Picnic for your Physical and Mental Health this summer

Picnics are a great way for your loved ones to enjoy some time outdoors and also have some great food. This is good not just for their physical health but also for their mental health. Fresh air helps the body to relax and this reduces stress and its associated negative effects. The other great thing about picnics is that they allow your loved one to enjoy the company of others and alleviate boredom. Since food is an integral part of any picnic, it helps to make sure that you have the right food packed for the occasion. With this in mind, here are some healthy picnic food options to consider.

Watermelons

On a hot summer afternoon, nothing beats a nice cold chunk of watermelon fruit. This fruit is largely made up of water, which helps in keeping your loved one hydrated. The other advan- tage of watermelons is that they contain a compound known as lycopene which is good for cardio health among other benefits.

Melons are also thought to prevent prostate cancer and reduce blood pressure among many other benefits. Melons are particularly suitable for picnics because they are very portable and easy to serve.

Grilled Chicken

Chicken is a great source of protein which your loved one needs to stay healthy and strong. Given the fact that chicken is white meat, it does not have the negative effects associated with red meat. It is also widely available and relatively easy to prepare. In fact, there are numerous recipes online and this means you have a chance to try out something new with your grilled chicken; perhaps a new sauce or mari- nade. Grilled chicken also pairs well with many healthy food items including green vegetables.

Green Salads

Serving green salad to your loved ones during a picnic is a great way to keep them healthy and strong. Green salads contain numerous nutrients and may help with some health conditions. For example, greens such as spinach and kale are known to help with memory functions and can slow the advance of dementia. Green salads also come packed with vitamins and other nutrients which boost immunity, help with eyesight, and many other body functions.

Berries

Berries are also a great way to spice up your picnic and ensure that you offer your loved one a healthy snack. Berries such as raspberries, strawberries, and others are rich in Vitamin C which will boost your loved one’s immunity and lower their blood pressure. Another great thing about berries is that they are also thought to help with memory functions, ensuring that any memory loss conditions are slowed down. Berries are also rich in fiber which will help your loved one have an improved digestive system. They are also suitable for picnics as they are easy to carry and do not require much cutlery to consume. In fact, all you need to do is to pack them in a bowl and you are ready to go.

Perfect Picnic Sandwhich RECIPE

Roast Beef Baguettes

1/2 c. red wine vinegar

1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced 6 tbsp. unsalted butter

3 tbsp. prepared horseradish, drained

2 tbsp. Dijon mustard

1 large baguette, halved lengthwise

12 oz. thinly sliced deli roast beef

2 c. upland cress or watercress

Directions

1. Combine vinegar and onion in a bowl. Let stand, stirring once or twice, 15 minutes; drain.

2. Combine butter, horseradish, and mustard in a bowl. Spread butter mixture onto bottom half of baguette. Top with roast beef, cress, and pickled onions. Sandwich with remaining bread. Cut into 6 pieces.