TAKING CARE OF OURSELVES AS WE TAKE CARE OF OTHERS
The corona virus has created challenges and opportunities for us all. Living on an island in the middle of the Pacific, we well know that it takes all of us to create a just, healthy and equitable society. We have to be more self-reliant as a community. As it became clear that the covid-19 pandemic would be followed by a huge rise in food insecurity, I felt called to action to help my ohana.
In my work as a dietitian, I began hearing from many who were stress eating and drinking as a response to these unprecedented times. The idea of the Meals to Meals Challenge began to emerge as a way to jump-start our health while helping others. Another win is to support the farmers, so that their produce can be distributed to those who can benefit. Fortunately Hawaii food banks are well positioned to do just that. Our long term goal on the islands is to be more food secure and sustainable and ensure that those who are growing our food will still have viable businesses and that we all have access to healthy food.
You might find a similar story and a similar need in your own community.
INVITATION
Commit to one or more of the actions below for the next month or longer. Any of these actions, in whatever measure, can help you to feel better and get you on your way to improved health. An added bonus is saving money. Make your donation below..
• Plant based meals: Start increasing the amount of legumes, veggies, fruit, whole grains, some nuts and seeds and reduce the servings of animal based foods. If you are on medications, work with your doctor to make adjustments as needed.
• Healthier snacking: Limit or exclude processed snacks and focus on fruits and veggies. Stop evening snacking.
• Intermittent Fasting: Reduce the time you eat to 12 hours or less, but no fewer than 6 hours each day. IF YOU ARE ON MEDICATIONS, CONSULT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE STARTING THIS PROGRAM. THIS IS NOT RECOMMENDED IF YOU HAVE A HISTORY OF DISORDERED EATING.
• Exercise: start moving more each day. Walking is a great exercise, or you could use online exercise options. Start slowly if you have been very inactive, and consult with your medical provider first if you have multiple health issues.
Are you able to donate $1 or more a day to your local food bank?
* Suggested donation $30/$60/ $90 or more per month.
Post your goals on “Meals to Meals Challenge” Facebook page and on your social media.
Encourage friends, family and coworkers to do the same.
Email mealstomealschallenge@gmail.com to get daily tips for 30 days
Download the STEP BY STEP guide below OR VIEW IT ONLINE
For help with making lifestyle changes check-in with your own health provider or one in your community.
You can also contact one of our team members:
Vivienne Aronowitz, MPH RDN CDE dietitian and diabetes educator
mealstomealschallenge@gmail.com
Visit: www.inshapehi.com
Yashoda Bhaskar MD, internist and lifestyle medicine physician
Visit: www.karuna-MD.com
Trudy Russo MA California-based behavioral life coach
trudyrusso@gmail.com
Thanks go as well to Julie Aronowitz, Brenda Aronowitz, Leandra Rouse and Isabelle Degroote for their help, and to Michael Aronowitz for his sponsorship.