nutrition - Elements Barre Fit

Health Benefits of Matcha

Elements Staff Published On: Jul 30, 2021

Walking through any town in The Hamptons, you are likely to see plenty of people holding a bright green iced drink. Wondering what it is? It’s called matcha, a Japanese green tea powder produced from dried tea leaves. This vibrant drink not only makes the perfect iced beverage for the summer, but is packed with health benefits. Keep reading to learn about the many health benefits of matcha!

High In Antioxidants

Matcha is a great source of antioxidants, containing up to 130 times the amount present in green tea. Increasing your antioxidant intake has several health benefits including helping prevent cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and promoting weight loss.

Increases Productivity

Matcha is a source of caffeine, which reduces fatigue and improves concentration. However, unlike coffee, matcha also contains an amino acid that prevents overstimulation. These components together increase overall productivity.

Reduces Inflammation

Matcha has anti- inflammatory properties which have been found to benefit individuals who suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Boosts Immune System

Matcha’s anti- inflammatory properties additionally support the immune system. Reduced inflammation increases the body’s ability to fight pathogens. In addition, the chlorophyll present in matcha, which creates its vibrant green color, help detoxify the body from chemicals and toxins.

Best Ingredients to Cook Healthy Meals in The Hamptons This Summer

Elements Staff Published On: Jul 28, 2021

One of the many amazing things about The Hamptons is the fresh food. With farm stands galore, the flavorful ingredients are endless. We searched East Hampton for the best summer ingredients for you to cook delicious meals with!

Tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes are the perfect ingredient to add a pop of summer to any dish. No matter what your tomato preference is, East Hampton farmers markets have you covered. Try making these mini caprese kebabs as a delicious and easy appetizer!

Berries

Fresh berries bring a delicious sweet flavor to any recipe. Whether you love berries in sweet or savory dishes, they are the perfect addition to any summer meal. Add a handful of berries to your breakfast for extra flavor and antioxidants, or enjoy them on the beach as a sweet and refreshing snack!

Corn

What’s a summer barbeque without corn on the cob? Pick up fresh corn from a farm stand to enjoy a sweet flavor you can’t find in the grocery store. Simply throw them on the grill or whip up a summer corn salad.

Watermelon

A fresh watermelon screams summer. East Hampton farm stands are the place to find a perfect watermelon that never disappoints. Cut it up and bring it to the beach as a refreshing snack, or add it into creative recipes. Make a watermelon, tomato and feta salad that is sure to be a hit.

Peaches

There is nothing like a fresh, juicy peach from an East Hampton farm stand. Enjoy eating a fresh peach for a sweet bite of summer. Try making your peaches into a delicious peach cobbler for a fruit- filled dessert your family is sure to love!

Tips to Stay Healthy While on Vacation

Elements Staff Published On: Jul 28, 2021

Include exercise as a vacation activity

A hike, bike ride or beach walk is the perfect addition to any day on vacation. Whether you’re with family or friends, opt for a bonding activity that gets your body moving. Choose a location that will be worth the trip, with scenic views that will make for great photos.

Cook or order meals with fresh, local ingredients

Wherever you are enjoying your vacation, meals with local and fresh ingredients are both delicious and healthy. In the Hamptons, choose meals with fresh produce and fish. Explore the endless tasty options packed with nutrients to keep you feeling your best.

Pack snacks

Whether your vacation means exploring a new city or laying on the beach, it is important that your body is properly nourished. Choose to pack snacks to avoid relying on less healthy options. Some examples of healthy snacks on the go are nuts, protein bars, carrots, apples and bananas.

Have the treat!

Vacation destinations can be filled with sweet treats that make your mouth water. Instead of restricting yourself, choose to enjoy the treat. Indulging will not break your health progress. In fact, it has been found that consuming desserts every once in a while can help reduce the urge to binge on sugar later on.

Take time for yourself

However you define “you time,” it is a necessity on vacation. Find time to do what you love to relax and rejuvenate yourself before returning to the hectic energy of everyday life. Whether that means reading a book, listening to your favorite music, or having your favorite drink, find the time and enjoy!

Quick and Easy Post Workout Snacks

Elements Staff Published On: Jul 08, 2021

Do you ever find yourself racing to get to work, drive the kids to camp, or get your beach day started after a tough workout? We often prioritize fueling before a workout, yet neglect the need to get in a nutritious post workout snack. However, this snack may be just as important as the workout itself. Fueling your body directly after a workout, specifically by consuming both protein and carbohydrates, allows your muscles to repair and your body to recover properly.
To help you feel your best this summer, we have created a list of quick and easy post workout snacks!

Greek Yogurt with Berries

Greek yogurt is a great protein source, packed with calcium to support bone health, and probiotics to support gut health. Adding fresh berries, a carbohydrate and antioxidant, creates a delicious post workout snack. Stop at your favorite farm stand and stock up on fresh berries for this delicious snack.

Banana or Apple with Nut Butter

Bananas and apples are great carbohydrate sources, and perfect for taking on the go. Pair it with a tablespoon of your favorite nut butter, and you have a nutrient dense post workout snack. Nut butters are not only packed with protein, but also healthy fats that support cardiovascular health. Opt for nut butter packets for a grab-and-go snack.

Veggies or Crackers and Hummus

Hummus is packed with protein and has been proven to fight inflammation and promote gut health. Whether store bought or homemade, this delicious dip can be paired with your favorite veggies or crackers for the perfect post workout snack.

Protein Smoothie

Smoothies are not only a great way to get in your favorite fruits and vegetables this summer, but an ideal post workout option. Fill your blender with your go-to fruits, throw in some vegetables for extra nutrients, and add your favorite protein powder. Try some fun combinations like chocolate banana, kale pineapple, or blueberry vanilla.

How to Beat the Heat with Outdoor Workouts this Summer

Elements Staff Published On: Dec 07, 2020

Outdoor workouts are trending right now, and for good reason. With coronavirus still prevalent, working out outdoors allows for more distance between you and your buds and more fresh air circulation. Plus, in a lot of places, gyms and fitness studios are either completely closed or only open in a limited capacity.

While working out in the great outdoors is an awesome alternative, it comes with its own obstacles. Exercising is already hot and sweaty inside, how can you survive taking it outside? And what if it rains? Read on for tips on beating the heat with your summer workouts!

Drink Plenty of Water

The hotter it is, the more you sweat. The more you sweat, the more you need to drink water. Staying hydrated to avoid feeling tired and dizzy, two common side effects of dehydration. Not a huge fan of H20? Try adding fruit, like watermelon or strawberries, or swapping out still for sparkling water. Coconut water is another good option, as it has natural electrolytes.

Wear Sunscreen

Whether you’re outside for 30 minutes or 3 hours, be sure you slap on some sunscreen. Be sure to reapply at least every 2 hours, and right after you swim or sweat.

Find Some Shade

Try to workout near some shade, like a tree, so you can escape the sun if you’re feeling overheated. If you plan to workout outside often, or if you live somewhere with unpredictable weather, you might want to invest in a canopy tent that can easily be put up in case there’s any light rain, or it’s 115 degrees and you need a sun break.

The Growing Importance of Workplace Wellness In Small Business

Elements Staff Published On: Dec 07, 2020

The Growing Importance of Workplace Wellness In Small Business

If you’re busy thinking of new ways to both attract top talent and keep your current employees happy and engaged, you’re not alone! According to the SunTrust Banks annual Business Pulse Survey, about half of small and mid-sized businesses felt that attracting and retaining employees would be their most significant challenge.

https://www.pilotonline.com/inside-business/article_40e27f38-31f5-11e8-a548-3b0adedf003f.html

Although recruiting and retaining employees is a challenge that all businesses face, it may be even more difficult for SMBs due to smaller budgets and fewer resources. If you’re looking for a quick solution or a good place to start, consider implementing a wellness program for your employees.

Wellness is a proven, effective tool for recruiting new talent. Plus an engaged, healthy, and happy workforce is likely to stick around longer. Improved recruiting and retention, as well as reduced health care costs and absenteeism, can impact small businesses in big ways.

When it comes to company culture, making the effort to improve the health and well-being of your employees won’t go unnoticed. Don’t let the size of your company or allotment of resources be a reason to fall behind the employee wellness trend. For more information about Elements’ Corporate Wellness Program, email us at [email protected]!