Healthy Body Healthy Lifers,
Can you believe it’s already February? It’s crazy to think that Spring is just around the corner. Now that we can start going outside more, it’s time to start thinking about various ways to get out and exercise! Running, walking, biking, playing sports, or running around the park with your kids (like Phoebe from Friends!) can all be great ways to get outdoors and burn some calories. Exercising outdoors can also be an opportunity for a positive family bonding experience. Not only are you setting a great example for your children, by demonstrating the importance of getting out for fresh air and activity, but you are instilling positive life habits for their future.
This article details some important reasons for kids to get outside each and every day:
10 Reasons Kids Need Fresh Air
Today we live in a world where most kids play video games after school or watch TV instead of spending time outside. Do you remember playing outside until the “street lights came on?” That’s what I remember from my childhood- playing tag, riding bikes, or riding scooters & big wheels! So, inspire your kids to get outdoors more- participate in their outdoor activities, go for a family hike, or start a game of frisbee or tag. Not only will your kids enjoy the time together, but you just might find yourself reliving some of the childhood fun yourself, and burning some calories at the same time
I have some great news- HBHL is going to be featured in the Maxwell AFB Newspaper as well as the official AF website this month. We are hoping to expand the program this summer- with programs starting up at Eglin AFB, McChord AFB, Barksdale AFB, the Washington DC area, and hopefully the Peterson AFB area too. Thanks to all of you for helping to make the program a success!!
As a reminder, the HBHL wellness program is designed to give you the tools, resources, and knowledge in order to optimize your overall health. Through education and exercise, paired with an open mind and positive attitude you will have the power to build a healthy body and consequently a healthy life. Note: A one-size-fits-all solution does not exist. I will give you information to help you make educated decisions in regards to fitness/nutrtion. You can then make individualized choices for you and your family. If you haven’t had the chance to check out the testimonials section of the website (or add to it as an active HBHL’er!) please do so here:
HBHL Testimonials
I’m so proud of each and every one of you! Did you know that 70% of premature deaths are preventable according to the CDC? By not smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising, you can decrease your risk of suffering from cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Together- we can make families healthier! As always, I’m here to help answer any questions along the way.
CLICK HERE for this week’s PBz workout
This week’s superfood: OATS!
Oats are a powerful and versatile grain that provide heart protection by lowering LDL (the bad kind) of cholesterol. It is also packed with protein, B vitamins, calcium, iron, and Vitamin E and tons of fiber. We’ve already discussed the importance of fiber in promoting a healthy digestive tract. Now you can help your heart and your tummy in a yummy way!
Oats have been the focus of many recent studies- verifying their health benefits, from protecting against childhood asthma to a substitute for gluten. Oats only contain a TRACE amount of gluten and have demonstrated potential in double blind studies with individuals suffering from celiac disease. To read more about the power of oats check out this website:
More Health Benefits of Oats
What can you do with oats? Beside oatmeal, of course… you can use them to make muffins and breads, or add substance to veggie burgers. You can even add them into your soups for extra thickness! There is even oat flour and oat bran for cooking. Lastly, you can add oatmeal to smoothies or make your own hearty, healthy breakfast of oatmeal and fruit/nuts.
This week’s Recipe: GRANOLA BARS!!
I LOVE this week’s recipe! It is one of my all-time favorites. Awesome recipe for making your own granola bars at home. Some granola bars can cost up to $1 each. This recipe will make 16 bars for about 30 cents each! And the best part? You can make them YOUR way
CLICK HERE for this week’s Yummy Granola Bars
J,
I find the celiac and oats section intriguing. I know I used to eat oats often, until last year when the dietician told me about the crop rotations between wheat and oats and how the leftover wheat is what actually causes the problem. In the fall of 2010 I had my most recent endoscopy and still had some major cellular damage in my intestines, so I finally cut out oatmeal completely. I should probably go get another scope and see if the intestines are healing or not. I would LOVE to be able to eat some quaker oatmeal again, the GF oatmeal is NOT the same! Thanks for the post
I totally agree with kids and fresh air. I realized that my kids get a lot of outdoor time when my 6 y.o. asked for an American Girl doll. I told her she doesn't play with the one she has. She informed me that she doesn't get to play inside much
That's awesome, Jennifer
Charlie,
We made the granola bars yesterday. Just wanted to tell you that they rock. I may never buy another off-the-shelf bar in my life. Thanks for the recipe!
–Tyler
That's awesome!! So glad to hear you guys like them, Tyler