Inspire Health Magazine- Summer Edition

INSPIRE SUMMER 2021

e r a C y r a m i r P

LOUISIANA

WITH OUR LADY OF THE LAKE

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INSPIRE HEALTH LOUISIANA

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contents 28

HEALTHY DESTINATIONS

REJUVENATION IN THE RED MOUNTAINS Red Mountain Resort, St. George, Utah

5 SUPER FOOD

Get “The Buzz” on Bee Pollen

7 FEATURE

ON OUR COVER

The Importance of a Primary Care Doctor

Happy Feet

8 NATURAL BEAUTY Calendula

10 EXERCISE

Ditch the Bar and Handle the Resistance!

12 HEALTHY BODY Volumetrics

14 WELLNESS

18

Holistic Medicine and Healthcare Insurance

16 EAT FRESH

Boost Macronutrients with Fresh Microgreens

18 COVER STORY

The Importance of a Primary Care Doctor

20 PETS

Carbon Paw Prints

22 MIGHTY KIDS Geocaching

23 RECIPE

Energy Balls

24 DISCOVER

All-Natural Alternatives to Eggs

26 LONGEVITY

The Sweet Benefits of Nature’s Nectar

28 HEALTHY DESTINATIONS

Rejuvenation in The Red Mountains

30 RECIPE

Living Green Guacamole

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16 EAT FRESH

Boost Macronutrients with Fresh Microgreens

Get “The Buzz” on

Bee n e l l o P

super food

Bee pollen functions as a sourc e of protein for the hive.

By Leah Porche, RD

B

ee pollen has been touted to enhance endurance, foster fertility, and alleviate allergy symptoms across the web. While these claims have not been proven by human studies, they are founded on the high-nutrient composition of the bee pollen, which is comprised of simple sugars, amino acids (protein), minerals, vitamins, fatty acids, and other nutrients. It's no surprise that bee pollen is an excellent source of protein, as it functions as a high-protein food source for the hive.

Exact composition of the bee pollen varies depending upon the plants visited by the worker bees.

These hard-working insects fly to and fro, plant-to-plant, collect nectar, and return to the hive. While the nectar is used to make honey, the pollen is made by combining pollen with bee saliva and the nectar to create the generally golden granules of bee pollen.

These protein-packed little pellets are sweet with an edge of bitterness. While you may find a bee pollen supplement in your local health food store (which may contain questionable additives), the actual granules (a whole food) can be added to a multitude of recipes to add texture, flavor, and nutrition. Some of the easiest ways to incorporate bee pollen into your diet are at breakfast time; add it to your smoothie, sprinkle it on your oatmeal, or add it to your muffin batter. While there may not be startling studies about the positive effects of bee pollen, adding this tasty tidbit to your pantry stock will give you something new and interesting to enhance your culinary repertoire!■

*Those with bee allergies, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding, should avoid consumption.

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publisher’s letter

Mad Cloud I was watching my niece at swimming lessons the other day when I heard a little boy say, “That is a mad cloud.” I laughed, thinking it was the cutest thing and a very accurate description of the dark cloud looming above our heads. On our way home from swimming lessons, I heard from the backseat, “MeMe, look, that's a mad cloud, too!”

Once again, I burst out laughing. It’s such a great way to think about them.

Hearing the little ones’ descriptions of the dark clouds got me thinking about Mother Nature and how you really can’t plan each day perfectly since the weather changes so quickly. It’s sunny one minute, and the next, there are a lot of “mad clouds” and raindrops the size of golf balls. My husband, who is a pilot, tries to explain the reasoning behind the showers, but it's honestly information that my brain does not need to retain! I just know that Louisiana weather in the summer (or really always) is full of surprises, not to mention pollen.

Summer brings a lot of growth...and allergies. However, with the sun beaming, the rain pouring, and the bees pollinating, there’s a lot of exciting things, too. While bees can sometimes be a nuisance, they’re actually really important to our environment.

One thing we all know that they do is make honey, which is what we wanted to highlight this issue. We did some digging on honey, and I, myself, learned a bunch of ways honey can be used. What impresses me the most is that experts say if you have a tablespoon of honey a day, it will help relieve pollen-related allergies. As someone who fights with their allergies a lot, this is something I am absolutely going to try since pollen is my biggest allergen. Even if it doesn’t work as well as I hope, it never hurts to try something new.

We’re excited for you to dive into this issue. From honey and bees to calendula and microgreens, we have a lot of ways to keep you healthy and thriving throughout the summer months. Happy summer!

LOUISIANA MEET OUR TEAM AMY PLAISANCE Founder

BRANDON FOREMAN Publisher

AMY L. FOREMAN

CREDITS Associate Publisher

EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor

EMILY DREZ

Editorial Assistant

VICTORIA COTEJAR Social Media Coordinator

SARAH BATROUS ANTHONY BUI Editorial Interns

ART/PRODUCTION MELODY TAUZIN Senior Graphic Designer

MADELENE SOILEAU Multimedia Specialist

KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY Cover Photographer

ADVERTISING/MARKETING LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Sales

CRYSTAL BARRETT JO LYNN BURNS CAMILLE MILLER JASON WALL RYN WHITESIDE Account Executives

EMILY MANCUSO Marketing Specialist

BUSINESS OPERATIONS TERI HODGES

Director of Community Partnerships

ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach

EMMA BENOIT

Administrative Coordinator

Inspire Health Louisiana (Summer 2021) (Issue 9) Principal office: 11831 Wentling Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70816-6055. Printed in the U.S.A. For 24 hour service, use our website inspirehealthla.com. You can also call (225) 292-0032. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

Help us inspire others! We want to know what inspires you to live healthy. You could be published in the next issue of Inspire Health Louisiana.

Email us at editorial@inspirehealthLA.com.

Find Us Online!

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INSPIRE HEALTH LOUISIANA | SUMMER 2021

The information contained in Inspire Health Louisiana is intended for educational purposes only. A reader should never substitute information contained in Inspire Health Louisiana for the advice of a health care professional. Family Resource Group Inc. and publishers of Inspire Health Louisiana do not endorse or promote any of the products or services described in the pages of Inspire Health Louisiana, and the publishers do not verify the accuracy of any claims made in the editorial or advertisements contained in Inspire Health Louisiana.

Readers should not use the information in Inspire Health Louisiana for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. Readers should consult with a health care professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program before taking any medication, or have or suspect they have a health problem.

W

Happy Feet

RUN, JOG OR WALK WITH THE RIGHT SHOES hoes

By Tami Charbonnet Top SF t e for Flat e $72.38 $120.00

5

Asics Gel-Kayano 23

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 17

New Balance 1260v6

$124.95

Mizuno Wave Inspire 13

Asics GEL-DS Trainer 21

$119.95

$120.00

TOP 5 RUNNING SHOES Asics GEL-Nimbus 18

$89.99

for flat, neutral, and high arched feet:

Brooks Glycerin 14

$150.00

feature

hether you are an avid runner who pounds the pavement training for competitive events, a couple-miles-a-week jogger, or even a walker, the right running shoes can make all the difference in both comfort and injury prevention.

According to researchers at Runner's World, "Selecting running shoes is akin to purchasing a house or a car; you’re going to spend a lot of time in them, so you want something you really like. In addition to a comfortable ride, shoes can play a major role in keeping your running strong."

How do you find the best shoes?

First, consider the shape of your foot and arch. There are three main shapes: flat, neutral, and high arches.

"Flat feet tend to have fallen arches, making them flexible and prone to overpronation, an inward rolling motion," the researchers say. "Neutral feet are the most biomechanically sound variety, putting them somewhere in the middle. High-arched feet are essentially the polar opposite of flat feet. When the arches are particularly defined, the feet end up being rigid, leading to supination, or landing on the outside edges of the feet."

It is important to keep your body safe from injury during exercise. If you have an injury, or if you feel aches or pain from running, jogging, or walking, you should consult a physician. Many athletes, running enthusiasts, and walkers have custom arch supports or inserts created for their running shoes to aid in injury prevention. ■ Altra The Torin 2.0

ASICS Gel Kinsei 6.

Nike Free 5.0

$79.00

$75.00

$119.00

New Balance 860v7

$120.00

Nike Air Pegasus+ 33.

5

Top Shoeset for Neutral Fe

$84.00

Saucony Ride 8

$47.97

ASICS Gel Venture 5

5

es Top Shorches for High A inspirehealthLA.com § #inspirehealthmagLA

$46.99

Saucony Ride 9

$109.00

INSPIRE HEALTH LOUISIANA

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natural beauty

re eet a , f s w If cro e for you ly t su erfec an is p s i d dula roun calen o apply a t safe our eyes. y

a l u d n Cale

A FLOWER YOUR SKIN WILL LOVE

By Whitney Alexandra

AS LADIES, WE TEND TO HAVE A NATURAL LOVE FOR FLOWERS. They make for the perfect gift, have a way of saying I love you or I’m sorry, and they brighten up any room by simply being.

More than just aesthetically pleasing flowers, calendula, in particular, are also a fantastic alternative to some of your store-bought beauty products, and is considered the newest trend in natural remedies.

WHAT IS CALENDULA? Calendula, also known as a Marigold, is a plant that is native to Asia and the northern Mediterranean countries. The Egyptians

8

considered it to have rejuvenating properties, and in the Hindu world, it is used as a colorant in food, fabrics, and cosmetics. Calendula is also used to heal cuts, burns, rashes, bites, and sunburns.

CALENDULA FOR BEAUTY Using natural, organic products is critical for your overall health. When it comes to your beauty routine, you want to use products that don’t contain harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin, which is where calendula comes into play. It is an anti-inflammatory, which aids greatly in problematic skin, like acne, since it helps remove the bacteria

INSPIRE HEALTH LOUISIANA | SUMMER 2021

and swelling. There are even more ways to incorporate calendula into your natural beauty regimen.

Calendula contains antioxidants, which fight free radicals, providing strength and protection and helping to prevent more damage to the skin from occurring. This process is fantastic for helping with the anti-aging process.

If crows feet are an issue for you, calendula is perfectly safe to apply around your eyes to help prevent and heal the skin. Since it is a natural moisturizer, it also helps with dryness and splitting of the skin, so calendula oil can be used on all areas of the face and body to help soothe and

repair it, giving your skin a healthy, natural glow.

If you have problems with thinning hair, calendula can help! When applied to a damaged scalp, it heals the hair follicles, bringing circulation back into them, producing healthy hair growth for a thicker and fuller set of locks.

Calendula also helps with scars and varicose veins.

It can help to heal and diminish the appearance of those unwanted imperfections, while also soothing the skin. This is especially exciting because it can help make your skin look years younger, and who wouldn’t want that ?■

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exercise

DITCH THE BAR & HANDLE THE

RESISTANCE! By: Tami Charbonnet | Model: Leslie Thomas Chimento, M.D. | Photographer: Richard Vallon

Resistance band exercises are a perfect way to get a full body workout as an alternative to purchasing expensive equipment. Resistance bands are inexpensive and travel friendly, and they are available in different strengths. To get the most from your strength training using resistance bands, you should have three different strengths–easy, medium, and difficult.

2.

STANDING SHOULDER ISOLATION PLUS HIP/GLUTEUS ADDUCTION ■ Stand with the middle of the resistance band beneath your feet and an end in each hand.

■ Bend the elbows and pull the handles out and up until the elbows are almost even with the shoulders.

■ Tighten the core and kick the right leg away and out toward the right side.

■ For hip adduction, tighten the core and kick the heel backward, squeezing the glutes. 2 sets / 15-20 repetitions

1 1.

SLEEK SHOULDER T-RAISE OR LATERAL RAISE ■ To begin, stand on resistance band so the tension begins at arm's length.

Grasp the handles with palms facing your thighs with a grip slightly less than shoulder width apart. Handles must be resting alongside the outer leg.

■ Extend arms with a slight bend at the elbows and keep back straight. This will be your starting position.

■ Use your side shoulders to lift the handles to the sides as you exhale.

Continue to lift handles until they are parallel to floor. Keep your core braced and pause for a few seconds at the top of the movement. Lower the handles back to the starting postion. 2 sets / 10 repetitions

3

3.

SIMPLE BAND BICEP CURL ■ Stand with the middle of the resistance band beneath your feet and an end in each hand.

■ Start with the arms straight by your sides and the band held taut.

■ Bend the arms at the elbows to lift the hands towards the HIP ADDUCTION exercise will shoulders. Be sure to keep the strengthen the muscles elbows close to the ribs. on the outside of the ■ Do not allow the elbows to hip. Take the leg out flare away from the body. to the side as far as 2 sets / 15-20 repetitions possible. Slowly bring it back to the center.

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2

4

4.

RUSSIAN TWIST: ■ Wrap resistance band around feet and grab handles, and keep them together.

■ With heels on the floor (or elevated for more of a challenge) rotate handles from side-to-side tapping the floor.

■ Works abs and obliques.

2 sets / 10-20 repetitions

*Bands used in photographs are resistance tubes with handles and handleless bands. Both were purchased for under $15.00

5

5.

BENT ROWS AND TRICEP KICK BACKS WITH HANDLELESS BANDS ■ Stand with the middle of the resistance band beneath your feet and an end in each hand ■ Hold the band in front of you and lean forward slightly while keeping the spine long (chest towards the floor). Step on your band in a slightly squatted position. Keep your lower back tight and straight as you pull your elbows back behind you.

Concentrate on squeezing your shoulder blades together at the top of each contraction.

■ Pull arms back with palms facing each other. Slowly bring palms back to sides bending mostly from the elbows.

2 sets / 10-20 repetitions

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healthy body

s c i tr e m u l o V WEIGHT LOSS

&MAINTENANCE

By Tami Charbonnet

Imagine being able to eat more, lose weight, and feel energized.

Volumetrics claims to do just that.

A

re you sick of feeling hungry, tired, and deprived due to low-carbohydrate, low-calorie, or low-fat diets? If your answer is yes, you have more than likely joined the millions of Americans who have lost weight, and then regained

1

it with additional pounds.

Volumetrics takes a completely different approach to weight loss.

This nutritional plan, created by Barbara Rolls PhD, doesn’t follow the current trends of structured eating that limits food and deprives our bodies of essential nutrients. While many diets on

the market simply promise weight loss, Volumetrics encourages individuals to lose weight and keep it off while eating more and feeling full. Plus, the plan is flexible enough for vegetarians, vegans, and those who need to restrict salt and fat.

Volumetrics focuses on finding specific healthy, filling food. According to Dr. Rolls, “People feel full because of the types and amounts of foods they eat–not because of the number of calories or the grams of fat, protein, or carbs. So, the trick is to fill up on the right foods with fewer calories.”

Volumetrics is a longterm plan that means you will not necessarily lose weight quickly. Instead, the

goal is to change your lifestyle and work toward permanent weight loss and maintenance. To be successful, you must meet specific daily calorie goals and daily step goals for movement and exercise.

The plan allows you to eat whatever you please, while paying attention to energy density. Energy density simply refers to the number of calories in a specific amount of food. Foods with high energy density have lots of calories for less volume, while foods with low energy density provide fewer calories with more volume.

The following four categories of food will allow you to begin your weight loss journey through Volumetrics.

DR. ROLLS SPLITS FOODS INTO FOUR CATEGORIES: CATEGORY 1 includes “free” or “anytime” fruits, nonstarchy vegetables (such as broccoli, tomatoes, mushrooms), and broth-based soups.

CATEGORY 2 includes reasonable portions of whole grains (such as brown rice and whole wheat pasta), lean proteins, legumes, and low-fat dairy.

CATEGORY 3 includes small portions of foods such as breads, desserts, fat-free baked snacks, cheeses, and higher-fat meats.

For more information about Volumetrics, refer to: Volumetrics

by Barbara Rolls, PhD and Robert A. Barnett

CATEGORY 4 includes sparing portions of fried foods, candy, cookies, nuts, and fats.

You’ll eat three meals, two snacks, and a dessert each day.

EXERCISE

You’ll start by adding 150 steps a day to your routine, using a pedometer. The first goal is to reach an extra 1,000 steps by the end of the week. The ultimate goal is to log 10,000 steps a day.

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wellness

c i t s i l o H e n i c i d e M

AND HEALTHCARE INSURANCE

By Patricia Danflous

TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR BODY...

LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE...

POSITIVE THINKING SPEEDS HEALING...

AN APPLE A DAY KEEPS THE DOCTOR AWAY...

M

ost people will tell you there is truth behind such statements.You probably know a cancer survivor or two who holds fast to the belief that her positive attitude and healthy diet made the difference in recovery. The holistic approach to health, which supports the integration of conventional and alternative therapies to address the whole person, is emerging as an impactful process in contemporary medicine. Such practices as acupuncture, chiropractic care, homeopathy, and massage therapy, along with a lifestyle that includes a healthy diet, exercise or relationship counseling, are becoming more common in treating mental, spiritual, and physical health.

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While patient testimonials and research indicate that the benefits of holistic medicine are significant to improved health and quality of life, many individuals are neglecting the choice because it is not covered by their healthcare insurance. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) treatments that are more commonly covered by insurance include chiropractic, acupuncture, and massage; however, health insurance companies still regard most alternative techniques with hesitation, and each company has different parameters for approval.

Aetna, for example, considers medically necessary alternative medicine with specific guidelines regarding acupuncture, biofeedback, chiropractic services, and electrical stimulation for pain.

Treatments that are typically not included in most traditional health plans include herbal therapy, homeopathy, applied kinesiology, and naturopathy. ■

For additional information on NCCIH and complementary and integrative health approaches, visit nccih.nih.gov.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO USE HOLISTIC MEDICINE AND DON’T KNOW IF YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE WILL COVER IT, CONTACT YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE PROVIDER AND ASK: ■ Is this approach covered for my health condition?

■ Does it need to be preauthorized or preapproved?

■ Do I need a prescription or referral?

■ Do I have coverage if I go out-of-network?

■ Are there any limits and requirements, such as the number of visits or amount you will pay?

■ How much do I have to pay out-of-pocket?

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eat fresh

Boost Macronutrients with Fresh s n e e r g o r c i M

By Tami Charbonnet

Microgreens: Baby Greens, Lettuces, Sprouts and Seedlings

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M

YOUR SOUL

icrogreens are commonly used on salads, soups, appetizers, and as artistic garnishes in fine dining restaurants. While they are often considered merely aesthetic, there are significant health benefits found within these tiny super food delicacies. Scientific research proves these seedlings are nutrient dense and contain important antioxidants.

Microgreens are edible seedlings harvested at the cotyledon leaf stage. According to studies at the University of Maryland and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, microgreen cotyledon leaves have considerably higher nutritional densities than mature leaves. Researchers discovered health-promoting benefits from consumption of microgreens, including a high antioxidant capacity and an abundance of vitamin C to help protect your body from the harmful effects of free radicals.

MISO

FIND & REVIEW HEALTHY PLACES AROUND THE WORLD

Trying to find a healthy place while in a new city?

Say goodbye to endless research! With MISO, you can easily see what’s around you and all the information you need is within one app. MISO simplifies searching for healthy places for busy, health conscious travelers and locals. Use MISO to find and read reviews of healthy food places, fitness studios, and gyms near you and around the world!

Researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture report that red cabbage microgreens had the highest levels of vitamin C among the tested varieties, with a 100 gram portion providing 147 milligrams of this vital nutrient. For comparison, an equal-sized serving of mature raw red cabbage contains 57 milligrams of vitamin C. Microgreens are also rich in the carotenoid, beta-carotene, which may help reduce risk of disease, such as cancer and eye disease. Many microgreens contain more beta-carotene than carrots12 milligrams per 100 grams compared with 8 milligrams in boiled carrots. Researchers who analyzed the beta-carotene content of microgreens found these super-nutritious greens also provide carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin.

Researchers at Yale University found that microgreens are a great source of vitamin E. According to them, “The recommended daily allowance for vitamin E is 15 milligrams of alphatocopherol, meaning that eating just a small amount of daikon radish microgreens would cover your daily requirement for this important antioxidant vitamin.”

Although microgreens are small, they pack an impressive punch of condensed nutrient density. Vitamin K is also found in abundance among these tiny seedlings, offering health benefits by “promoting normal blood clotting and preventing excessive bruising. Vitamin K also plays an important role in maintaining strong and healthy bones."■

NUTRIENT DENSE MACRO-SALAD ■ 4 cups of your favorite microgreens ■ ½ cup strawberries ■ ½ cup thinly sliced Granny smith apples ■ 2 Tbsps. sunflower seeds  1 Tbsps chopped walnuts

 Drizzle your favorite vinaigrette dressing lightly over the salad or simplify with a splash of good balsamic vinegar and touch of extra virgin olive oil.

 Combine microgreen mixture in a large deep bowl. Add strawberries, apples, sunflower seeds, and walnuts to mixture.

MICROGREENS: Tatsoi Baby and Microgreens Purslane Microgreens Baby Bok Choy (Pak Choi) Broccoli Microgreens (Baby) Dandelion Greens Baby Romaine (Cos) Lettuce Kohlrabi Microgreens Radish Microgreens Snow Pea Shoots Daikon Microgreens (Kaiware) Sunflower Shoots (Sunnies)

Baby Swiss Chard Celery Microgreens Chervil Microgreens Green/Red Orach Microgreens Baby Beet Greens Cilantro Microgreens Baby Garland Chrysanthemum Fennel Microgreens Parsley Microgreens Basil Microgreens Beet Microgreens

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cover story

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INSPIRE HEALTH LOUISIANA | SUMMER 2021

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INSPIRE HEALTH LOUISIANA

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pets

n o b r a C s t n i r P w a P

By Dr. Mark Cousins, DVM, DABVP

ARE PETS GOOD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT? OR, DO THEY LEAVE AN UNNECESSARY CARBON FOOTPRINT?

T

he point could be made that pets contribute to a negative macroscopic ecologic balance.

Much energy has to be funneled into the processing plants that manufacture pet foods, and the process of extrusion (the manufacture of pelleted rations) is an energy consuming process. Since most of us prefer a dry type of food to feed our

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INSPIRE HEALTH LOUISIANA | SUMMER 2021

dogs, cats, rabbits, or hamsters, this necessarily means the production of a carbon footprint. We could, of course, turn our pets loose in a feral arrangement and let them scavenge and procure food the way their genetics are programmed to perform. It would certainly shrink their carbon footprint if we didn't have to buy food, but that would be cruel, irresponsible, and would really defeat the purpose of having pets.

Besides food, other pet products (plastic for pet toys, litter boxes, and bowls; nylon for leashes and collars; polystyrene for everything else) is obviously also an energy-demanding

activity which wouldn’t be necessary if we didn’t have pets. Should we stop buying pet supplies and things we need to manage our pets and make their lives more interesting and fun?

It's hard for animal lovers to be objective on this topic. Does anyone take carbon footprints into consideration with a purring cat in their lap, or when excitedly greeted by their dog at the end of a tough day?

Perhaps the solution is to do our best to seek out green manufacturers and eco-friendly pet products that allow us to be both loving pet owners and responsible custodians of the planet that we live on. ■

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mighty kids

Ge caching

FINDING AND LOGGING A GEOCACHE:

THE PERFECT BLEND OF TECHNOLOGY & THE GREAT OUTDOORS

1.

Click on the desired geocache to get information such as size, terrain, level of difficulty, description, hints and comments from other geocachers who have come and gone. (Beware: Some hints give away the farm.)

By Michele Robert Poche BILLED AS THE WORLD’S LARGEST TREASURE HUNT, GEOCACHING IS A REAL-WORLD OUTDOOR GAME, USING GPS-ENABLED DEVICES LIKE SMARTPHONES AND TABLETS.

GETTING SET UP:

2.

3.

Download the free app. (A premium level featuring more locations is also available.)

4.

It gets its name from geo (earth) and cache (a hiding place). First appearing around the year 2000, geocache locations are now estimated at more than 2 million worldwide.

That means you and your family are never far away from starting your own hunt!

1.

2.

3.

Create an account.

Use the map to locate geocaches near you.

Use this information to locate the geocache.

Sign the log sheet within it (most containers screw open) and log your find on the app, leaving comments for the next visitors if you wish.

Leave the geocache exactly as you found it!

THINGS TO REMEMBER: ■ Geocaches come in all shapes, sizes, and difficulties.

One might hang from a tree at eye level, and the next might be magnetized to a pole only a foot off the ground.

P

■ Some contain a little trinket within them, such as a button, a coin, etc. Feel free to take the item and replace it with something comparable of your own.

E

■ It’s best (and more fun!) to hunt in pairs or even small groups. If you’re ever uncomfortable with the location of a geocache, move on to the next one.

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INSPIRE HEALTH LOUISIANA | SUMMER 2021

“Not all who st. Some lo e r a r e d n a w ching.” are just geoca - Unknown

Energy Balls

recipe INGREDIENTS  1 cup oatmeal  2/3 cup coconut flakes  ½ cup ground flax seed  ½ cup peanut butter  1/3 cup raw honey*  1 tsp cinnamon  1 tsp turmeric powder  1 tsp vanilla extract Optional  1 tsp chia seeds  1 tsp hemp seeds  Cacao nibs/ dark chocolate

INSTRUCTIONS  Mix ingredients together in bowl. Once evenly mixed, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Remove from fridge and form into small balls. Keep covered and refrigerated.  These energy balls make the perfect quick snack and are great to take to parties and events.

They satisfy your sweet tooth without sacrificing ingredient quality or nutrients. Each ball is giving you complex carbohydrates to fuel your body, healthy fats, plant-based protein, and natural sugar for energy. Turmeric acts as an anti-inflammatory and raw honey is nature's most powerful antibiotic. Indulge in an energy ball or two knowing every ingredient is not only great tasting, but great for you! *Those with bee allergies, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid consumption of honey.

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discover

OATMEAL RAISIN COOKIES INGREDIENTS  ½ cup unsweetened

applesauce*  1 cup brown sugar  1 egg (see substitutes)  ½ tbsp. vanilla  1 tsp. baking powder  ½ tsp. cinnamon  1 pinch salt  1 cup + 2 tbsp. flour  1 cup raisins  1 ½ c. rolled oats

INSTRUCTIONS  Preheat oven to 350°. Spray baking sheet with cooking spray.  Blend applesauce (or butter), sugar, egg, vanilla, baking powder, cinnamon and salt.  Add flour.  Gently fold in raisins and oats.  Drop in rounded spoonfuls and bake 12-15 minutes, depending on size.  Cool completely. * The recipe calls for 1 stick (½ c.) butter but I substituted applesauce. Reluctant? Trade out only half the butter.

Then, I picked four egg alternatives: olive oil, chia seeds, pumpkin purée, nut butter. Here’s how it went.

ALL-NATURAL ALTERNATIVES TO

s g g E

By Michele Robert Poche

Allergies, cholesterol, salmonella, lifestyle… there are many reasons a person may elect to remove eggs from his or her diet, but it’s not always easy. Eggs are a staple in the production of many dishes and baked goods.

So finding a substitute would be tricky, right?

That’s what I thought until

I took on this eggs-ceptional challenge. There are literally dozens of alternatives for eggs. Because they offer many different properties (cohesion, moisture, leavening), the substitute you use may depend largely on your recipe.

I opted to make cookies.

(My family just loves my “food experiment” articles.)

If your brown sugar has hardened into a solid mass, place it in a baking dish covered with a wet paper towel and microwave for 20 seconds or bake in a 300° oven for 5 minutes. Keep it soft for future use by storing it with a slice of bread.

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OLIVE OIL Usage: Pour from bottle Ratio: ¼ c. = 1 egg Cost: $5/bottle Regular supermarket: Yes

CHIA SEEDS Usage: Soak 1 tbsp. seeds in 2 tbsp. water

for 3 minutes Ratio: 1 tbsp. = 1 egg Cost: $15.99/lb.

Regular supermarket: Likely

PUMPKIN PURÉE Usage: Scoop from can (or homemade) Ratio: 1/3 c. = 1 egg Cost: $2/can Regular supermarket: Yes

NUT BUTTER Usage: Scoop from jar Ratio: 3 tbsp. = 1 egg Cost: $2.50/jar Regular supermarket: Yes

Which was best? Honestly, they all performed well and the results were pretty consistent. The olive oil was easiest to use but yielded the least flavor. The chia seeds created a chewier cookie with more of a granola bar texture. And the pumpkin and nut butter were the fan favorites with the most (somewhat discernible) flavor.

Now, I just need to figure out what to do with the six dozen cookies that remain. Sigh.

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%

OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS DON’T LEAVE BECAUSE THEY CAN’T BRING THEIR PETS

We’re changing that.

Through the Purple Leash Project, Purina and RedRover are raising awareness of this critical issue and are working to create more pet-friendly domestic violence shelters in every state. To see how you can help people and pets stay together and heal together, visit

+

PurpleLeashProject.com.

Purina trademarks are owned by Société des Produits Nestlé S.A.

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longevity

The Sweet Benefits OF NATURE’S NECTAR

By Cindy A. Lugo

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INSPIRE HEALTH LOUISIANA | SUMMER 2021

the fauna triggering the allergic reaction. This major benefit is only one of many to consider as you add a steady dose of raw local honey to your diet. A key element to remember is that the power-packed properties exist in raw honey, which is a pure, unfiltered and unpasteurized sweetener made by bees from the nectar of flowers. When you buy from local independent farmers, beekeepers, and farmer’s markets, you are generally getting the best quality raw honey.

Any honey not labeled raw, unheated, and unfiltered has most likely been processed for a long shelf life, robbing it of its incredible nutritional value and health powers. Expect raw honey to be opaque rather than the golden color which is achieved through heating. Fresh, raw honey is tastier and as a healing remedy, it can boast the following:

Sure, it’ll sweeten your tea, but did you know that honey can also function as a natural antibiotic? Just dab a little onto a wound, blemish, etc., to help encourage healing, prevent bacterial growth, and minimize scarring.

Remember when shopping: the darker the honey, the stronger its antibacterial properties.

KNOW YOUR BEEKEEPER! This is the number one step in finding the healthiest local honey possible; check your local farmer’s market and beekeeping association to research beekeepers in your area who use no chemicals, use wooden frames and natural wax foundation, don’t heat their honey, and don’t feed or move their bees.

YOUR SOUL

ature’s nectar—honey— packs a powerful punch in the fight against ailments, and has been used for centuries for its healing properties.

When you eat locally harvested, raw honey, you receive the added benefit of consuming a superfood that contains immune stimulating properties needed for your body. It is believed that eating a tablespoon of honey each day can relieve the symptoms of pollen-related allergies. The premise is that bees in your area are collecting nectar from the plants and flowers that cause you to experience itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, and other similar allergy symptoms. Raw honey contains bee pollen; therefore, when you eat local raw honey, you are consuming that same offending local pollen. By ingesting minute amounts of the very allergen that is affecting you, your body builds up immunity to

Boosts energy Relieves morning sickness Soothes sore throats Aids in weight loss, especially when replacing processed sugar as a daily sweetener Raises levels of health-promoting antioxidants in the body Promotes restorative sleep Aids in the treatment of burns and wounds when infused bandages are applied Effective in treating coughs When mixed with cinnamon, provides relief from bladder infections, arthritis, upset stomach, *Those with bee allergies, or who are pregnant or and bad breath breastfeeding should avoid consumption of honey.

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INSPIRE HEALTH LOUISIANA

27

healthy destinations

RejuvEnation in The Red Mountains RED MOUNTAIN RESORT, ST. GEORGE, UTAH

F

By Tami Charbonnet

rom morning walks in Snow Canyon to all-day hikes through Zion National Park to relaxing mornings in Sagestone Spa and Salon, Red Mountain Resort in St. George, Utah, is a perfect balance for a healthy destination. Red Mountain Resort offers packages for guests with a variety of interests, encouraging guests to be "as adventurous or as relaxed" as they desire.

Guests awake in luxury to breathtaking views of the Red Mountains, a delicious healthy breakfast buffet, and a

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pre-planned itinerary for their day. Regardless of whether you are in search of outdoor adventures, spa packages, fitness classes, or even retreat packages, itineraries are customized for the needs of each guest or group. Guests have plenty of opportunities to exercise at the resort with world class fitness instructors.

Classes offered include yoga, meditation, stretching, dance, weight training, and even water workouts. Outdoor adventures are also popular as guests enjoy hiking, golf, and excursions into surrounding Zion National Park.

INSPIRE HEALTH LOUISIANA | SUMMER 2021

Red Mountain has also been recognized as "a leading choice in wellness resorts."

The environment is designed to empower and inspire every guest, and even those who are toeing the edge to discover a healthy lifestyle: The resort boasts, "Each of our wellness professionals is a passionate, experienced specialist in his or her area of expertise, here to empower your physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual health."

Red Mountain also offers nutritional programs, personal discovery, wellness programs, and wellness retreats to add to their appeal.

Consider it for a relaxing, yet transformative healthy destination in 2021.■

❝

Guests awake in luxury to breathtaking views of the Red Mountains, a delicious healthy breakfast buffet and a preplanned itinerary for their day.

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recipe

Living GREEN

GUACAMOLE

YIELDS: 1.5 CUPS

By Lauren Amerson INGREDIENTS: ■ 1 avocado ■ Juice from ½ lime ■ ¼ cup tomato (diced) ■ 2 Tbsps. sauerkraut or pink sauerkraut ■ 1 inch jalapeno, minced, no seeds ■ ¼ cup onion (diced) ■ 1 Tbsp. fresh cilantro (chopped) ■ ¼ tsp. salt (optional) ■ ¼ tsp. black pepper ■ Garnish: ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

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INSPIRE HEALTH LOUISIANA | SUMMER 2021

PREPARATION: 1. Cut avocado in half. Discard pit.

Scoop flesh out with a spoon and add to mixing bowl.

2. Squeeze the juice from the lime. Add to the mixing bowl.

3. Chop the tomato, onion, and cilantro.

Add to mixing bowl.

4. Mince the jalapeño, then add to mixing bowl.

5. Measure and add all remaining ingredients (sauerkraut, salt, pepper).

Add to mixing bowl.

DIRECTIONS: 1. Add all ingredients to a mixing bowl, stir together until well mixed.

2. Transfer to a serving dish.

3. Garnish, serve and enjoy!

Saturday, August 28 • Main Event 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

WHAT’S A COVER KID?

We can’t wait to see all of you in person once again at this year’s event.

Cover Kids are great role models between the ages of 2 and 17. Along with appearing in the magazine, they will go on to serve as ambassadors for the magazine, showcasing what being a kid is all about.

If your child has ever wanted to be on the cover or in the pages of Baton Rouge Parents Magazine, this is the event to be. Children ages 2-17 are invited to meet our panel of judges for a chance to be named a 2021-22 Cover Kid.

Register at brparents.com

We believe that all children deserve the chance to shine, so don’t miss this opportunity. For more information, visit brparents.com, and follow us on Facebook @batonrougeparents and Instagram @brparents.com.