sorting out coronavirus fact from fiction · selecting an effective probiotic involves matching the...

This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice. Readers should contact a health professional for appropriate advice. © 2020 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.

Brought to you by PACIV - USA, LLC

Consider asking yourself the following questions to sort out

coronavirus fact from fiction:

1. Who’s saying it? Check out not just who sent you the article or graphic, but also the author and whether it’s posted by a well-known publication. When it comes to health care, peer-reviewed journals add another level of credibility to research.

2. What proof do they have? Consider the information more credible if there are additional links or evidence in the article.

3. When was this published? It’s easy to share outdated information, especially on social media. Check the date, as the pandemic continues to quickly evolve day by day.

4. Where else is it being reported? Do a quick online search to see if trusted organizations (like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization or local public health officials) are also reporting it.

5. Why are they saying it? Try to understand the study’s

funding, which may impact its credibility. Certain

organizations may have a motive or bias.

If you’re still aren’t sure, ask yourself whether you do believe

the information. Trust your gut and rely on solid sources.

Sorting Out Coronavirus Fact From Fiction Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, people were

fighting misinformation about health conditions, vaccines

and treatments online. With the pandemic constantly

evolving, it may be hard to keep up and understand

what’s factual and what is fake—especially if your primary

source for news is social media.

It’s important to be up to date on COVID-19 guidance to

understand your local regulations. Misinformation

continues to spread about topics like at-home treatments,

how you get infected, and what’s safe or unsafe once you

go out in public.

As the number of COVID-19 infections rises across the

globe, it’s important now more than ever to understand

the facts and correct guidelines for protecting yourself.

Fighting the Infodemic

Public health officials say they are not only fighting a

pandemic, but also an “infodemic.” Defined as an

overabundance of information—both accurate and not—

the infodemic makes it hard for people to find reliable

guidance online or on social media.

Probiotics and You An estimated 3.9 million American adults use some form of probiotics or

prebiotics. There’s no denying that probiotics, whether found in yogurt or

capsules, are a popular health trend—especially with probiotic sales expected

to exceed $6 billion in the United States this year.

Probiotics (aka good bacteria) are live microorganisms intended to have health

benefits when consumed or applied to the body. However, a recent American

Gastroenterological Association report explains that probiotics do not do much

for gut health. Selecting an effective probiotic involves matching the probiotic

strain to the disease that needs treatment. Most of the time, over-the-counter

product labels will not be helpful when trying to figure that out.

The report’s key takeaway is not all probiotics are created equal. Some strains

are very effective for diseases and should not be overlooked due to research

that lumps all probiotics together. Probiotics require a personal approach, so

refer to your doctor to learn whether probiotics are right for you.

Makes: 4 servings

Ingredients

1 cup whole-wheat rotini pasta,

uncooked

1 ripe mango

1 cup raspberries

1 cup blueberries

2 cups fresh baby spinach

½ cup reduced-fat feta cheese

For the vinaigrette:

3 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

2 Tbsp. raspberry vinegar

1 tsp. sugar

1 tsp. poppy seeds

¼ tsp. salt

Preparations

1) In a small bowl, whisk vinaigrette

ingredients. Set aside.

2) Boil water and cook rotini according

to package instructions. Drain

cooked rotini and rinse in cool water.

3) While rotini is cooking, cut mango

into chunks, removing peel and pit.

4) Place salad ingredients in a large

bowl. Drizzle with vinaigrette and

toss gently.

Nutritional Information (per serving) Total calories 430

Total fat 15 g

Protein 12 g

Carbohydrate 65 g

Dietary fiber 14 g

Saturated fat 3 g

Total sugars 18 g

Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture

(USDA)

Summer Sun Safety Tips As the weather warms up, you’ll likely want to be outside enjoying it. But did

you know the sun’s rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes?

Avoiding excessive sun exposure is ultimately the best way to protect your body

from sun damage and skin cancer. Here are a few tips to protect yourself:

• Avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the rays are the strongest.

• Wear clothes made of tightly woven fabrics and a hat that shields your face,

neck and ears.

• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.

• Use sunscreen that is at least SPF 30, applying it all over your body and lips.

Reapply at least every two hours—and after swimming or sweating.

Routinely inspect your skin for any spots or changes in color or appearance. If

you have any concerns, see your doctor.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice. Readers should contact a health professional for appropriate advice. © 2020 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.

Brought to you by PACIV - USA, LLC

you should not obsess over the news.

• Focus on what you can control—Focusing on the things you can’t control, like the course of the pandemic and actions of others, will only fuel anxiety and stress. Instead, focus on things that you have control over, including staying home when possible, washing your hands, wearing a mask and practicing social distancing.

• Connect with friends and family—Sometimes, the best way to cope with your stress is to talk to a loved one. Leverage technology to safely talk with friends or family during these times.

• Use healthy coping mechanisms—There are a variety

of healthy ways to mitigate your stress and anxiety, which include getting exercise, sticking to a routine, spending time outside and meditating.

• Talk to a professional—If your stress or anxiety is overwhelming, contact a licensed mental health professional.

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted daily life and caused stress and anxiety for many, even as we enter our new normal. If left unchecked, these feelings can have negative effects on your mental well-being. Take steps today to keep your stress and anxiety under control.

Boost Your Mental Well-being During These Uncertain Times The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has caused uncertainty, stress and worry for many for the past few weeks. Even as businesses reopen and restrictions are lifted, many Americans are experiencing considerable anxiety.

With more than half of Americans reporting to Dynata, a survey insights firm, that they think the COVID-19 pandemic will last six months or more, many health

experts are concerned about the nation’s mental health.

While experiencing stress or anxiety over the health and economic fears brought on by COVID-19 is normal, if you don’t take steps to cope with these feelings, you can put yourself at risk for long-term health effects.

Try these tips to keep your coronavirus-related stress and anxiety under control:

• Stay informed, but don’t obsess—It can be easy to become overwhelmed by watching the news and reviewing the updates of the COVID-19 situation. While it’s important to be informed of the situation,

Socially Distance Yourself This Summer You’ve probably heard the term “social distancing” a lot in the past few

months. Keeping your distance from others has been crucial to slowing the

spread of COVID-19. It will also be a key component in staying healthy as things

continue to reopen.

To properly practice social distancing this summer, keep the following tips in

mind:

• Stay at least 6 feet—which is about two arms’ lengths—away from others.

• Avoid gathering in groups, mass gatherings or large crowds whenever

possible.

• Wear a protective face mask or covering when out in public.

Keeping these tips in mind can help you remain healthy and safe this summer.

For more information on social distancing, click here.

Makes: 4 servings

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds red potatoes

1 cup nonfat plain yogurt

⅓ cup onion (minced)

½ cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar

cheese

¼ Tbsp. fresh chives (snipped)

3 Tbsp. real bacon bits or pieces

¼ tsp. salt

Freshly ground pepper to taste

Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Preparations

1) Place whole potatoes (do not poke)

into microwave-safe dish.

2) Cover dish. (If covering dish with

plastic wrap, poke small hole in

plastic.)

3) Microwave on high for 10 to 12

minutes depending on strength of

microwave.

4) Use oven mitts or a towel to remove

dish from microwave; carefully

remove cover from dish due to

steam buildup and let cool.

5) Cut potatoes into bite-sized pieces

and place in a large bowl with

remaining ingredients. Stir and mix

well.

Nutritional Information (per serving) Total calories 200

Total fat 4 g

Protein 11 g

Carbohydrate 34 g

Dietary fiber 3 g

Saturated fat 2 g

Total sugars 6 g

Source: USDA

Survive the Summer Heat Summer heat can be more than uncomfortable—it can be a threat to your

health, especially for older adults and children. Whatever your age, don’t let the

summer heat get the best of you.

There are two types of heat illness to keep an eye out for this summer:

• Heat exhaustion—Heat exhaustion occurs when a person cannot sweat

enough to cool the body, usually the result of not drinking enough fluids

during hot weather. A person suffering from heat exhaustion must move to

a cool place and drink plenty of water.

• Heatstroke—Heatstroke is the result of untreated heat exhaustion and is a

serious medical emergency that must be treated quickly by a professional.

To prevent heat illness this summer, make sure to drink plenty of water, wear

lightweight and light-colored clothing and eat light, refreshing foods. In addition,

try to stay inside as much as possible, doing chores early or late in the day. By

keeping these tips in mind, you’re on your way to beating the heat.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/social-distancing.html

Presented by: PACIV - USA, LLC

Why Cleaning Your Home Can Boost Overall Well-

being

Deep cleaning doesn’t need to be a one-season chore. Experts say doing a thorough cleaning of your home has a

number of health benefits. A clean home can strengthen your immune system and help you avoid illnesses. A

decluttered living space can also reduce stress and depression as well as help avoid injuries, like tripping.

According to the American Cleaning Institute (ACI), 74% of Americans do general surface-level cleaning more often

than deep cleaning. That leaves 26% who deep clean their home on a regular basis, thoroughly cleaning the entire

home and its floors, furniture and surfaces.

Bathrooms and kitchens are typically the rooms that get deep cleaned most often. Don’t forget about living rooms and

bedrooms though. You spend time in those on a daily basis, so it’s worth giving them some special treatment as well.

According to ACI survey results, 60% of people deep clean because they recognize their home needs a thorough

cleaning. Other motives to deep clean on an annual basis include to remove clutter, to remove asthma or allergy

triggers, and to prevent the spread of illness.

The Power of Cleanliness

Even if you already spring cleaned, consider the following health and well-being benefits from deep cleaning your home

year-round:

• Strengthen the immune system—Dust, mold, mildew and pet dander can be allergy triggers.

• Reduce stress and depression—A clutter-free home has a positive effect on people’s daily mood and ability to focus.

Organizing, tossing or donating can be mentally refreshing and liberating, too.

• Sleep better—With less stress comes better sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, people who make

their beds every morning are 19% more likely to get a good night’s rest.

• Prevent illness—Keep surfaces clean to improve food safety and minimize the spread of harmful germs.

• Boost productivity—Clutter is distracting. Looking at too many things at once interferes with your brain’s ability to

process information.

Boost your well-being today by dusting, vacuuming, washing and reorganizing. This is the perfect time to get your

regular cleaning routine back on track.

Grilling Safety Tips

As warmer weather hits, the smell of food on the grill fills the air. According to the National Fire Protection Association,

nearly 9,000 home fires each year involve grills, so it’s important to brush up on barbecue safety. Consider the following

grilling safety tips:

• Grill outside only. Don’t grill in a garage, porch or other enclosed space, even if it’s ventilated.

• Choose a safe location. Keep your grill on a flat surface at least 10 feet away from your house, garage or other

structures.

• Check for leaks. Make it a habit to check the gas tank hose before using it for the first time each year.

• Never leave your grill unattended. Fires can double in size every minute.

• Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from where food is being prepared or carried.

• Clean the grill regularly. Keep it clean by removing grease or fat buildup.

How to Reduce Your Food Waste

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the average American produces about 219 pounds of food

waste each year. Start small and consider the following tips to reduce your food waste:

• Shop smart to avoid buying more food than you need. Make a list of what you need and then stick to it.

• Store food properly by learning what should be refrigerated or kept at room temperature.

• Keep your fridge organized so you can see foods and know when they were purchased. Place newer packages

behind old ones.

• Save leftovers in clear glass containers so you don’t forget about them.

• Freeze food to preserve leftovers, meats, soups, herbs or greens.

• Understand expiration dates to know the difference between “sell by,” “best by” and “use by” labels.

California Avocado Super Summer Wrap

• 1 ripe avocado (cut into chunks)

• ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt

• 4 tsp. lime juice

• ½ cup blueberries

• ½ cup carrots (grated)

• ¼ cup red onion (chopped)

• 2 cups fresh arugula (chopped)

• 12 oz. cooked chicken breast (cubed)

• 4 8-inch whole-wheat tortillas

Preparations

In a medium bowl, mash half of the avocado chunks with yogurt and lime juice. Add the remaining ingredients, including

the rest of the avocado chunks. Mix gently. Top each tortilla with ¼ of the filling mixture. Roll up each tortilla and tuck in

ends. Slice in half diagonally, securing with toothpicks, if needed.

Makes: 4 servings. Each serving provides 389 calories, 13 g of fat, 3 g of saturated fat, 35 g of protein, 32 g of carbohydrates, 6 g

of total sugars and 7 g of fiber.

Source: USDA

Live Well, Work WellLive Well, Work Well

Q3

3RD QUARTER 2020

The Coronavirus and the New Normal

RecipesHealth and WellnessNHOIn the

News

Catch up on the latest developments of the biggest health care news that

happened in the past three months.

In The News

RECIPESHEALTH AND WELLNESSNHOIN THE NEWS

3

Even as stay-at-home orders and restrictions are lifted, daily operations won’t be business-as-usual for many across the country. The coronavirus (COVID-19) pan-demic is still going on, despite businesses reopening. Public health officials warn that if precautions aren’t taken, there is a risk of a second wave of COVID-19 cases. As such, many states, cities and businesses across the country have implemented precautions to keep everyone safe.

What does the new normal look like?While this will vary depending on your location, common practices that remain in place include social distancing, cloth face covering requirements and limitations on the number of guests within a business.

• Social distancing —You’ve probably heard the term “social distancing” a lot in the past few months. Keeping your distance from others has been crucial to slowing the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. It will also be a key component in staying healthy as things continue to reopen. To properly practice social distancing:

• Stay at least 6 feet—which is about two arms’ lengths—away from others.

• Avoid gathering in groups, mass gatherings or large crowds whenever possible.

• Wear a protective face mask or covering when out in public.

• Cloth face covering requirements—Some states, cities and businesses have rules in place requiring people to wear a cloth face mask when in public to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing a face covering when social distancing is not possible. For more information on cloth face masks, click here.

The Coronavirus and the New Normal

•Limitationsonnumberofguests—Many states, cities and businesses have guidance in place to promote social distancing, including limiting the number of guests allowed within a building. Be sure to check local guidelines or business postings to be prepared for a potential wait to be allowed into the store.

What can you do to stay safe?It’s up to you to do your part to keep yourself and others safe during this pandemic. To do so, keep the following in mind:

• Stay home when you’re sick.

• Wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Practice social distancing.

• Wear a face covering when in public, especially when social distancing isn’t possible.

• Follow guidance from federal, state and local health officials, as well as your doctor.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused changes to daily life, and change will likely continue for the next few months. It’s important to follow the guidance issued by federal, state and local officials, and practice good hygiene to stay safe during these uncertain times.


https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

4

In addition to fighting the health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, public health experts are also fighting the effects of what they refer to as an info-demic. Defined as an outbreak of misinformation, doctors across the country are saying that this infodemic is making it harder to treat patients. Moreover, this misinformation can lead to a break-down in the doctor-patient relationship, increase risk of infection or serious illness, or worsen the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.

WhenInformationBecomesMisinformationEven before the COVID-19 pandemic, doctors were fighting misinformation about health conditions, vaccines and treatments. However, pre-COVID-19, doctors say that these infodemics were targeted and more niche. Since the COVID-19 pandemic reared its head in the United States, doctors say that an infodemic focused solely on COVID-19 quickly began and spread. The misinformation being shared is widespread and includes at-home treatments for the coronavirus, claims over how the coronavirus is spread, and how to stay safe in public. .

HowtoStaySafeandSortFactFromFictionThe COVID-19 pandemic is rapidly evolving, which leads to changing guidance and advice for staying safe. Despite this, it’s always best to weather the storm and follow guidance from the CDC and your local public health officials. In addition, the following tips will help you sort out fact from fiction:

Fighting the Coronavirus “Infodemic”

• Research the source—It’s unfortunate, but true—some companies are trying to profit from fear and uncertainty during the pandemic, and some are spreading false information about the coronavirus in order to promote their product or service. Be sure to research the claims, studies and data brands are sharing to validate the information.

•Reviewmultiplesources—If information being shared is true, there will be a host of other sources sharing the same information. If a piece of information is an extreme outlier, and other sources are not saying the same things, it’s probably not accurate.

• Trust your gut—If something seems or sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

•Checkreliableresources—The CDC, local public health officials and your doctor are the most reliable sources to get your coronavirus-related questions answered. If you have personal questions about the coronavirus and your personal health, be sure to contact your doctor.


5

If you’re one of the 133 million Americans with a chronic condition, you’ve probably experienced disruptions to how you manage your condition due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, managing your chronic condition shouldn’t be put on the back burner.

Following the Doctor’s Orders HasNeverBeenMoreImportantPatients who do not follow their doctors’ orders, especially patients with chronic conditions, may experience health complications, rapid disease progression, decreased quality of life and even premature death.

Not following orders can include not filling a prescription, not taking medication as directed and not attending or scheduling a follow-up appointment. Fortunately, there are some simple ways you can manage your condition during quarantine:

• Use telehealth services—The CDC, local public health officials and your doctor are the most reliable sources to get your coronavirus-related questions answered. If you have personal questions about the coronavirus and your personal health, be sure to contact your doctor.

•Don’tforgettofillortakeprescribed medication—Keeping up with prescribed medications is essential for successfully managing a chronic condition. If you’re unable to go or uncomfortable going into a pharmacy to fill or pick up a prescription, transfer your prescription to a pharmacy that has a drive-thru option. You may also be able to sign up for a mail-order pharmacy service to get your medicine delivered to your doorstep.

• Lead a healthy lifestyle—Combining a healthy lifestyle with your treatment may be able to help you better manage your condition. Some simple things you can do during the pandemic include eating a well-balanced diet, exercising, reducing stress, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption. personal health, be sure to contact your doctor.

PrioritizeYourHealthFailing to keep up with your chronic condition treatment can put you at risk for long-term consequences. Using telemedicine, drive-thru and mail-order pharmacy services, and leading a healthy lifestyle throughout the pandemic can help you prioritize your health.

Chronic Conditions and the Coronavirus


Learn more about national health observances (NHOs) from the past

three months in this section.

NHO


7

According to the CDC, nine people are killed and over 1,000 are injured every day in the United States because of distracted driving. Distracted driving is driving while doing another activity that takes your attention away from the road, and it can greatly increase the chance of a motor vehicle crash.

There are three main types of distractions:

• Visual: Taking your eyes off the road

• Manual: Taking your hands off the wheel

• Cognitive: Taking your mind off of driving

While there is little you can do to control other people’s driving, there is plenty you can do to reduce your own distractions. Do not engage in any of the following while driving:

• Touching up makeup or hair

• Talking with other passengers to the extent that you aren’t watching the road

• Smoking

• Adjusting the radio or other audio devices

• Allowing your dog to sit on your lap

• Eating

April—National Distracted Driving Awareness Month


8

Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke, making it the fourth leading cause of death for Americans. A stroke occurs when a blockage stops the flow of blood to the brain or when a blood vessel in or around the brain bursts. Strokes occur in people of all ages.

The sooner a stroke patient receives medical treat-ment, the better. Call 911 immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg

• Confusion, trouble speaking or difficulty understanding

• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes

• Severe headache with no known cause

• Trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or loss of coordination

You can prevent a stroke by exercising regularly, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, keeping your blood pressure under control, limiting alcohol intake and eating a low-sodium healthy diet.

May—National Stroke Awareness Month


9

Fireworks are a staple at festivities for many Ameri-cans during the summer months. Unfortunately, many people do not realize just how dangerous fireworks and sparklers can be—which is a primary reason that injuries occur. Fireworks can not only injure the users, but can also cause harm to bystanders. All fireworks—including sparklers, bottle rockets and firecrackers—have the potential to cause burns, blindness and other injuries.

To ensure safety and avoid accidents when using fireworks, consider the following suggestions:

• Do not shoot fireworks off if you are under the influence of alcohol.

• Do not carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them from metal or glass containers.

• Use fireworks and sparklers outdoors only.

• Always have a hose or water bucket handy.

• Keep spectators a safe distance away.

• Show children how to properly hold sparklers, how to stay far enough away from other children and what not to do.

• Never try to relight a firework that didn’t properly ignite.

• Soak all firework debris in water before throwing it away.

June—Fireworks Safety Month

Looking Ahead…

July Cord Blood

Awareness Month

August Psoriasis

Awareness Month

September National Food Safety

Safety Month


Remain on top of the latest trends in health and wellness with the three

articles in this section.

Health and Wellness


11

Classified as a psychoactive drug, caffeine is a bitter substance found in coffee, tea, soft drinks, chocolate, some nuts and certain medicines. It has many effects on the body’s metabolism, including stimulation of the central nervous system. It can make you feel more alert and give you a boost of energy.

For most people, the amount of caffeine they con-sume each day isn’t harmful. However, too much of it can make you feel restless, anxious and irritable. It may also prevent a good night’s sleep and cause headaches and abnormal heart rhythms. Furthermore, if heavy caffeine use stops, it can cause withdrawal symptoms. Certain circumstances call for reducing the amount of caffeine you consume, including the following:

• You consume unhealthy amounts of caffeine each day, more than 500 to 600 milligrams. This is about four cups of coffee.

• You experience caffeine sensitivity symptoms, including anxiety, fatigue and headaches.

• You’re not sleeping well.

Caffeine can be habit-forming, so any attempts to stop or lessen the amount you consume can be challenging. It’s important to know how much caffeine is in the foods and beverages you consume and to gradually reduce the amount of caffeine you take in. Try replacing caffeinated coffee, tea and soft drinks with their decaffeinated counterparts.

Cut Back on the Caffeine


12

Simple Steps to Surviving the Summer HeatSummer heat can be more than uncomfortable—it can be a threat to your health. Heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this fact, more than 600 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year, according to the CDC.

There are several heat-related illnesses, including heatstroke (the most severe), heat exhaustion and heat cramps. Those most at risk include:

• Infants and young children

• Elderly people

• Pets

• Individuals with heart or circulatory problems, or other long-term illnesses

• People who work outdoors

• Athletes and people who like to exercise— especially beginners

To avoid heat illnesses in summer temperatures, remember to drink lots of water—even if you are not thirsty. Additionally, wear light-colored, lightweight clothing made of natural fibers, and put on a well- ventilated hat. Lastly, avoid leaving air-conditioned areas in the middle of the day if you can. Instead, get things done outside in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.

For more tips, click here to view the American Red Cross recommendations for summer safety.


http://www.redcross.org/news/article/Red-Cross-How-to-Stay-Safe-in-Hot-Weather

13

Every year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases a Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce report that details which fruits and veggies are the least—and most—contaminated by pesticides. The guide is designed to help you make healthy and informed choices, and reduce your exposure to toxic pesticides.

DirtyDozenFor the fifth year in a row, strawberries top the “Dirty Dozen” list of the most pesticide-tainted produce. Here’s the complete Dirty Dozen: 1. Strawberries 2. Spinach 3. Kale 4. Nectarines 5. Apples 6. Grapes 7. Peaches 8. Cherries 9. Pears 10. Tomatoes 11. Celery 12. Potatoes

While pesticides boost crop yields, multiple studies have linked pesticides in produce to conditions like asthma, cancer, fertility issues and brain conditions. The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station recommends rinsing produce under water for 30 seconds to get rid of pesticide residues.

CleanFifteenHere’s the EWG’s list of the cleanest produce you can purchase: 1. Avocados 2. Sweet corn 3. Pineapples 4. Onions 5. Papayas 6. Sweet peas (frozen) 7. Eggplants 8. Asparagus 9. Cauliflower 10. Cantaloupes 11. Broccoli 12. Mushrooms 13. Cabbage 14. Honeydew 15. Kiwis

Regardless of which list your favorite produce may be on, you should always properly clean your fruits and vegetables before enjoying them. For instructions, click here.

The EWG Released Its “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean Fifteen” Lists for 2020


https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/7-tips-cleaning-fruits-vegetables

Try out these two healthy recipes, which are from the USDA.

Recipes


15

Tomato and Garlic OmeletIngredients • ½ slice whole-wheat bread • ½ tsp. olive oil • 1 garlic clove (finely chopped) • Cooking spray (as needed, nonstick) • ¾ cup egg substitute • 2 Tbsp. mozzarella cheese (part-skim, grated) • 1 tomato (large, chopped) • 1 tsp. basil (dried)

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 300 F.

2. Cut the bread into cubes and toss with oil and garlic in a small bowl. Spread the cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 15 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown, tossing once or twice. Transfer to a plate to cool.

3. Spray a medium pan with nonstick cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat. Pour in egg substitute.

4. When the egg begins to set, spread evenly across the bottom of the pan and reduce the heat to low.

5. Once the top layer of egg is almost cooked, sprinkle the cheese and basil on top and scatter the tomatoes and bread over half of the omelet. Fold the unfilled omelet half over the filling. Slide the omelet onto a plate and serve.

Nutritional information for 1 serving

Calories 225Total fat 6 g Saturated fat 2 gCholesterol 8 mgSodium 525 mgTotal carbohydrate 19 g Dietary fiber 4 g Total sugars 9 g Added sugars included 1 gProtein 26 g

Makes 1 serving


16

Zucchini Au GratinIngredients • 4 cups zucchini (thinly sliced) • ½ cup onion (sliced) • 2 Tbsp. water • 1 Tbsp. margarine • Pepper (to taste) • 3 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese (grated)

Directions 1. Wash and slice vegetables. Place zucchini,

onion, water, margarine and pepper in a frying pan. Cover and cook over medium heat for one minute.

2. Remove cover and cook until crisp-tender, about 10 minutes.

3. Turn with large spoon to cook evenly.

4. Sprinkle with cheese and toss lightly.

5. Serve at once.

Nutritional information for 1 serving

Calories 38Total fat 2 gSaturated fat 1 gCholesterol 1 mgSodium 49 mgTotal carbohydrate 3 g Dietary fiber 1 g Total sugars 2 g Added sugars included 0 gProtein 2 g

Makes 7 servings


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