tired? get your vitamins

if you've been surviving on fast food, you may need to improve your diet. there are nutritional components to fatigue such as under nutrition. specific nutrients have an impact on energy, primarily vitamin b and iron. shortages of the following nutrients can contribute to fatigue:

- iron, which delivers oxygen to working muscles
- vitamins b2, b6 and b12 which all help break down protein, fat and carbohydrates in the metabolic process to unleash energy
- vitamin e which supports a healthy cardiovascular system and is a potent anti-oxidant
magnesium, which helps your body convert food into energy
- zinc, which assists in the growth and repair of cells particularly muscle cells

Consider taking a multivitamin so that your body gets what it needs

color your food

different colors can boost your spirits and even improve your health. color your foods and surroundings based on these conceptions:

red can increase blood flow
green is calming and soothes the nervous system
yellow stimulates mental activity and eases indigestion
blue is good for respiratory problems
pink helps skin conditions

fatigue fighting foods

One of the easiest ways to combat fatigue is by eating throughout the day to give you a constant source of energy. Snack wisely by choosing nutrient rich foods, those low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals. Carbohydrate protein rich foods provide sustained energy. Here are a few to try:

Peanut butter, yogurt, turkey, crackers, cheese, bananas, eggs, pasta, and potatoes are all great to help fight fatigue.

food photos

This month we're focusing on food that offers something more visual than the usual dish. If you know of any visually impressive foods please let us know. We'd love to feature them.

bring your recipes alive with the sound of music

This month we're focusing on music lyrics that sing about food and recipes they inspire. Let us know if you have a favorite line.

good mood food

did you know that what you eat can affect your state of mind? it's true. to feel better, avoid bad mood food such as fast food, which can kill your energy levels, caffeine, which can make you irritable and soda which may dehydrate you. Instead eat good mood food such as salmon and walnuts, both high in omega 3 which lifts spirits. Lentils, oatmeal, brocolli, yogurt and almonds also produce a feel good effect.

think baskets and cellophane

For some reason food gifts often come in gift baskets and they come in all sizes. A pretty basket, some cellophane and a big bow are all that you'll need to complete your holiday food gift giving.

get krafty with this free cooking magazine

Kraft has a free food and family magazine. They say the recipes are delicious and simple and perfect for everyday cooking. Recipes focus on entrees and desserts. And there are over 60 pages of them.

Kraft Food and Family Magazine