Enjoy Trail Mix While Walking Trails
By Brandi Goodman
Walking a trail does a lot more for your health than you might think. Just be sure you're taking a healthy snack along if you plan on being out for a while. Skip the sugary treats and opt for something simple, such as trail mix. You can easily enjoy trail mix while walking trails and gain many benefits for your health in the process.
Health Benefits of Trail Mix
Trail mix makes such a great snack for everyone because it can be personalized. Don't just buy a bag from the store. Create your own mix at home using your favorite ingredients and you'll have a snack you can truly enjoy. Perhaps you like the classic mix of raisins, nuts, and M&Ms. You can stick with this. You may like a more tropical version with coconut clusters and dried mango added. Switch from peanuts to almonds or pistachios. Use pretzels. Replace the candies with dark chocolate bits. There's so many variations you can try.
Depending on what you put inside determines the health benefits you're getting. With any kind of nut, you're adding protein and fiber to your bag. Dark chocolate can offer antioxidant power while M&Ms won't do much but add to the taste. Dried fruits can provide vitamins. Choose the most nutritious options that still taste good to you for the biggest benefit.
Health Benefits of Walking Trails
Walking anywhere is of course going to provide exercise. You'll be improving your leg strength and burning calories. This can help maintain weight and lower blood pressure and your risk of heart disease. You'll gain mental health benefits from walking trails as well.
Walking through a natural path surrounded by trees, flowers, and other plants can help you clear your mind. You can focus more on the beauty around you and less on the stress going on in your life at the given moment. It's a great option for stress relief.
The activity is actually said to slow mental decline as well. The more time you spend walking in your week, the more chance you have of maintaining your memory as you age. It can actually reduce your risk for developing Alzheimer's as well.
Enjoying trail mix while walking trails provides numerous benefits to your well-being. Combine the nutritious snack with your exercise routine and you're bound to experience advantages to your health.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in St. Petersburg, Fla.