Tasteful Tip Tuesday: October 2021

Cut Back on the Caffeine

Did you know that 90% of Americans consume some form of caffeine regularly? Caffeine has many effects on the body’s metabolism, including stimulation of the central nervous system. It can make one feel more alert and provide a boost of energy.

For most people, the amount of caffeine in two to four cups of coffee a day (200 to 400 milligrams) is not harmful. However, too much of it can make one 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. If any of these situations apply, you should cut back:

• You consume unhealthy amounts of caffeine, more than 500 to 600 milligrams a day.
• You have caffeine sensitivity. People with smaller body masses, those who do not usually consume caffeine and those who are overly stressed will feel the effects of caffeine consumption sooner.

You are not sleeping well. Caffeine interferes with the ability to get a good night’s sleep.

Flu Season

Flu season typically runs from October to May. However, most flu cases occur between December and February. That’s why the CDC is strongly recommending that you get vaccinated as early as possible.

Each year, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) works with the World Health Organization to create a vaccination that contains three or four different strains of the flu. Most of the shots available provide protection against four different flu strains. The CDC recommends that everyone older than 6 months should get the flu vaccine.

You can get vaccinated against the flu at your doctor’s office, in a clinic or pharmacy, and maybe even your place of employment. Some urgent care clinics and local health departments will provide flu vaccines as well. Visit the HealthMap Vaccine Finder to locate where you can get a flu vaccine.

Download This Month’s Recipe Below

Squash Soup

If the recipe link doesn’t work, copy and paste this into your browser: http://go.seubert.com/l/654093/2021-01-07/hjl9wr/654093/16100352130fQOZGZz/Squash_Soup.pdf