandescent lighting. Today, we advance our clocks during the summertime in order to have more daylight during the afternoon and less in the morning. This benefits retailing, sports, and other activities that thrive during sunlight, especially after working hours, but causes problems for farming, evening entertainment, and other occupations tied to the sun."
"In 1895, Daylight Savings Time was first proposed by George Vernon Hudson in order to reduce evening usage of incandescent lighting. Today, we advance our clocks during the summertime in order to have more daylight during the afternoon and less in the morning. This benefits retailing, sports, and other activities that thrive during sunlight, especially after working hours, but causes problems for farming, evening entertainment, and other occupations tied to the sun."
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
TAKE The Physical Wellness Assessment
Dimensions of Wellness: Physical Wellness
Physical Wellness Assessment
The physical dimension of wellness involves encouraging regular activities that produce endurance, flexibility and strength. Read each statement carefully and respond honestly by using the following scoring:Almost always = 2 points
Sometimes/occasionally = 1 point
Very seldom = 0 points
_____ 1. I exercise aerobically (vigorous, continuous) for 20 to 30 minutes at least three times per week.
_____ 2. I eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains every day.
_____ 3. I avoid tobacco products.
_____ 4. I wear a seat belt while riding in and driving a car.
_____ 5. I deliberately minimize my intake of cholesterol, dietary fats, and oils.
_____ 6. I avoid drinking alcoholic beverages or I consume no more than one drink per day.
_____ 7. I get an adequate amount of sleep.
_____ 8. I have adequate coping mechanisms for dealing with stress.
_____ 9. I maintain a regular schedule of immunizations, physicals, dental checkups and self-exams.
_____ 10. I maintain a reasonable weight, avoiding extremes of overweight and underweight.
_______ Total for Physical Wellness Dimension
Score: 15 to 20 Points - Excellent strength in this dimension.
Score: 9 to 14 Points - There is room for improvement. Look again at the items in which you scored 1 or 0. What changes can you make to improve your score?
Score: 0 to 8 Points - This dimension needs a lot of work. Look again at this dimension and challenge yourself to begin making small steps toward growth here. Remember: The goal is balanced wellness.
10 Tips for a Healthier Weekend
How to Stay on Track 7 Days a Week
Article Link: 10 Tips for a Healthier Weekend:1. Squeeze in a longer workout.
2. Eat like it's a weekday.
3. Stick to your usual sleep schedule.
4. Get outdoors.
5. Fuel yourself for weekday success.
6. Limit your drinks.
7. Plan for relaxation.
8. Break the on-again, off-again diet mentality.
9. Weigh in Monday morning.
10. Plan for the week ahead.
"Follow these ideas to get on a healthy track this weekend, and revisit this list to stay healthy for many more weekends to come!" -- By Jennipher Walters, Certified Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Can Exercise Keep You Young?
Article Link: Can Exercise Keep You Young?
“Exercise alters the course of aging,...”
"We all know that physical activity is beneficial in countless ways, but even so, Dr. Mark Tarnopolsky, a professor of pediatrics at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, was startled to discover that exercise kept a strain of mice from becoming gray prematurely."
"Mitochondria combine oxygen and nutrients to create fuel for the cells — they are microscopic power generators."
"Many scientists consider the loss of healthy mitochondria to be an important underlying cause of aging in mammals."
“Exercise alters the course of aging,...”
"We all know that physical activity is beneficial in countless ways, but even so, Dr. Mark Tarnopolsky, a professor of pediatrics at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, was startled to discover that exercise kept a strain of mice from becoming gray prematurely."
"Mitochondria combine oxygen and nutrients to create fuel for the cells — they are microscopic power generators."
"Many scientists consider the loss of healthy mitochondria to be an important underlying cause of aging in mammals."
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