25 Mar NYC Holistic Online Nutrition and Dietitian Counseling Services

We are living in a very weird time, and so much of that strangeness comes with the uncertainty of what’s next. And, I don’t doubt this will be something all of us will remember the rest of our lives. COVID-19 has affected everybody one way or another.

Though we’re flooded with images of people buying toilet paper and eerie supermarket panic, I see how extraordinary and resourceful people have been, finding ways to alleviate stress, keep connected, and keep the wheels of life turning. For instance, overnight, teachers re-invented the way to reach students, redefining education, finding ways to create lunch drop-offs. Libraries, museums, zoos, the Met Opera, Broadway … all have gone virtual, providing the world with a way to explore collections and stay connected through art. We can travel to Versailles! Even Michelin chefs are providing cooking lessons, free-of-charge, on Instagram.

In this health crisis, all “non-essential” health services have been cancelled. Which can be scary. Women are pregnant and need to take care of their bodies, with accurate information. People continue to work through eating disorders and chronic illness. Every health issue begins with good nutrition. And it’s imperative to have access to accurate information.

I want you to know you are not alone.

As a registered New York dietitian, I work with clients from all walks of life, from all over the world. Nutrition is the key to health, and during times like this, we all need give our bodies and immune systems an extra boost. So, steer clear of the toilet paper aisle, and stock up on these super immune-system foods:

1. Citrus fruits are packed with Vitamin C.
2. Papayas and kiwis have Vitamin C, potassium, folate and more.
3. Bring on the broccoli. This superfood, though it lost a little of the spotlight to kale, is one of the best. Vitamins A, C, E, antioxidants, and fiber in these green stalks make this a no-lose choice. Steam it or eat it raw! (Wash well!)
4. Garlic is proven to ward off infections. (Keep in mind we’re all in close quarters now, so you might want to make sure everybody indulges together!)
5. Ginger is an anti-inflammatory (proven to help with sore throats) and can help with morning sickness (great in a tea for my prenatal clients), curbing nausea.
6. Almonds are packed with Vitamin E, which is key to a healthy immune system. A half a cup of almonds provides your daily requirements of Vitamin E.
7. Green tea has high levels of EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) … which is, in other words, an awesome antioxidant. This boosts immune function. It also is a great source of flavonoids and the amino acid L-theanine. Stew a thermos of green tea and sip on it all day long.
8. Kefir, kombucha and yogurt give your gut a much-needed immune boost. Remember gut health is also mental health.
9. Go frozen!Remember frozen fruits and vegetables retain their nutrients. Blueberries, strawberries, mixed berries, broccoli, mixed vegetables … all are packed with nutrients and won’t spoil.

Eating well is the crux of health. It is an essential service you do for your body. Another piece of the puzzle is to keep moving. Many of us are homebound for the next several weeks. Below are some great resources to keep moving in the house. Being active is key to immune health.

Covid-19 has been a humble reminder of our fragility and connection. Life continues. As a registered dietitian, I provide online prenatal, post-natal counseling, as well as work with clients who need clinical dietitian services. We’re just a phone call or internet connection away! Contact me. We can connect and keep your nutrition goals on track.

Stay healthy. Stay calm.

Cosmic Kids Yoga: Learn yoga positions, get moving, while acting out a children’s story. (Really fun for younger kids or those who are young-at-heart.)

Yoga with Cassandra

7 Minute Workout