Foods That Fight Stress

Greetings All:

Waiting is a part of life; something we all must do at some point.  We wait in long lines at the grocery store or bank.  We are put on hold when we call in with a complaint for what seems like an hour.  But the question that must be asked is, How Do You Handle the WAIT?  Does your stress level shoot up like a hot thermometer or are you cool calm, and collective?  Do you speak without thinking or do you carefully consider your thoughts?  On a scale of 1-10 how patient are you during those long waits?  Let's talk about your blood pressure and the numbers.  Are they high or low?  Did you accomplish your mission without a strain, or did you leave or hang up only to have to deal with that very same problem or concern all over again?  Just something to ponder.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, LONGSUFFERING/PATIENCE, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance."

"Healthy Mind, Healthy Body, Healthy Spirit

 TIPS OF THE MONTH

FOODS THAT FIGHT STRESS

Avocados - Avocados contain higher levels of vitamin E, folate, and beta-carotene which boost stress-bursting properties.

Blueberries - Blueberries are linked to a wide range of health benefits including sharper cognition, better focus, and a clearer mind, all of which help you better deal with stress.

Chamomile Tea - Chamomile tea is effective in reducing the symptoms of anxiety disorder.

Organic Dark Chocolate - Dark Chocolate over 70% Cocoa is best, as it contains antioxidants that can help combat stress.

Walnuts - Snacking on walnuts is a healthy option that helps you to stay better in control of your stress levels.

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

CUBAN-STYLE BLACK BEANS WITH PINEAPPLE (Taken from MyPlate)

Ingredients:

1 Tbsp. olive oil

1/2 onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp. ground cumin

1 tsp. dried oregano

1 cup juice-packed pineapple chunks, drained, plus 2 Tbsp. reserved juice

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 (14.5 0z.) can black beans, rinsed and drained

Cooked brown rice for serving

DIRECTIONS

1.  Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.  Add the onion and sauté until softened.  Add the garlic cumin, and oregano and sauté for one more minute.

2.  Add the pineapple to the skillet and allow to brown before stirring to cook the other side, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Pour in the reserved pineapple juice and scrape the bottom of the pan to remove any bits that are stuck.

4. Stir in the black beans and reduce heat to medium-low.  Cover and simmer until beans are warmed. 

Uncover and add half of the cilantro.

5. To serve, spoon brown rice into bowls and top with beans.  Top with remaining cilantro.