Nutrition Archives - Health & Fitness Wed, 07 Jun 2023 16:31:37 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://media.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/31180853/cropped-cropped-azfwhite-1-32x32.jpg Nutrition Archives - Health & Fitness 32 32 What are the Most Popular Fruits & Vegetables in Arizona? https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/what-are-the-most-popular-fruits-vegetables-in-arizona/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-are-the-most-popular-fruits-vegetables-in-arizona https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/what-are-the-most-popular-fruits-vegetables-in-arizona/#respond Wed, 07 Jun 2023 16:26:19 +0000 https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/?p=9159

No matter the time of year, Arizonians have their favorite fruits and vegetables.

According to a new study by Total Shape, the most popular fruits in Arizona are apples and mangoes, while the most popular vegetable is a mushroom.

Total Shape was able to determine the top 20 most popular fruits and vegetables in the U.S. to find the most popular fruit and veggies in each state by mining Google search data.

In Arizona, apples are searched up to 90,083 times a month on average, while mangoes are searched an average of 9,025 times a month. Mushrooms, Arizona’s most popular vegetable, are searched on average 9,033 times a month. 

Apples are not only the most popular in Arizona, but all over the country. On average, apples are searched up to 4,684,392 times a month in the U.S. 

“There are more than 750 varieties of apples in the world, and more than 100 types of apples existing in the U.S. alone, so it is no surprise that apples are the most popular fruit,” says a spokesperson from Total Shape. 

Mangoes are also the second most searched fruit across the U.S. with an average of 655,623 queries a month. 

Fruits and vegetables are a great way to maintain a healthy lifestyle; however, even though fruits and vegetables are a popular search online, that does not mean that they are consumed as much as they are searched. 

The study also identified common barriers that make it more difficult to live healthier lifestyles. According to Statista, 46% of adults say that healthy eating is too expensive; 23% say they do not have enough time to cook; and 20% say they have a lack of knowledge about healthy diets. 

However, Total Shape emphasizes the importance of healthy living, stating that “Pursuing a healthy lifestyle is a hot topic across the US, and research shows around half of Americans are healthy eaters, according to their own testimonies.”

There are actionable ways to achieve a healthy lifestyle, including incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your daily diet.

“The best way to alter eating habits are to make fruits and vegetables convenient for snacking by storing them in easy access portions in your kitchen,” says the Total Shape spokesperson. “Pack combinations like peanut butter and celery for your daily lunch to get a kick of protein with your fiber.” 

Read the full study data, which breaks down the most popular fruits and vegetables across all U.S. states, here

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5 Easy Ways to Eat Healthy in College https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/5-easy-ways-to-eat-healthy-in-college/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=5-easy-ways-to-eat-healthy-in-college https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/5-easy-ways-to-eat-healthy-in-college/#respond Fri, 02 Jul 2021 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/?p=8834

As a college student, you will inevitably be bombarded with school works and other activities. Because you have so much to finish, you resort to convenient ways to stuff food in your mouth. To eat quickly, you have no choice but to buy from fast-food restaurants or eat chips to sate your hunger. As a result, you do not have a healthy college diet, and this can cause you more harm than good in the future.

The drastic effects of unhealthy college dieting can be resolved in several ways. It would help if you buy cheap essay or avail yourself of custom writing services. Because they will work on your projects, you can have more time to purchase or cook nutritious food. This way, you will not sacrifice your overall wellness. Besides this method, it would help if you follow the five ways to eat well in college discussed below.

Eat a Hearty Breakfast

When you were in grade school, your parents must have prepared your breakfast every day. They ensured that you had it before going to school because they know how vital it is. Dubbed as the most important meal of the day, breakfast gives you the energy and helps you concentrate on your tasks. 

However, you might think that this is easier said than done as a college student living without your parents. While that might be true for most people, you must know that it takes effort to do this. It would be best if you weigh the pros and cons of skipping breakfast and grocery shopping for your supplies. The former saves you time to do other activities, while the latter requires you to take some time to buy and prepare. But by doing it, you can gain more benefits in the long run.

Therefore, part of learning how to eat well in college is evaluating which actions you can do to achieve your long-term goals. By eating a good breakfast every morning, you will feel energized and focused on your tasks. Later on, you will reap the benefits of making this a habit.

Keep Healthy Snacks in Your Bag or Pocket

Often, you will feel your stomach growl while studying. As it happens, you might think that the best way to fill your hunger is by eating sugary or fatty snacks. However, it would be best if you always have healthy snacks inside your bag. While grocery shopping, you should also include them in your list. Look at the nutritional facts and ingredients found on the packaging. For healthier options, you can look for dried fruits, vegetable-based snacks, or wheat bread.

You do not know when your hunger strikes, so it is better to be prepared. This way, you can resist buying from fast-food restaurants. Eating healthy in college also entails utmost discipline, even in simple things.

Visit the Dining Hall Salad Bar

If you live in a dorm, it is tempting to choose the salty, sweet, and fatty food, or basically the ones bad for your health. You might not even think of eating vegetables anymore because no one is telling you to do so. But you must know that fruits and vegetables are  necessary for your body as well.

So, it would help if you look around the canteen or dining hall. As you do it, you might stumble upon the pre-cooked balanced meals or salad bar. If you do not like to eat them every day, you can try to have them every other day. This way, you will not feel forced to eat salads. Even if you are away from your parents, you must learn how to eat healthy in college dorms.

Avoid Junk Food

This is not new anymore, but you still struggle with it. Whether you like it or not, you cannot avoid eating junk food altogether. But there is a reason they are called junk food. They do not contribute good nutrients to our bodies, opposite to what the makers claim. These include sugary drinks, pizzas, white bread, French fries, chips, processed meat, etc. If someone asked if you want to order one, think more than once before purchasing. Remember the saying, “A minute on your lips, a lifetime on your hips.”

However, there will be moments you will crave it because you know how tasty they are. Or you will feel the “need” to eat them because you feel sad or tired. In those times, you can consume them moderately or occasionally because doing this in excess is harmful. By doing this once in a while, you will not be depriving yourself. But then, it would still be best to avoid them altogether.

Eat More Fruits and Drink Plenty of Water

As mentioned previously, you need to eat fruits and vegetables every day. You might already be familiar with the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” While this seems unrealistic, you must understand that fruits can keep our bodies healthy. They are packed with many vitamins and minerals our body needs. These include vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, magnesium, and more. Consuming them helps prevent vitamin deficiencies that can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, weight loss, and so on.

Moreover, you must not forget to drink your eight glasses of water daily. In the midst of your busyness, you might neglect to do this. But you must find a way to remind yourself to drink accordingly. You can set a reminder using your smartphone to help you remember it. Furthermore, it would help if you always bring your water container or tumbler. This way, you can save money from buying expensive bottled ones. In educating yourself on how to eat healthy in college, you will also learn to be economical.

In conclusion, living a healthy lifestyle as a college student may be challenging for so many reasons. It can be because you are now trying to let yourself lose, exploring new things, or becoming busy. However, you must continuously find ways to eat healthy, like eating breakfast, fruits, healthy snacks, and drinking water. You can also look for a salad bar and avoid junk food. But remember that whichever tip you follow, your lifestyle changes will only take effect through your consistency and motivation. Always keep in mind that health is wealth.

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Protect Summer Skin with These Immunity Boosting Smoothie Recipes https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/protect-summer-skin-with-these-immunity-boosting-smoothie-recipes/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=protect-summer-skin-with-these-immunity-boosting-smoothie-recipes https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/protect-summer-skin-with-these-immunity-boosting-smoothie-recipes/#respond Wed, 19 May 2021 15:46:55 +0000 https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/?p=8757 Skincare expert Olga Parno of Masktini shares her delicious immunity-boosting breakfast recipes that you can make from simple ingredients at home.

Olga’s refreshing breakfast smoothie is perfect for spring and summer since the high levels of Vitamin C found in the kale and mango enhance the effectiveness of sunscreen! The drink contains antioxidant-rich kale which helps slow cellular aging, plus lots of vitamin C to help protect skin from damage, ease inflammation, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and assist the body’s natural production of collagen.

The pineapple contains bromelain, which not only helps digestion but also fights inflammation, while flaxseeds contain a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids to give you glowing skin and speed up the body’s healing process.

Skin Magic Mango Smoothie
  • 1 cup chopped kale 
  • 1 cup of mango chunks 
  • 1 cup of pineapple chunks
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – unfiltered
  • 2 tbsp ground flaxseeds
  • 1 cup of water or almond milk – you can add more if needed for desired consistency

Add all the ingredients to your blender. Place kale closest to cutting blades. Blend until the mixture is smooth. Pour and serve.

Skin Refresher Watermelon Smoothie

Inspired by hot summer days & Masktini Woke Bae moisture spray this smoothie is super refreshing, light, and good for your skin! Watermelon is rich in vitamin A and C. Vitamin C helps your body make collagen (a protein that keeps your skin supple and your hair strong). 

Vitamin A helps with the production and repair of skin cells (regenerating function). Strawberry has great anti-oxidant properties that help protect your skin from UV rays and delay the process of aging.

They are also anti-inflammatory and packed with alpha-hydroxylic acid that helps remove dead skin cells and works well for acne-prone skin. 

Pineapple contains a powerful enzyme called bromelain which helps to exfoliate dead skin cells and reduce inflammation. Mint leaves work as mild astringent that helps to tone your skin; they also help retain moisture in your skin by tightening the pores.

Let’s make it:

  • 1 1/2 cups of watermelon cut into cubes
  • 1 cup of strawberries
  • 1 cup of pineapple
  • Fresh mint leaves

Throw all these ingredients in the blender and add coconut milk/or water. Squeeze a fresh lemon blend together, add some ice and blend more for smooth consistency pour in a fancy island/tropical inspired glass, top it off with a cute umbrella/or flower and a shiny sustainable straw – it’s a self care moment.

If you don’t feel like spending time in the kitchen working on the above recipes, consider this ready-to-blend smoothie from Blendtopia.

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GoFigure’s Guide to Stop Overeating with Jenna Homsey https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/news/gofigures-guide-to-stop-overeating-with-jenna-homsey/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=gofigures-guide-to-stop-overeating-with-jenna-homsey https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/news/gofigures-guide-to-stop-overeating-with-jenna-homsey/#respond Wed, 05 May 2021 18:17:09 +0000 https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/?p=8746 Hi there! I’m Jenna Homsey of GoFigure Personal Training, and I am now a new columnist for AZ Foothills. I own an online coaching and in-person training business for women and love helping others find a healthier lifestyle both physically and mentally.

I’ll be sharing helpful tips, tricks, workouts, recipes, and more on this platform! Here are a few simple tips you can implement into your daily routine to help in the prevention of overeating and binging and help you find freedom from food. 

Photo by Taylor Cifuentes, Hair by Renee Wells, Makeup by Robyn Broom, and Outfit is Bilbo Sportswear.
  1. Focus on your food! Try not to watch television while eating or be working on other things. Take a few minutes to relax, be grateful for your food, and enjoy. We tend to eat more when we are distracted so try to be present.
  2. Chew gum! You will consume fewer calories per day if you chew gum when you are hungry and it isn’t mealtime. Make sure it is the fruity kind rather than mint (mint makes healthy food taste weird).
  3. Use red plates! I know it sounds silly but research shows that people eat fewer snacks when they are served in red bowls or plates. This is seemingly to be true because we tend to associate the word ‘stop’ with red.
  4. Write down or track your food. MyFitnessPal is great tool/app to use to put your daily intake and macronutrients into.
  5. Try a cleanse! This is something that may help for a day to reset your cravings and remind yourself that YOU are in control. Always keep this in mind when you feel like you may fall off track. Something that helped me when I went through a period off binging and overeating was reminding myself that I “didn’t need to” eat something rather than I “couldn’t have it”. The biggest thing for me was not feeling like I was restricting myself, but rather knowing that if I had sweets I would feel a more sluggish and workouts would be harder.
  6. Cut out alcohol if it leads to overeating. When we are drinking, we typically aren’t eating the healthiest during or after, and possibly even the following day. It also makes your workouts that much more difficult the next day trying to get back into it! Please keep in mind, though, that we are all human and this is LIFE. You should be able to live it and not punish yourself for eating some yummy food. Just keep it in moderation and tailored to your specific goals!
  7. The most important tip that I tell all my clients and competitors:
Photo by Joe Mikoli, Hair and Makeup by Megan Homsey, and Bikini is Bilbo Sportswear.

Remember that we eat for purpose – we do not eat for pleasure. I get it. I know that eating a nice NY Style Cheesecake or some freshly baked donuts is definitely pleasurable. However, it is only short-term pleasure. Remember the big picture and keeping your goals in mind.

Hold yourself accountable, but don’t beat yourself up if you “fall off track”. One bad meal won’t make you fat and one good meal doesn’t make you skinny. Stay on track, be patient, and trust that the process will work if you just give it time. You got this!

For more information on Jenna Homsey and GoFigure Personal Training, visit: www.gofiguretraining.com

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Natural Immune Boosting Supplements for Cold and Flu Season https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/natural-immune-boosting-supplements-for-cold-and-flu-season/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=natural-immune-boosting-supplements-for-cold-and-flu-season https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/natural-immune-boosting-supplements-for-cold-and-flu-season/#respond Wed, 27 Jan 2021 20:03:30 +0000 https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/?p=8549

Cold and flu season is once again upon us, and it seems everyone turns to vitamin C as the first line of defense. However, other natural immune-boosting supplements should be incorporated to support a healthy immune system. 

People eating a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables may still not be getting enough of the vitamins they need due to agricultural elements such as herbicides and pesticides used on crops.

Dr. Kiera Smialek, ND, of Natural Kid Doc, said supplementing your diet with certain herbs, minerals, vitamins, and probiotics is beneficial in supporting a healthy immune system.

There is research to support that specific vitamins, minerals, and herbs regulate immune system function, Having a combination of these vitamins, minerals, and herbs can also help fight off the viruses causing colds and the flu.


– Dr. Kiera Smialek, ND, of Natural Kid Doc

Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral for the development of particular immune cells. These immune cells help target infections in the body and fight viruses. According to research by the Mayo Clinic, taking zinc at the onset of a cold often decreases the symptoms if it is taken within the first 24 hours of infection.

Foods containing zinc include shellfish, meats, whole grains, legumes, egg yolk, nuts, and seeds. 

Vegetarians and vegans often need to supplement zinc due to the lack of zinc in their diet.


– Dr. Kiera Smialek, ND, of Natural Kid Doc

Garlic

Garlic is an exceptional antiviral and antimicrobial food due to a heavy concentration of sulfur-containing compounds such as allicin. Allicin has immune-boosting properties that help prevent the common cold and flu.

According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, garlic has been shown to treat chronic bronchitis, sore throat, sinus problems, and respiratory infections.

Garlic can be eaten as a food, infused into tea or herbal cough syrups, or taken as a supplement in capsule or tablet form. 


– Dr. Kiera Smialek, ND, of Natural Kid Doc

Vitamin D

Some studies show a deficiency in vitamin D is associated with an increased susceptibility to infections in general. 

Vitamin D is one of the most important vitamins when it comes cold and flu season because it helps boost the immune system, according to the University of Maryland Medical System

Supplementing vitamin D is needed during the cold and flu season because most of the vitamin D people receive comes through sunlight.

I typically recommend vitamin D supplementation during cold and flu season.

During the colder months, there is less exposure to sunlight, which is the main source of vitamin D.

It is recommended you be outdoors with most of your skin exposed for at least 15 to 20 minutes a day to receive enough vitamin D from the sun.


– Dr. Kiera Smialek, ND, of Natural Kid Doc

Vitamin D can be found in the skin of fatty fish. There are also small amounts found in cheese, egg yolk and beef liver. Many foods are now fortified with vitamin D, including milk, orange juice, breakfast cereal, and bread. 

Elderberry

Elderberry is a plant that produces berries with medicinal properties. 

Elderberry is often formulated into a palatable syrup, or the extract is put into capsules. 

Elderberries are high in antioxidants and have immune-modulating benefits. These antioxidants help fight viruses and support healthy immune system function.

Most people buy or make elderberry syrup because it tastes excellent and can be taken from a spoon. Elderberry tea is another popular option for those who enjoy drinking tea.


– Dr. Kiera Smialek, ND, of Natural Kid Doc

Probiotics

Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria in the gut, which play a major role in immune health. Probiotics work by enhancing digestive and immune system function. People often think of eating yogurt as a good source of probiotics.  

 Yes, yogurts have some good bacteria, but a lot of yogurts have a ton of sugar in them.

However, you aren’t going to receive all of the benefits from the probiotics in yogurt because you are eating a large amount of sugar, which is inflammatory and has a detrimental effect on your immune system.

Fermented foods like kimchi, kefir, and sauerkraut are preferred over dairy-based products as a source of dietary probiotics.


– Dr. Kiera Smialek, ND, of Natural Kid Doc

Smialek said she recommends people supplement high-quality blends of probiotics in a powder or capsule form to receive all of the benefits.

Proper Doses

Taking the right dosage of a vitamin is the most crucial aspect in receiving the therapeutic benefits. The recommended daily amount on the packaging for vitamins is the bare minimum a person should take.

Taking more than the recommended dose is not always beneficial. For example, if you take too much vitamin C, you will just pass it out of your body through your urine. Taking more than recommended vitamins A, D, and K can cause you to overdose, which can be dangerous. 


– Dr. Kiera Smialek, ND, of Natural Kid Doc

Smialek recommends consulting with a healthcare provider, such as a naturopathic doctor, functional medicine doctor, or nutritionist, to determine the correct dose of nutritional supplements.   

In general, I encourage people to eat a healthy diet high in antioxidant foods during cold and flu season. Making sure they are eating more fruits and vegetables, and less inflammatory foods like dairy and sugar is beneficial in keeping the immune system healthy.


– Dr. Kiera Smialek, ND, of Natural Kid Doc

Keep in mind you should always consult a physician before starting any supplement regimen.

Author:

Joey Hancock is a freelance writer living in Tempe, Arizona. He has reported health, politics, sports, engineering, and education at multiple Southern Arizona publications.

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The Importance of Water for Your Health by Carolyn Wellington https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/the-importance-of-water-for-your-health-by-carolyn-wellington/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-importance-of-water-for-your-health-by-carolyn-wellington https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/the-importance-of-water-for-your-health-by-carolyn-wellington/#comments Tue, 26 Jan 2021 22:13:39 +0000 https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/?p=8541 Written by Carolyn Wellington

How important is water in our lives? 

Water is often known as an anti-aging remedy because it helps to remove toxins and cleanses. 

It is common knowledge that water is beneficial to our health, mind, body and skin. Ageing is a part of life, it happens to us all, so what can we do to help ourselves and look after our bodies and skin, the way we are supposed to and age looking the best we can be.

The body is approximately 70% water, and water is essential for the body to function correctly. Water is needed for almost every human process. Let us look at the importance of water and how we can help ourselves. Taking care of what is happening inside your body, results in a beautiful healthy glow on the outside.

Dehydration

What happens to the body when you do not drink enough water? It dehydrates quickly. 

Some of the first signs of dehydration are:

  • Thirst
  • Dry mouth, lips, eyes
  • Headache, feeling dizzy or lightheaded.
  • Tiredness
  • Dark urine (pee) 

Some of the problems caused by dehydration are: 

  • Muscle cramps
  • Kidney problems
  • Constipation
  • Premature ageing – skin lacking elasticity
  • Bad breath
  • Fatigue
  • Lack of self-care

Hydration

So, what are the benefits of keeping yourself hydrated?

  • Helps to reduce fatigue.
  • Aids in weight management.
  • Assists the immune system to function more efficiently. 
  • Gets rid of toxins and helps cleanse the body. 
  • Staying hydrated can help prevent cramps. It has shown that hydrating with water alone after exercise is merely not enough. Rehydrate after exercise, with a drink containing electrolytes to help prevent muscle cramps.
  • Plumps up the skin making it look smoother.
  • Can help manage joint pain.
  • Keeping the brain hydrated allows it to function more efficiently. 

Talk to your doctor or health professional about the causes of dehydration and the benefits of keeping hydrated.

From these few basic well-known facts, staying hydrated is necessary for overall health and wellbeing. Keeping hydrated helps to maintain adequate blood volume allowing nutrients within the blood to move around the body. For true beauty and good health, water is one of the main elements in any health and beauty regime. Water is not only essential for the inner organs, digestive and circulatory system to function correctly. It is crucial for the health and beauty of the largest organ, the skin. 

Your Skin and Water

Questions I am repeatedly asked, ‘at the age of 60, what is your secret to clear skin, and why do you not have any facial lines or wrinkles?’ 

Well here goes, there are no secrets, except discipline in taking care of my general health and wellbeing. One of the main things I do is make sure I drink plenty of water throughout the day. Always having a glass of water with me has become one of my trademarks when I do my daily live video chats on my Facebook group The Perfect Balance Health & Lifestyle Community

When the skin becomes dehydrated, it becomes vulnerable and prone to the signs of ageing. Extreme heat can also lead to excessive sweating, causing dehydration and skin damage. The more hydrated the skin, the more moisture it holds improving skin tone with fewer wrinkles and facial lines.

 The benefits of drinking water for your skin are:

  • Removes toxins from the blood, helping the skin to glow.
  • Helps the skin to maintain moisture.
  • Plumps up the skin, helping prevent fine lines and wrinkles. 

The body loses water every day through breathing, sweating, the passing of urine and faeces. Water is needed for whole body appearance and cleansing, not just for facial appearance. Overall, water helps keep you fresh, clean, healthy and have beautiful looking skin. 

Another question repeatedly asked, ‘does drinking lots of water help remove cellulite?’

Cellulite is defined as persistent subcutaneous fat, causing dimpling of the skin, especially on women’s hips and thighs, making women feel very self-conscious about their appearance. There are a vast range of creams, treatments and therapies out there in the beauty market, but water is a natural cleanser, excellent for flushing out toxins and should be number one on your list. 

Results may take time, like anything perseverance and consistency are essential, along with a healthy balanced nutritional diet and regular exercise. Health experts as a guideline, recommend about 2 litres of water a day. Fruit and vegetables also contain a high level of water, helping you look and feel better.

Your Moods and Water

Oh, the mood swings! Can water help? 

Dehydration brings tiredness, fatigue and lingering headaches. When suffering from these symptoms, you may become irritable, short-tempered and lack patience. It is essential to increase your water intake, get plenty of sleep and prioritise your needs. Taking time for you will help improve your moods.

Water and Your General Health and Wellbeing

As shown, water has many benefits, helping maintain a perfect balance. Again, here some of the benefits of water:

  • Improves memory and thought performance.
  • Enhances your exercise workout, helping to increase blood flow.
  • Cold water therapy, combined with a stretch and recovery program, is used by many athletes, celebrities and trainers, to assist with muscles soreness, strains, sprains and swellings.
  • Studies show drinking two glasses of water, 30 minutes before a meal can help reduce your calorie intake and hunger. Many times, we think we are hungry when we are thirsty. So before reaching for the biscuit tin or that snack, you think you are craving, ask yourself how much water you have drunk today. 

Carolyn’s Tips

Do we all agree water plays a big part in our lives? 

Here are a few tips that I use daily:

  • On waking, start with two, glasses of water (the water should be room temperature) do not shock the body by drinking ice cold water or drinking it fast. The water naturally stimulates the bowels and gives the body a good kickstart.
  • Instead of coffee at breakfast, have a cup of warm water with a slice of lemon, good for cleansing and aids digestion.
  • Always has a glass of water or bottle with you at work, in the car, in the kitchen and drink it throughout the day and keep topping it up (never allow your glass or bottle to be empty)
  • Reduce your caffeine intake, replace it with a nice glass of water.
  • Reduce your sugary drinks with water and a slice of fruit to give it a little flavour!
  • Set an hourly alarm to ensure you drink regularly throughout the day.
  • Always have a glass/bottle of water by your bedside.

Starting today, increase your water intake. Carry a bottle of water with you, make sure you drink it throughout the day. Leave me a reply below with an update of how you are getting on. 

Focus on what you want to achieve and remain consistent. Stay hydrated your future self will thank you.

For more information on Carolyn Wellington, visit her platforms:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/carolynwellington_28 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theperfectbala1

Twitter: www.twitter.com/carolyn_282

Website: www.theperfectbalancecompany.com

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Premium Sparkling Prickly Pear Cactus Water Debuts in Arizona https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/premium-sparkling-prickly-pear-cactus-water-debuts-in-arizona/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=premium-sparkling-prickly-pear-cactus-water-debuts-in-arizona https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/premium-sparkling-prickly-pear-cactus-water-debuts-in-arizona/#respond Thu, 21 Jan 2021 21:18:26 +0000 https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/?p=8516

The beverage aisle is dominated by sugary, nutrient-deficient drinks, including juices that claim to be healthy and sodas that offer zero calories and are loaded with harmful chemicals.

Finding a natural, healthy and delicious drink was a challenge until now with the debut of Lauro Sparkling Cactus Water.

Founded and created by Phoenix-based, Lauren Robson, Lauro Sparkling Cactus Water is the first and only sparkling cactus water on the market. Made from all organic prickly pear puree, lime juice and agave nectar – three simple ingredients that make a big impact.

Prickly pear has a sweet and tart taste like fresh raspberries. There are no concentrates, additives, colorants, artificial ingredients, or “natural flavors”.

After a long day by the pool with my family, I decided that I had had enough of fighting my kids and myself to stay hydrated.

I knew exactly what I wanted because I had been looking for a while. It had to be natural, plant-based, low in sugar, and my kids had to want to drink it.


– Lauren Robson, founder and creator of Lauro Sparkling Cactus Water

Robson had spent 15 years in the health and nutrition industry before leaving her job in 2019 to create Lauro. Prickly pear was the unique ingredient she had been looking for.

Prickly pear is fast becoming the latest “superfood” as it is packed with plant-based electrolytes, antioxidants, and amino acids. It also has 30% less sugar and calories than coconut water.

Benefits include electrolyte replenishment, healthy skin, support of Type 2 diabetes, muscle recovery, immunity-boosting, hangover recovery, and more.

Robson also has a passion for giving and recently delivered 520 cases of Lauro prickly pear water to frontline healthcare workers. These cases were delivered to:

  • Mayo Clinic
  • ValleyWise Hospital
  • HonorHealth hospital
  • Phoenix Children’s Hospital

Additionally, 33 pallets which are 3,432 cases were delivered to St. Mary’s Food Bank. Totaling more than 84,000 cans of healthy and delicious water that were donated.

Lauro is available at eight Valley AJ’s Fine Foods, 10 Whole Foods throughout Arizona, Le Grand Orange, Royal Palms Resort, the Desert Botanical Garden among other small retail locations.

For more information visit www.drinkcactus.com

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23VITALS ~ The Delicious and Ultimate Immune Support https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/23vitals-the-delicious-and-ultimate-immune-support/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=23vitals-the-delicious-and-ultimate-immune-support https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/23vitals-the-delicious-and-ultimate-immune-support/#respond Fri, 11 Dec 2020 21:28:32 +0000 https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/?p=8269

As we head into what’s predicted to be a “dark winter” ahead for Covid, 23VITALS offers a daily dose of immunity essentials all in ONE scoop! 

From masks to mandates, if you’re looking for another way to help keep yourself and others safe during these crazy times then check out 23VITALS.

At 23VITALS, they understand that keeping your immunity up requires more than a daily dose of Vitamin C. From your blood flow to your microbiome to your respiratory health, every system in your body is connected and has an affect on how your body handles foreign invaders. 

This is why their trailblazing formula isn’t just a quick fix when the sniffles hit. It’s designed to create a long term platform of health and resilience based on the latest research and innovations in immunity health, using only one scoop a day. 

23VITALS Highlights:

  • Formulated with 23 essential vitamins, minerals, and immune system optimizing ingredients
  • Supports your microbiome and gut health, healthy blood flow, and circulation
  • Helps maintain a healthy inflammation response and cellular health 
  • Only takes one scoop, once a day 
  • Can be added to smoothies, yogurt, water, and more
  • Gluten-Free, Soy Free
  • Non-GMO
  • Available in two flavors: Strawberry Lemonade and Orange Creamsicle

In addition to bringing consumers the world’s most powerful immune defense formula at the best price point, 23VITALS also believes in giving back.

With each purchase, they’ll donate 10% to the charity of your choice!

$99 for 30 servings – Available on https://23vitals.com/

And coming soon on Amazon!

23VITALS is delicious and perfect for throwing into some water or a smoothie. I chose the orange creamsicle, and it is not only healthy but INSANELY delicious with whatever you choose to pair it with.

No longer is the term “healthy” going to be paired with the term “tasteless.”


– Tyler Hollis, communications director for AZFoothills Magazine
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National Wellness Month – With Tone It Up https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/national-wellness-month-with-tone-it-up/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=national-wellness-month-with-tone-it-up https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/national-wellness-month-with-tone-it-up/#respond Thu, 13 Aug 2020 22:47:16 +0000 https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/fitness/?p=8061

It’s National Wellness Month as recognized by The Registrar at National Day Calendar and this month we are focusing on self-care, creating healthy routines and stress management.

In order to create new, healthier habits that promote holistic wellness we are looking to the Tone It Up community for healthy recipes/products, fitness exercises/workouts, and a space for endless accountability. 

Tone It Up is…

A movement. A lifestyle. Your community.

Tone It Up empowers you to live your healthiest, happiest, and most confident life. From workouts to healthy recipes, meditations, and a vibrant community, you’ll feel connected— mind, body, and soul.

Tone It Up is here for you on your wellness journey making fitness and nutrition welcoming, accessible, and best of all, fun! #TIUteam

Tone It Up Nutrition

Tone It Up’s nutrition line is made for women, by women. With simple and clean ingredients you can trust, Tone It Up provides you with the best-tasting and highest-quality protein powder, collagen, shakes, bars, snacks, and more!

Tone It Up’s protein powders and bars are plant-based, non-GMO, clean, and light. They fuel you post-workout, energize you, and help you form beautiful lean muscle.

Tone It Up Collagen is the ultimate beauty boost! The most beloved collagen for women, it is sourced from the highest- quality, sustainable marine collagen peptides. The formula is made with non-GMO marine collagen, and it’s gluten-free and KO Kosher. The amino acids in collagen help to support radiant hair and glowing skin.

Tone It Up Nutrition products are dairy-free, gluten-free, and never made with sugar alcohols.

TIU is the top selling protein at Target nationwide!
Tone It Up has TONS of healthy recipes to check out here:  https://www.toneitup.com/recipes/

The Tone It Up App

The Tone It Up App is your at-home fitness studio. Join the app to connect with the community, access recipes at your fingertips, and to workout anywhere, anytime.

From toning to strength training, yoga, dance, HIIT, meditations, and pre and postnatal workouts, we have every workout that feels personalized and perfect for you!

For more information, visit: https://my.toneitup.com/pages/challenge

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On-The-Go Healthy Summer Snacks! https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/on-the-go-healthy-summer-snacks/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=on-the-go-healthy-summer-snacks https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/health-and-fitness/nutrition/on-the-go-healthy-summer-snacks/#respond Tue, 07 Jul 2020 23:32:44 +0000 https://www.arizonafoothillsmagazine.com/fitness/?p=8046 We’ve gathered a variety of guiltless, yummy snacks that the whole family will love – so go ahead, grab a handful 🙂

Sael Wellness
Being healthy should be easy and we are here to help. We strive to make products that help you live a healthy, energetic, and happy lifestyle without sacrificing fun and convenience. Our products are made to the highest standards and we focus on solving specific nutritional problems so that we can truly help make a difference in your life.

Price: $24.99

Available at: https://sael.com/

Voke Superfood
Voke is a convenient chewable tablet that clears brain fog and rapidly transforms your ability to focus on the task at hand. With superfoods backed by over 25 independent research studies, Voke will help you maintain all-day mental energy, laser focus, upbeat mood, & clear thinking.

Price: Varies

Available at: https://vokesuperfood.com/  

The Jali Fruit Co.
Jali Fruit is 100% handcrafted by rural women farmers from all over the world. Made with no added sugar and no preservatives, our fruit is bold in flavor and packed with vitamins. It’s the perfect natural grab-n-go snack with a story. By working directly with farmers, the middleman is cut out and every batch of dried fruit is ethically sourced with quality at the top of the mind.

Price: 3 pack at $16, 5 pack at $24, 10 pack at $44

Available at: https://jalifruit.co/ 

Flax4Life
It’s not easy to find a dairy/gluten/nut allergy-friendly sweet treat that’s actually palatable, but with Flax4Life, flavor enthusiasts find the moist and perfectly flavorful goodies to be loved by all while enjoying the added bonus of all-natural ingredients, and a healthy dose of Omega 3, fiber, lignan’s and no preservatives, no hydrogenated fat, no cholesterol, and no trans fats.

Price: $5.99+

Available at: https://flax4life.net/  

Berg Bites
For satisfying your sweet tooth and for a handy, nutrient-dense snack, Berg Bites delivers long-lasting energy with complex carbohydrates from heart-healthy oats, essential fatty acids from nuts, chia seeds, and coconut oil, and prebiotic fiber for gut health. Vegan and gluten-free, these tasty morsels feature plant protein from nuts and pea protein.

Price: $19.99+ Variety Packs

Available at: https://www.bergbites.com/   

Shrewd Food
Whether you’re craving something savory and tangy, or you’re in the mood for something comforting and sweet, Shrewd Food has got you covered! They offer the perfect variety of different snacks for the most shrewd snackers like,  Protein Puffs, Protein Croutons, Protein Chocolate Dippers, Keto Chocolate Dippers and Protein Cookies.   

Price: Varies

Available at: https://shrewdfood.com/ 

Slim Chillers
Slim Chillers Skinny Freezers is a line of alcohol-filled freeze pops that are not only incredibly delicious and refreshing but easy on the waistline! At just 100 calories a pop, these boozy tubes of tastiness are just what we all need this summer! Bursting with an abundance of cranberry, orange, and a pinch of lime; the Cosmopolitan Skinny Freezer delivers the perfect thirst-quenching low-calorie cocktails poolside, beach-side, bar-side, babe-side, whatever-side, for any “Cosmo” lover. Just toss in the freezer and get ready to live your best life! 

Price: $27.99+

Available at: https://slimchillers.com/

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