Health Tips

Written by Julie Paiva, CHHC   Most parents know, fruit and vegetable intake during childhood not only helps support healthy growth and immunity, but it also fosters a preference for whole foods that continues into adulthood. So early and frequent exposure to fruits and vegetables helps support health for kids in the present and future.  However, studies show most parents only offer their child a new food three to five times before they give up when their child doesn’t like the food.  These same studies showed that a child may need to try a food up to 15 times before developing a taste...

Written by Julie Paiva, CHHC   When reflecting back on 2017, do you feel like you spent most of the year tending to everyone’s needs but your own?  Perhaps at the beginning of 2017 you had aspirations of doing something special for yourself.  Were you successful?  Most of us tend to neglect ourselves while making sure our loved ones and our careers get all our attention.   Exhaustion, fatigue, burnout – three words that have become far too common in today’s world. It has become the norm to push ourselves to the breaking point. Many of us feel that if we don’t have...

Written by Julie Paiva, CHHC   We all start the year with ambitious goals.  However, how many of us throw in the towel after only a couple of weeks?  If you’re looking to make a lasting change this year, you will need more than just a wish and a new gym membership. A well thought out plan of action where you clarify what you want, why you want it, and how you are going to get it will empower you to actually fulfill the aspirations you have set out for yourself.  Here are some steps to follow to make sure that...

Written By Julie Paiva, CHHC   Don’t wait for the New Year's ball to drop to get started on some healthy lifestyle changes. Here are three truths to remind us that being healthy really is simpler than it is made out to be.  You don't have to sacrifice fun, family time, or good cheer to set yourself up for a good year ahead! Incorporate these tips now and you are likely to have your healthiest year yet.   Exercising doesn't have to be complicated   You don't have to join a gym or a group fitness class to increase your calorie burn and reap the benefits of...

Written By Julie Paiva, CHHC   Many of us experience weight gain during the festive winter months, but packing on a few pounds in December is far from inevitable.  Is it possible to celebrate the season without increasing the number on the scale? You bet!  Don’t get me wrong: The holiday season is all about celebrating, togetherness, and indulging— but in moderation.  Staying on track can seem so daunting. It is easy to feel like devouring all those sugar plums dancing in your head and sending your sensible routine and healthy lifestyle into hibernation until the New Year. But as we all...

Written by Julie Paiva, CHHC   We all have someone on our shopping list who seems to have everything.  Studies show that most households these days have more tvs than people living in them.  Wanting to get them something for the holidays can often become quite the stressful experience.  Whether you have a “big spender” on your list that already owns it all or someone who wants for very little, these ideas are great gifts for all types.  They are sure to bring you as much joy as the giver as the recipient will receive.   Save-the-Date No need to spend money on the...

Written by Julie Paiva, CHHC   Everyone is busier during the holidays.  It is a wonder with all to prepare for, put together and attend that we get any sleep from Thanksgiving to New Years.  The extra tasks on our to-do list are usually intended to bring us holiday cheer, but often do quite the opposite.  If we are running ourselves ragged, then we can end up more like the Grinch then jolly old Saint Nick.  Follow some of these tips to help you get the sweet, deep slumber that you so badly need during all the holiday craze.   Keep your regular...

Written by Julie Paiva, CHHC   As the holiday season is in full swing, we all have some extra things on our plates literally and figuratively.  These added responsibilities can create pressure and stress.  Making a list is one way to help you free up your mind and make sure that all your tasks get accomplished.  It will make you more productive, organized and efficient while saving time. Here are a few reasons why Santa shouldn't be the only one making a list this holiday season.   Organizes Your Thoughts   Many times when we feel like we have a lot to do, we often...

Written by Julie Paiva, CHHC   When asked what people like best about Thanksgiving, it seems family time wins out over the turkey dinner, pumpkin pie and football.  Spending time with your loved ones is one of life’s greatest pleasures.  Nobody knows you like your family and friends, and your time with them should be a source of comfort.  Most families are not perfect, but these important bonds can help get you through tough times in your life.  Families are something to celebrate and to be grateful for especially on Thanksgiving.  However, family time can easily get forgotten in the hustle...

Written by Julie Paiva, CHHC   Thanksgiving is a day to reflect on what we are grateful for and to spend valuable time with our families.  Preparing for Thanksgiving can give you some feelings that are not so warm and fuzzy.  When your hosting people at your house for the holidays, it can get rather stressful.  Why not reduce some of the duties and encourage family bonding by having your kids help with the planning, set up, execution and clean up of the Thanksgiving meal and celebration? Below are a few ways to get your children involved with the holiday festivities.   Holding...

Written By Julie Paiva, CHHC   Squash is often an unexplored food choice by many.  People seem to be intimidated by its appearance and unsure of what to do with it.  But actually it is quite easy to prepare and can add a wonderful new dimension of taste and texture to any meal. Be bold, be brave, and venture into the squash world. You will leave grateful that you did.   Types of Squash   Squash is a part of a very interesting vegetable group of which there are dozens of varieties. This group also contains gourds, which are inedible but commonly used as fall...

Written by Julie Paiva, CHHC   It’s easy with our busy lifestyles to get stuck in a rut and find ourselves complaining about everyday things. The Thanksgiving season is often a reminder to look beyond ourselves and our immediate circumstances and notice things in our lives that bring us the feeling of gratitude. Practicing gratefulness has many benefits such as improving mood, reducing stress, increasing energy, promoting more peaceful sleep, and supporting the immune system. Ultimately, it inspires joy while reducing worry.  With these positive effects, why not carry a happy, grateful mindset with you beyond the holiday season? Here are some...