WELLNESS WEDNESDAYS
"Water is involved in all body processes. You need the proper amount for all those processes to work correctly."
-- Dr. Jack M Guralnik
National Institutes of Health
WATER. Most people don’t drink enough of it.
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| Vero Beach, Florida |
Here are 5 reasons why you need to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses a day:
GREAT SKIN. Drinking water helps keep your skin moisturized.
TRANSPORTATION. Water carries nutrients to where your body needs them. It carries toxins out through sweat or urine.
LUBRICATING. All your muscles and joints need moisture and cushioning to work properly and avoid creating too much friction within the body.
BOOST YOUR BRAINPOWER AND MOOD. A hydrated brain is sharp and happy.
LOSE WEIGHT. Drink water first when you think you are hungry. Drink a glass half an hour before a meal.
What's YOUR favorite reason to drink enough water?
The 4th of July weekend is all about enjoying picnics with family and friends, a dip in the pool or a trip to the beach (see my beach above), and the “oohs” and “aahs” of the fireworks. Happy birthday, America! Here is a delicious dip to make with your kids for your family:
SMOKY EGGPLANT AND CHICKPEA DIP
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 pounds eggplant, peeled and roasted (TO ROAST: preheat oven to 350. Peel eggplant and cut into halves lengthwise. Place cut side down on an oiled baking sheet. Roast 45 minutes or until tender.)
- 1 16-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup tahini
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tablespoons water
- 1-2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 handful fresh parsley
- ¾ teaspoon sea salt
- Fresh ground pepper
DIRECTIONS:
Cut roasted eggplant into chunks, place in food processor with all ingredients. Process until smooth. Serve with your favorite chips and veggies.
In gratitude,
Nancy Heinrich
Growing Healthy Kids, Inc.
