Healthy Holiday Gift Guide

Happy holidays! If you’re shopping for gifts or working on your own wish list, why not focus on presents that will promote health? Here are some suggestions for gifts that fit with the Prostate 8 goals—and in a few weeks, maybe they’ll help you keep that New Years’ Resolution, too.

Exercise:

We consulted REI gear expert Vivien Mather for gift ideas that will make your exercise routine easier and more enjoyable.

·      A reusable water bottle, such as this one from Nalgene, is a must for any type of exercise. If you want something with a more interesting design, check out the water bottles at S’well. For hiking, a backpack with a water bladder, such as this CamelBak pack, is handy.

·      If you usually exercise by walking, Mather recommends trekking poles such as Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork or Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles. “They are expensive, though I consider preservation of one’s knees priceless,” Mather said.

·      A pair of socks might not seem like the most interesting gift, but good footwear can make a big difference for exercising. Smartwool socks, which Mather recommends, are specialized for running, biking, hiking, and more. They’d make a great stocking stuffer!

·      If you are still forming an exercise routine, an exercise class could be a good addition to your wish list. If you enjoy hiking and being in nature, REI offers outdoorsy trips and classes such as kayaking and mountain biking. You could also check out a local yoga studio or intramural sports team—many recreation centers offer these.

Nutrition:

As you work toward the Prostate 8 nutrition goals, look for gifts that involve healthy recipes and ingredients.

·      You may think of olive oil as just a staple in your pantry, but a high-quality oil can make a nice gift. Many specialty food stores offer olive oils infused with herbs, as well as other types of oil such as hazelnut or pumpkin-seed. This is a great way to get the recommended daily serving of vegetable fat!

·      If you’re looking for new fruits and vegetables to add to your meals, check out a produce delivery service, such as Farm Fresh to You. This organic farm will deliver a box of fresh fruits and vegetables to homes in the Bay Area—you choose the type of produce and frequency of delivery.

·      Take your fruits and vegetables to the next level by making your own smoothies and juices. The Magic Bullet blender is easy to use—add your favorite fruits, and maybe even vegetables, and blend them up. Feel free to get creative!

·      The holiday season can be stressful, so a home-cooked meal is a nice gift for your family. Sitting down together and taking time to relax is important! If you’re looking for simple, healthy recipes, check out the Prostate 8 website—click on “Eat Well” and then “Recipes” for meals that meet the recommendations.