Henry County Public Library

Though many food choices are healthy on their own, many foods can be made even better for you by simply eating it with a highly compatable food.  The combination of rice and beans form a complete protein (a full complement of all essential amino acids) when eaten together which would not be provided if one were to eat just rice or just beans.  Food loaded with fat-solube vitamins (such as A, D, and E) benefit a person more when combined with a healthy fat like olive oil.

For help making good food combinations see the following articles from Men's Health and Bodyforlife2.

If you are worried about the Swine Flu or just want more information here is some information and a few helpful links.

Studies show that by eating organic food, you can greatly reduce your exposure to chemicals found in conventionally produced food.  There is no easier way to improve one's health than switching to organic meats and produce.  However, organic food costs an average of 50 percent more than conventionally produced food, and now is not the time to start making the grocery bill a bill and a half.

Deciding that you want to lead a healthier lifestyle is a great choice but the changes aren't always easy.  One of the best things to do from the start is realize that your desired results may take some time.  According to an article in the New York Times, researchers at the University of Wisconsin found little difference in measurements after following a popular workout program for six weeks.  Getting measurable results in six months to a year is much more realistic.  While that may sound negative, the knowledge that change takes time should help you keep your expectations at a more possible level.

Today's featured Website is Healthfinder.gov, created by the US Department for Health and Human Services.  You can start by entering you age and gender on the front page to get some specific health tips personalized to your needs.  The site offers links to health-related articles, activity and menu planners, health calculators, and can even help you find a doctor or dentist in your area.  Be sure to check the quick topics guide here and the popular requests list here to find some topics you might not have been thinking about before your visit.  You owe it to yourself to check it out.

So you want to start living a healthier life - where does one start?  The Federal Government has some great site for beginners to check out to help you assess your healthy and learn the first steps to take toward a better life.

To get an idea of your physical fitness level, go to The President's Challenge Adult Fitness Test and follow the instructions, but only if you are healthy enough for testing.  More details about the President's Challenge, including programs for kids, teens, adults, and seniors, can be found at the President's Challenge website.

Next, visit the Smallstep website to get tips on ways to improve your diet, fit more exercise in your schedule, how to cook healthier, and more!  They even provide a free online activity tracker that will help you set activity goals and track your progress.  This is a helpful way to measure your progress and, again, it's completely free!

You should also go to the HealthierUS site, which is chock full of advice on diet, exercise, useful medical information, and those risky behaviors that aren't good for anyone.

Look for more info coming soon!