mindful eating mama vega

Mindful Eating: Chew Like a Pro and Listen to Your Body’s Clock!

Here’s a quick taste of mindful eating:

Imagine if your body had a food clock—well, it does! Our natural rhythms, or circadian rhythms, help set hunger cues like clockwork around 8-10 AM, 11-2 PM, and 4-6 PM. These aren’t just random times we feel hungry; they’re connected to our hormones like cortisol, which gives us that “time to eat” nudge. And if you’re up for a challenge, try chewing until your food’s nearly liquid! This little trick gives your digestive system a head start, making meals easier on your body and giving you a real sense of satisfaction.

So, next time you feel the tug of hunger, take a whiff, savor the smell, and chew slowly. It’s your body’s way of saying, “Let’s do this right!” Eating mindfully isn’t about restriction; it’s about tuning into the wisdom your body already holds.

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Expand Reach: Rethink Partnerships and Networking Opportunities

This Memorial Day, expand your community outreach during Mental Health Awareness Month by attending the 1,000 Flags event on May 25, 2024. This partnership between Bakersfield Breakfast Rotary and Blue Zones Project – Bakersfield is designed to bring people together in service and promote community health.

Both organizations are dedicated to fostering community spirit and service above self. This year, the Bakersfield Breakfast Rotary will provide treats from local Blue Zones Approved restaurants, including Locale Farm to Table, Modern Grub, and Sweet Peas Bakery/Better Bowls.

By participating in this event, you’ll support the Rotary’s mission of honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice, while also promoting healthier living through nutritious food options offered by the Blue Zones Project. Join us to make a difference in our community and celebrate the true spirit of Memorial Day.

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A table topped with fruits and vegetables next to blood glucose meter.

Arm to Toe, What You Need to Know: Mastering Blood Pressure

“Blood pressure is a critical indicator of cardiovascular health, and understanding how to measure it correctly is key. From arm to toe, the proper technique ensures accurate readings. Additionally, the ankle-brachial index (ABI) test can unveil vital information about peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition that affects blood flow to the limbs. This blog post covers the significance of these measurements, dietary tips for managing high or low blood pressure, and the importance of seeking medical advice for personalized guidance.”

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Three jars of smoothie with fruit garnish.

Heartful Smoothie Recipe

Sip your way to heart health with our vibrant Heart Health Smoothies, a delicious fusion of berries, beets, seeds, nuts, and the wholesome goodness of kale. Packed with antioxidants, these smoothies not only tantalize your taste buds but also nourish your heart. The dynamic combination of berries, known for their rich polyphenols, along with beets, seeds, and nuts, contributes to a powerful blend that supports cardiovascular well-being.

Experience the anti-inflammatory benefits as you savor each sip – the inclusion of berries helps combat inflammation, promoting a heart-friendly environment. Moreover, the plant-based magic of kale and other fruits and veggies ensures a nutrient-packed concoction that loves your heart as much as you do. Elevate your heart health journey with our Heart Health Smoothies, a tasty and wholesome way to embrace the benefits of nature’s bounty.

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A person standing in the leaves of some trees

Nature’s Healing Touch: Why Your Next Prescription Might Be a Stroll in Nature

As we contemplate the potential of nature’s healing touch, it becomes clear that the call for green prescriptions is not merely a recommendation but an imperative for our collective health. With urbanization projected to surge, the World Economic Forum’s Healthy Cities and Communities initiative positions nature as a linchpin for future urban landscapes, recognizing its pivotal role in our well-being.
As the global population gravitates toward cities, surpassing 70% by 2050, the integration of green prescriptions becomes essential for cultivating thriving communities. The Blue Zone Projects, devoted to longevity and wellness, reinforces the centrality of nature in creating environments conducive to human flourishing.

For green prescriptions to truly take root, they must be seamlessly woven into a systemic approach, infiltrating urban infrastructure with nature-based interventions and instilling a nature-centric mindset. Nature, as a profound healer, beckons us to embrace its remedy, and it is our duty to weave it seamlessly into the tapestry of our urban lives for a future that resonates with health and harmony.

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A close up of ice cream in a bowl

Purple Yam Ice Cream

Delight in the exquisite indulgence of purple yam ice cream—a velvety, vibrant treat that captivates with its luscious, sweet undertones and a uniquely captivating hue. Beyond its enchanting flavor, this frozen delight offers a health-conscious twist, as purple yams are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential nutrients, making each creamy scoop a guilt-free celebration of both taste and well-being.

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A close up of some sandwiches with vegetables

Spring Vegetable Salad With Mint Pesto

Bring a whole new dimension to your palate with a vibrant spring vegetable salad, featuring a medley of crisp, garden-fresh delights, artfully arranged in a bowl bursting with color and flavor. The verdant symphony of seasonal vegetables, adorned with a refreshing mint pesto, not only celebrates the vitality of the blue zone diet but also harmonizes perfectly with crumbled feta sheep cheese, creating a tantalizing fusion of textures and tastes that beckons you to savor the essence of the season in every wholesome bite.

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