Fresh Rec Stop Recipe: Spring Fruit Salad
By Garrett Simpson, NASM-CNC, Community Health Leader April marks the beginning of melon season, and various melons converge to create a flavorful mix in this refreshing fruit salad. Cantaloupe steals the spotlight, delivering a hefty dose of vitamins A and C, essential for vision and immunity. Honeydew melon joins in, enriching bone health with folate, vitamin K, and magnesium. A splash of lime juice adds zing and extra vitamin C, while honey's antimicrobial properties enhance immunity. Together, these ingredients compose a potent
Fresh Rec Stop Recipe: Kale Pesto
By Garrett Simpson, Community Health Leader This Kale Pesto is a great way to kick off the month. As part of a heart-healthy diet, kale can reduce the risk of heart disease by helping lower LDL cholesterol or “bad cholesterol.” Kale offers an abundance of nutrients that support heart health, including potassium, fiber, folate, and calcium. Basil provides additional heart-protective benefits, containing compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols that may contribute to cardiovascular health. Garlic is known for its potential to lower
Mental Health Matters: What To Do When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed
By Rhenelle Mc Sween-Navarro, Community Health Specialist Feeling overwhelmed is a common experience that many of us encounter at various points in our lives. Whether it’s due to work, school, relationships, or other life challenges, the sensation of being overwhelmed can be incredibly stressful. However, it’s essential to remember that there are strategies you can employ to help alleviate these feelings and regain a sense of control. Here are some tips on what to do when you’re feeling overwhelmed: Take a Step
Fresh Rec Stop Recipe: Pineapple Refreshers
By Garrett Simpson, Community Health Leader This Pineapple Refresher is great on a hot day or if you need sweet pick me up! Pineapple is rich in vitamin C. One cup of pineapple contains 78.9 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C. It is said that pineapple can improve bone health because it contains Manganese. Manganese helps stave off osteoporosis and improve overall bone and mineral density. Did you know that you can find fresh, affordable produce near you? Healthy St. Pete‘s Fresh Rec Stop
Embracing Wellness: A Guide to Healthy Aging
By Rhenelle Mc Sween-Navarro, Community Health Specialist Aging is an inevitable part of life. As the years pass, it becomes increasingly important to prioritize our health and well-being. Healthy aging goes beyond just living longer; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that nurtures physical, mental, and emotional vitality. Let’s explore some key aspects of healthy aging and discuss some practical tips to help you age gracefully. Stay Active, Stay Strong Physical Activity is a cornerstone of healthy aging. Regular exercise not only maintains muscle
Fresh Rec Stop Recipe: Citrus & Pomegranate Salad
By Garrett Simpson, Community Health Leader January is pomegranate and citrus season, so this salad is the perfect combination to enjoy these fruits at their best. Citrus fruits are rich in multiple nutrients such as vitamin C and fiber can reduce inflammation. Pomegranates can aid in skin health and in digestion. So give this recipe a try and start your year off with a bright and zesty kick! Did you know that you can find fresh, affordable produce near you? Healthy St. Pete‘s Fresh
Stay Merry and Active: Staying Fit During the Holidays
By Rhenelle Mc Sween-Navarro, Community Health Specialist The festive season is synonymous with joy, indulgence, and quality time spent with loved ones. However, it is also a time when our fitness routines often take a back seat. While it is tempting to surrender to the allure of holiday treats and cozy nights in, maintaining a balance with regular exercise can make a significant difference in how we feel during and after the holidays. Festive Workouts: A Jolly Twist to Fitness Incorporate the holiday
Unplug and Play: Get Out and Get Healthy!
By Rhenelle Mc Sween-Navarro, Community Health Specialist In today’s fast-paced digital world, it is easy to get lost in our screens and social media. Although online content is a lot of fun, it is essential to balance our online time with outdoor activities to stay healthy and happy. Being outside is fun too! Let’s explore the many benefits of getting off our phones and getting active. The Importance of Physical Activity Physical activity can sound like a lot of work, especially if you’re
What Are Food Systems and Why Are They Important?
By Sarah Wiemert, Planner II The Healthy Food Action Plan focuses on uplifting and expanding aspects of the St. Petersburg food system that residents identified as priority initiatives during the community engagement phase of the Plan. A food system is an integral part of communities. But what exactly is a food system, and how does it influence whether a community is thriving? Food Systems 101 A food system is a collection of physical processes and abstract ideas that interact with people, communities, and
Fresh Rec Stop Recipe: Greek Yogurt Chocolate Pudding
By Garrett Simpson, Community Health Leader With the new year right around the corner everyone is trying to set themselves up for success. The best way to set yourself up nutritionally is to eat probiotics daily. Probiotics help your body maintain healthy gut microorganisms. Greek yogurt is full of probiotics that help prevent obesity. It’s a great source of calcium and can keep you satisfied for longer. Dark Chocolate is a powerful source of antioxidants. It may improve blood flow and