Healthy Snacking in a Nutshell

What food comes to mind when you’re packing for a camping trip? Do you automatically reach for the easy options, like sandwiches, hot dogs, hamburgers, and pop tarts? Eating healthy while camping isn’t always top of mind but, it is easier than you think. Here’s a few recipes for your next camping trip.

Watermelon is the quintessential summer treat. They’re naturally sweet and oh-so refreshing during these hot months. Watermelon is also a nutrient powerhouse as it contains the highest amount of lycopene of any fruit or vegetable. Lycopene has been shown to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, specifically prostate cancer. Watermelon at 92% water will also give you a good dose of hydration on these hot July days. Check out this fresh watermelon recipe at your next barbecue. Find the video HERE.

Vitamin D is also referred to as the “sunshine vitamin” because our body produces it when our skin is exposed to sunlight. About 40% of Americans may have in Vitamin D, which has been linked to osteoporosis, cancer, and depression.

High-sugar and high-fat foods activate our brain’s reward system, thus, making us ‘feel’ better. No wonder you may be reaching for these foods more often during the pandemic. Banana Nice Cream is the perfect comfort without all the guilt. There is no added sugar and very little fat, but with all the deliciousness of traditional ice cream.

Learn about Added vs. Natural Sugars and how to read the new Nutrition Facts Label in this 8 minute wellness video. Please contact Melissa Hehmann at mhehmann@citizensenergygroup.com for more personalized recommendations.

It’s strawberry season and there are so many reasons to eat them. Strawberries are not only delicious, but are packed with nutritional benefits. One serving, or about 8 berries, provides 160% of the Recommended Daily Value for Vitamin C and contains high amounts of antioxidants which may help improve heart health, lower the risk of developing some cancers and lower blood pressure. How to Store Strawberries Try to keep your fresh strawberries as dry as possible. Refrigerate strawberries in their original package between 32° and 34°F. Rinse strawberries gently with cool water just before you’re ready to eat them. To enhance their natural flavors, let strawberries reach room temperature before serving.

Has this unprecedented time created an opportunity to focus on your health? Or, has this time created new challenges for you? Either way, your onsite health coaches, Sara Pickett and Melissa Hehmann, are still here for you. We are available over the phone or through online meetings to help you meet your wellness goals, whether those goals focus on weight loss, managing blood pressure or blood sugar, or just improving overall health. Set up your appointment today by reaching out to Sara or Melissa:

Avocados are technically a fruit, a single-seeded berry to be exact. They are available in dozens of varieties from Reed to Zutanmo, but the Haas Avocado is the most common in the United States.

Who doesn’t love taco night? Whether it’s a regular Taco Tuesday or Cinco de Mayo, which happens to fall on a Tuesday this year, you can make tacos that not only taste great, but are also loaded with nutrition. Try these simple ways to have a healthier taco night:

There are many reasons to put asparagus on your plate this spring. It is not only delicious, but it is also low in calories and high in nutrition. It is fiber-rich, high in vitamins like folate and minerals such as potassium and chromium.

Healthy lifestyle behaviors like getting adequate sleep, reducing stress, exercising regularly, not smoking and eating a nutrient-rich diet are the best ways to maintain a robust immune system. These 6 vitamins and minerals can keep your immune system running in tip-top shape. And, remember, your body is better at absorbing these nutrients through food rather than supplements.

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Melissa Hehmann, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator, will be onsite to answer your nutrition questions and support your wellness goals. Feel free to make an appointment via email at mhehmann@citizensenergygroup.com or introduce yourself when she visits.

Along with diet, exercise is key to losing and maintaining weight, but the amount you need is likely more than you think to support weight loss. In this 30 minute class, learn the types and amounts of exercise needed to lose weight and support weight maintenance.

Spring is upon us and so is an abundance of fresh produce from crisp lettuces, asparagus, leafy spring onions, fresh peas and green beans. Stop by on Thursday, March 12th at the Corporate or Langsdale locations during the times listed below to sample a spring recipe and take home additional recipes.

Looking for a quick and energy-packed snack? These heart-healthy, protein-rich energy bites fit the bill. Stop by on Thursday, February 13th at the Corporate or Langsdale locations during the times listed below to sample an energy ball and take home additional recipes.

In the age of Keto, fat is king and sugar is evil. But, this isn't the complete story. There are different types of fats and sugars. In this 30-minute session, find out which types of fats and carbs are most beneficial and the ones you should be avoiding.