LiveWell Vermont

Join us at one of the following Open Enrollment Events! Get your benefits questions answered, get your flu shot and attend the Live Well Vermont Health Fair! November 2: 108 Cherry Street, Burlington  November 3: State House, Montpelier  November 4: Asa Bloomer Building, Rutland  November 7: State Office Complex, Waterbury Questions about Open Enrollment? http:// humanresources.vermont.gov/ benefits-wellness/benefits/ overview#Open Haven't gotten your flu vaccination yet? It's not too late. Register online* today to get your flu shot at one of the locations above: www.passporthealthusa.com/ LiveWellVermont No Computer Access? Register by phone at: 1-888-226-1683 Mon-Fri: 8 AM - 9 PM Sat: 9 AM - 9 PM Sun: 9 AM - 6 PM Questions About Flu Vaccination Clinics?  http:// humanresources.vermont.gov/ benefits-wellness/wellness/ flu-program

Crispy, crunchy, and chocolaty, iconic Kit Kat wafer bars have been a favorite with kids and adults for nearly 100 years. This refined sugar-free version of the classic candy adds in the more complex flavors of hazelnut and coconut. These are a great alternative with Halloween approaching! Yield: 32 chocolate bars Active Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 4 hours Ingredients 3/4 cups homemade chocolate-hazelnut spread  1 tablespoon grass-fed butter 1 tablespoon coconut oil 1 tablespoon coconut milk 1 tablespoon raw honey 2 cups rice cereal flakes Topping Ingredients 1/3 cup melted coconut oil  4 tablespoons maple syrup  1 1/2 tablespoons coconut sugar  1/3 cup cacao powder  1 teaspoon vanilla extract  1/4 teaspoon sea salt Maldon salt for topping Instructions Line an 8 x 8-inch brownie pan with parchment paper. Place chocolate-hazelnut spread, butter, coconut oil, coconut milk, honey, and cereal flakes in the bowl of a stand mixer fi...

Looking for a new pumpkin recipe to try? Look no further, this baked pumpkin ravioli is a quick and easy meal to put together. Baked Pumpkin Ravioli Serves: 5-7/ Makes 28 raviolis (serving size = 4)/ 204 calories per serving Ingredients 56 Wonton wrappers 3/4 Cup pumpkin puree 1 Cup low-fat ricotta 1 tsp salt 1/8 tsp fresh pepper 1 tsp nutmeg 1 tsp egg white 1 tsp olive oil 1/4 cup tomato sauce of your choice Fresh sage, finely chopped Directions Preheat over to 350 degrees F. Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking oil. Mix pumpkin puree, ricotta, salt, pepper, and nutmeg together in a large bowl. Dollop one healing TBSP of the pumpkin ricotta mix in the center of half (26) the wonton wrappers. Brush a little egg white around the mixture to the edge of each wrapper. Place the remaining wrappers on top of the wonton wrappers with filling - press down around the filling.  Press fork down around the edges to seal the ravioli. Lightly brush each ravi...

If you enjoy Cauliflower, here is an easy recipe that will have your family looking for more. Easy to make in less than 20 minutes and it gives your Cauliflower a new flavor for your Fall meals. Enjoy with Fish, Chicken or Pork. Yield: 6 Servings Ingredients 4 tablespoons of fresh chopped Parsley 1 large head of Cauliflower 1 ½ to 2 pounds cut into florets, about 6 to 7 cups ½ a teaspoon of grated lemon peel 1 tablespoon of coconut oil 3 to 4 cloves of minced Garlic 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese Preparation Place a tablespoon of Parsley, lemon peel and 1 inch of water in a large sauce pan or two tier vegetable steamer.  Place the Cauliflower in your steamer or in a steamer basket and place in sauce pan. Bring the water mixture to a boil over medium heat. Cover and steam for 15 minutes or until tender. Remove from pot and place in a large bowl, Keep warm. Save ½ to ¾ cup of your hot liquid. Heat your coconut oil in a smal...

It's easy to forget to set aside time to take care of ourselves when life gets busy. Adding these 5 things into your routine can help boost your energy, lower stress levels, and make you feel healthier overall. 1.) Move You don't have to do a full hour of intense working out every day. Go for a quick walk in the morning, at lunch, and in the evening. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Make time for stretch breaks. Every little thing adds up and it feels good to move throughout the day! 2.) Hydrate Dehydration can drain your energy and make you feel sluggish by mid morning. Make sure to reach for your water bottle frequently throughout the day. It will do wonders for your health! 3.) Nourish Fuel your body with nutritious whole foods instead of processed sugary foods. This will keep you feeling great all day long and boost your immune system in the long run. 4.) Strategize/Plan Ahead Meal plan one day a week and prep food ahead of time to make it easier to cook...

Sweet Potato Muffins Ingredients: 1/2 cup raisins 1/3 cup apple cider or juice 1 medium sweet potato peeled 1 medium tart apple peeled 2 cups whole wheat flour 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup or sweetener of choice 2 tsp baking soda 2 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground ginger 1/4 tsp salt 3 large eggs, beaten 3/4 cup coconut oil 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 cup chopped walnuts 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut  1/4 cup rolled oats Directions: Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Warm up juice or cider and add raisins on stove or in the microwave. Once the cider is warm, plump the raisins by adding them to the cider and setting aside.  Grate the sweet potato and apple and set aside.  Whisk flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt in a large bowl. Add eggs, coconut oil, vanilla, raisins, and juice. Fold in the sweet potato, apple, walnuts, and coconut.  Spoon batter into lined muffin pans. Sprinkl...

Take the Blue Zones Quiz and see how much you know!  (answers below) Question 1 Which of the following is true of Blue Zones around the world? a. They are hot-spots of longevity b. They contain high concentrations of 100-year-olds c. Their residents grow old with lower incidence of chronic disease d. All of the above e. None of the above Question 2 The Confucian adage, “Hara Hachi bu” reminds the Okinawans to: a. Eat something from the land and sea every day b. Stop eating when they are 80% full c. Tend the garden daily Question 3 Fill in the blank. Fava beans and ______ are some of the foods most highly associated with reaching age 100. Question 4 True or False? Papayas are a fruit rich in Vitamin C, E and K. Want more resources?  Take a free Blue Zones  happiness quiz Answers 1: d. All of the above 2: b. Stop eating when they are 80% full 3: chickpeas 4: True

Roasted acorn squash can do double duty when filled with a hearty mixture of brown rice, apples, and walnuts. It can stand in as a substantial side, or star at the center of the plate when adding your favorite protein (vegetarian or meat-based). The brown rice can be made up to 2 days ahead; keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. And you can assemble the filling up to 6 hours ahead; just keep it covered in the fridge till you’re ready to stuff. (Serves 2) Ingredients 1 medium acorn squash, halved with the seeds taken out 1 medium apple (McIntosh or Honey Crisp work well), chopped 1 cup brown rice 1/2 medium onion, diced  Olive Oil Maple Syrup  Walnuts (optional) sausage or meat-free/soy product, cooked and cut  (optional) shredded cheddar cheese Directions Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly brush acorn squash halves with olive oil.  Cook 1 cup of brown rice (combine with 2 cups of water, bring to...

Fall is the time of year to pick your own apples. Choosing your favorite to bring home is truly based upon how you want to enjoy them. Check out the many varieties below to get the most out of this year's apple season! MCINTOSH This is a crispy red apple with bright white flesh and a refreshing sweet flavor. It is the number I selling apple in the northeast. The apple is crispy and filled with juice making it the perfect snack for the fall. McIntosh apples originated from Saint Lawrence valley of Canada Introduced in 1820 Bright red skin with a bit of green and a bright white flesh Fruit size is small, medium, and large Great for fresh eating, and cooking It will store for a month or more when kept cool Harvest in mid to late season C ORTLAND One of the more successful McIntosh off springs. Cortland has all the usual characteristics, including sweetness and marvelous flavor. Nice colorful apple that is crispy and filled with juice making it perfect for snacks for the fall. Cort...

Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers with Cilantro Dressing   Serves 4 (serving size = 2 pepper halves) Stuffed Pepper Ingredients:  1 cup quinoa or rice 2 cups veggie broth 4 large red, yellow, or orange peppers, halved with seeds removed 1/2 cup salsa plus more for serving 1 Tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional) 2 tsp cumin powder 1 1/2 tsp chili powder 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1 (15oz) can of black beans, drained and rinsed 1 cup whole kernel corn, drained Toppings (optional): Avocado Red Onion, diced Salsa Cilantro, chopped Fresh lime juice Cilantro Dressing Ingredients: 1/2 small ripe avocado 1 cup chopped cilantro 3-4 small limes, juiced 1/3 cup olive oil 1/4 tsp sea salt 1/4 tsp cumin 1 Tablespoon sweetener of choice (such as cane sugar or honey) Water to thin Directions Add rice or quinoa to a saucepan and bring to boil. Once boiling, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until all liquid is absorbed and rice or quinoa is fluffy. Pre-hea...

If you think back about last spring, it started early after a mild winter and the spring changed to a summer that was hot, humid and dry. Now fall is almost here and the weather continues to stay mild, so entomologists from across the nation are finding that the tick population is still building--and that could mean major problems for next year. Because it got so warm so early, the ticks came out of dormancy early and have had extra time to mature, mate, and prepare for the egg-laying season for next spring. Right now, the adult ticks are still feeding in preparation for a long winter sleep to prepare for the egg laying in the spring. Because of the mild year, few ticks have died due to weather conditions, and populations have soared to record highs. Here is the life cycle of a tick and how it can affect you and your pets this fall and next spring. Ticks have three primary stages of development: larval, nymphal, and adult. Each stage requires a special host to feed on to move on ...

JOIN US TO BATTLE CARBON POLLUTION SEPT. 26-OCT. 7! WHAT IS IT?  Way To Go! is a 2 week challenge that starts September 26th and goes through October 7th. During that time you just sign up and pledge to walk, run, bike, bus, carpool or telecommute as much as you'd like. WHY DOES IT MATTER?  Your participation sends a signal to our local and state leaders that alternative transportation and reducing carbon pollution matters to Vermonters. WILL IT BE FUN?  Of course it will be! Just watch this! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__J8dUxBKY4&feature=youtu.be HOW DO I SIGN UP?   Sign up is easy, free and takes seconds!  Just go to   https://waytogovt.org/

How we wake up and start the day can greatly impact how the rest of our day goes. If you're looking for some way to start your day off more relaxed and mindful, try adding these into your routine! 1.) First Sounds Starting off the day with a loud alarm that makes you tense is a startling way to start the day. Instead, choose an alarm with soothing noises - chimes, bells, or relaxing music. This will allow you to slowly adjust from sleep to being alert. 2.) Hydrate Before Coffee When we wake up, our bodies are dehydrated. Instead of reaching for a cup of coffee first thing, try drinking a glass of water, then move onto the coffee or tea. 3.) Observe Nature Instead of reaching for technology first thing, go outside and take in the sky or trees. Watch the sunrise while you sip your coffee or tea. Then move on to start your day. 4.) Get Ready the Night Before Instead of rushing around in the morning, try packing your lunch, organizing your work bag, and setting out your ...

As the gardening season begins to come to an end, it's a great time to take advantage of the remaining Summer or Zucchini squash in our garden as long as it continues to be productive. This is a wonderful vegetable dish your family and friends will love. When your garden is finished, you can use squash from the grocery store from Southern states to recreate this recipe. Use either Summer or Zucchini squash but don't mix the two varieties. Ingredients: 3- 10 to 12-inch squash, peeled 1 tablespoon of sea salt ½ cup of general purpose white flour 1 cup of olive oil or Truffle oil ¾ Pound of thinly sliced Mozzarella cheese 3 medium size red onions, peeled and thinly sliced 6 of the biggest or 10 medium RIPE tomatoes, peeled, and coarsely chopped 1 Tablespoon of finely chopped fresh Basil 1 Tablespoon of finely chopped fresh thyme 1 tablespoon of white sugar ¼ teaspoon of Allspice 1/3 cup of fresh grated or packaged Parmesan cheese Preparation: Peel and cut you...

Vermont Active, Retired & Temporary State Employees GET YOUR FLU SHOT Live Well  Vermont is offering quadrivalent vaccine at all clinics for 2016!    Clinics are scheduled October 3- November 7 Register online *  at: www.passporthealthusa.com/LiveWellVermont No Computer Access?   Register by phone* at: 1-888-226-1683 Mon-Fri: 8 AM - 9 PM, Sat: 9 AM - 9 PM & Sun: 9 AM - 6 PM  * Active and SOV Temps please provide your employee ID #. Email address is required for online registration. Medicare Retirees: please supply your Medicare #.   All others: please indicate insurance coverage, if applicable. Your non-Medicare insurance member ID and group number are not required to register.                                                      Health Fairs and Open Enrollment N...

Be sure to register for the last challenge of the year in order to earn 500 wellness incentive points toward the "Explore Wellness" section of the 2016 Discover Your Wellness Incentive Program . Registration open now through Sunday, October 2, 2016!

There’s no questioning the fact that the foods you eat go far in determining how quickly you’ll meet your health and wellness goals. And if you’re eating a number of your meals out at restaurants then you’re going to want to keep reading because the average restaurant meal contains more than 1,200 calories. Most people have no idea just how unhealthy restaurant entrees can be. In fact, the following information may shock you. Here, in no particular order, are 5 of the most fattening restaurant dishes along with tips to equip you in making lighter, healthier versions of these dishes at home. Unhealthy Choice #1: Cobb Salad Cobb salads are loaded with cheese, bacon, egg, and topped with a creamy dressing. Sure, you’re eating a salad, but that salad is likely to contain more calories than a burger. At-Home Version: Making a lighter Cobb Salad at home is easy and quick. Start with a dark lettuce, like spinach or arugula, to get the most nutritional value. Top it with ...

You've got to give these a try. They taste great and you'd never know they contain avocado! Antioxidants, omega 3's and a little sweetness for your day! Ingredients 1 avocado, peeled and pitted 2 tablespoons dark unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tablespoons agave nectar or honey 1 frozen banana 1 cup ice 1 cup unsweetened almond milk Preparation Put all ingredients into a blender or magic bullet. Blend until smooth. Pour into popsicle molds and freeze. Enjoy!

Is your farmer's market overflowing with vegetables? Or, are you struggling to use up all the veggies in your garden? Freezing is a great way to enjoy vegetables all year long and takes very little time to do. Here are 5 vegetables that are simple to freeze right now!   1.) Corn Frozen corn can be added to soups, stir fry, and cornbread without thawing! Frozen corn can be kept for up to 6 months. Freeze corn by blanching in salt water, dry, then freezing the whole cob or cut kernels and store in a zip top bag. 2.) Green Beans Frozen beans can be sauteed in olive oil for a quick side dish. To freeze: Trim the stems of the beans, boil for about 3 minutes, then shock in an ice bath. Dry the beans well and then freeze on a parchment lined baking sheet. Once frozen, store in a zip top bag. 3.) Roasted Peppers All varieties of peppers can be roasted for freezing! Roast peppers on the grill or in the oven, then remove blackened skin and stems. Freeze on a parchment line...

Looking for a simple and healthy dinner recipe? These sweet potato fitters with avocado salsa are packed with nutrients and very filling! Makes 2 servings Ingredients: 1 Egg 1 Medium Sweet Potato (peeled, grated, and drained) 1 tsp Olive Oil Sea salt Pepper 1 Tablespoon Coconut Oil 1 Avocado Cubed 1 Large Tomato Cubed 1/2 Small Lemon Juiced Handful of Basil Leaves (torn) Directions 1. Whisk egg well in small bowl. Combine with sweet potato, olive oil, and salt and pepper - mixing well. 2. In a large pan, melt coconut oil over medium heat. Spoon potato mixture into pan and flatten out to make a patty the size of your palm. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. 3. Meanwhile place avocado and tomato in a bowl. Squeeze the lemon juice over top and season to taste with salt and pepper. Add basil and mix well. 4. Serve fritters topped with salsa.