Health and Human Services Professional Development

Eating for Energy: 4 Easy Tips by   Natasha Chong Cole, MPH, RD   on   June 5, 2014   We get it – you’re busy. You barely have time to sleep, much less go to the gym or cook a homemade meal. You fall asleep in class or at your desk, and you zone out every 15 minutes.  The good news is that nutrition can help improve your energy situation. The bad news is that none of these tips are a replacement for actual sleep, so be sure to catch your zzzzs 1.     Stay hydrated.  The human body needs adequate water to function, and sometimes fatigue is simply a result of dehydration.  Carry a water bottle with you as a constant reminder. Also, beware of vitamin waters, sports drinks, and energy drinks, which can contain a lot of sugar and/or caffeine. If you’re not a fan of plain water, try jazzing it up with  fruit or herbs .  Check out:  Better Beverage Finder 2.      Eat often . Meal timing is an importan...

You had me at…,”Would you like some water?” by   Guest Author, Sylvia Crowder   on   July 29, 2014   It is a challenge to stay properly hydrated, especially during summer.  Hydration status is essential in improving one’s overall health and well-being and plays a vital role in both physical and cognitive functioning.  Water plays numerous roles in the body (e.g. regulating body temperature, controlling blood pressure, and transporting nutrients) making daily consumption essential. Even a mild dehydration can affect one’s mental and physical performance.  Here are some points to remember when you are in the heat: Prevent dehydration.  Anyone can become dehydrated.  You may be especially at risk if you engage in physical activity, travel often, or lack appropriate beverages.  Carry a refillable water bottle  as a reminder to drink eight glasses daily.  Do not forget that fluid requirements increase as higher intensity e...

There’s an App for That! Using MyPlate Text Messaging! by   Kristen Davis, Guest Author   on   September 21, 2014   We all know that making good food choices during college can be difficult. You are busy attending classes, working, completing homework or hanging out with friends. Before you know it you have put on a little weight. However, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is working on tools to help you make better food choices and help reduce the weight gain commonly seen during the college years.   MyPlate   is developing a free service that allows you to receive texts that provide helpful dietary information: Food group recognition.  The text messages can help you remember to balance your plate with fruits, vegetables, protein, whole grains and dairy. Balanced food intake.  Texts can provide information regarding the number of calories needed to maintain a healthy weight given your physical and social characteristics. Portion control...