National HIV Testing Day

National HIV Testing Day (NHTD) is coming up on Monday June 27th. Now is the time for you to learn your sexual health status. Visit http://www.hivtest.org/ to find an HIV testing site in your area.

Take the Test, Take Control!

It is recommended that sexually active men and women get tested for HIV every year. If you have had sex with someone whose history of sex partners and/or drug use is unknown to you or if you or your partner has had many sex partners, then you have more of a chance of being infected with HIV. Both you and your new partner should get tested for HIV, and learn the results, before having sex for the first time.

The best way to avoid getting HIV and other STDs is to practice safe sex. Always use a condom when having any form of sexual activity and know your sexual health status as well as your partner's sexual status!


Learn more about NHTD and HIV/AIDS at http://www.aids.gov/. Join the discussion #NHTD.

More Matters!

It is recommended that adults try to fill at least half their plate with fruits and vegetables. For women and men, that is 2 to 3 cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruits each day. Increasing the amount of fruits and vegetables may be difficult but eating MORE Fruits and Veggies can help keep you healthy.

Check out choosemyplate.gov to learn more!

Remember these tips in trying to add more fruits and veggies:

1. Think variety and color in planning your meals and snacks. Eating fruits and veggies in a variety of colors-red, dark green, yellow, blue, purple, white, and orange-provides a range of healthy choices for good nutrition.

2. Consider all forms of fruits and vegetables-fresh, frozen, canned, dried, and 100% juice. With all these options, it's easier than ever to find ways to include more fruits and veggies in your day.


Want to learn more? Check out the Top Ten Reasons to Eat More Fruits and Veggies http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/?page_id=1477

Water Required!

Do you know the importance of drinking water?

WATER is an important part of life and living healthy. It is an essential nutrient and water deprivation kills faster than the lack of any other nutrient. Individuals who drink WATER are more likely to have a lower calorie intake and have a healthier diet pattern including fruit, vegetables and low-fat milk. Water also helps the body function properly by maintaining muscle tone and lubricating joints, helping to reduce muscle fatigue and soreness during exercise.

Tips to Increase Water Intake: Drink a glass of water with each meal and between meals.


 Hydrate before, during and after exercise.


 Eat more fruits and vegetables.


 Substitute sparkling water for alcoholic drinks.


 Add a bit of lemon or lime for a touch of flavor.


 Have a water bottle handy


*If you drink water from a reusable bottle, thoroughly clean or replace the bottle often.


Follow the 8X8 rule:

Drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day!