“Place your feet on the designated marks and raise your hands above your head as shown in the image. Please remain still.”
Many of us are familiar with such instructions during airport security screenings before boarding a flight.
In the past, the security attendants used to inspect my wristwatch, a simple metal timepiece with no frills. Now, I place it in the bin along with my shoes to avoid being pulled aside for additional checks.
Security screening serves to safeguard passengers from potential threats posed by fellow travelers.
Frequently, as we exit department stores, we walk through security checkpoints that scan our bags. Occasionally, the alarms may sound even after the store staff have deactivated the anti-theft devices.
These security measures help protect stores from theft, ultimately preventing price hikes that can result from merchandise losses.
It’s likely that your blood has been tested for sugar or cholesterol levels to assess the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Health screenings play a vital role in saving lives.
Julie Garden-Robinson, NDSU Extension food and nutrition specialist
Contributed / NDSU
March not only marks National Nutrition Month but also serves as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Individuals aged 45 and above should undergo screening for colorectal cancer as per the current guidelines. Those with a family history of the disease might require screening at an earlier age. Consult your healthcare provider to explore options, including colonoscopies.
Most of us have known someone who has succumbed to cancer. Whether it’s a family member, a friend, or even our personal battle with the disease, cancer screenings have played a crucial role in early detection.
Regular cancer screenings enable healthcare providers to identify health issues promptly, increasing the chances of successful treatment.
Making positive lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk of cancer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend the following strategies to lower your risk:
- Refrain from tobacco use, which is strongly linked to various cancers, especially lung cancer.
- Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, as it can also lead to lung cancer.
- Protect your skin from sun exposure by using sunscreen, wearing sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses, and minimizing midday sun exposure.
- Limit alcohol consumption, as it elevates the risk of multiple cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, esophagus, colon, liver, and breast.
- Maintain a healthy weight, as obesity is associated with a higher risk of several cancers, such as breast, colon, rectum, stomach, ovaries, and pancreas.
What measures are you implementing to prioritize your health?
We are excited to announce the launch of the spring session of our complimentary online nutrition program, “Nourish,” in April, with open registration. Some North Dakota counties are offering in-person program sessions. We encourage adults aged 50 and above to participate, although individuals of all ages are welcome. Consider signing up with a friend or family member to support each other’s journey towards better health. Register here.
Each session will delve into specific topics, such as maintaining optimal eye health, along with insights on caring for your heart, brain, digestive system, skin, bones, and joints, as well as tips for improving sleep quality.
Here’s a vibrant and nutrient-rich recipe for you to savor.
Mediterranean Lentil Salad
- 1 cup dry lentils and 1½ cups water
- ½ cup Kalamata olives
- ½ cup onion, diced
- 1½ cups grape tomatoes, sliced in half
- ½ cup green peppers, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, cubed
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
Cook lentils in water until tender, drain, and let cool. In a large bowl, combine lentils, olives, onion, tomatoes, peppers, cucumber, feta cheese, and parsley. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano to make the dressing. Toss the salad with the dressing. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for two hours for the flavors to meld. This salad can be prepared a day ahead.
Yields 16 side-dish servings. Each serving contains 110 calories, 4.5g fat, 4g protein, 13g carbohydrates, 3g fiber, and 45mg sodium.