Health & Wellness in May

Prevent Sports Injuries

Playing sports, exercising and physical activities are great for your health, but they can lead to injuries if done incorrectly or if you push yourself too hard.

Whether you are a seasoned athlete or just starting to exercise here are some tips to help you ward off injuries:

Warm up: Stretch your arms and legs or take a light jog to loosen up your muscles. Warm muscles are less susceptible to strains, pulls and other injuries.

Slow and steady: If you haven't been exercising regurlarly, start out slow and gradually increase the frequency, duration and level of activity.

Stay hydrated: Drink water before, during, and after your activity (especially on warm days) to ward off dehydration.

Get into gear: Wear protective pads, mouth guards, helmets, gloves and other equipment, if necessary. Also, protect your skin with sunscreen.

"No pain, no gain?" Forget it: Pain is your body's way of saying stop or slow down. If you experience pain or discomfort (more than the usual soreness after a workout) that doesn't disappear after the activity, talk with your doctor.

Mix it up: Varying your routine will reduce boredom, increase your skill level, and improve flexibility. Doing the same activity repeatedly increases the risk of an "overuse" injury.

Remember to consult your doctor before starting a new sport or exercise routine.

For additional healthy tips, visit: www.kp.org/diablo

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Featured Recipe by Dr. Preston Maring

Add to chicken breast or fish fillet

Click here for a printer-friendly version of this recipe

Salsa Verde

Ingredients

1/2 cup tightly packed, chopped flat-leafed parsley (takes about 1 cup loosely packed parsley)

3 Tbsp tightly packed, chopped fresh herbs — any combination of tarragon, chervil, chives, mint, cilantro and basil

1 Tbsp capers, rinsed, drained, dried and coarsely chopped

2 tsp lemon zest

1 Tbsp finely diced shallot or red onion

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste — it takes a little while for salt to dissolve in olive oil, so don’t add too much too fast

Directions

Mix everything together. A little goes a long way.

More Healthy Eating Tips with Dr. Preston Maring

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