April 2024 - Health & Productivity Newsletter

Nip Seasonal Allergies in the Bud The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that one- quarter (25.7%) of adults suffer from seasonal allergies. Springtime allergies are an annual nuisance for many people as plants bloom and neighbors cut their lawns more frequently. Also, mold growth occurs indoors and outdoors, making it almost impossible to escape allergy triggers. Consider these strategies to alleviate your spring allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, and watery eyes: • Keep track of local allergen (e.g., pollen and mold) counts to help you know when to avoid spending excessive time outside. • Take a shower after spending time outdoors, as pollen can stick to your hair, skin and clothing. • Wash your bedding weekly in hot water to help keep pollen under control. • Clean your floors often with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter. • Change your air conditioner and heating HEPA filters often. For many people, avoiding allergens and using over-the-counter medications is enough to ease their allergy symptoms. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms remain bothersome.

Makes: 4 servings

Ingredients 1 cup skinless cooked chicken (diced into ½-inch pieces) 15.5 oz. can low-sodium white beans (drained, rinsed with cold water) 1 cucumber (peeled, diced into ½-inch pieces) ¼ red or white onion (peeled, chopped into ½-inch pieces) 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil ¼ cup lemon juice 1 Tbsp. dried basil or parsley leaves ¼ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. black pepper Preparations 1. Put all ingredients in the bowl and gently toss. 2. Serve it immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to two days.

Nutritional Information (per serving) Total calories 297 Total fat 11 g Protein 20 g Sodium 288 mg Carbohydrate 31 g Dietary fiber 8 g Saturated fat 2 g Total sugars 2 g

2024’s Best Diet: The Mediterranean U.S. News & World Report named the Mediterranean diet the world’s best overall diet for the seventh consecutive year, ranking first in 7 of the 11 diet categories. The winning meal plan emulates how people in the Mediterranean region have traditionally eaten, focusing on consuming whole grains and heart-healthy fats. This diet may help support brain function, promote heart health and regulate blood sugar levels. Research also suggests that this well-balanced eating pattern can help prevent some chronic diseases and increase longevity. A nonrestrictive, healthy meal plan such as the Mediterranean diet may be easier to follow and stay committed to. If you have any questions about your diet, talk to your doctor.

Source: MyPlate

This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice. © 2024 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.

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