Healthy UNH Blogger: Rebecca Lastra
Whatever the reason may be for people to start a workout regiment, we all have one thing in common when being at the gym; we all want to maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, many people hold different beliefs regarding the benefits on the gym and it is very important to be able to differentiate fact from myth. Luckily, CNN’s Madison Park recently published an article examining the ten common myths when it comes to working out. Not only does she state the multitude of different myths, but she... Read More
The amount of pharmacies we can bring our prescriptions to can seem overwhelming at times; and given the current economy, we always want to make sure we’re getting the best deal. But how can you possiblely visit each pharmacy near your house and check how much each presciption costs? Luckily, this little thing called the “internet” has completely revolutionized our lives over the past couple decades. From hotels, books, to even electronics, it seems that we can compare prices on just about... Read More
With spring break only a few weeks away, I have seen the gym with a constant influx of students, faculty, and staff in determination to get their beach body ready. However, there is one catch. I tend to see these die-hard, rock hard ab go-getters at the Hamel Recreation Center on Mondays through Saturdays. So where are they on Sunday, you may ask? Well one popular answer put forth by ”Greatist”, a website linked to by the Huffington Post, is that these exercise gurus are on the coach cheating.... Read More
During the past few years, there has been some controversy regarding the benefits we gain from stretching before and after exercise. Luckily, Laura Schwecher, a writer for the Huffington Post uses her findings from scientific based evidence to bust some of the famous myths that surround gyms and other fitness centers around the nation. So, the jury is out and if you’re anything like myself, prepare to be shocked by some of these new findings. Firstly, stretching doesn’t prevent injury nor does... Read More
For many years of my life, I have been taught that taking a nap during the day would cause negative effects on my ability to fall asleep later in the evening. However, I recently found an article on WebMD that counteracts this long time assumption and negative connotation that has been applied to the word “nap.” Many people, like myself, tend to feel their energy levels fall when two or three o’clock rolls around. Instead of reaching for that not so nutritious energy drink to send you from... Read More
Did you make a New Year’s Resolution to work out more and lead a healthier life? Are you bored of doing the same old workout everyday? Well luckily, the UNH Outdoor Adventure Club can help! On February 14th, they will be hosting a Moonlight Cross Country Ski event across Medums Pond. It only costs five dollars and it includes transportation and ski gear. The event is from 6pm-9:30pm and you must sign up by February 13th at the front desk of the recreation center. The Outdoor Adventure Club... Read More
Imagine being able to rake leaves or mowing lawns in exchange for a doctor’s visit. Well in Falmouth, Maine, there are thirty-three patients who do just that. An article published by NPR examines the structure behind True North’s system of “time dollars” and how patients can qualify for the program. True North is a non-profit medical clinic in Falmouth that allows low-income patients complete specific services in exchange to see a doctor. Tom Dahlborg, the executive director of True North,... Read More
In a recent post by Katrina Heisler, she discussed the different apps that are compatible with iPhones to help us stay motivated to hit the gym and how as little as text messaging could contribute to weight loss. Well another app to add to the list is "Nexercise". Nexercise is a free app available to all iPhone owners that tracks different physical activities and rewards users with free and discounted merchandise. These physical activities range from weight training and running to fencing and... Read More
With the constant stress of school, work, or other day-to-day events, a majority of people have a hard time shutting off their brain to get some shut eye. During finals week or feeling completely overwhelmed with other commitments, I find myself not receiving enough of sleep due my racing mind standing in the way. However, an article recently published in Women’s Health, explores some remedies to calm our nerves during one of the most important times of day. Some of the solutions were ones I... Read More
Breakfast is often coined as the most important meal of the day and should help jump-start your day. Research shows that people who consume cereal for breakfast are more likely to consume more produce and whole grains throughout the day. However, not all cereals are created equal and some can be loaded with unwanted sugar. Women’s Health Magazine recently published an article that discusses what to look for in a cereal to give you the maximum benefits. It’s very easy for us to be easily... Read More

Home Town: New Milford, CT
Major: Secondary Math Education
Graduation Year: 2013
What do you do to make a Healthy UNH: Inform my family and friends how to make better food selections and why.
Favorite Dining Hall: Stillings
Favorite Book: Harry Potter!