Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Eustress versus Distress

Mayo Clinic Health System Health Note:

Did you know that there is good stress and bad stress?
Eustress is positive stress on your body that gives you the motivation and focus you need to begin your day. It may bring feelings of excitement and improve performance at work or at home. Distress is known as the "bad stress" that is associated with the negative outcomes. Characteristics of distress include anxiety, short- or long-term effects, decreased performance, and mental or physical problems.

What are some life events that cause us good or bad stress? Examples of “good stress,” or eustress, include holiday get-togethers, moving to a new home, planning a wedding, taking on a new career, having a child, taking a vacation, enrolling in a class, or retiring. “Bad stress” or distress comes from life events including job demands, death of a loved one, divorce, hospitalization, financial concerns, unemployment, abuse/neglect, sleep concerns, and interpersonal conflicts.

There are a variety of stressors beyond the examples listed, but these are some of the most common that people face. Stand up to your stressors by being assertive, managing a detailed schedule and following it, and planning ahead to avoid procrastination. Remember: you are you life's driver; stay aware and drive safe. 

From:
Amy Every
Senior Communication Consultant
Marketing Communications
Mayo Clinic Health System Franciscan Healthcare
700 West Avenue South
La Crosse, WI 54601
mayoclinichealthsystem.org

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Advantages of Farmer's Markets

Mayo Clinic Health System Health Note:

Farmer’s markets have been advertised as a healthier option to eat fresher, more varied foods during the growing season, but the benefits of buying from a local farmer don’t stop with your health. Buying local at a farmer’s market can be a great way to make a positive choice for the environment while at the same time strengthening your community.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the number of farmers markets in the U.S. has doubled in the last five years increasing from 4,685 in 2008 t0 8,144 in 2013. Farmer’s markets are full of colorful food like fruits and vegetables, and often include many handmade or homegrown items like flowers, crafts, and jewelry. By investing in farmer’s markets, you put your dollar directly back into people in your local community.

The majority of produce in the United States today was picked on average one week before being put on display in supermarkets, and usually traveled many miles to get there. The benefits of eating from a farmer’s market is that the foods have probably traveled less distance, and haven’t lost as many nutrients due to the length of time between picking and selling. In addition to being fresher and having more nutrients, farmer’s markets allow you to mix up your diet by trying many different foods you might not regularly be exposed to.

By checking out a local farmer’s market you can make a great choice for your health, the environment, and the local community.

From:
Amy Every
Senior Communication Consultant
Marketing Communications
Mayo Clinic Health System Franciscan Healthcare
700 West Avenue South
La Crosse, WI 54601
mayoclinichealthsystem.org