How to Stay Healthy in Pandemic Times

It’s 2021, and we’re already over a year into the COVID-19 pandemic. Here at Açai Express, we know how important it is for our customers to stay in good health, so we’ve come up with some tips on making sure you’re feeling your best while we navigate these uncertain times.

The year 2020 was a challenging one all-around. Shelter in place orders were out, we weren’t allowed to leave our homes, and COVID-19 turned our everyday routines upside down. We know our loyal customers are committed to their health and that lifestyle choice contributes in significant part to your wellness and overall quality of life.

Below are some tips to feel even better as we approach the end of another year in the pandemic. 

Go organic

At Açai Express, using only the best grade A organic acai, pitahaya, and fruits and vegetables is one of our top priorities. 

Look, we know buying organic is more expensive than using the regular produce, but switching to organic pays off in multiple ways.

First of all, you will be avoiding the harmful effects of pesticides in your fruits and veggies. Secondly, you will be preventing the growth hormones used in non-organic meat and produce. Lastly, it will be better for your physical health! You can start small by incorporating your favorite organic fruits next time you hit the market and build from there.

Avoid processed foods

We all love snacking; who doesn’t? But do you know what’s really in your snacks? You should avoid processed foods such as chips, sugary drinks, cereals, frozen meals, processed meats, and fast foods at all costs. These foods have no nutritional value and offer empty calories, at best. We’re not saying you should quit snacking all together, but opt for dried fruits and nuts instead of reaching for that bag of chips. 

See if intermittent fasting is right for you

Recent years have seen an increase of people promoting the benefits of intermittent fasting such as weight loss, hormone regulation, lowering your risk of type 2 diabetes, reducing inflammation, extending your lifespan, among other things, according to Healthline.

So what exactly is intermittent fasting? It’s an eating pattern where you fast (meaning, you don’t eat any calories) for a certain period and eat your day’s calories within a specific time frame. A popular style is the 16/8 method, where you fast for 16 hours and have an 8-hour window for eating. We recommend you consult with your doctor prior to starting. 

Stay hydrated

We all know you’ve heard it time and time again: “Drink more water!” It’s funny because it’s true. Our bodies are made up of water, yet most people realize they don’t drink enough of it. The benefits of drinking water are many: protecting your organs, flushing bacteria, helping your digestion, preventing constipation, and it can even help you lose weight!

Pro-tip: get a refillable bottle and set a goal for the number of times you want to refill the bottle per day. 

Find healthier options

If you have a sweet tooth but are looking to skip the calories, try paleo baked goods alternatives or banana “nice cream,” a vegan ice cream option made entirely of frozen bananas! Add your favorite toppings and voilá. You’ve got yourself a guilt-free healthy (and sweet) treat.