Healthy Body Healthy Mind

Congratulations to everyone that participated in the Hitchcock County Elementary track meet on Friday. Everyone did a terrific job! Physical activity is good for your body and mind. Research shows that physical activity can prevent at least 6 diseases: Heart Disease, high-blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, and depression. Physical activity will also help you feel better and maintain a healthy weight. At least 30 minutes a day of physical activity - such as walking, biking or swimming - can help you live longer and healthier.

Eating healthy is another way to maintain a healthy body and mind. Fresh fruits contain vitamins A and C. Our eyes need Vitamin A to see colors. It also helps our bones and skin. Vitamin C helps keep our immune systems strong and it helps keep our joints flexible. Milk contains calcium which keeps our bones strong and prevents osteoporosis. Vitamin D help our bones absorb or "soak up" the calcium. Eating healthy is a great way to fill up on these nutrients, have healthy skin, healthy hair and fit bodies.

Here are a few healthy after school snacks:
1. A smoothie made with fresh fruit and low-fat yogurt
2. Dried Fruit - raisins, apricots and nuts
3. Fresh Fruit - strawberries, bananas and grapes
4. Pretzels
5. Cheese and crackers
6. Apples and peanut butter
7. English muffin pizza's
8. Milk and graham crackers
9. 100% fruit juice
10. Kettle corn

Skip these foods and drinks after school:
1. Cocktail fruit juice - its loaded with sugar and calories
2. Potato chips
3. Little Debbie's or snack cakes
4. Milk and cookies
5. Double butter popcorn

Again, congratulations to everyone!