Hello Healthy Hub Fans!

HELLO April, we're excited to share ways to enhance your family's health journey while celebrating Autism Awareness Month. This month is all about building understanding, promoting healthy habits, and connecting with nature.

Autism Awareness: Building Healthy Habits for Thriving Families

For families with children on the autism spectrum, establishing healthy habits can make a world of difference. Here are some key areas to focus on:

• Nutrition: Many children with autism have food sensitivities or selective eating habits. Prioritize nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Aim to include foods from all five food groups daily.
• Sleep: Create a consistent bedtime routine with calming activities to improve sleep quality. A well-rested child is better equipped to manage emotions and focus throughout the day.
• Physical Activity: Engage in sensory-friendly activities like nature walks, swimming, or yoga. These can help with motor skills, emotional regulation, and overall well-being.
• Emotional Regulation: Use tools like visual schedules or calming techniques to help children navigate their feelings effectively.

Interactive Tip: Share with us your favorite autism-friendly activities on social media using #AutismAwarenessMonth!

The Power of Fruits, Vegetables, and Berries

Did you know that only 9% of adults meet the recommended daily vegetable intake, and just 12% meet fruit intake recommendations? Yet eating a variety of fruits and vegetables daily can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

• Why Variety Matters: Different fruits and vegetables provide unique nutrients. For example:
  • Carrots are rich in Vitamin A for eye health.
  • Berries are packed with antioxidants that support cellular repair.
  • Leafy greens offer iron and folate for energy and brain function.
• Daily Goal: Strive for five servings a day—two of fruit and three of vegetables. Eating the rainbow ensures you’re getting a broad spectrum of nutrients.

Poll Time! How many servings of fruits and veggies do you aim for each day? Let us know in our quick poll!

Healthy Starts Program

Looking for an easy way to boost your family’s nutrition? With Juice Plus+ Healthy Starts for Families, every adult purchase of the Fruit, Vegetable, and Berry Blend Capsules sponsors one child (ages 4–25) to receive free fruit & vegetable capsules or gummies! It’s a simple step toward creating lifelong healthy habits for you and your loved ones. Watch and listen to the video below👇

Earth Day: Connect with Nature

Earth Day (April 22) is a wonderful opportunity to get outside as a family. Here’s how you can celebrate while promoting health:

• Take a walk in nature to enjoy its beauty and reflect on its importance.
• Plant a small garden together or clean up a local park.
• Use this time to unplug from screens and connect with each other outdoors.

Healthy Easter Recipe: Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme

Celebrate Easter with this delicious yet nutritious side dish that’s perfect for the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb baby carrots
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• Pinch of cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss carrots with olive oil, honey, thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
5. Serve warm as a sweet yet healthy addition to your Easter table.

Closing Thoughts

This April, let’s commit to creating healthier habits as families—whether it’s supporting children with autism through structured routines, eating more fruits and veggies together, or simply taking time to enjoy nature. Small changes lead to big transformations over time.

Stay tuned for more tips next month! And don’t forget—your family is worth every step toward better health.

Share your favorite healthy recipes or tips with us on social media using #HealthyFamilyHabits!

Share your progress in our Facebook group "Choose HEALTH & JOY"!

Looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Dr. Anna Crisostomo

The Health Hub Team