Anti-Inflammatory Friday 5-17-2024

May 17

Spring is in full swing and the school year is coming to a close for kids around the country. Today, I want to highlight healthy, anti-inflammatory tips and tools for the whole family.

Anti-Inflammatory MINDSET

Let's start with a simple way to foster a family-centric healthy mindset that everyone from youngest to oldest will benefit from.
Rituals!
Yes, rituals like sharing what each family member is grateful for during dinner, discussing one healthy thing everyone did during the day, or even starting the weekend with a family yoga session will promote a healthy mindset.
Not only do these intentional rituals strengthen the family bond, they promote healthy habits and provide emotional support.

Anti-Inflammatory HEALTH TIP

A family that focuses on health together... well, they get healthy together!
Studies have shown that children who come from families who prioritize health are not only healthier later in life, but more successful in their personal and professional life.
Here’s how to make physical activity a fun and integral part of your family life:
1. Schedule Regular Family Activity Times:

Set aside specific times each week for family physical activities. This could be after dinner walks, weekend hikes, or morning stretches. Having a set schedule helps make physical activity a routine part of family life.
2. Create Fitness Challenges:

Set up friendly family fitness challenges with small rewards for achievements, such as a movie night or a special meal. Challenges can be anything from who can do the most steps in a week to who can come up with the most creative workout.
3. Celebrate Progress:

Regularly celebrate your family’s fitness achievements, no matter how small. This could be through a visual progress chart in the home or a monthly 'celebration day' where everyone shares their successes and plans new goals.

Anti-Inflammatory RECIPE

Sweet Potato and Beet Chips
Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

2 large sweet potatoes, thinly sliced
2 large beets, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika or cinnamon for added flavor

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Vegetables: Wash the sweet potatoes and beets thoroughly. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice them into very thin rounds. The thinner the slices, the crisper the chips will be.
Season the Chips: Place the sliced sweet potatoes and beets in separate bowls. Drizzle each bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and toss well to coat every slice evenly.
Sprinkle sea salt over the slices, and if using, add paprika or cinnamon to the sweet potatoes for a sweet-spicy flavor or to the beets for a unique twist.
Arrange on Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange the vegetable slices in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap (to ensure they crisp up properly).
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and slightly golden at the edges. It’s important to watch them closely to prevent burning, especially since thickness can vary.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes; they will continue to crisp up as they cool.
Serve once cooled for a crunchy, satisfying snack.

Anti-Inflammatory MOTIVATION

"How disappointing would it be to get to heaven and find out God created life to be enjoyed while all we did was worry?" - Donald Miller
I saw this post on Donald Miller's IG the other day. It's such a good reminder to infuse joy into the journey. It's about focusing on the positive aspects and finding happiness in the process rather than just worrying about the outcomes.
Practice mindfulness by actively appreciating the moments and experiences that bring joy throughout your day. This could be the quiet of the morning, the taste of a fresh piece of fruit, or the feeling of sunshine on your skin. Mindfulness increases your awareness and appreciation of life’s pleasures.
This will reduce stress, improve overall well-being, and increase that ficoll thing called motivation!
Remember:The journey to health isn’t meant to be filled with worry but to be enjoyed.

Anti-Inflammatory THINGS I'M LOVING

It's not often I put my stamp of approval on pre-packaged snacks. But I was just notified by one of my favorite food brands that they're coming out with another delicious treat.
If you're not familiar with Siete Foods, it's time I introduce you:)
Everything they make is both delicious and made with quality ingredients. From their grain-free tortilla chips to their dairy-free queso, and yes, their Mexican Wedding Cookies, everything they make is a celebration of flavor!
If you're new to Siete (or need to restock), go check them out.

Kara Swanson