How Long Should You Keep Thanksgiving Leftovers?

Posted on November 28, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

It is the day after Thanksgiving, and the refrigerator is full of leftovers. It is important to know how long these leftovers should actually last to avoid foodborne illnesses.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Safety and Inspection Service recommends throwing out refrigerated leftovers after three to four days. If certain foods are kept in the freezer, they can still be eaten for three to four months after Thanksgiving.

It is important to properly store and refrigerate all leftovers within two hours at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or colder. To store them, pack the leftovers into small containers and resealable plastic bags. Storing food in smaller portions makes it easier and more convenient for them to be used when taken straight from the freezer. Using freezer or storage-specific plastic bags and plastic wrap helps prevent freezer burn because they are thicker than normal bags. Push out as much air as possible to limit any exposure to the surface of the food, which also helps prevent freezer burn.

Throw away any food that doesn’t keep well in the refrigerator, such as salads, which can become soggy and wilted. Greens such as kale and cabbage can last for up to three days.

Remove any stuffing from inside the turkey and store it separately in airtight containers. Stuffing can last up to four days in the refrigerator and two to three months in the freezer.

When storing leftover turkey, cut the turkey into smaller pieces and store them separately in small airtight containers. Turkey can last for four days in the fridge and four months in the freezer.

Gravy can last for four days in the fridge and up to four months in the freezer. When reheating the gravy, add it to a saucepan and cover it with a lid, and bring it to a rolling boil.

Homemade cranberry sauce can stay good for a week to 10 days in the fridge. Canned cranberry sauce can be kept for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container and refrigerated. It is not recommended to freeze cranberry sauce.

Potatoes and yams can be stored in the refrigerator for four days and up to two months in the freezer.

Desserts such as fruit pies can be kept at room temperature for two days. After two days, they can be stored in the refrigerator, loosely covered, for two more days.

It is important to note that you should always reheat leftovers to 165 degrees Fahrenheit, as it destroys most foodborne pathogens, preventing you from developing food poisoning.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of food poisoning, you can receive treatment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001 to schedule an appointment.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Healthy Holiday Recipe: Rustic Apple Pie with Dried Cherries

Posted on November 26, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and we all look forward to what’s for dessert after a delicious meal.

Apple pie is a dessert commonly found on a Thanksgiving dessert table. Apples are high in fiber and vitamin C. Adding cherries to an apple pie provides an additional source of antioxidants, making this dessert a heart-healthy choice.

Here is a recipe for a rustic apple pie that combines fresh apples with tangy dried cherries for a unique twist on a Thanksgiving classic.

Rustic Apple Pie with Dried Cherries Recipe | Ellie Krieger | Food Network

Foods Rich In Magnesium

Posted on November 14, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Magnesium is a mineral that can be found in various foods. It helps support more than 300 different chemical processes throughout the human body, such as:

Muscle function

Regulating blood pressure and blood sugar levels

Promoting energy production

Nerve function and bone health

Mental health

When eating foods containing magnesium, experts recommend consuming between 310 and 420 milligrams (mg) of magnesium per day, depending on age and sex:

Babies 6 months and younger: 30 mg

7 to 12 months: 75 mg

1 to 3 years old: 80 mg

4 to 8 years: 130 mg

9 to 13 years 240 mg

14 to 18 years (male): 410 mg

14 to 18 years (female): 360 mg

19 to 30 years (male): 400 mg

19 to 30 years (female): 310 mg

31 and older male: 420 mg

31 and older female: 320 mg

Pregnant women should get an additional 40 mg of magnesium per day. Some, but not all, prenatal vitamins include magnesium.

Many foods contain magnesium, including:

Nuts and seeds:

- Roasted almonds- 1oz = 80 mg of magnesium

- Roasted cashews- 1oz = 72 mg of magnesium

- Whole flaxseeds- 1 Tbsp = 40 mg of magnesium

- Dry roasted peanuts- 1 oz = 49 mg of magnesium

- Hulled and roasted pumpkin seeds- 1 oz = 15 mg of magnesium

- Chia seeds- 1oz = 111 mg magnesium

Legumes:

- Boiled black beans- ½ cup = 60 mg of magnesium

- Cooked and prepared edamame- ½ cup = 50 mg of magnesium

- Cooked lima beans- ½ cup = 40 mg of magnesium

Fiber-rich whole grains:

- Cooked quinoa- ½ cup = 60 mg of magnesium

- Plain, unfrosted shredded wheat- 1 cup = 56 mg of magnesium

Low-fat dairy products:

- Nonfat milk- 1 cup = 24 to 27 mg of magnesium

- Plain low-fat yogurt- 8oz = 42 mg of magnesium

Greens:

- Cooked spinach- ½ cup = 78 mg of magnesium

- Cooked Swiss chard- ½ cup = 75 mg of magnesium

- Collard greens- ½ cup = 25 mg of magnesium

Fruit:

- One whole avocado = 58 mg of magnesium

- One medium banana = 32 mg of magnesium

- One small papaya = 33 mg of magnesium

- Blackberries- 1 cup = 29 mg of magnesium

Vegetables:

- Green peas- ½ cup = 31 mg of magnesium

- Sweet corn- ½ cup = 27 mg of magnesium

- One medium potato with skin on = 48 mg of magnesium

Dark chocolate that is 70%-85% cocoa- 1oz = 64 mg of magnesium

2 liters of water- up to 240 mg of magnesium

If you have a magnesium deficiency, a healthcare provider may suggest magnesium supplements. When magnesium is combined with other substances, it can help bring out specific benefits, including:

Magnesium glycinate: helps promote sleep

Magnesium citrate: helps digestion

Magnesium oxide: an antacid and aid to relieve migraines

Magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt): used as a muscle relaxant

Eating a meal that contains magnesium-rich foods is the foundation of a healthy diet and is beneficial for your overall health.

It is important to note that you should first speak with your doctor about making any changes to your diet and before taking any new supplements. To consult a physician about the best ways to get your daily amount of magnesium, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001.

A Delicious and Comforting Potpie Recipe that Will Keep You Cozy This Fall

Posted on October 17, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

As fall progresses, the days will become shorter, the nights will become colder, and we will be looking for things to keep us cozy on those crisp autumn evenings. Here is a potpie recipe that is both delicious and comforting.

https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/basic-potpie-recipe-recipe-1939630

How to Prepare for Cold and Flu Season

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

As we progress through the fall season and approach winter, it is essential to take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from seasonal illnesses.

Here are some steps you can take to prepare for the upcoming cold and flu season:

Getting vaccines, such as the flu shot, can help your body’s immune system recognize and defend against a variety of viruses before you get infected. They can also reduce the severity of symptoms if you do fall ill.
Avoiding and preventing the spread of illnesses by practicing good hygiene habits can help reduce your exposure to germs and viruses. Some good hygiene habits you can practice include:
- Washing your hands regularly, especially before eating and after using the restroom
- Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, even if it is just seasonal allergies
- Wiping down commonly used surfaces in your home, such as door handles, toilets, faucets, remotes, and other areas you and your loved ones may touch regularly
- Avoiding sharing personal products and utensils with others
- Wearing a mask to help reduce your exposure to respiratory illnesses
- Limiting time in shared spaces, when you can, to help stop germs from spreading around your home
Taking care of yourself by protecting your immune system. Some ways you can protect your immune system include:
- Getting a good night’s rest can help strengthen your body and immune system against illnesses
- Adding vitamin-dense fruits and vegetables to your meals can help you maintain your energy and ward off viral and bacterial infections.
- Staying hydrated, which can help loosen mucus and increase blood flow
- Staying physically active can help your body build resistance and resilience against infectious diseases
- Taking time to relax and manage stress is important to keep your immune system running at full capacity. Experiencing stress may affect self-care routines and lower the body’s resistance to infections

If you do start to feel under the weather, it is important to take quick action to protect your health and prevent the spread of illness to others. By following these simple steps, you can recover more comfortably and help keep you and your loved ones safe.

If you are experiencing any cold or flu symptoms, you can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001.

Why Do We Eat When We Are Stressed?

Posted on October 2, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Stress can impact our health in various ways, including our eating behaviors. It can influence our appetite, how much we eat, and the types of food we choose. Studies show that stressful events activate systems associated with metabolism, cognition, and reward.

When a person is stressed or overwhelmed, their body produces cortisol, the hormone that creates the body’s fight-or-flight response to help protect itself. When a person has elevated cortisol levels for a prolonged period of time, such as during repeated and constant stressors, this can lead to fat storage, weight gain, and increased consumption of foods that are energy-dense and high in sugar and fat. These types of foods are “comfort” foods that can seem like they are counteracting stress; however, they may contribute to a person’s stress-induced craving for those foods.

There are several ways to manage stress eating, including:

Practicing mindful eating
Finding healthier options for your sweet or savory cravings
Watching your portion sizes
Meditating
Exercising
Finding sources of social support

If you need the assistance and support of a mental health professional at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-5575 to schedule an appointment.

Back to School Health Tips

Posted on August 27, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

As children prepare for the school year, it is important for them to return to school healthy.

Here are some tips to make sure your child is healthy before they go back to school:

Make sure they are up to date on their vaccinations. Vaccinations are essential for protecting children and others against various diseases.
Make sure they get their flu and COVID-19 shots. Every child six months or older should get their yearly flu shots, as flu season typically starts in the fall and peaks between December and February.
Make sure they get vision and hearing tests done. Children should have their hearing and vision tested with their doctor from infancy through high school. Watch for signs of hearing or vision loss and talk to your child’s healthcare provider if you notice any changes.
Help your child make healthy food choices, even at school. Encourage them to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. When eating bread or pasta, choose 100% whole-grain products. Encourage them to choose water, not juice or soda.
Make sure to take care of their mental health. Managing school stress, relationships, and friendships can be overwhelming. Encourage them to talk about their emotional health.
Make sure to limit their screen time. Children under the age of two years old should have no screen time. Limit screen time to one to two hours a day for children two years old and over. Parents are encouraged to delay access to smartphones until at least 14 years old.
Be sure to monitor their social media use. Social media use starting during childhood can play a significant role in the relationships and experiences that impact children’s and teens’ growth, development, and mental health. Parents are encouraged to set aside time to discuss social media use, including setting privacy limits on who can see and interact with them.
Make sure your child gets a good night’s sleep. Adequate sleep helps kids focus each day at school and is important for their health. Children between the ages of three and five should sleep 10 to 13 hours (including naps). Children six to 12 years of age should sleep nine to 12 hours a night. Teenagers 13 to 18 years of age should sleep eight to 10 hours a night.

These back-to-school health tips will help you and your family return to the classroom safely and be confident in your health.

A Tasty and Delectable Summer Recipe for Teriyaki Wings

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Are you looking for something to serve at a summer gathering or just for a weeknight meal? Here is a recipe for tasty, delectable teriyaki wings to serve on a breezy summer night. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tyler-florence/teriyaki-chicken-wings-recipe-1915521

What is Listeria?

Posted on July 11, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Many food products have been recalled over the past few months due to various outbreaks of listeria.

Listeria or Listeria monocytogenes is a species of pathogenic or disease-causing bacteria found in moist environments, soil, water, decaying vegetation, and animal feces. It can survive and even grow under refrigeration and other food preservation measures.

Most people encounter listeriosis, a foodborne illness, as it can be found in hot dogs, deli meats, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits (especially melons), and unpasteurized dairy products. These foods have the highest risk of being contaminated by Listeria bacteria. However, any food that is handled or prepared improperly can be affected.

Listeria bacteria are unique from many other foodborne illnesses because they survive and multiply in low temperatures, including refrigerators and freezers. It can multiply to dangerous levels during storage, and it doesn’t change the smell, taste, or texture of the food that it contaminates, like other bacteria.

Most people get listeriosis from eating contaminated foods. The listeriosis incubation period (the time between when you’re first infected and when you first show symptoms) varies. It usually takes one to two weeks, but can be as short as a couple of days or as long as three months.

Symptoms of a listeria infection can include:

Fever

Chills

Muscle aches

Nausea

Diarrhea

If the listeria infection spreads to the nervous system, symptoms may include:

Headache

Stiff neck

Confusion or changes in alertness

Loss of balance

Convulsions

Those at risk of severe listeria infection include:

Pregnant women

People older than 65 years old

People with weakened immune systems

People suffering from chronic diseases

The most effective way to diagnose a listeria infection is a blood test. Samples of urine and spinal fluid may also be tested.

The treatment for a listeria infection varies depending on the severity of the signs and symptoms. Most people with mild symptoms require no treatment at all. Antibiotics can treat more serious listeria infections.

Some ways to prevent a listeria infection include:

Washing hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water before and after handling or preparing food. After cooking, use hot soapy water to wash utensils, cutting boards, and other food preparation surfaces.

Cleaning raw vegetables with a scrub brush or vegetable brush under running water.

Using a food thermometer to make sure meat, poultry, and egg dishes are cooked at a safe temperature.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a listeria infection, you can visit Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 206-7001. If you or someone you are with is experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately.

How Much Protein Do You Really Need?

Posted on June 13, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Protein is essential to maintaining overall good health. However, consuming extra protein often comes from eating meats high in saturated fats, which can add to elevated LDL cholesterol levels or “bad cholesterol.

The recommended daily allowance (RDA) is 0.8 g/kg per day for adults 18 years or older. Based on weight, growing children and pregnant or lactating women require more protein than a typical adult man or woman. In terms of calories, the recommendation is that 10% to 35% of your daily calories come from protein.

You can consume your recommended daily allowance of protein from several food sources. If someone’s body weight is 70kg (154 lbs.), the RDA of protein is 56 g/day. If you drink an 8-ounce glass of milk, you’ll take in about 8 grams of protein. Add a cup of yogurt for about another 11 grams. Follow that up with a 3-ounce piece of lean/extra lean meat, which is about 21 grams of protein, and a cup of dry beans, which is about 16 grams, and you have already reached the 56-gram daily requirement for an adult man. For an adult woman, a 46-gram daily requirement of protein can be reached by eating one serving of low-fat Greek yogurt, a 4-ounce serving of lean chicken breast, and a bowl of cereal with skim milk.

The American Heart Association has a guided outline of the suggested servings for each food group:

Choose plant-based proteins such as legumes, nuts, lentils, or chickpeas. These are not only high in protein but fiber. Legumes, for example, can pack about 16 grams of protein per cup and are low in fat and an inexpensive alternative to meat.
Opt for low-fat or fat-free dairy options instead of full-fat dairy products.
Include regular intake of fish and seafood 2 to 3 times a week, especially oily fish such as salmon, anchovies, herring, mackerel, tuna, and sardines, which are high in polyunsaturated fats. Make sure to avoid seafood that is fried. These forms do not have health benefits.
When choosing meat or poultry, opt for lean cuts, skinless poultry, and avoid processed forms.
Eggs are another good source of protein and provide other sources of nutrients that benefit your health. Healthy individuals can include up to a whole egg or equivalent daily. However, people with dyslipidemia should be cautious in consuming eggs.
Choose main dishes that combine meat and vegetables, such as low-fat soups or a stir-fry.
Be aware of portion size. Aim for 3-ounce servings (4 ounces raw) of cooked poultry or meat per meal.

Before you add or make any drastic changes to your diet, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before doing so.

The registered dietitians at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center are ready to help you plan a diet that can reduce your risk of disease, maintain a healthy weight, and improve your overall health. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please call (718) 657-7093.