Weekly Health Tips

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Here are 5 ways to make healthy spices become a part of your life.

Here at US Family Health Plan we take health and nutrition very seriously! We want to tell how you can add some 'spice" in your life. Spices are not only healthy but they are quite tasty too! They also have many benefits that can contribute to a healthier diet. Did you know that spices have have hidden talents? They could speed up your metabolism, help with a cold and even heal ulcers. On top of that they can be consumed all year around... So don't try to cut back during the summer!

Most of us are aware of the long list of unhealthy foods we should all try to avoid. These include foods that are overly fatty, highly processed or just have too many empty calories. Sure, we know too much salt or sugar is a problem. But were you aware that there are seasonings that are great for you, and make your everyday meals healthier and tastier?

Here is a list of our 5 favorite healthy spices you can add to your everyday meals. Please get as creative as you like (in moderation). Not only will you get the great health benefits, you will reap the taste benefits too! Who doesn’t need a little spice in their life?

     In 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson first proclaimed February as National Heart Month. The purpose was to draw attention to the importance of heart health as heart disease takes a heavy toll on American life every year. This year, President Barack Obama made the same proclamation as we all strive to be more aware of what steps to take to maintain a healthier heart.  

This month US Family Health Plan – a TRICARE Prime health program – has some important tips on how you live a longer, healthier life.  Today’s health professionals are taking a serious look at a new phenomenon called the Blue Zone.  Blue Zones are places in the world where people have the healthiest and longest lives. Interestingly, it has also been shown that they all have adopted a similar, healthy lifestyle, no matter where in the world they live.  In these geographic locations, it is common for people to live well into their 100’s and still be healthy and happy. Some of the Blue Zones that have been studied are Okinawa, Japan, Ikaria, Greece, Sardinia, Italy, Nicoya, Costa Rica, and Loma Linda, California, right here in the U.S.