Live Better Now November 2008

Change is Possible
That’s not a new message—we’ve been hearing it ad nauseum from politicians red and blue. But I’m not talking politics. This is personal. When you get bad news­—a diabetes diagnosis, as writer Jon Katz faced (pg 12), or see the numbers on the scale refuse to drop, or endure another stressful day at work—it’s easy to feel stuck, powerless, defeated. But take it from me, who has kept 70 pounds off for 20 years, and Jon, who beat diabetes, and the Keoghans (pg 4), who are helping others live their dreams. Little steps lead to big results. All you have to do is make your move.
Lisa Delaney, Editor

Stretch away headaches
Head pounding from holiday planning? Try this stretch from Doug Fogel, co-author of How to Get Permanent Relief From Chronic Tension Headaches. It loosens neck, shoulder and upper-back muscles, increasing blood flow and easing the ache: Interlace your fingers and place them against the back of your head. Press your head straight back into your hands, while relaxing your shoulders. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds; repeat.
—Valerie Kramer Davis

Juice up, naturally
Sugary juices and sodas may give you a quick jolt, but the drinks are also linked to an increased risk for type 2 diabetes, according to a recent study. There’s no reason to ban all delicious beverages from your life, though. Make your own fruit-infused water (also called aqua fresca) with this simple recipe: In a blender, puree 2-3 cups of your favorite fruit (melons, nectarines or citrus fruits such as oranges work well). Strain the puree and discard the pulp. Mix in 2 cups of cold water and refrigerate. The mixture will keep for up to five days.

A green remedy for tummy troubles
The Pilgrims may not have had Aunt Mae’s green bean casserole, but they likely suffered from post-Thanksgiving meal indigestion anyway. According to Tracy Perkins from the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, herbs like mint, rosemary, and chamomile may have helped settle the first settlers' stomachs. Work the heartburn-fighters into your own turkey-day meal with these tips from the Herb Society of America:

• Spike iced tea with fresh mint sprigs or serve chamomile tea after dinner.
• Add 1-2 teaspoons of fresh ginger to your homemade cranberry sauce recipe before cooking.
• Toss potatoes with fresh or dried rosemary before roasting.

—Patricia Bates