Page 5 - ROOT by Brock January February 25.indd

Nutrition NOte: SHOW YOUR HEART SOME LOVE
Spice It Up: HORSERADISH February isn’t just about Valentine’s Day. blood sugar. If you have any concerns, consult

It’s also American Heart Health Month, your healthcare provider to manage or reduce
a time dedicated to raising cardiovascular risk factors e ectively.

health awareness and encouraging healthy
heart practices. 4. SPREAD THE WORD:
Share heart health tips with friends and family.
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of Organize or participate in community events

death in the United States. This month o ers a like health fairs, walks, or workshops focusing
vital opportunity to prioritize heart health and on cardiovascular wellness. On February 7,
adopt benefi cial lifestyle changes, such as:
don a cool red outfit on National Wear Red

1. GET MOVING: Day to promote heart health awareness.
Regular physical activity is key to heart health. 5. REDUCE STRESS:
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate Managing stress is essential for heart health.
aerobic exercise per week, like brisk walking, Stress can lead to inflammation-causing plaque

cycling, or swimming. Join a local fitness class, build-up in our arteries. Practice relaxation

start a new exercise routine, or simply take daily
techniques such as meditation or deep breath-
walks to keep your heart in shape. ing to help maintain emotional and physical
2. EAT HEART HEALTHY FOODS: well-being.
Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, Celebrate American Heart Health Month this
whole grains, and lean proteins. Incorporate February by practicing these lifestyle habits,
foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salm- supporting loved ones in their health journeys,
on and walnuts, and reduce your intake of and advocating for cardiovascular wellness in
saturated fats, sugars, and processed foods. your community.
Try to cook more meals at home and ex- Source:
plore heart-healthy recipes.
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/
3. KNOW YOUR NUMBERS: healthy-eating
After learning your family history, monitor
your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and

spotlight on superf ds: NUTS

Focus on Wellne : BALANCED BEVERAGES
Ever wonder how you could spice up your 2. NUTRITIONAL BALANCE: your sense of smell to elevate the drink’s fl a-
beverage routine? Like creating a balanced Blend fruits and vegetables for a good vor. For mocktails or health drinks, layer in-
meal, you can make a well-crafted drink. amount of vitamins and minerals; a pro- gredients to create a visually enticing drink.
Determining how to make a balanced beverage tein source; and healthy fats. For instance, 4. PERSONALIZATION:
involves more than just mixing ingredients. It’s a smoothie with spinach, banana, Greek yo- Customize based on individual health

about achieving the right proportion of flavor, gurt, and chia seeds contains fi ber, protein, needs. If you need extra protein, add a
textures, and nutrients . Here are the tips for and essential fats. Use natural ingredients to scoop of protein powder. For immune sup-
creating a well-crafted balanced beverage: avoid excessive sugar or artifi cial additives. A port, include ingredients like ginger or tur-
good rule to determine high sugar content
1. FLAVOR AGREEMENT: meric. Add a touch of salt if you’re trying to
Ensure your drink is pleasing to the palate. for prepared beverages with available nutri- replenish lost electrolytes.
Mix fl avor profi les. Try combining sweet fruits tion information is to look for drinks with As we seek balance in all areas of our lives, try
like berries with tangy ones like grapefruit or less than 12g of sugar per 12-ounce serving. to incorporate balance into your drink as well.
an acidic taste like a splash of apple cider vine- 3. VISUAL APPEAL:
gar. Adding a small amount of honey or maple The presentation also a ects perceived bal- Source:

syrup can add a touch of sweetness without ance. A vibrant color can enhance the drink- https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/
overpowering the drink. Taste as you blend ing experience. An appealing garnish can healthy-drinks/sugary-drinks/how-sweet-is-it/
and adjust to achieve a balanced fl avor profi le. elevate the overall enjoyment and awaken