Lockdown Chronicles: Staying at Home = Better Health


As we begin to enter summer with the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19), we might feel like things are very much out of our control. There was disarray and panic everywhere. And the future, as far as experts tell us, is far uncertain.

But even we are in a state of calamity; there are still lots of things that we can do, aside from social distancing and washing our hands with soap, to protect our health and wellbeing.

While the vaccine is still being discovered, we cannot entirely eradicate our risk of contracting this virus. But eating healthy foods and exercising as daily as possible are important not only for our physical health but also our mental well-being. Exercise and a healthy diet have been shown to reduce risk of chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, as well as depression and anxiety.

Foods with complex carbohydrates, found in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains, are the best foods that provide nourishment for our brains as they slowly release energy, which stabilizes our moods, and not only that complex carbohydrates (Fiber) provide benefits in our intestines where it serves as a broom that sweeps out unnecessary microorganisms that thrives inside.

A balanced diet includes a variety of foods high in vitamins A, B-Complex, C, D, E, and K as well as minerals like iron, zinc and selenium. B vitamins found in green vegetables, bananas, eggs, poultry, and fish are important for proper brain functioning as it increases happy chemicals like serotonin and dopamine in the brain. Not only it improves our mood, but these vitamins and minerals also improve our immune system.

In order to cope with the stress of this coronavirus outbreak, let’s slim our chances of contracting the virus through this refreshing summer beverage Gardenia has prepared for you.

Gardenia Ray’s in the City Smoothie

Per serving (300mL): Carbohydrates: 55.7g, Protein: 37.5g, Fat: 28.5g, Calories: 1519 kcal

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 slices Gardenia High Fiber Wheat Raisin Loaf
  • 2 ripe medium bananas
  • 1 pack of Graham crackers
  • 1 cup of soy milk
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tsp cinnamon (to taste)
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

PROCEDURES

  1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
  2. Garnish with Graham cracker crumbs, or sprinkle of cinnamon.
  3. Serve chilled.

Source:

  • UPLB-IHNF, Medical Nutrition Therapy Manual Vol. 1, 2018
  • 7 Healthy Diet Tips For Summer – 2018, https://www.ndtv.com/food/be-summer-ready-7-healthy-diet-tips-for-summer-1820855