An Apple A Day & 5 Easy Ways to Stay Healthy and Happy

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away!”

Do you remember that old saying? It still holds true today! Our body needs the fiber to keep our digestive tract clean and uncongested. One fiber in particular, pectin, helps to reduce LDL ("bad") cholesterol. Some new research also suggests that the phytonutrient called quercetin may help to prevent Alzheimer's and Parkinsonisms, which is also found in apples. There are many health habits that we can practice once a day that can drastically increase our energy, improve memory, and keep us vibrant and healthy. Many cultures, including our early American culture, made habits of the following basics:

·         Eating dinner at home at least 3-5 times a week

o        Fresh, local, foods are the way to go

o        Supplement where your diet may fall short

·         Keep our bodies moving

o        Exercise is vital to our health

o        Walking around the parking lot at lunch or simple movements at your desk

·         Laugh out loud

o        What a big stress reliever!

·         Do something fun and creative every day

o        Do you recall your favorite dish, activity, or person to chat with? Make these pleasures a daily occurrence.

·         Sing and dance

o        This can happen anywhere- in the shower, living room, or break room at work

                  o        Even if you can’t hold a tune

Live, love, and laugh are the basic rules of life.  We are here for the ride and should enjoy it.  Decide today to make your personal “Once a Day” list and stick it on the fridge!   Make sure to do what it involves and note the improvement in your life. 

Another recommended "one a day" is a daily multivitamin. We must replace the nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that we use up on a daily basis.  Even if your diet is optimal and you eat rather healthy, a whole food multivitamin supplement might not be a bad idea. Think of it as an insurance policy, a way to make sure you are giving your body the fuel it needs to help you excel throughout the day!