Why Staying Hydrated is More Important Than You Think

We’ve all heard the advice: “Drink more water!” But have you ever stopped to wonder why it matters so much? Turns out, water does way more than just quench your thirst. From helping you feel more energized to improving your mood and focus, staying hydrated plays a huge role in how you feel every single day. Let’s break down why hydration is so important and how to make it part of your daily routine. What Does Water Actually Do for Your Body? Believe it or not, your body is made up of about 60% water. That’s a lot! And every single cell in your body needs water to work properly. Here are just a few of the thing’s water helps with: Keeps your body temperature in check (so you don’t overheat) Delivers nutrients and oxygen to your cells Helps get [...]

The Dos and Don’ts of Summer Grilling: Tips for a Nutritious Cookout

Summer is the season of sunshine, outdoor gatherings, and of course grilling. Cookouts are a great way to bring people together to enjoy warm weather and delicious food. But while grilling is a summertime staple, it can also be a source of excess calories, saturated fats, and processed foods, if we’re not mindful. The good news? With a few smart choices, you can enjoy all the fun of grilling while keeping things balanced and nourishing. Here are some key dos and don’ts to help host a healthier, more nutritious cookout this summer. DO: Choose Lean Proteins Grilling is a great opportunity to highlight lean protein options. Skinless chicken breasts, turkey burgers, fish (like salmon or tilapia), shrimp, or plant-based proteins, such as tofu and veggie burgers, can all take center stage. Pro tip: Marinate your protein ahead of time in [...]

Outdoor Workout Safety for the Summertime

Longer daylight hours and warmer, sunny days make workouts more motivating this time of year. However, safely navigating the elements can take more preparation and planning. Follow the tips below to keep your summer exercise sessions safe and rewarding. Choose the Right Time Avoid exercising in the heat of the day by scheduling your workouts in the cooler morning or evening hours. The sun’s rays are usually the most intense between 10 am and 4 pm. If you can’t avoid the midday timeslot, aim for areas of high shade or consider activities in water. Stay Hydrated Don’t wait until you are thirsty to start drinking water. Hydrate before, during, and after your activity. Proper hydration allows your body to regulate its temperature and cool properly, while dehydration is directly related to heat illness. Bring a water bottle or plan adequate [...]

Nutrition and Your Immune System

Your immune system provides protection against many types of illnesses, including many types of infections and certain types of cancer. It is a complicated network of defenses, including physical barriers like our skin extending to microscopic cells that constantly patrol the body searching for invading organisms or irregular cells. A well-functioning immune system is essential for health. The factors that influence the immune system are complex and influenced by many elements of a person’s lifestyle, including nutrition, sleep, exercise, and stress management. Let’s take a closer look at how proper nutrition helps your body stay strong, and which types of foods help boost your defenses. Your Gut Microbiome Proper nutrients also help create a healthier microbiome. The microbiome is a system of trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms within your gut. Experts tell us that 70-80% of our immune system [...]

Nutrition Tips for Aging Gracefully

Healthy eating is a necessary part of wellness at any age. The habits we create with food today will impact our health tomorrow and years into the future. Proper nutrition can help prevent and manage diseases and conditions, lower injury risk, manage weight, and provide adequate energy as we age. Consider the following tips to age gracefully with healthier eating. Variety is Key Eating various foods can help ensure the intake of numerous essential nutrients. Eat the rainbow when it comes to fruits and vegetables. The colors of these foods depict different nutrients, so eating an assortment will help avoid gaps in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Incorporating foods from each food group will create a more balanced diet, including recommended nutrients for older adults like potassium, calcium, vitamin D, dietary fiber, and vitamin B12 (My Plate1). Prioritizing nutrient-dense foods you [...]