Crystal Petrello, Author at Be Well Solutions

Thyroid Awareness Month

Happy January and Thyroid Awareness Month! New Year’s resolutions are usually weight oriented. So let’s talk about one of the many reasons people have challenges with weight gain. Thyroid tests are not routine for most doctors to order. The best way to tell if your thyroid is working correctly is to be aware of the signs and symptoms of thyroid disease. Thyroid diseases are relatively common, affecting up to 20 million Americans. Allow us to give you some basic facts about this important little gland. The thyroid gland is a relatively small gland that is found in the neck right below our Adams Apple. To appreciate the importance of thyroid health, we must first understand hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers that provide signals to the rest of our body to keep us alive and functioning well. The thyroid gland [...]

Tags: clean eating, corporate wellness, hashimoto, hyperthyroid, hypothyroid, nutrition, thyroid|

Sleep and Thyroid Health

The thyroid is a small gland that produces hormones needed for regulating how the body uses energy. When these hormones are out of balance, they can impact multiple body functions, including sleep. The hypothalamus in the brain releases thyrotropin, which helps to control the body’s circadian rhythm. According to Sleep Foundation, “thyrotropin stimulates the thyroid to trigger the release of thyroid hormones. If the thyroid is overactive or underactive, this can interfere with thyrotropin production and your overall circadian rhythm.” When the sleep-wake cycle is affected, then numerous sleep issues can arise. Hyperthyroidism and Sleep Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland overproduces hormones. Overactive thyroid affects sleep by causing frequent wake periods that stem from feeling nervous, irritable, or an increased need to urinate. It can also cause night sweats. These nighttime disruptions make it hard to fall asleep, [...]

Tags: corporate wellness, hashimoto, hyperthyroid, hypothyroid, sleep, sleep hygiene, thyroid|

Top Fitness Gifts for Every Exerciser

Are you looking for the perfect gift for the fitness fanatic in your life? We have got you covered! Keep your workout buddy on track with these trendy ideas for every type of exerciser. The Gym Goer A Functional Gym Bag Keeping up with a workout routine in a busy schedule usually means packing a change of clothes and gym shoes so you can be ready to go in a flash. A functional bag like Focus Gear’s Ultimate Gym Bag has a compartment for all the necessities, including water-resistant pouches and a specific compartment for shoes. It can keep all your gear in one spot for those quick on-the-go workouts. The Gift of Fitness Classes Know someone who loves fitness classes and is always eager to try out a new one? The ClassPass Gift Card is a great way to give [...]

Tags: corporate welllness, exercise, gift of exercise, holiday gifts|

Top 10 Gifts for the Foodie

If you’re stumped on what to give the self-proclaimed chef of your life, look no further. To help make your holiday shopping easier this season, we’ve found the top 10 gifts for your foodie friend. Think time-saving gadgets to toss together the most delicious and unique recipes, stocking stuffers that are sure to bring a smile to their face, or something tasty they can incorporate into their everyday cooking. These must-have picks are so fabulous, you may save some for yourself! 1. Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug, $69.99 at Amazon.com Coffee and tea drinkers alike will never go back to their old mug after sipping their brew from this patented technology. Simply set your mug to your preferred temperature and enjoy your morning beverage just the way you like it. 2. Polished Marble Rolling Pin with Wooden Cradle, $16.99 at [...]

Tags: corporate wellness, foodie, gifts, nutrition|

Holiday Greetings for Health

The holidays can be a stressful time. Use a common salutation this season to help you remember to destress. Holiday Greetings! Helping others in need can reduce stress and negative feelings. Only take on things you have time for though because sometimes saying “no” to someone else may mean saying “yes” to yourself! Let yourself enjoy the little things that matter. Indigestion can be a sign of stress. Take a moment to evaluate if you ate too much or if you need to destress. Develop a budget and stick to it! Avoid things that can end up hurting you. These include too much alcohol, reckless spending, and negative thinking. You should make “you” a priority. Spend time with the people and activities that bring you joy. Get at least 7 hours of sleep at least 4 days each week. [...]

Tags: corporate wellness, holiday greetings, self-care, stress|

Be Kind for Your Health

When was the last time you did something nice for someone? If the answer doesn’t come to mind quickly, it’s time to act. This month we describe how acts of kindness offered once a day — like a vitamin — can offer much the same benefits. Let’s face it, we all appreciate when someone does something nice for us. But did you know the helper is getting something as well? There are numerous scientific reports documenting the health benefits that helping others provides. Acts of kindness improve emotional health, self-esteem, and even physical problems. People often describe a “helper’s high” that accompanies a good deed. This feeling of satisfaction comes from the release of chemicals called endorphins, a natural painkiller that also reduces anxiety and tension. That explains why folks in pain often feel an improvement in symptoms when [...]

Tags: kindness, kindness for health|

Healthy Pumpkin Spice Latte

Needing a PSL? Fall brings around the ever-devoured and sought after Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL). However, a drive through the Starbucks coffee line will have you consuming nearly 14 grams of fat and 50 grams of sugar. Instead, opt for making your own PSL at home with brewed hot coffee and low-calorie dairy free milk. Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Servings: 1 Ingredients 8 ounces brewed coffee or 1-2 shots of espresso ½ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk 3 tablespoons canned pumpkin or homemade pumpkin puree ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice ½ teaspoon vanilla 2 teaspoons maple syrup, or sweetener of choice Sprinkle of cinnamon Instructions With a handheld frother or blender: In a cup or saucepan, mix together almond milk and pumpkin and cook over medium heat on the stove top or microwave for 35-45 seconds. [...]

Tags: clean eating, coffee, corporate wellness, fancy coffee, nutrition, PSL, recipe, starbucks|

Tips for Cold Weather Running

Calling all Turkey Trotters and Jingle Runners! The races are ramping up, but the temperatures are starting to plummet. Even though the weather is getting colder, your running season doesn’t have to stop. With the proper planning, you can continue your training and enjoy race day. Proper Preparation Training. Preparing yourself for a successful event starts well before race day. Pay attention to the forecast, temperature, and wind-chill and, then plan each run accordingly. Try out your cold-weather gear and layers before race day, so you’re familiar with them. Be mindful to include cross-training and adequate rest and recovery days to help lower the risk of injury. Since weather can be so unpredictable, you might find that winter is best for maintenance mileage rather than trying to PR. Fuel. Fueling up for your exercise is just as important on a [...]

Tags: corporate wellness, exercise, jungle run, outdoor exercise, running, training, turkey trot, winter exercise|

Healthy Holiday Swaps

The holiday’s are a time for gathering with loved ones to celebrate the season. It’s also a time for lots of food. For somebody who is monitoring their calories and watching their weight, it can be hard to turn down all of the delicious holiday dishes. However, making simple adjustments to traditional recipes can be a sure fire way to avoid the dreaded holiday weight gain. You can still enjoy your favorite meals by swapping out ingredients for healthier alternatives! Gravy Swaps Gravy atop a mountain of food is typically loaded with extra calories, saturated fat, and sodium. Fortunately, you can still add gravy to your holiday menu by making your own. Add together some low-sodium turkey or chicken broth, skim milk, and fresh herbs. You’d never guess this combination has fewer calories than the traditional recipe. Casserole Swaps The [...]

Tags: casserole, clean eating, corporate wellness, cranberry, cranberry sauce, gravy, healthy holidays, holiday recipes, nutrition, pumpkin pie, recipe, stuffing|

About Crystal Petrello