LiveWell Vermont

Register for the Challenge! https://mybluehealth.bcbsvt.com/dt/v2/bcbsvtindex.asp Questions? Contact: Alissa Robertson LiveWell Vermont Health Educator & Registered Dietitian Alissa.Robertson@state.vt.us (802) 828-2931

Probiotics are no fad. Having ‘good’ bacteria in the gut is linked to a stronger immune system, better digestion, and less inflammation, among many, many other health benefits. Probiotics support a healthy gut and a healthy weight Probiotics are live organisms that provide food for healthy gut bacteria. These bacteria fight off unhealthy bacteria in the system. As a result, probiotics create a supportive environment for a healthy immune system, optimal intestinal function and many other bodily systems. They also prevent fat calories from being absorbed through the intestines and destroy bile salts, which are produced by the liver and help the intestines digest fat. By destroying bile salts, fat absorption is blocked and fat is eliminated in waste.  Combined with physical activity and a balanced healthy diet, probiotics can be an important factor in maintaining a healthy weight. Although yogurt and probiotic capsules are probably the most popular forms, there are many other foo

Whether you have an herb box in your window, pots on your patio or a complete kitchen garden, now is the time to enjoy summer herbs. Nothing gives more flavor and freshness to your foods than herbs. Here are some of our favorites to enjoy this season. Basil : This highly fragrant and popular herb is a mainstay in the Mediterranean diet. Mix chopped basil with garlic and olive oil for a delicious pesto or delight in its fresh flavor with fresh summer tomato slides and mozzarella cheese. Why we love basil's health benefits: It's oils and extracts have antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Plus, it offers vitamin K, vitamin A, manganese and magnesium.  Mint : Fresh mint is so versatile and adds a cool burst of flavor to a wide range of dishes. You can toss it in a salad, add a few leaves in your favorite beverage or mix it with fresh berries and more. Why we love mint's health benefits: Peppermint is a good source of manganese, copper, and vitamin C and i

This Sunday is Father’s Day, and June is Men’s Health Month . To celebrate, here are some things to think about for all of the men out there: Facts Let’s start with some facts. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in America. More than half a million people die each year from heart disease. More people than that will be negatively affected by heart disease. Significant disability also can result from heart disease. There are many risk factors for developing heart disease. Some cannot be changed, such as genetics or family history. Luckily, there are some things that can be changed. Here are some recommendations to prevent heart disease in men: Blood Pressure If you are over 18, have your blood pressure checked. High blood pressure puts one at a risk for heart disease and strokes. Thirty percent of men have high blood pressure. There are a number of ways you can lower your blood pressure, but first, you have to know what your blood pressure is. Blood pressu

Here are some great resources to help you get involved in physical activity in your community! Contact with your local Health Department District Office for information about a community based “Get Moving” program in your area. http://www.healthvermont.org/local/district/district_office.aspx Check with your Town Clerk’s Office – they can tell you about public facilities such as paths or trails, playgrounds, “courts,” pools, etc. You can also look up the information for your town at: http://crs.uvm.edu/townhealthresources/ Check with local schools – do they allow the public to use their facilities outside of school hours? If so, ask: When are they available? What exactly is available- halls for walking, gym, playing fields, etc? How can they be accessed? Find out if a walking map has been created for your town – check Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont: https://www.bcbsvt.com/pages/community/walkingworkssupplies.php Go to your local town or state park to gather information abou

The NEW 2015 State of Vermont Workplace CSA Program  has been redesigned to offer state employees: MORE farms to choose from, MORE delivery locations, and MORE opportunities to establish independent relationships with local farmers 2015 CSA members will enjoy: Fresh produce, meats, and specialty products delivered weekly from the farm of your choice Convenient pick-up locations at your place of work or near your home office Opportunities to collaborate with colleagues to tailor a CSA for your worksite The feel-good buzz of knowing you’re supporting your local farms and community Click HERE to learn more about the NEW and IMPROVED CSA program and to find the right farm for you!               ”Participating the Workplace CSA Program really got my family to love and appreciate fresh food so much more – it really changed our lives.  Every Thursday was a delicious & delightful treat!”  - SOV employee, Workplace CSA member since 2013 The Verm