Think back to the end of the school year when you were a kid and had the entire summer ahead of you! For many of us it was an exciting time to dream of all the fun things we would do and adventures we would have during our break. As we get older, responsibilities tend to crowd out the childlike wonder that comes with summer, but what if we could reclaim just a bit of it?
What if we let our imaginations take flight and listened to what our hearts really want for this summer? We may not be able to do all the things on our summer bucket list (a trip to Hawaii, or vacation at an all inclusive resort), but we may be able to clarify what is important and lean into those things in little ways.
Clarify Your Values
Think about your priorities! If you don’t clarify your values it is easy to allow other people’s values to direct your days. Here are some exercises that can help you think through your values and decide what is really important to you.
- Take some time to think through what activities you would enjoy this summer, things that bring you life. Do you notice a theme?
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It’s almost summertime and Farmers’ Markets are starting to open up across many communities in the area! In addition to being a fun way to connect with your community and support local farmers, these markets are great places to buy nutrition produce.
The Benefits of Buying Local
When it comes to produce, buying local is the way to go! As soon as produce is picked, it starts to lose some of its nutritional value. Since most supermarket produce travels hundreds of miles from where it is grown to the store, it is out of the ground for quite awhile before it ends up on your dinner table.
Studies have found that levels of vitamin C and folate significantly decrease in produce over time. Eating fresh produce in season will give you more nutrients than eating the same produce in different conditions.
What About Organic?
Many people wonder if it is better to buy organic food from there grocery store, or produce that is not organic from a local farmer.
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Every cell in your body contains protein! Since your body does not store this essential macronutrient, it depends on your diet to provide adequate amounts. It is important to provide this as protein contains amino acids that are the building blocks used to repair and replenish all the tissues in the body!
According to livestrong.com, protein helps “build muscles, produce new cells, regulate hormones and enzymes, heal wounds and promote immune function”. It is considered the most important macronutrient in building muscle, which can elevate your metabolic rate. Since protein also helps you feel full longer, it is great for those wanting to lose weight.
Quality Proteins
Quality is the most important thing to remember when it comes to protein. The protein should be a complete protein, which contains all the amino acids. It also needs to be easily digestible, free from both preservatives and additives.
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Join me at Prairie Path Books on Tuesday, May 7th, (7:00-8:30) for my first cooking demonstration of the year! It will be based off Danielle Walker’s book, Against All Grains.
As an avid home-chef, parent, and chiropractor, I am passionate about healthy foods. I am excited to come alongside those who want to incorporate delicious, nutrient-dense foods into their life.
I personally learned the benefits of eating an anti-inflammatory diet in 2012. I want to make eating real food - fresh vegetables, fruits, as well as the right kinds of meats and fats - accessible to all.
This will be the start of a series of cookbook demonstrations that will run throughout the summer. You can sign up for one demo, or all of them, by calling PPB at (630) 765-7455!
Each demo cost $35 to attend, (and includes a $15 shopping credit)
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Earlier this week it is estimated that over a billion people from across the world celebrated Earth Day! This year Earth Day’s theme was “Protect Our Species”. We were encouraged to do our part to protect endangered animals. One of the ways we can do this is by reducing our use of plastic.
When it comes to plastic, small changes can have a big impact on these animals, as well as the environment. In addition, reducing our use of plastic can have a great impact on OUR health!
The Impact of Plastic on the Environment
Our culture’s reliance on plastic is having a major impact on the environment. Many people do not think about the fact that plastic is made from crude oil. The manufacturing process emits a substantial amount of pollution and, once created, plastic is not biodegradable. According to the Natural Environment website, it takes about 400 years for a plastic bag to break down.
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