This may come as a surprise, but did you know that spicy food may actually help relieve the symptoms of spring allergies?  It’s true.  What we eat can actually irritate or alleviate some of those allergy symptoms that may be keeping us up at night.  Whereas some foods, such as wine, processed meat and aged cheeses contain high concentrations of histamine, which may provoke allergic symptoms, spicy ingredients, such as cayenne pepper, onions and garlic can help thin mucus and clear nasal passages, offering much needed relief.  This recipe for Spinach Enchiladas fits that bill exactly and may be just what the doctor ordered this spring, whether you suffer from spring allergies or not.

The recipe uses Monterey Jack cheese instead of aged Cheddar and also incorporates spinach into your diet.  Spinach is rich in Vitamin C, E and beta carotine which help combat high blood pressure and reduce your risk of osteoporosis.  In addition, 1 cup of spinach contains 20% of your recommended daily allowance of fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain low blood sugar and curbs overeating.  Perhaps most importantly, spinach contains high amounts of flavanoid, a phytonutrient with with anti-cancer properties.  In short, spinach is a super food and what better way to eat it than in enchiladas?

These delicious and nutritious enchiladas require only 20 minutes of prep. time and another 20 minutes in the oven, giving you a healthy and tasty meal in just 40 minutes.  Give this recipe a try and we think you will discover how good it is to add a little spice to your spring!

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

The sun is shining, the air is warm and breezy, birds are chirping and flowers are blooming.  Spring has finally sprung and with it, an onslaught of seasonal allergies.  As much as we may love this time of year, we don’t love the runny nose, itchy eyes and other symptoms that often accompany the coming of spring.  As the trees start to bloom and the pollen is released, an estimated 35 million Americans fall prey to seasonal allergies and their annoying effects.  Although there is no real cure for spring allergy sufferers, there are some ways you can combat seasonal allergies through medication and lifestyle habits.

The number one cause of spring allergies is pollen, and if you live in North Carolina, you probably knew this already.  Every year, porches, cars and driveways are literally covered in a dusty yellow layer of annoying pollen.  Basically, pollen consists of tiny grains that are released into the air by trees, grasses and weeds and believe it or not, pollen actually serves a purpose.  It is vital for the fertilization of other plants, which is what makes spring so verdant and beautiful.  However, when pollen grains get into the nose of someone who is susceptible to spring allergies, it can cause serious trouble in the immune system, which sees the pollen as foreign invaders and releases antibodies.  Antibodies are the things our bodies produce to attack allergens and this leads to the release of chemicals called histamines into the blood stream.  Histamines are what ultimately trigger that runny nose or itchy eyes.

As you may well know, the higher the pollen count, the greater the suffering for those susceptible to spring allergies and pollen can travel for miles.  Most local weather channels actually make a note of the pollen count in your area during the daily forecast, which may help you determine how symptomatic you are going to be that day.  Allergy symptoms are especially high on windy days as the pollen travels through the air further and faster and the pollen count is usually highest in the morning.  Inversely, rainy days can actually lower the pollen count as the rain washes away the allergens.  Perhaps for allergy sufferers, enjoying an occasional spring rain is in order as it can offer some well needed relief.

The most common symptoms of spring allergies include runny nose, watery or itchy eyes, sneezing, coughing and dark circles underneath the eyes (possibly because it’s harder to sleep when you are coughing and sneezing).  Although it is impossible to completely avoid spring allergies if you live in a place where trees and grasses abound, you can ease your symptoms by avoiding your main allergy triggers, such as mold or pollen.

Some ways to combat spring allergies include:

• Staying indoors whenever the pollen count is high
• Keeping your doors and windows closed during spring months to keep allergens out of your home or car
• Cleaning air filters in your home and keeping surface areas clean where pollen may collect
• Washing your hair after going outside
• Vacuuming at least twice a week; however, you may need to wear a mask when you vacuum because vacuuming can stir up pollen and other allergens trapped in your carpet

Keep in mind that although spring allergies are not particularly dangerous, they can trigger more serious conditions such as asthma.  If you are suffering from allergens, it may be time to take advantage of your health plan and see your health care provider.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC is committed to the health and wellness of North Carolina residents, which is why with a BCBSNC health plan, visiting your doctor is easy and affordable with preventive care services covered at 100%.  If your allergies are causing other more serious side effects, don’t wait to see your primary care physician.

Although spring is one of the loveliest times of year, it can be a drain on the health of those suffering from spring allergies.  Keep in mind, however, that despite the pollen in the air it is important for your health to stay active.  Even if you have to take your walk in the rain, don’t let spring allergies keep you trapped indoors.  This spring, combat your allergy symptoms while still taking time to enjoy as much of the beautiful weather as possible!

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

WebMD Medical Reference

A recent and interesting study has proven that early detection of diabetes and the number of insured Americans have a direct link and that link is access to affordable health care.  Dr. Vivian Fonseca, a professor of medicine and endocrinology at Tulane University in New Orleans says the following:  “We’ve known for a long, long time that a lot of people with Type II diabetes go unrecognized for many years because they don’t get screened.”  According to Fonseca, this is particularly frustrating because many of those who do not get screened don’t do so because they don’t have health insurance.

The Chief Medical Officer for the American Diabetes Association, Dr. Robert Ratner, says that early diagnosis and treatment are particularly crucial with diabetes.  If the disease is left untreated, it can lead to blindness, heart attack, kidney failure and other complications that can require the amputation of the foot or leg.  According to Dr. Ratner, “early and aggressive therapy of diabetes has a major impact on long-term complications and on quality of life.”

Interestingly enough, North Carolina is a part of what medical professionals call the “diabetes belt,” a region stretching from Louisiana to North Carolina.  North Carolina is also among the top ten states having the greatest amount of uninsured residents, meaning many of those residents are likely not being properly screened for early detection of diabetes.

Many Americans show tell-tale signs of diabetes, such as exhaustion and constant thirst.  Despite the signs, however, many of those who do not have health coverage simply choose to cope with the symptoms for fear of running up huge medical expenses.  Early intervention, however, can not only reduce health risks associated with diabetes, but also reduce long-term costs, which account for a large percentage of overall health spending.

Although there is a cost to having health insurance, ultimately there is a greater cost to being uninsured.  Diabetes is only one of many treatable diseases that can be managed, controlled and even cured through early detection and proper treatment.  If you are one of the many residents of North Carolina who still need to obtain health insurance, don’t wait.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC is committed to providing quality health coverage that works with your family’s budget.  Whether you enroll in Blue Advantage, Blue Value or Blue Local, having a health insurance plan that covers your costs when you need it is well worth the investment.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

One of the nicest parts about spring is that the sun is shining brighter and more often than during the long months of winter.  Children are heading to school without jackets wearing short sleeves, pets are spending afternoons lounging in the yard, and restaurants are offering outside patio dining once again.  Let’s face it, human beings (and our furry friends) simply love the sun!

And believe it or not, the sun is good for us, providing our bodies with essential vitamins and nutrients that help us function better.  Despite the negative press the sun has received in recent years, sunlight has many benefits.  For one, sunlight increases the oxygen content in human blood, enhancing the body’s capacity to deliver oxygen to tissues efficiently.  Sun exposure has also been known to help cure depression and related conditions, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), that come from sunlight deprivation.  In addition, the sun provides our bodies with Vitamin D, a vitamin known to increase bone health and even reduce the risk of certain cancers!

Even with all the good the sun does our bodies, however, there can be no denying that overexposure to the sun’s rays can be hard on the skin.  Known to increase the signs of aging and also for causing certain kinds of skin cancer, the sun is a pleasure we need to partake of wisely.  Luckily, research has shown that most skin cancer can be prevented.  Avoiding midday sun (from 10 in the morning to 4 in the afternoon) is one way to limit skin’s exposure to the strongest sunlight, without completely eliminating sun from your schedule.  Also, if you know you are going to be out in the harshest part of the midday sun, wear protective clothing such as a hat with a wide brim, sunglasses with UV ray protection and loose-fitting clothing that covers arms and legs.

Younger children, especially, need to be sure their skin is protected from the sun.  Some research suggests that most of the damage done to our skin happens before the age of 20 so it’s important to start young.  Babies under 6 months should rarely be in the direct sunlight and never during midday rays.  Also, babies and children should use a sunscreen with an SPF factor of 30 or above to make sure their very sensitive skin is protected.  Lip balm with an SPF of 30 or above is also a great way to protect your lips from getting sunburned or developing cold sores.

Remember that the best plan is to never allow your skin to become burned by the sun’s rays, but if you do happen to get a sunburn, keep in mind that skin healing from a sunburn is sensitive to more damage from the sun so be especially cautious to care for already overexposed skin.  Tanning beds are also never a good idea.  Artificial tanning devices can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer without providing any of the benefits we receive from natural sunlight.

The sun is shining and we are the first to admit we love it!  A good plan of action is to maintain a balanced approach to sun exposure, enjoying the benefits of being in the great outdoors without letting your skin be overexposed.  As Benjamin Franklin said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina believes strongly in the benefits of preventive care maintenance.  Your skin is your body’s largest organ so make a plan to protect it while soaking in the sunlight!

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

With the rising cost of health insurance, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina understands the importance of offering customers payment options.  In the past BCBSNC has allowed members to make initial payments and one-time monthly payments online using a major credit card, such as MasterCard and Visa.  They have also allowed customers to pay their monthly premium using automatic bank draft through either a checking or savings account and Blue Cross Blue Shield NC will still allow members to use any of these convenient payment options.  In addition, however, BCBSNC has added a recurring credit card payment option online for individual members who purchase a health or dental plan either on or off the Marketplace.  What this means is that you now have the ability to set your premium payments up on automatic draft right from your credit card.

Paying online has never been easier.  Members simply register online with Blue Connect using the Member ID or Subscriber number located on your health card and manage your payments right from your home computer.  Members paying online for their health coverage may choose to pay by bank draft, having premiums automatically deducted from a bank account on a recurring basis or by credit card, making a one-time initial payment OR having premiums automatically charged to a credit card on a recurring basis.  This allows members the freedom to choose the best and most effective payment method for paying monthly health premiums.

In addition to Visa and MasterCard, Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC also now accepts Discover cards, giving members even more payment options, and if a member needs to update the credit card currently on file, they may do so through member services using Blue Connect.  Don’t forget that if you have purchased more than one policy, such as health and dental, you will be billed separately for each.  Discover the benefits of being a Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina member today!

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

We all know that choosing to drink a soda over a glass of water is not the best choice, but there is something so addictive about those sugary bubbles and soda is sometimes hard to resist.  Because soda is an addiction, however, there are some things we think you should know about how soda affects your body.  Similar to smoking or drinking alcohol, it feels good to consume soda.  Unfortunately, an increasing amount of research is beginning to decry the negative effects of soda consumption, especially if you drink it on a regular basis.  In fact, evidence shows that your health will likely improve dramatically once you begin choosing a cool glass of water over a Coke or even a Diet Pepsi as almost every organ in the human body responds negatively to the consumption of soda.  Take a look at how soda affects these vital organs and we think you will agree… it may be time to quit.

Heart:  A 2012 Harvard University study determined that consuming sugary drinks significantly increases a person’s risk of chronic heart disease and participants in the study who drank the most soda were 20% more likely to have a heart attack.  In other words, choosing to drink water instead of soda is one of the best things you can do for one of the most vital organs in your body.  Another similar study published in 2011 discovered that sugary beverages raise blood pressure as well and the increase has a direct link to the amount of soda you consume.  If you want to be heart healthy, soda is off the menu.

Bladder:  Because soda is a diuretic, it will make your bladder work harder, causing you to urinate more frequently and urgently.  Soda can irritate your bladder as well, leading to an increase in bladder or urinary tract infections.  Drinking clear fluids, like water or seltzer water, will keep your bladder cleaner, allowing it to function better.

Bones:  If you want strong and healthy bones, giving up soda is step number 1.  Soda can weaken bone health and increase your risk of osteoporosis.  In addition, the less soda you drink, the more milk you may drink and such calcium rich drinks actually benefit your bones, making you stronger and healthier.

Kidneys:  Studies have shown that drinking a lot of soda can increase your risk of kidney disease and even ultimately increase your risk of renal failure.  Diet sodas are just as damaging and researchers from the Nurses’ Health Study found that women who drank a substantial amount of diet soda every day had decreased liver function compared to women who did not drink soda at all.  Bottom line:  your kidneys don’t need all the sugary soda and don’t know how to process it.

Weight Loss:  If strong and healthy organs aren’t enough to convince you to quit drinking soda, would you believe that cutting soda from your diet is one of the easiest ways to lose weight?  According to certain weight loss experts, dropping just one large Coke from your diet a day could reduce your annual caloric intake by over 200,000 calories.  This is the equivalent of losing 60 lbs. of weight – in just one year!  Even diet soda drinkers run the risk of weight gain, so don’t be fooled.  Some studies have shown that there is a possible link between diet soda and increased appetite, leading to increased weight gain.  Either way, the evidence is clear.  A good way to overcome being overweight is to replace your daily soda with water.

For those of us who love our soda, quitting can be just as hard as quitting smoking or letting go of other addictive behaviors and substances.  The benefits, however, are indisputable.  Losing the soda in your diet will not only help you feel better, it will help you live better… and living better is always the best choice.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Despite the current Administration’s push to make health insurance a top priority, according to a recent Gallup Poll study, North Carolina ranks among the states that still have the greatest population of uninsured residents. In fact, NC had an uninsured rate of 16.1 percent in 2014, ranking it among the top five states in the nation with the greatest amount of residents who still have no health insurance.  Although many residents in 2014 did take advantage of the Affordable Care Act, purchasing subsidized health plans through the federal Marketplace, a large portion of the population did not.

Changes in the law regarding health insurance as well as changes in state programs such as Medicaid have created quite a stir in the last few months and left many North Carolina residents scratching their heads wondering what to do.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is committed to helping residents of NC obtain quality, cost efficient health coverage both on and off the federal Marketplace.  In fact, every Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health plan is ACA (Affordable Care Act) approved and offers the 10 essential benefits required under the law.  In addition, BCBSNC has a wide variety of health plans available on the Exchange for members who qualify for a federal subsidy.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina has an uncontested presence in the state, providing accessible networks in all 100 counties in NC.  Furthermore, unlike other insurance companies offering subsidized plans on the Marketplace, BCBSNC plans are not HMO’s, meaning you will still have coverage even if you happen to go out of network.

With or without the law and the tax penalties associated with being uninsured under the Affordable Care Act, living without health insurance is never a good idea.  Life happens and even the healthiest and most cautious among us can’t control the unexpected.  BCBSNC wants to make sure the residents of North Carolina are covered for routine preventive care and also in case of medical emergency.  Experience the benefits of being a Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC member and help make North Carolina among the nation’s leaders in insured residents.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is committed to preventive care maintenance and women’s health.  This may come as a surprise, but recent studies have shown that heart disease, not breast or cervical cancer, is the No. 1 killer of women. And although a heart attack strikes someone about every 34 seconds, many women often miss the signs, thinking they are due to less life-threatening problems like acid reflux, the flu or menopause.  A heart attack occurs when the blood flow that brings oxygen to the heart muscle is severely reduced or cut off.  This happens for multiple reasons, but primarily because the arteries that supply the heart with blood have narrowed from a buildup of fat, cholesterol and plaque. Sometimes women think the signs of a heart attack are unmistakable – severe chest pain and shooting pain in the left arm – but oftentimes the signs are much more subtle.

Some women having a heart attack say they experience upper back pain or pressure that feels as if they are in a vise grip.  Dizziness, lightheadedness or even fainting can also be signs of heart attack.

Listed below are five common heart attack symptoms in women:

Chest pain or pressure:  Chest pain is the most common symptom of heart attack, but women often experience it differently than men.  Many women report they felt more of a squeezing sensation or fullness and the pain was not limited to the left side of the chest.

Shortness of breath, nausea, or lightheadedness:  Trouble breathing means just that – trouble.  If you are having difficulty breathing and there is no good reason for it, you could be having a heart attack.  Shortness of breath, in combination with any of these other symptoms, should not be ignored.

Pain in the arm, back, neck or jaw:  This type of pain is more common in women experiencing heart attack than in men.  Sometimes women confuse this pain because they are expecting the pain to be centralized in the chest, not in the back or jaw.  The pain can come on very suddenly or gradually and it can come and go before it becomes intense.

Stomach pain:  Women often mistake stomach pain associated with heart attack for heartburn, the flu, an ulcer, or even indigestion.  Sometimes the pain in the stomach is more like an intense abdominal pressure, but either way, this is one of those subtle symptoms of which women need to be aware.

Fatigue:  One of the most commonly overlooked symptoms of heart attack is fatigue.  Some women experiencing a heart attack feel exhaustion, even when they have been still or restful.  If you find yourself feeling overly fatigued without having expended any energy, this may be a sign of heart attack.

The main thing to remember is that heart attacks are serious and heart attacks in women are a growing concern among medical professionals.  Some doctors suggest that because women tend to be caretakers and are often tired and worn down, they may fail to take these symptoms seriously and seek the professional help they need.  The good news is that heart disease is preventable.  Make sure you see your healthcare provider regularly and ask to have your risk for heart attack assessed.  Also, if you smoke, it’s time to quit.  Studies suggest that one year after quitting smoking, you can cut your risk of heart disease by a substantial percentage.  Exercise, eat right, and get plenty of rest and most importantly, don’t ignore the signs and symptoms of heart attack.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Spring is here and nothing makes for a tastier, healthier lunch than a light and delicious salad.  If the word salad scares you, conjuring up images of raw, plain, tasteless vegetables, think again!  We found this recipe for Perfect Spinach Salad from Ree Drummond, Food Network’s Barefoot Contessa, and we think it is sure to please even the pickiest palate.

Spinach is known to be a super food and for good reason.  It is an excellent source of antioxidants and also contains an ample supply of important vitamins and nutrients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, beta-carotene, calcium, magnesium, iron and more.  It is also packed with Vitamin K, a vitamin necessary for blood clotting and one that may improve bone health, reducing fracture rates in people with osteoporosis.  One cup of raw spinach has only 7 calories and 5 grams of protein!  In fact, spinach is sometimes considered a “free” food on low-carb diets because it has so little impact on blood sugar levels.

But enough about spinach. The key to making this salad delicious is in the bacon… and eggs, mushrooms and onions, all of which have healthy components about which to boast.  Eggs are full of protein and mushrooms are an excellent source of potassium, a mineral that helps lower elevated blood pressure and reduces the risk of stroke.

This recipe only requires 15 minutes of prep time and another 25 minutes cook time, making it as easy as it is delicious.  With a rich peppered bacon-infused, Dijon mustard dressing, we think this recipe is aptly named – Perfect Spinach Salad.  Try the recipe here and we think you will agree.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

The use of specialty medications has increased significantly over the last few years.  In order to ensure that these specialty medications continue to be affordable to its members, Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC contracted with a network of pharmacies dedicated to offering lower pricing on specialty drugs.  By implementing a specialty pharmacy network, BCBSNC is working to see that the cost of prescription drugs remain affordable.

Specialty medications are those medications that are used for chronic diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis and Rheumatoid Arthritis.  What qualifies a specific medication or therapy to be classified as a specialty drug is not clearly defined, but there are some parameters.  The following factors help determine if a pharmaceutical is considered a specialty medication:  the medication requires special handling; the medication has limited distribution and can only be filled at certain pharmacies; the medication treats a rare disease; the medication requires ongoing clinical assessment and monitoring of side effects.  See a list of some specialty medications.

Because these drugs are in the “specialty” category, they are typically high-cost medications, ranging anywhere from $6000 to $350,000 per patient, per year.  Most of these drugs are made to be injected and many of them require special handling and shipping.  Still, these drugs are of utmost importance to the patients in need of them, and that is why Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina established the specialty pharmacy network.  With this network, there may be a limited number of pharmacies dispensing these medications and some pharmacies may choose not to participate in the specialty drug network.  If you require one of these specialty drugs, you will need to transfer your prescription to a participating local pharmacy or mail order pharmacy.

By limiting the network, the cost of the specialty medications remain more affordable; however, if you fill your specialty medications at a retail pharmacy, you must use one of the pharmacies participating in this network in order for your prescriptions to be covered.  All specialty pharmacies within this network offer next day delivery with a valid prescription or prescription transfer and refills can take place after 75% of the prescription is used, except in the instance of controlled substances.    Members can contact their specialty pharmacy directly to set up a new prescription and that process usually takes between 2 and 4 business days.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is committed to making sure you have the prescription drug coverage you need at a cost you can afford.  To determine whether any of the medications you are currently taking are considered “specialty drugs,” visit the Find a Drug link or get a quote for your Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC health plan.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

“Food, if chosen well, can reshape our medical destinies for the better.”

– David Katz, MD, Director of the Yale Prevention Research Center

Time to shake off the snowflakes and start gearing up for spring!  If you are looking for easy and delicious ways to improve your mood, energy level, skin tone and brain power, these super foods may be just what the doctor ordered.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina knows that a little prevention goes a long way and the following list of spring foods can add a punch of flavor to your favorite meals while working to give your body the nutrients it needs to feel great and function well.

Mood:  Looking to bring balance and serenity to your springtime?  Try these two tasty options to help improve your mood.

Walnuts:  Walnuts are one of nature’s secret stress relievers.  Full of tryptophan, an amino acid that creates seratonin, walnuts will improve not only your mood, but can also help cultivate emotional balance.  Because they are digested slowly, walnuts can help your body stabilize and give it what it needs to tolerate stress.  Try adding these to the top of your salad for a little extra crunch or eat them dipped in peanut butter for a satisfying snack.

Asparagus:  Asparagus is one of the best vegetables for adding folate to your diet.  Folate is very important for pregnant women, but also for everyone because it helps synthesize dopamine, seratonin and nerepinephrine, all of which are important chemicals our bodies release to help us “feel good.”  If you find yourself in need of a mood swing this spring, try drizzling a mixture of butter, soy sauce and balsamic vinegar over the top of some fresh asparagus spears and bake them for 12 minutes at 400 degrees.  We think you will love this delicious way to improve your mood!

Energy Level:  Looking to put some spring back into your step?  Below are two great foods to give you the boost you need.

Spinach:  Spinach is a great source of iron, which is a key component in the red blood cells that fuel our muscles with oxygen and energy.  The compounds found in spinach leaves actually increase the energy producing factories inside our blood cells, making our bodies feel awake and alive.  This green-leafy vegetable is delicious in salads and also sauteed in olive olive oil.  Adding fresh spinach to quiche or scrambled eggs will not only add color and texture to your plate, but will also help you start your day off right.

Artichokes:  Artichokes are an often overlooked vegetable, but they are literally loaded with magnesium, which helps to generate energy in the body.  If you don’t get enough magnesium, your muscles have to work harder to react and you tire more quickly.  Women especially need 320 mg. of magnesium a day and one artichoke gives you 77 mg. for only 60 calories.    Try boiling them until tender and dipping the leaves in your favorite salad dressing.  However you cook artichokes, they are a delicious and low-calorie way to help energize your day.

Skin Care:  Are the effects of cold-weather and harsh winds taking their toll on your skin?  Try these two delicious foods and see your skin tone improve!

Salmon:  Salmon is a healthy and natural way to help prevent wrinkling.  It is rich in fatty acids and omega 3’s that naturally help reduce the appearance of fine lines and sagging skin.  Omega 3’s also help regulate oil production in the skin and boost hydration, which help give your skin a natural glow and keep you free of acne and blemishes.  Whether cooking at home or eating out this spring, try choosing the salmon instead of the steak and eat your way to healthier looking skin.

Strawberries:   Strawberries are loaded with antioxidants that help your skin repair from damage caused by weather, pollution  and UV rays.  Packed with vitamin C, a vitamin associated with fewer wrinkles and less dryness, you can actually use strawberries as a natural exfoliant.  Great as a snack or used as part of a light and delicious dessert, strawberries are a girl’s (or boy’s)  best friend when it comes to spring skin care.

Memory:  Find yourself being more forgetful these days?  Here are two tasty brain foods sure to please.

Eggs:  Not only are eggs delicious, they are good for you!  And by all means, eat the yolk!  Egg yolks are full of choline, a key nutrient for recall and memory storage in the brain.  Your body needs 425 mg. of choline daily and there are 147 mg. in one large egg.  With just a couple of eggs for breakfast, you are well on your way to a healthier brain and a better memory.

Blueberries:  Blueberries may be small, but they are full of an important type of antioxidant called anthocyanis, which has been shown to increase signals among brain cells.  Blueberries can improve the brain’s resilience and enhance both learning capabilities and memory.  If you don’t like to munch on these tiny fruits, try drinking a glass of blueberry juice for breakfast.  Good in muffins, desserts, or eaten by the handful, blueberries are a springtime treat that will help you make the most of your memories.

In many ways, food is the very best medicine if used correctly and BCBSNC believes in preventive care maintenance. This spring, try eating your way to a healthier, happier, more whole you!

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

What makes a certain doctor, hospital or medical facility better than another?  More importantly, how can you make the best choice concerning where or to whom you entrust your family’s medical care?  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina can help you answer those questions.  With Blue Distinction, you no longer have to worry about whether or not you have made the best decision regarding your healthcare needs.

Blue Distinction is a special designation awarded by Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina to certain medical facilities that have demonstrated expertise in delivering quality health care.  According to BCBSNC, the Blue Distinction designation is based on “rigorous, evidence-based selection criteria established in collaboration with expert physicians and medical organizations.”  Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC has chosen to award this distinction in order to raise the quality of healthcare delivered throughout North Carolina and to aid consumers in finding the specialty care they need at facilities which have proven to deliver better outcomes and overall greater patient satisfaction.  In other words, with Blue Distinction the research has already been done for you and you can have the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are getting the best care at the best facilities N.C. has to offer.

But how can you know which doctors and facilities have received the Blue Distinction designation?  It’s easy.  As a Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina member, you have access to a database full of important information regarding physicians, surgeons, hospitals and other healthcare providers.  As part of Blue Connect, members are able to research doctors, dentists and acute care facilities.  You can read reviews by other BCBSNC members and see whether or not a particular physician or medical institution has been awarded the Blue Distinction designation.  BCBSNC members can simply log into Blue Connect using your subscriber ID number and have a wealth of thoroughly researched information right at your fingertips.  If you are not a BCBSNC member yet, you can still research doctors and hospitals.  All you need to do is generate a quote and use the “Find a Doctor” link to get started.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is not only committed to providing quality health insurance, but also to ensuring its members have all the information they need to make the best choice possible.  Choosing a doctor or hospital is never a simple decision, but Blue Distinction makes it easier than ever.  Discover the benefits of being a BCBSNC member today.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.