Cucumbers are in season right now, and plentiful in many gardens and of course at the farmer's market. Delicious on their own or in a salad, cucumbers are one of the lowest calorie foods there is. There are just 15 calories in a cup of cucumber. Nutritionally it provides 4 percent of your recommended daily potassium, 3 percent of fiber and 4 percent of vitamin C. This simple cucumber and Continue Reading
10 healthy ways to have fun in North Carolina on a budget
Looking for some free and low-cost ways your family can get a healthy dose of fun this summer while staying close to home? You’re in the perfect place – North Carolina! We are fortunate to have so many recreational opportunities and resources in our backyard. In this article I wrote for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, see a sampling of places across the state to give you ideas Continue Reading
Expert tips for getting started with a walking program
Spring is the perfect time to go for a walk. After the long winter, naturally we are drawn to the outdoors to enjoy the warm weather, fresh air and beautiful scenery. There are so many great reasons to walk. Walking helps prevent or improve type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. It makes your bones, muscles and joints stronger. It’s great for our brain health too — Continue Reading
Favorite places for a beautiful walk in Orange County, North Carolina
Being out in nature is great for your health, both physically and mentally. Here are some of my favorite beautiful places in the Hillsborough and Chapel Hill area to enjoy a scenic walk. All of them have free admission and are open year-round. Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area – This scenic trail goes through the woods, along the peaceful Eno River, and up to the overlook where you’ll Continue Reading
Graham Walks helps community take millions of steps
I was proud to partner once again with the City of Graham Recreation and Parks Department on a wonderful community initiative, Graham Walks. The spring 2018 Graham Walks Program lasted for 5 weeks from April 4-May 9. It’s a self-paced program to help participants average 7K steps a day. Incentives include the opportunity to win one of several grand prizes. As you can see on the above Continue Reading
How to pick strawberries at a u-pick farm + 4 delicious recipes
Strawberry season is finally here! I love going to pick strawberries at a u-pick farm here in central North Carolina, McAdams Farm. Last weekend I went there to get the first of this year's crop. The berries are so sweet and delicious! If you haven't been, you should go try it. Strawberry picking is great exercise, and an outdoor activity the whole family can enjoy. Kids especially love Continue Reading