August Wellness News

 

Monthly Events

National Breastfeeding Month
National Catfish Month
Get Acquainted with Kiwifruit Month
Eat Dessert First Month
Goat Cheese Month
National Panini Month
National Peach Month
National Sandwich Month
Kid's Eat Right Month
National Water Quality Month
Get Ready for Kindergarten Month
National Back to School Month
National Immunization Awareness Month
Children's Eye Health & Safety Month
Happiness Happens Month
Rye Month  

 

Weekly Events

1-7 World Breastfeeding Week
1-7 Simplify Your Life Week
4-10 Exercise with Your Child Week
4-10 National Farmer's Market Week
12-18 National Safe at Home Week
25-24 World Water Week
25-31 Be Kind to Humankind Week
26-30 National Composites Week

Daily

1 World Wide Web Day;  Colorado, 38th state; National Raspberry Cream Pie Day  
2  National Ice Cream Sandwich Day; National Coloring Book Day
3  National Watermelon Day; Grab Some Nuts Day; Mustard Day; Hangover Day; Jamaican Patty Day;  Play Outside Day    
4  National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day; Single Working Women's Day; White Wine Day; American Family Day; Raisin Bran Day
5 National Oyster Day  
6  National Fresh Breath (Halitosis) Day; Root Beer Float Day 
7  Professional Speakers Day;  National Raspberries N’ Cream Day
8  National Frozen Custard Day; Happiness Happens Day; Sneak Some Zucchini onto Your Neighbors’ Porch Night; National CBD Day; National Fried Chicken & Waffles Day
9  Intl Day of the World's Indigenous People;  Natl Rice Pudding Day; National Book Lovers Day; Shop Online for Groceries Day 
10  National S'mores Day; Missouri 24th State; Smithsonian Day; National Garage Sale Day   
11 National Sandwich Month; National Raspberry Bombe Day  
12  International Youth Day; National Julienne Fries Day
13  National Filet Mignon Day; National Prosecco Day; Left-Handers Day
14  National Creamsicle Day
15  Relaxation Day;  Julia Child Birthday (1912); National Lemon Meringue Pie Day
16  National Rum Day
17  National Thrift Shop Day; National Vanilla Custard Day; National Nonprofit Day, Honey Bee Day, Chef Appreciation Day  
18  National Ice Cream Pie Day; National Fajita Day; Mail Order Catalog Day
19   UN World Humanitarian Day;  Soft Ice Cream Day; Potato Day
20 Chocolate Pecan Pie Day 
21  Senior Citizen's Day; Hawaii 50th State; National Spumoni Day
22  Pecan Torte Day; Eat a Peach Day; Tooth Fairy Day; Bao Day
23  National Sponge Cake Day; National Cuban Sandwich Day
24  National Waffle Iron Day; National Peach Pie Day
25 National Banana Split Day
26  Women's Equality Day; Cherry Popsicle Day    
27 Pots du Crème Day; Banana Lover's Day
28  National Cherry Turnovers Day; National Red Wine Day
29  Lemon Juice Day;   Chop Suey Day; More Herbs, Less Salt Day
30   National Toasted Marshmallow Day
31  National Trail Mix Day; Eat Outside Day, International Bacon Day



The holidays and events listed in the calendar come from numerous resources, such as:
United States Department of Agriculture; Food and Drug Administration; Presidential Declaration; Federal, State or City Governments; American Dietetic Association; Food Associations; American Medical Association; Medical Affiliations; Private Organizations and Companies; Retail Promotions. The events have been verified. However, you should confirm the dates before making plans. Some events may vary from one state to another.

United Nations Declares 2013 International Year of Quinoa

The year 2013 has been declared "The International Year of the Quinoa" (IYQ), by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2011.

“Quinoa is considered to be the organic food of the future and holds great potential in efforts to eradicate poverty worldwide and provide global food security and nutrition.” The United Nations, in connection with the presentation of the International Year of Quinoa created a multi-media exhibit. Events throughout the year relating to the International Year of Quinoa will be headed by the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), in collaboration with NGOs, indigenous peoples' organizations and, the Governments from the Andean region.

The objective of the IYQ Plan is to focus world attention on the role quinoa´s biodiversity and nutritional value plays, in providing food security and nutrition, the eradication of poverty in support of the achievement of the internationally agreed development goals, including the Millennium Development Goals.
 
Quinoa is a grain-like crop grown primarily for its edible seeds. It is a pseudo-cereal rather than a true cereal, or grain. Quinoa originated over 3,000 years ago in the Andean region of Ecuador, Bolivia, Colombia and Peru. 

Quinoa Nutritional Information

Quinoa is high in protein, a good source of dietary fiber and phosphorus and is high in magnesium and iron. Quinoa is also gluten-free.

Preparation. Quinoa has a natural bitter-tasting coating called saponins. Most quinoa sold commercially has been processed to remove this coating. However, the directions may require additional rinsing before cooking.

Quinoa can be added to a wide variety of dishes and substituted in recipes using rice or couscous. Quinoa flour can be used in wheat-free and gluten-free baking. To enhance the flavor, stock can be exchanged for water during cooking. Quinoa also can provide a nutritious breakfast with the addition of honey, nuts or fruits.

Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash

Recipe Card

References
United Nations, International Year of the Quinoa (IYQ-2013)  
Facebook, International Year of Quinoa 
Twitter, International Year of Quinoa  

Family Health and Fitness Day USA

Family Health and Fitness Day USA is a national health and fitness event for families always held the last Saturday in September.

The event's purpose is to promote the importance of regular physical activity for children and their parents. Families will participate in health promotion events at hundreds of locations throughout the country, including YMCAs and health clubs, park districts, schools, houses of worship and state and local health organizations.

It's Family Time!

You can jump rope, ride bikes, and take a walk as a family. Remember to be safe by using sunscreen, bike helmets, and staying hydrated.

Plate Size Matters

The History of Plate Sizes

Fast foods do not have a monopoly on supersize. The plate industry has had its own growth spurt during the past 50 years. In the 1960s dinner plates were about 8.5 to 9-inches in diameter and held about 800 calories; by 2009 plate size had grown to 12-inches with the capacity to hold about 1900 calories. The calorie differences are illustrated in the graphic below. (Calorie amounts will vary depending on the foods you choose.)

Portion Planning 8. New England Clam Chowder

Portion Planning 8
New England Clam Chowder

Portion Planning Series 7. Chocolate Covered Strawberriers

Portion Planning Series 7Chocolate Covered Strawberriers

Portion Planning 5. How Would You Spend 500 kcal?

Portion Planning Series 5
How would you spend 500 calories?

Portion Planning 004

Portion Planning Series 004

Portion Planning 002

Portion Planning Series 002

Portion Planning 003

Portion Planning Series 003

Portion Planning 001

Portion Planning Series 001

The Simple Life... When Apples and Blackberries Were Only Fruits

On September 22, 2011, the Student Dietetic Association (SDA) at Florida International University (FIU) provided Free Apples and Blackberries to encourage healthy snacking. The technology college students are addicted to and the need for something healthy inspired the event. Students received free antioxidants, fiber and vitamins from the fruits instead of actual cell phones, while they learned the importance of healthy nutritional habits.

 

“What surprised me the most was that when other clubs give out free pizza, there is a line around the corner, but if you give out free fruits, you really have to market it well. It was a very eye catching, clever idea.”    - Megan Huard

"It’s a great idea that an association is giving out healthy snacks. I was tricked by the advertisement and thought they were giving some kind of phones. At the end, I learned about the benefits of apples and blackberries."   - Mario Garcia

"This was a great opportunity for nutrition education; it was great to see so many students interested in learning more about the benefits of these fruits and about our association."  - Marcela Lucena

The SDA at FIU is dedicated to making the world healthier, one plate at a time. Through on and off campus activities, they serve the community and fellow students as they teach the importance and benefits of good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.

MyPlate, a Tool for Meal Planning

Throughout the month of March we celebrate National Nutrition Month® (NNM), a nutrition education and information campaign created annually by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (Academy). The campaign focuses  attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. 

The March 2013 theme for National Nutrition Month® is "Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day." The Student Dietetic Association (SDA) at Florida International University (FIU) helped prepare a nutrition education video to look at MyPlate as a tool for planning healthy meals. 

Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day with the
Student Dietetic Association at FIU. 
A look at MyPlate as a tool for meal planning.

National Nutrition Month Messages from the FIU SDA

A special thank you to the Student Dietetic Association at FIU.

Edible Flowers by Guest Blogger: Brittaney Bialas, MS, RD

Spring is a warm, bright, and sunny time of year when you may schedule time for outdoor picnics at local parks and beaches. While you are at it, you might as well pencil in some time to brighten up your herb or vegetable garden with some tasty flowers – edible flowers, that is! 

You may have seen floral garnishes adorning fancy meals or flashy desserts; but you may not know that you can eat many of these flowers fresh from the plant after rinsing. Edible flowers can be cooked like a vegetable, sprinkled on top of a favorite dish, used to make soups and sauces, or stuffed and sautéed as a main part of a recipe. They can be made into vinegar, syrups, butters, and jellies, or used in custards, sorbets, and other desserts. They can also be frozen into ice cubes to add extra excitement to an otherwise boring beverage on a hot day. Now is the time of year when many edible flowers are in peak bloom. They may even be in your garden already - just waiting to be added to your next dish!

Some of the edible flowers that may be in your backyard or vases include pansies, violas, chrysanthemums, carnations, fuchsias, geraniums, jasmine, lavender, violets, and certain roses. Flavors range from sweet and honey-like to spicy and peppery, while scents can add a floral aroma or a citrusy tang. Nasturtiums are a popular edible flower that adds a spicy, peppery kick. The purple flowers of banana trees and blossoms of citrus trees (lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit, kumquat) are edible fruit flowers that may be in your back yard. Many herb flowers, including alliums (garlic, chives, leeks), cilantro/coriander, chicory, dill, mint, sage, and thyme are also safe to eat. Most of the flavors of herbal flowers resemble those of the herbs they come from. These can be added to a dish along with or in place of the herb itself. Several vegetable flowers probably already make a regular appearance in your diet, such as cauliflower (who would have thought?), broccoli, and artichoke, which are all flower blossoms. In addition, the flowers of arugula, okra, radishes, peas, and squash are edible. Squash blossoms appear quite often in the produce stands and taste a bit like the raw gourd from which it came.

Best of all, many edible flowers have vitamin C, vitamin A, and other beneficial essential nutrients. Edible flowers can replace sodium and sugar when used in conjunction with herbs and spices, adding more flavor and aroma to foods. However, keep in mind that edible flowers have a delicate taste that is detected best when added to simple dishes that do not have overpowering flavors.

Many flowers can be safely tossed onto our plates; but there are flowers that are poisonous and should never be eaten. Always make sure a flower is edible before adding it to your food. Some resources that list some edible flowers are at Colorado State Extension  and North Carolina State University. In general, edible flowers are best when they are picked during the morning when they have the most moisture. They can be rinsed and placed in a moist paper towel in the refrigerator for storage. Use within a short period to maintain quality.

There are also some safety rules to follow regarding where you find your edible flowers. Do not pick flowers from the side of the road where fumes from vehicles and other contaminants can make the plants unsafe to eat. Do not purchase edible flowers from nurseries or garden centers unless they are grown specifically for consumption. Do consume edible flowers that you have grown from seeds as long as you do not use pesticides or other chemicals. Do introduce small amounts of new flowers one at a time since pollen from the plants may trigger allergies. Do research which parts should and should not be used since each type of edible flower is different.

Flowers are nice to have. Their colors brighten a room, they give off a pleasing aroma, and they bring joy to people who take the time to notice them.

However, one of the most exciting reasons for dietitians to love flowers is that they may be food! Spring is the perfect time to try something new and let an edible flower be a part of your dining room table – and not just as an accent piece in a vase! 

Pansy Herb Salad 
4 cups mixed greens 
1/4 cup fresh sprigs of dill 
1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves 
4 large basil leaves, rolled up and thinly sliced crosswise 
1 large lemon, halved 
Pinch of salt 
Fresh ground black pepper to taste 
1 /2 cup toasted walnuts 
3/4 cup crumbled feta 
1 cup fresh pansy flowers 

Toss salad greens and herbs in a large bowl. Squeeze lemon juice (without the seeds) over the greens and season with salt and pepper. Toss again. Add walnuts and feta and toss well. Divide salad and pansies among four serving plates and serve.

Nutrition Fact Per Serving (Serves 4) Calories: 179; Fat: 16g; Carbohydrate: 5g. Adapted from Pansy Herb Salad

 

Let’s Get Our Plate in Shape: Breakfast National Nutrition Month

Let’s Get Our Breakfast Plate in Shape

July is National Blueberry Month

On May 8, 1999 Dan Glickman, Secretary of Agriculture of the United States of America proclaimed the month of July as "National Blueberry Month".

Spotlight on Blueberries

Blueberry Facts.
Blueberries are a native North American fruit produced in 35 States.

Fresh blueberries are available for about eight months of the year from producers across the United States and Canada. North America is the world's leading blueberry producer. The North American harvest runs from mid-April through early October, with peak harvest in mid-May through August.

Blueberries can be found in the market all year round, along with frozen, canned and dried blueberries.

Blueberries are low in calories and sodium and are a good source of fiber.

Blueberries rank high in antioxidants that help protect against cancer, heart disease and other age-related diseases.

Researchers have found compounds in blueberries that may help prevent urinary tract infection.

Purchasing Blueberries
When purchasing fresh blueberries, look for firm, plump, dry berries with smooth skins and a silvery sheen. Check the color - reddish berries aren’t ripe, but can be used in cooking. Avoid soft or shriveled fruit, or any signs of mold. Containers with juice stains indicate that the fruit may be bruised.

Storing Blueberries
Refrigerate fresh blueberries as soon as you get them home, in their original plastic pack or in a covered bowl or storage container. Wash berries just before use. Use within 10 days of purchase.

Freezing Blueberries
Freeze unwashed and completely dry. Discard berries that are bruised or shriveled. Blueberries can be frozen in their original plastic pack or in a resealable plastic or frozen bag or transfered to freezer container. Remember to rinse them before using.

Serving Suggestions
*Add blueberries to your favorite muffin or pancake recipe.
*Combine blueberries with yogurt and granola cereal.
*Sprinkle blueberries over mixed greens.
*Serve blueberries with sour cream, yogurt or cottage cheese.

Blueberry Smoothie
Makes 3 Servings.

1 small, ripe Banana
1 cup Frozen Blueberries
8 ounces low-fat Yogurt (Vanilla or Fruit Flavored)
3/4 cup low-fat (1%) Milk

1. Peel banana, cut into 1-inch chunks. Place the banana chunks into the blender.
2. Put the frozen blueberries, yogurt and milk into the blender with the bananas.
3. Cover and blenderize on high speed for about 1 minute or until the mixture is smooth.
4. Pour smoothie into cups.
Nutrition Analysis per one serving:
Calories (kcal) 124; Dietary Fiber (g) 2.2; Fat (g) 2; Calcium (mg) 177; Sodium (mg) 75

Celebrating Blueberries
During the month of July, we enjoyed the sweet flavor of blueberries in various recipes. Below are some of the photographs taken to capture their versatility and beauty.

Recipe. Frozen Blueberry Yogurt (low fat) with Fresh Blueberries 

Recipe. Blueberry Ices with Kiwi and Blueberries 

Recipe. Orange Sections and Fresh Blueberries 

Recipe. Blueberries with Vanilla Ice Cream (light),
Blueberry Ices and Frozen Blueberry Yogurt (low fat)

Recipe. Blueberry Crumb Ice Cream
with Fresh Blueberries 

Recipe. Fruit Garden with Blueberries, Watermelon,
Pineapples, Grapes, and Kiwi

Resources
North American Blueberry Council. NABC, The North American Blueberry Council
U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council

National Nachos Day Election Day Nachos

October 13 Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day

Who is Metastatic Breast Cancer Network MBCN? (1)

MBCN is a national, independent, nonprofit, patient advocacy group dedicated to the concerns of the women and men living with metastatic breast cancer. They strive to help those living with stage IV breast cancer be their own best advocate by providing education and information on treatments and coping with the disease.

Metastatic Breast Cancer

Resources and References
1. Metastatic Breast Cancer Network 
2. 13 Facts Everyone Should Know about Metastatic Breast Cancer

January is National Mentor Month.

Thank a Mentor
A mentor is defined as "a trusted counselor or guide."

I have been blessed with three mentors. Each helped shape my future and taught me lessons I will carry all my life.

In 1986, I completed my doctorate degree. I was presenting the research at the ADA Convention. Dr. Hoskins (NM), Dr. Sirota (NY) and my mother (FL) all flew into Las Vegas to be there with me. It was a moment in time I will never forget. The three women who I admire, finally met each other and shared this special occasion with me.

　
Marilyn Resnick-Ross, my mother. My mother is a fashion designer of knits for over 65 years. Though I did not pursue fashion design, she taught me about creativity, love, strength and family. The video was made around 1982. I flew into NY from an ADA Conference in DC to share this special show covering 50 years of fashion by Marilyn (mom) and Selma (grandma). Models included my Mom, Grandmother, my niece (the little girl, now finishing law school), me and friends. Four generations of Resnick Woman.

　
Dr. Mercedes Hoskins (1921 - 2009) was a Registered Dietitian and a Professor in Dietetics and Nutrition. She was also my mentor and friend. Sadly Dr. Hoskins passed away in April 2009.

I met Dr Hoskins in 1974, while studying agronomy at New Mexico State University (NMSU). Dr. Hoskins was looking for volunteers to participate in a weight control study. I weighed in at 226 pounds. Eighteen months later, I would lose 106 pounds and change my major to Dietetics and Nutrition.

Dr. Hoskins introduced me to the profession of dietetics and encouraged me to go after my dreams. We continued to stay in contact and would meet at ADA conventions every few years. I am honored to have known a truly amazing person who not only touched my life, but those of many students and her community. Dr. Mercedes Hoskins will be missed, however her legacy will live on.

Dr. Lorraine Sirota is a professor in Dietetics and Nutrition at Brooklyn College and a Registered Dietitian. She is also my mentor and a dear friend. We met in 1977, when I transferred from NMSU to Brooklyn College.

Dr. Sirota challenged me to use my abilities and creativity to make a difference in the field of dietetics and nutrition. She motivated me to do my best and explore the many areas of dietetics. Dr. Sirota has followed my career and encouraged me to continue my education.

We have remained friends and colleagues for over 30 years. Every professional milestone, personal triumph and challenges, she has been there to support me. I am so humbled and grateful Dr. Sirota continues to be a part of my life. Thank you so much. You are truly a remarkable person.

"Who mentored you?" is a project by the Harvard School of Public Health, MENTOR, and the Corporation for National and Community Service. The project encourages people to thank their mentor and Pass it On...Mentor a Child! http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/chc/wmy/index.html

May 3, National Specially-Abled Pets Day

National Specially-Abled Pets Day

National Specially-abled Pets Day celebrates these amazing and heroic animals, helps to educate the public about caring for disabled pets and find homes for orphaned, specially-abled pets.  Pets that become challenged due to disease, birth flaws or injuries, tend to develop greater senses than your average pet. Most of the time it's as if they never had to readjust to life and we need to keep up with them!"

Celebrated nationally and internationally on May 3rd, National Specially-abled Pets Day encourages adoption always and for people who would like to bring a new furry family member home, to consider a specially-abled pet.

Blind Golden Retriever gets Guide Dog

Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Dog

A true, inspirational story about a dachshund whose life started out just like any other dog walking on all four paws until a spinal injury leaves her paralyzed. Frankie is custom-fitted for a wheelchair and learns to keep on rolling. Her zest for life will have you cheering and she will give you hope that all things are possible. Frankie will leave an everlasting and loving paw print on your heart. A book for all ages to teach overcoming challenges and also compassion for the physically challenged.

Book Trailer

 

National Best Book by USA Book News for children's picture book soft cover

Merial Human-Animal Bond Award by Dog Writer's Association of America

Editors Choice Award by Allbooks Review

Indie Excellence Finalist

Frankie inducted into 2009 Wisconsin Pet Hall of Fame

To learn more about Frankie, the Walk'N Roll Dog, visit: Joyful Paws