APRIL – MONTHY FOCUS
Welcome to our monthly blog featuring the Month of April and its connection to health and wellness. As spring is in full swing and nature is blooming, April brings with it a fresh start and a renewed sense of energy. It is the perfect time to focus on taking care of ourselves and our well-being. In this blog post, we will explore various aspects of health and wellness that are particularly relevant during April. From seasonal allergies to physical activity and healthy eating habits, we will provide you with valuable tips and insights to help you stay healthy and balanced this month. Join us on this journey to optimal health and wellness! We welcome your comments to share in this wonderful month.
Seasonal Foods
Here are some of the seasonal fruits and vegetables for the month of April, along with their health benefits:
Asparagus: Asparagus is a great source of fiber, folate, vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants. It can help support digestive health, lower blood pressure, and promote healthy bones.
Artichokes: Artichokes are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. They may help improve digestion, boost liver health, and support healthy cholesterol levels.
Radishes: Radishes are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. They can help support healthy digestion, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation.
Strawberries: Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. They can help support heart health, reduce inflammation, and boost immune function.
Peas: Peas are rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like iron and zinc. They can help improve digestion, promote healthy bones, and support immune function.
Mangoes: Mangoes are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. They can help support healthy digestion, boost immunity, and promote healthy skin.
Pineapple: Pineapple is a good source of vitamin C, bromelain, and antioxidants. It can help support digestive health, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity.
Fennel: Fennel is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. It may help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy skin.
Swiss chard: Swiss chard is high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. It can help support healthy bones, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation.
Beets: Beets are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. They can help improve digestion, support healthy blood pressure, and boost immune function.
Incorporating these seasonal fruits and vegetables into your diet can provide a wide range of health benefits. Additionally, they are often fresher and more flavorful when they are in season, making them a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.
Here are some great sources for seasonal recipes:
https://www.epicurious.com/search/seasonal?occasion=spring
https://www.simplyrecipes.com/spring-recipes-5091296
https://www.marthastewart.com/1502414/easter
https://www.thekitchn.com/collection/easter
This is a great time to check out local farmer’s markets and support your local community and enjoy seasonal foods at it’s best!
National Farmers Market Directory
April Blogs
Seasonal Supplements We Love
There are several natural supplements that can help address common health concerns that arise during springtime. Here are some of the top supplements you may consider:
Probiotics: Spring is a time when allergies and seasonal illnesses are common. Probiotics can help boost your immune system and promote overall gut health, which may help reduce the severity of allergies and other spring-related health issues. We love this one by Ritual: https://amzn.to/3lYYAtE
Vitamin D: As the weather gets warmer, many people tend to spend more time outdoors. Vitamin D is essential for strong bones and a healthy immune system, and the sunlight is a natural source of this nutrient. However, if you live in an area with limited sun exposure or if you are not able to spend enough time outside, taking a vitamin D supplement can help ensure you are getting enough of this important vitamin.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3s are essential fatty acids that are crucial for overall health and wellness. They can help reduce inflammation, promote healthy brain function, and support heart health. Adding an omega-3 supplement to your diet can help ensure you are getting enough of these important nutrients.
Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce allergy symptoms, such as itching, sneezing, and congestion, by stabilizing mast cells in the body.
Magnesium: Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a role in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and support healthy muscle function. Many people are deficient in magnesium, so taking a supplement can be beneficial. Here is the one we love: https://amzn.to/3MejzmW
Special Days and Observances
National Garden Month
National Gardening Month is a time to celebrate the joy and benefits of gardening, both for our physical and mental health. Gardening is a wonderful way to connect with nature, get some exercise, and improve our overall wellbeing. As the weather warms up and spring flowers start to bloom, it’s the perfect time to get outside and start planting.
From a physical health perspective, gardening can provide a low-impact form of exercise that can help improve strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. It’s also a great way to get some vitamin D from the sun, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and a healthy immune system. Plus, gardening can provide access to fresh, organic produce that can help support a healthy diet.
From a mental health perspective, gardening is a powerful stress reducer and mood booster. It can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment, and the act of nurturing plants can help cultivate feelings of mindfulness and gratitude. Additionally, gardening can provide a sense of connection to the natural world, which can be particularly beneficial for those who live in urban or suburban areas.
Whether you have a large backyard or just a small balcony or windowsill, there are many ways to get involved in gardening during National Gardening Month. From starting a vegetable garden to planting a flower box, there are plenty of ways to get your hands dirty and reap the many health benefits of gardening.
Stress Awareness Month
Stress Awareness Month is an annual observance that aims to increase awareness about the impact of stress on our physical and mental health. Stress can be a major contributor to a variety of health problems, including anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, and heart disease. By understanding the causes and effects of stress, individuals can take steps to better manage their stress levels and improve their overall well-being.
From a physical health perspective, chronic stress can take a toll on the body by contributing to inflammation, weakened immune function, and other health issues. By implementing stress-reducing techniques such as exercise, meditation, and deep breathing, individuals can help alleviate some of these physical effects of stress.
From a mental health perspective, chronic stress can lead to a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and burnout. Recognizing the signs of stress and seeking support from mental health professionals or support groups can help individuals better manage their stress and prevent these negative mental health outcomes.
In addition to individual strategies for managing stress, organizations and employers can play a role in reducing workplace stress and promoting mental health. This can include offering employee wellness programs, flexible work arrangements, and supportive management practices.
Overall, Stress Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the impact of stress on our health and well-being, and to encourage individuals and organizations to take steps to manage stress and promote mental health.
1 – April Fools Day
5 – National Walking Day
7 – Good Friday
7 – World Health Day
9 – Easter
22 – Earth Day