January 2015

Last week we focused on 5 basic training tips to get you on the right path for our Run for Hope 5K on May 2, 2015 and now we are on to nutrition tips that will keep your body healthy! Be sure to register for the Run for Hope 5K at www.runforhope5k.com by February 28 and save! Click here to learn more about the race and our race beneficiary. 1. Drink up. We all know that drinking enough fluids daily is important to stay hydrated and to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It becomes even more crucial when preparing for a 5K race. However, how much should you drink daily? It’s important to drink half your weight in ounces daily and drinking water provides the best hydration without the unnecessary sugar and chemicals that some sports drinks have. If you find water boring

Okay, we want you to feel encouraged and excited to participate in our Run for Hope 5K at Valley Natural Foods on May 2, 2015 at 8:00 a.m.! You should feel pumped up as not only are you making a great decision for your health, but proceeds from registration costs go toward improving the health of our next generation! Yes, all the proceeds from the Run for Hope 5K will be donated to The Foundation for Early Childhood Family Services (ECFS), helping support Dakota County LANA (Learning About Nutrition through Activities) curriculum and the construction of a playground for children attending classes at the Dakota Valley Learning Center. However, what if you’ve never participated in a 5K before and you don’t know where to start? The important thing that to remember is that you don’t have to be a runner to participate!

Give yourself an antioxidant tea boost. Green and white teas are very high in antioxidants. Antioxidants help the liver and cells of the body clear toxins from the environment and those toxins created by normal body metabolism. The removal of toxins helps boost the immune system. Fruity teas that contain blueberry, rooibos, lemon and orange are pleasant tasting and full of antioxidants. Better digestion ahead. Drinking tea can help more than just building a healthy immune system. Tea can ease digestion issues. Teas for improving digestion might include ginger, peppermint, fennel, slippery elm and papaya. Trouble catching z’s? The warmth of tea along with soothing ingredients can make you sleep better. Tulsi teas that are Holy Basil based and those teas that contain chamomile, lavender and hibiscus can be calming and may promote a sleepy feeling. Detox your body with tea. Teas that might be used

Are you shaking up your diet in the New Year? Valley Natural Foods wants to help your diet get off to the right start. However, you may be wondering why you should even consider including protein powder in your diet.  Protein powders are a great way to fuel up and provide energy pre or post workout such as when running a 5K, in addition to helping boost energy, burn fat and balance blood sugar. Protein powders can also help promote weight loss because Raw Fit, for example, has soluble and insoluble fiber from certified organic grains, seeds, legumes and fruits, which makes one feel full, satisfying hunger, suppressing one's appetite for longer periods of time. Also, if you eat a vegetarian or vegan diet that lacks protein-rich foods, a plant-based protein powder mixed in smoothies, a blender bottle, or other foods may be