Bonitas Member Magazine B-Living Issue 1, 2019 | Page 7

Indulge in energy foods
The type and amount of food you eat are important for
your energy levels. Bananas have natural sugars combined
with fibre and are a great source of carbohydrates,
potassium and vitamin B6, which help boost energy
levels. Sweet potatoes have carbohydrates, fibre, as well
manganese and vitamin A, giving a steady supply of
energy.
Eggs are packed with protein giving a steady, sustained
source of energy. They also have leucine, which helps cells
take in more blood sugar, stimulates energy production
in cells and increases the breakdown of fat to produce
energy. Tuck into these energy boosters.
Start going green
Choosing organic products not only protects the
environment, but also your health. Take short trips on
foot or by bicycle instead of by car and it will immediately
impact your health. Choose clothing made from natural
fabrics like hemp, organic cotton, wool or silk, which use
less chemicals. This will lessen your exposure to toxic
chemicals. Buy locally grown produce from a farmers'
market or plant your own vegetable garden for fresh
vegetables without pesticides where less or no fuel was
used for transport. Create your own cleaning products
such as shower, floor or toilet cleaner using vinegar
and water in a spray bottle. These small changes can be
meaningful to your health.
Keep your heart happy
Check your blood pressure every three years if you’re 18
to 39 years of age, and once a year if you’re over 40 or
have high blood pressure. The extra force of high blood
pressure can damage artery walls and create scar tissue,
making it harder for blood and oxygen to get to and
from your heart. The heart has to pump harder and gets
worn out faster. Choose a healthy diet with less salt and
saturated fats, limit alcohol, do exercise and manage
stress. Eat blueberries. As they are filled with antioxidants
and photochemicals that boost good HDL cholesterol
levels, help smoother blood flow and reduce high blood
pressure. Your heart works hard for you so make sure you
give it some TLC.
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