Got stress? Bringing your pet to work can help
STRESS
To the delight of animal lovers everywhere, awareness of the physical, mental and emotional toll taken by stress is leading progressive employers to create take-your-pet-to-work programs. Consider these facts based on a recent Purina report about the many advantages of such pets-at-work programs.
n They can benefit health. Pet-employee interaction has been shown to reduce the employees’ blood pressure and cholesterol levels in addition to alleviating anxiety.
n They can improve employee retention. Sixty-three percent of employees in pet-friendly workplaces say they’re very satisfied with their work environments — nearly twice as many as those in other workplaces.
n They can alleviate loneliness. Eight in 10 employees who can bring pets to work say that activity makes them feel more happy, relaxed and sociable. That’s partly because talking about pets can make it easier for people to approach and converse with co-workers.
WOMEN’S HEALTH
Tips for busy women to take charge of their health
A recent HealthiHer survey showed that only 66 percent of U.S. women ages 30 to 60 feel “somewhat in control” of their own health, although 83 percent are happily managing the health of their families. Consider these tips that could help.
— For the sake of others, care for yourself. Maintain your own wellbeing so you can stay around to be an effective mom, wife, daughter, sister and/or friend.
n Try online resources. Some health issues can be handled through online portals that diagnose issues through questionnaires or video chats, then prescribe therapies.
n Set health care appointments well ahead. That lets you secure the slots that work best with your schedule.
TIP OF THE WEEK
5 healthy habits can cut obesity According to a new study from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, the children of mothers who follow five healthy habits are 75 percent less likely to become obese compared to children of mothers who did not follow these habits. The five habits, according to an article on
ScienceDaily.com, are: 1. Eating a healthy diet 2. Exercising regularly
3. Keeping a healthy body weight
4. Drinking alcohol in moderation
5. Not smoking
In addition, when the mother and child both followed these habits, the risk of obesity was shown to be 82 percent lower compared to those that did not follow the habits.
HEALTHY EATING
Southwest Corn and Grape Salad recipe
Southwest Corn and Grape Salad is guaranteed to please the senses with its tasty flavors; beautiful color medley from red and green grapes, avocado and corn; and variety of pleasing textures.
— 3/4 cup corn kernels, either freshly cut off the cob or thawed, frozen corn kernels
— 1/2 avocado, diced
— 3/4 cup red California grapes, halved
— 1/2 cup green California grapes, halved
— 1 tablespoon chopped shallot — 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
— 2 tablespoons lime juice — 1/2 teaspoon lime zest Combine the corn, avocado, grapes, shallot, olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, salt and pepper to taste; mix gently. Serve with grilled flank steak. For more recipes, visit GrapesfromCalifornia.com