Hospital News

Small Changes from Saint Barnabas

To help you live a healthier life, Saint Barnabas brings you “Small Changes” -- suggestions and reminders about simple things that you can do to affect the way you live, cook, exercise, etc.  Be well!

Create a DeStress Ritual
To help promote your own self care and reduce stress in your life, try treating yourself to a long hot relaxing bath on a regular basis. To further relax your body, try adding scented bubble bath, lighting aromatherapy candles, dimming the lights and turning on a CD of calming music or nature sounds. Why not even hang a “Do Not Disturb” sign on the bathroom door.

- Susan J. Weinstein, RN, BS, AHN-BC, Holistic Nurse and Director of Women’s Health Education at Saint Barnabas Medical Center

Healthy Snacks
No matter where you are in the life cycle, snacking provides energy and keeps you from starving in-between meals. Snacking also helps boost your metabolism and play a major role in a healthy diet. Choose high fiber snacks to fulfill your appetite yet provide nutrients and energy you need. The following is a list of healthy snacks to choose from: 

  • Fresh or dried fruit
  • Raw vegetables with low or non-fat dip
  • Rice cakes, popcorn cakes or pretzels
  • Air popped or microwave light popcorn
  • Whole grain low-fat crackers; graham crackers
  • Baked tortilla chips with salsa
  • Unsweetened cereal with 1% milk or fat-free milk
  • Low-cat cheese and yogurt
  • Low-fat ice cream or frozen yogurt
  • Nuts (2 Tbsp. almonds, pecans, walnuts)

Additional tips: 

  • Mix and match the snack ideas
  • Snack only when hungry
  • Never sit down with a whole bag or box of a food item

If you are on a restricted diet, snacks should be planned in advance and within your daily calorie allowance.

- Linda Anzalone, RD and Sonia Aram, MS, RD, Co-Clinical Nutrition Managers, Nutritional Counseling Services at Saint Barnabas Medical Center

 

 

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