De-Stress: Keep It Simple… and Healthy

• Buy vegetables that are easy to prepare. Pick up pre-washed bags of salad greens and add baby carrots or grape tomatoes for a salad in minutes. Buy packages of veggies such as baby carrots or celery sticks for quick snacks.

• Use a microwave to quickly “zap” vegetables. White or sweet potatoes can be baked quickly this way.

• Keep a bowl of whole fruit on the table, counter, or in the refrigerator.

• Popcorn, a whole grain, can be a healthy snack with little or no added salt and butter.

• Freeze leftover cooked brown rice, bulgur, or barley. Heat and serve it later as a quick side dish.

• Consider convenience when shopping. Buy pre-cut packages of fruit (such as melon or pineapple chunks) for a healthy snack in seconds. Choose packaged fruits that do not have added sugars.

• Dried fruits also make a great snack. They are easy to carry and store well. Because they are dried, ¼ cup is equivalent to ½ cup of other fruits.

• Buy fruits that are dried, frozen, and canned (in water or juice) as well as fresh, so that you always have a supply on hand.
   

Physical Activity

• Remember — Being physically active is a key element in living a longer, healthier, happier life. It can help relieve stress and can provide an overall feeling of well-being.