5 Ways to Stay Healthy This Winter

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Walgreens via Mode Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Walgreens

Though signs of spring are slowly beginning to appear – it’s still winter and it could last for several more weeks. We’re very happy, mama especially, that this winter wasn’t marked with a lot of coughs, colds or time spent at the doctor’s office. In fact, other than a sniffle here and there, we had a very healthy winter! That makes mama happy! I know we can’t always avoid getting sick – but we can be proactive in trying to protect ourselves in an effort to stay healthy. Here are a few things we focused on this winter.

1. Taking Vitamins

Walgreens brand vitamins (and supplements) are a staple in our home. It’s amazing how much better I feel when I take the vitamins that my body needs. We’re all different and will have different needs – but there are a few that each member of our family takes. At the top of our list is Vitamins A, B6, B12, C, and D. We also make sure to get a lot of calcium! 

When shopping for vitamins, you might find it useful to know that you can help a child in need with every vitamins or supplements purchase at Walgreens. Millions of children around the world are suffering from ‘hidden hunger’, a lack of micronutrients that can lead to disease and even death. In fact, 45% of all childhood deaths are attributable to under-nutrition. Walgreens is giving a portion of all vitamin retail sales to Vitamin Angels to help 100 million children in the U.S. and abroad get the vitamins they need to live well.

2. Keep Hands Clean

We touch a lot of surfaces and objects throughout the day. That can add up to a lot of germs collected and transferred to our face, lips and mouth. I think my kids touch everything they see when we are out grocery shopping, etc. While I’m working to remind them that we can’t go around touching everything we see – I’m also reminding them to wash their hands often. 

If we’ve been out an about – I have them wash their hands when we return home. Hands are also washed before handling food and meal time. When water and soap aren’t available, we use hand sanitizer. Remember to monitor your child’s use of hand sanitizer to help keep them from using too much or ingesting any of the gel.

Not a fan of hand sanitizer? Baby wipes are also great for keeping hands clean! I keep a pack in the car and if we’re hiking, enjoying a festival or amusement park – they are toted around with us.

3. Eat Healthy

I think we (at our home) are more tempted to have unhealthy eating habits when the weather has turned cold and we spend more time indoors. When we’re curled up on the couch, the comfort foods are just a little more appealing for some reason.

Make it a point to include fruits and veggies into your diet during these winter months. You may need their nutrients more than ever during this time of year. We’ve made sure to have at least one meal that includes a salad each week and to keep fruits and vegetables available for snacking.

4. Stay Active

The winter is a great excuse to stay inside and become inactive. The short days and long evenings can easily keep us on the couch. Make sure to remain active during these months. A brisk walk or ice skating with the kids can help to keep you feeling better, boost your immune system and relieve any tension that builds up from being indoors too long.

Can’t make it outside? Include an exercise routine to your day. Order a video exercise series or search online for free instructional videos. You’ll find that there are even exercises your kids can enjoy alongside you.

5. Proper Rest

Getting the right amount of sleep is important no matter the time of year. I’ve noticed that it’s easier for me to stay up later working or watching movies when the days have become shorter and I’m inside more. However, for my vitamins, nutrients and foods to be used properly by my body – my body needs rest. Ensure that you are getting to bed at a good time and sleeping long enough for your body to get the rest it needs.

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ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill

A few years ago, we burned out our treadmill. I say 'burned out' because while in use, it would begin to give off a burning rubber smell and give a slight electrical shock if you reach down to touch the equipment while running/walking on it. That was quite an experience. It had been a great find at a yard sale. It lasted for a few years and had actually been free as the current owner thought it didn't work. So, we hauled it home and plugged it in. It worked fine for a few years. It was worth it, I guess.

After it died on us, we dismantled it and moved on. We simply began to run on the road or use my parent's treadmill. That wasn't always convenient but it worked.

Recently, we've been using the ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill. What do we like most about it? Well, we love that it isn't anything like our previous treadmill! Our biggest need from a treadmill is that it be capable of the miles that we would demand of it. At least one of us is on it everyday.

Pro 2000 Treadmill. Step into the revolutionary world of interactive training with iFit technology with the Pro 2000 Treadmill! Access unlimited workouts built by a certified personal trainer, map your route with Google Maps, track your progress automatically, compete with friends and customize your workouts. For faster results, measure your daily progress with our 7-inch backlit display while you access 32 workout apps, QuickSpeed, Quick Incline and Quick Decline controls. Instructions included. Customer assembly required. Lifetime frame and motor warranty, 5-year parts warranty and 2-year labor warranty. Materials: Steel/PVC Dimensions: 80" L x 40" W x 63" H Weight: 230 lbs

The Pro 2000 is leaps and bounds more useful than our previous unit.  It allows us to vary our workouts and keep them interesting.   We love its range of speed.  It fits our very different speeds.  He's fast.  I'm not as fast.   Not that either of us could run 12 miles an hour - but this treadmill is capable of serving a runner who could. 

What we love about the ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill

That it is iFit® Compatible*

This is by far the feature we love the most. How great is it to be able to run essentially anywhere in the world while at your own home on your treadmill?

Have you ever wondered what it's like to run in Barcelona? Just press start. Download a Google Maps™ route or create your own. This Compatible* treadmill automatically adjusts the incline and decline to recreate trails from Mongolia to Ecuador.

Customize your training with unlimited workouts designed by certified personal trainers. This ever-growing workout library offers programs that progress with you from beginner to marathoner.

SpaceSaver® Design with EasyLift™ Assist 

We know you like your house to be clutter-free. So we invented a treadmill that folds up and out of the way when you're done with your workout. It totally rocked the fitness industry; but honestly, we're just glad you don't have to sacrifice your living space for your fitness habit anymore. And as an added bonus, we built in a powerful shock that helps you lift the deck with an easy push.

Compatible Music Port for iPod®*

Once you create your raving workout playlist, just plug your iPod® or MP3 player into our built-in sound system. Built with two 3-inch speakers, you can turn up the tunes and turn up the tempo. Experts have learned that we actually increase or decrease our pace to match the tempo of our tunes. Music has also been proven to lower perceived exertion. That's great news.

12 MPH QuickSpeed® Control 

Not everybody runs at 12 miles per hour. But it's nice to know this treadmill can totally handle it. Thanks to a bigger motor size and faster flywheel gear ratio, the PRO 2000 rocks a top speed of 12 mph. Our in-home efficiency booster means you can run every day without using excessive amounts of electricity. And the convenient QuickSpeed® buttons let you adjust your intensity instantly, so you can stay focused through every step of your workout.

32 Workout Apps

Get the elite training you want with 32 built-in workout apps designed by a certified personal trainer. Each workout automatically adjusts your speed, incline, and decline to maximize your results.

What others are saying

"So far I am very pleased with my Pro 2000. The interface is simple, belt is smooth, speed and incline responsive, and shortcut keys useful. Being able to easily put the belt up when not in use is also great - especially in a house with a curious dog. My main criticism is that the preset programs are too advanced for a beginner, so I find myself only using the manual settings at this newbie stage. That being said, they are probably great for a more conditioned runner and I look forward to experimenting with them down the road."

Currently, The ProForm Pro 2000 can be purchased online with free shipping! Hop over here for more information.

*Requires iFit® wireless module; sold separately. Buy an iFit® wireless module and receive a free one-year iFit® subscription. Access your iFit® account from your computer, tablet, or smart phone. Google Maps™ is a trademark of Google, Inc.

*iPod® is a trademark of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. iPod® not included.

{This post contains affiliate links. Please read our Disclosure Policy here.}

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Runtastic Pro App FREE Today!

Runtastic PRO is free today! Get PRO features like routes, voice feedback and many more at no cost. This is one of my favorite apps for tracking my road running. I also use their website www.runtastic.com to record and track my fitness goals and accomplishments.

Get downloading!

iOS: http://bit.ly/RuntasticENiOS

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Windows Phone: http://bit.ly/RuntasticENWP

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7 Super-Foods to Keep Your Kids Healthy

It’s hard for us adults to keep away from junk food and sweets. Obviously, keeping kids away from such treats is going to be a tough task.

But keeping your child away from junk food is not all that’s necessary. It’s equally important for you to make sure you’re feeding him the right things.

Here are seven super-foods that you can easily source and that will do wonders for your child’s health.

Oatmeal

Steel-cut, instant, or rolled- whatever you prefer, all types of oats are good for health. Oats are rich in fiber and have a low amount of fat content. They are also rich in iron, calcium, potassium, and vitamin A, and have small amounts of niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, and magnesium present.

The high fiber content of oats helps kids feel full for longer and also improves bowel movement. As oats have a low Glycemic Index, they are less likely to be stored as fat, thus reducing the risk of juvenile diabetes, heart disease, and pediatric obesity.

Oats have more protein and fewer carbohydrates than other whole grains and are believed to help reduce the risk of asthma in children. Furthermore, sugary cereals can cause the blood-sugar levels to rise and fall dramatically, thereby affecting mood, concentration, and memory. On the other hand, oats are absorbed slowly and the gradual rise in blood-sugar levels keeps kids energetic up to lunch time.

By opting for oats and making sure you're not buying sweetened ones, you can be sure that your little one is eating right. Even if you’re picking freebies samples, take note of the nutritional information.

If your kid doesn't love eating oats, you can add honey; skim milk; dried fruit such as apricots, raisins, or cranberries; nuts; or fresh fruit like bananas or apples to enhance the taste of oatmeal.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a perfect balance of all things good. It has protein, carbohydrates, fats, and essential minerals. Moreover, it's densely packed with nutrients. Such foods are important for kids as they have small tummies and you'd want them to get as many nutrients as possible even if they eat a small amount of food.

Additionally, yogurt is much easier to digest than milk. As it is cultured, it helps boost immunity and aid digestion. It also helps your child absorb vitamins and minerals better.

Eggs

This simple food is not only a hit with adults but kids too. Eggs are easy to cook and you can make them in many ways. You can also incorporate vegetables into egg recipes like quiches for a complete meal.

Eggs are densely packed with nutrients and though they have lesser calories packed in, they are a rich source of amino acids that are essential for your child's growth. Eggs are also loaded with other vital nutrients like vitamin D, vitamin B12, choline, and selenium.

Amino acids in eggs are important for growth and they are the building blocks of hormones, tissues, skin, and more. Choline helps in brain development, and vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. In addition to this, an egg or two for breakfast will keep your little one feeling satisfied and full for longer.

Beans and Lentils

Beans and lentils are great sources of proteins for kids who don't eat meat. These foods are also high in fiber and have a low Glycemic index, and will thus keep your kid's mood and energy levels stabilized. Beans are also rich in calcium and help reduce the risk of cholesterol and heart diseases.

If you're buying canned beans, drain and rinse them to get rid of excess salt. You can also make your own beans. It's not that difficult to get kids to eat beans, but if you have a picky eater, use them mashed, in soups or stews, or use beans to make nachos or quesadillas, veggie burgers, burritos, hummus, etc.

Nuts and Seeds

Kids are bound to reach for unhealthy items like fries or soda whenever they feel hungry. Encourage your child to snack on some nuts and seeds instead. Sure, they are rich in fats too, but nuts and seeds are sources of good fats compared to the unhealthy fats found in fried foods.

Nuts and seeds are also rich in fiber, vitamin E, sterols, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. All these nutrients promote overall health and reduce the risk of heart and circulatory diseases, and stroke. Nuts and seeds also contain trace amounts of different minerals like copper, manganese, phosphorous, magnesium, etc.

Make sure your kid only eats a handful of nuts or seeds every day. Some nuts and seeds to snack on include walnuts, almonds, pecans, chia seeds, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc. Note that peanuts aren't real nuts, they are legumes and as such, less nutritious.

You can roast these nuts and seeds or add them to salads or steamed vegetables. You can also treat your kid to nut butters instead of the usual peanut butter. Be sure to pick a jar of unsweetened nut butter (cashew, almond, or blended) when you go grocery shopping next time.

Salmon

Fatty fish like salmon is the best source of DHA and other omega-3 fatty acids that are an important component of brain cells. These fats can boost brain development, fight depression, and are anti-inflammatory.
Studies show that consumption of oily fish such as salmon lowers the risk of diseases like cancer, asthma, diabetes, Alzheimer's, Macular Degeneration, rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure, etc.

Blueberries

Blueberries are what you can call a true super-food. They are rich in anthocyanin, vitamins C and E, flavonoids, iron, and manganese. This fruit is also packed with anti-oxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Make sure your kid eats a handful of this super-fruit at least thrice every week. This shouldn't be tough; blueberries are tasty and can be eaten on their own. You may also want to include a few in your kid's breakfast cereal or along with his favorite dessert.

Conclusion

You don’t have to deprive your kid of comfort food that he loves. But it’s important for him to eat healthy. With this list of super-foods at your fingertips, you’ll be able to ensure your child eats right.

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Miracle Marathon 2014

I love running (and walking) to stay fit and stay moving. It's fun to do it knowing that I'm doing something great for my body - it's also great when I can do it to be a part of something great for others. Along with Children's Miracle Network, I am on a mission to get out, get moving and save kids' lives, and I need your help!

I have joined the Miracle Marathon journey, and throughout part of September and October I will not only be moving (running!) for 27.2 miles, but also raising funds for my Children's Miracle Network Hospital.

Please click here or at the bottom of this message and make a gift today. All donations are tax-deductible and collected securely by Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.

Since a traditional marathon is 26.2 miles, Miracle Marathon adds a special touch by adding one more mile "for the kids." Over the course of 27 days, we are going to complete one mile per day by walking, running, dancing, skipping or just moving to reach that goal. It's a marathon - plus an extra mile - for the kids!

I sincerely hope you will donate to my Miracle Marathon journey.

Interested in being a part of the Miracle Marathon journey? Register here!

*Disclosure: I received free registration for Miracle Marathon 2014.

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