Green Living

I drink a lot of water—it’s my favorite drink. But every now and then, I need a boost—something that will enhance my water habit as well as keep me refreshed and replenished.

A few years ago, I found this great product. It’s packaged so conveniently that I can always take with me. I use it for workouts and I will even add it to my water in restaurants.

The reason why I like Sustain® Sport is because it packs four electrolytes into each serving to give me what I need the most: proprietary complex of calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium. That’s twice as many as Gatorade® Thirst Quencher Original Orange!  

I’ve found using this regularly on workouts, walks, or on hot summer days when I want a flavored drink. It helps to rehydrate and convert carbs into energy for school, work, activities, or sports. I’ve also noticed my walks and workouts last longer without fatigue and muscle cramps.

Even though it comes in five flavors, my favorite is the Ruby Red Grapefruit!

Today is National Eat Your Vegetables. June is National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month, and National Eat Your Vegetables Day reminds everyone that vegetables are an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.

As part of the main meal or as a snack, vegetables can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.  Each vegetable has its own nutritional content though generally, they contain a little protein or fat and varying proportions of vitamins such as Vitamin A, Vitamin K and Vitamin B6, provitamins, dietary minerals and carbohydrates. They also contain a variety of other phytochemicals, some of which have antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anticarcinogenic properties. Many vegetables also contain fiber which is important for gastrointestinal function. Another benefit is the essential nutrients that vegetables contain that are necessary for healthy hair and skin.

When eating a diet consisting of the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables, it may help lower the risk of heart diseases and type 2 diabetes.  These diets may also help to decrease bone loss and protect against some cancers. The potassium provided may help prevent the formation of kidney stones.

It is recommended by the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans, to consume 3 to 5 servings of vegetables per day.  This recommendation may vary, however, depending on age and gender. For most vegetables, one serving is equivalent of 1/2 to 1 cup and can be eaten either raw or cooked. Make sure you consume your recommended daily allowance of vegetables.