Physical Fitness & Sports Month – Fitness for Life

Since 1983, May has been designated as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. This month is a great time to take a look at your current physical activity habits and find ways to increase your activity level. Physical activity includes both planned and unplanned activities. By making a commitment to maintain an active lifestyle and include planned activities such as exercise and sports, you will be better able to stay fit for life.

Often times, it is hard to find the motivation to start and continue physical activity. Review these benefits of physical activity and identify those benefits that are meaningful and motivating to you.

Benefits of Regular Physical Activity:

• Control weight
• Manage stress
• Relieve symptoms of depression or anxiety
• Boost mood
• Reduce health risks of some chronic conditions
• Increase energy
• Improve sleep habits
• Increase bone density
• Strengthen the heart and lungs
• Improve quality of life

During this month, renew your commitment to being physically active and recognize the value of including activity and sports into your daily life. For additional information, visit www.fitness.gov

Hot Topic in the News – Safe Summer Travel

Summer is just around the corner and vacation planning is in full-swing. When making your plans to travel, be sure to always consider your health and safety.

Be Proactive! Before you travel, be proactive about your health. Make sure that you have had an annual physical and that all of your vaccinations are updated. If you have not seen a doctor in the past year, make an appointment for an annual physical. Discuss your travel plans with your doctor if you are pregnant, have small children, have a disability or chronic condition, or have recently had a medical procedure.

• Be Prepared! Learn about your destination and the resources that will be available. No one wants to get sick or hurt while on vacation, but it may happen. Pack smart by bringing all prescription medications, commonly used over the counter medications, first aid supplies and the emergency phone numbers for your doctor.
• Be Protected! The best way to stay healthy while on vacation is to practice healthy behaviors. Pay attention to your environment and use protection, such as sunscreen and insect repellant, when necessary. Be careful about food and water, particularly when overseas. Limit alcohol intake, and never drink and drive. Wear recommended protective gear when doing adventure activities, and always follow the local laws and customs.

Remember, vacations are a time to relax and have fun. Planning a healthy and safe vacation will help you relax and have a great time while you travel. For additional information, visit www.cdc.gov/travel  

May 2011 Recipe - Oatmeal Pecan Waffles

Physical Fitness and Sports Month is a great time to try a new breakfast recipe! Eating breakfast everyday will help provide energy to be successful in your physical activity goals. The Oatmeal Pecan Waffles recipe is high in dietary fiber, which will help provide long-lasting energy that lasts throughout the morning. Consider trying a variety of your favorite fresh fruits as a topping for your waffle.

Recipe Summary:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Number of Servings: 4 servings

Waffle Ingredients:

• 1 C whole-wheat flour
• ½ C quick-cooking oats
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp sugar
• ¼ C unsalted pecans, chopped
• 2 large eggs, separated
• 1½ C fat-free (skim) milk
• 1 Tbsp vegetable oil

Topping Ingredients:

• 2 C fresh strawberries, rinsed, stems removed, and cut in half
• 1 C fresh blackberries, rinsed
• 1 C fresh blueberries, rinsed
• 1 tsp powdered sugar

Directions:
Preheat waffle iron. Combine flour, oats, baking powder, sugar, and pecans in a large bowl. Combine egg yolks, milk, and vegetable oil in a separate bowl, and mix well. Add liquid mixture to the dry ingredients, and stir together. Do not over mix; mixture should be a bit lumpy. Whip egg whites to medium peaks. Gently fold egg whites into batter. Pour batter into preheated waffle iron, and cook until the waffle iron light signals it’s done or steam stops coming out of the iron. (A waffle is perfect when it is crisp and well-browned on the outside with a moist, light, airy, and fluffy inside.) Add fresh fruit and a light dusting of powdered sugar to each waffle, and serve.

Tip:
For pancakes, do not separate eggs. Mix whole eggs with milk and oil and add mixture to dry ingredients.