Tag: physical-well-being

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Explore your benefits

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EXPLORE YOUR BENEFITS

JANUARY 2024

We’ve got your back

No one can do it all themselves. Each of us needs help and community, especially when we’re making changes in our lives. That’s why Costco offers a wide range of benefits resources to help you with all areas of your well-being — so you always feel supported and never feel like you have to do it on your own.

As you gear up to pursue your goals for the year, commit to getting to know your benefits and, if you haven’t already, take the pledge. Encourage your spouse or domestic partner to take it, too. And prepare to celebrate each accomplishment you make along the way.

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A strong foundation for emotional, financial and physical well-being

Your Costco benefits provide the care you need to flourish. They can help you:

Live a longer, healthier life

Costco medical and dental plans cover preventive care at 100% when you see an in-network provider. Preventive care includes physical exams, dental checkups and cleanings, some cancer screenings and certain age-appropriate immunizations. This routine care can help you stay well and catch health concerns early, lowering your risk for disease and disability.

Get help for a serious health challenge

Live Healthy Team* Coaches can help employees and their families enrolled in an Aetna® medical plan create an action plan, connect to the right resources and coordinate care when you’re diagnosed with a serious health condition. You can also use 2nd.MD to get a second opinion on your diagnosis or treatment plan, and connect with Resources For Living (RFL) to get emotional support services, including counseling and daily life assistance.

Manage a chronic condition

Omada for Diabetes, Hypertension & Prevention provides personalized online programs to help you make healthy choices when living with a chronic condition. You’ll work with a dedicated health coach and a clinical specialist to get the support and tools you need to make simple changes for a healthier life.

Find mental health support

RFL has a team of care partners that can help with challenges such as stress management, work-life balance, relationships, grief, depression, anxiety, substance misuse, self-esteem and personal development. They offer in-person or virtual counseling, daily life assistance, disaster relief, help with child or elder care, and more. You can also use Supportiv for online peer-to-peer support and AbleTo** for help building skills to better cope with life’s challenges.

Deal with parenting challenges

RethinkCare gives your family 24/7 access to tools, webinars and resources to help you understand, teach and better communicate with your children, including those with developmental or learning challenges. You can also try Supportiv for peer-to-peer parenting support.

Quit tobacco or get support for drug and alcohol misuse

Costco Tobacco Cessation Program pairs you with personal support to design a plan to help you quit tobacco for good. And if you or someone in your family is struggling with drugs or alcohol, RFL can help you find in-network rehabilitation facilities and provide behavioral health support services.

Go through a life change

Your Costco benefits are there for you when you’re building a family, buying a home, going through a divorce or coping with the loss of a loved one. Resources to help with these transitions include the Adoption Assistance Program, the Aetna Maternity Program* for help with infertility and postpartum challenges, and RFL for legal and financial consultations and grief counseling.

Create a stable financial future

T. Rowe Price manages the Costco Retirement Plan that helps you save for your future. Costco will make contributions to your account even if you don’t. You can also use SmartDollar® to take control of your finances and pay off your debt, and spend less on taxes with a Health Care Reimbursement Account (HCRA)** and a Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP).**

Whatever you’re looking to achieve, use your Costco benefits to help you get there. Learn more about some of the resources available to you below.

*Available on the Mainland only.
**Not available in Puerto Rico.

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LEARN MORE

JANUARY 2024

Stay healthy with these foods

If you’ve long believed that Grandma’s chicken soup is a cure-all, you may not be far off: Research has shown that what you eat plays a role in keeping your immune system healthy. Here are some foods to turn to if you’re hoping to fend off or better cope with a cold or the flu this season.

And remember, the best protection is prevention. Make sure to get your flu shot and other vaccines your primary care provider recommends. They’re free if you’re enrolled in a Costco medical plan.

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5 foods to help support a healthy immune system

number 1

Chicken soup

Tend to reach for a bowl of chicken soup whenever you feel run down? It’s no wonder: Chicken soup may provide a mild anti-inflammatory effect that appears to lessen the severity of cold symptoms.1 Researchers credit ingredients like veggies, which are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Although the jury is out on the ideal soup recipe and exactly how much soup to eat, simply sipping the warm liquid can help improve upper respiratory tract symptoms. Plus, chicken soup provides fluids and satisfying protein to help you meet your nutrient needs when you’re under the weather, says Registered Dietitian Jackie London.

number 2

Citrus fruits 

Oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes are a great source of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that plays a role in immune cell functioning.2 That said, peeling a single orange won’t do much to prevent you from getting sick or shorten the length of a cold. Developing a habit of eating a range of foods that contain vitamin C and a variety of antioxidants can support overall health.3

And take note: Eating an orange is better than drinking a glass of orange juice. Fruit is higher than juice in fiber, antioxidants and prebiotics, all of which support health.

number 3

Yogurt and other probiotics

The gastrointestinal tract and the trillions of bacteria that live there account for up to 60% of the entire immune system, says Gastroenterologist Brittany Seminara, MD. But medications, infections, illness and other environmental factors (such as what you eat) can disturb the balance of gut bacteria — one reason why it may be smart to consume beneficial bacteria known as probiotics. You’ll find probiotics in foods like yogurt and fermented items like kefir, kimchi, miso and sauerkraut.

Don’t feel you need to stay away from probiotic-containing dairy products. While a common myth suggests that dairy increases mucus production and can do more harm than good when you’re already feeling unwell, research suggests this isn’t true.4

number 4

Beans, onions, garlic and other foods with prebiotic fiber

Eating prebiotic fiber, a type of carbohydrate that helps to feed the healthy bacteria found in your gut, may play a role in supporting immune functioning.5 Foods containing prebiotic fiber include beans, onions, leeks, garlic, whole grains (including oats), cashews, soy and fruits such as bananas.

Garlic also contains alliin, a compound linked to stimulating white blood cells that fight the cold and flu virus. So add garlic to soups, salad dressing or roasted veggies to give your immune system an extra boost.

number 5

Shellfish and other foods high in zinc

Zinc is an essential nutrient for proper immune system functioning — and it’s found in a whole bunch of delicious foods. Oysters are the best source of dietary zinc you can find, with 32 mg in a three-ounce serving. But you can also find the nutrient in mussels, crab and shrimp, as well as in yogurt, milk, poultry, red meat, beans, nuts and whole grains.

While most people can get enough zinc through their diet, evidence shows that taking a zinc supplement (at least 75 mg per day) throughout the duration of a cold can help you get better faster.6

The bottom line

Maintaining a diet rich in essential nutrients can boost your immunity to protect you from getting sick and help you bounce back more quickly. Pair that with good hygiene — washing your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds and keeping them away from your face, avoiding others who are sick, and wearing a face mask in public — and you have a much better chance of staying well during cold and flu season.

Want another boost for your new year?

People tend to think that making changes to how they eat requires a lot of motivation. So what happens when you’re not feeling motivated? Here’s an idea: Rather than relying on motivation, focus on building momentum. To learn more, check out the WeightWatchers webinar “Momentum: The secret to maintaining your healthy habits” on Thursday, February 29 at 10:00 am EST/1:00 pm PT. Claim your free ticket here.

1National Library of Medicine. Chicken soup inhibits neutrophil chemotaxis in vitro.
2Chemistry Central Journal. Citrus fruits as a treasure trove of active natural metabolites that potentially provide benefits for human health.
3National Library of Medicine. Vitamin C and immune function.
4Journal of the American College of Nutrition. Milk consumption does not lead to mucus production or occurrence of asthma.
5National Library of Medicine. Fiber and prebiotics: mechanisms and health benefits.
6JRSM Open. Zinc lozenges and the common cold: a meta-analysis comparing zinc acetate and zinc gluconate, and the role of zinc dosage.

Sources:
WeightWatchers. 5 foods to help support a healthy immune system.
Healthline. How garlic fights colds and the flu.

To learn more about eating healthy or how to get help if you do get sick, refer to the resources below.

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Take action

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TAKE ACTION

JANUARY 2024

How to make exercise a habit

Raise your hand if you know exercise is good for you but you still don’t do it. If that’s you, you’re not alone. Almost 80% of people don’t exercise as much as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends.1

Getting started can be more than half the battle. Once your body is used to working out, exercise can feel easy and enjoyable. Use these tips to help you create a lasting exercise habit.

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Tips to get you moving

Start small and build up

Small changes can add up to big impacts. Did you know that doing four push-ups a day will lead to over 1,000 push-ups a year? Or that running four miles a week means you’ll run about 208 miles a year — the approximate distance between Boston and New York City?

Sometimes we set our expectations so high that just getting started takes a lot of effort. Choose a workout that’s simple and small so that you’re still likely to do it, even when your willpower is low.

Use the two-minute rule

It’s easy to put off exercise until tomorrow or next week. But you just need to get started — even if it’s only for two minutes. Once you’ve started, it’s a lot easier to keep going.

For just two minutes, get moving. Put on your shoes and go for a walk. Make yourself do two minutes of weightlifting or running or dancing — or whatever activity you like. Chances are that two minutes will turn into more.

Stack your habits

Creating a habit comes from consistency. Routines and rituals can help this practice feel more natural.

You likely already have some habits in place. It can be easier to start a new habit by linking it to an old one. Try this formula: “Before/During/After (current habit), I will now (new habit).” For example, “Before I wash my hair, I will go to the gym.” “During my favorite show, I will get on the treadmill.” “After dinner, I will walk around the block.” See what works for you.

Remove barriers

Take a moment to think about the things that prevent you from exercising. Do you have too little time? Do you need support? Are you lacking self-confidence? What hasn’t worked for you in the past?

When you recognize your barriers to health, you can make a plan to overcome them. For example:

  • Feel self-conscious at the gym? Work out at home. Search for a free online workout or buy some hand weights to strength train.
  • Find exercise boring? Try an activity you enjoy, such as dancing, bird watching or pickleball.
  • Need someone to watch the kids? Join a gym with child care, or go for a walk with your family.
  • Don’t know what to do? Meet with a trainer, go to a class or find a fitness buddy and brainstorm ideas.
  • Need support? Join an online activity group based on your interests or enlist family and friends to help you.

Be patient

It’s normal to want results right here, right now. And when you’re starting a new habit, the need for immediate gratification can be pretty strong. But this can lead to frustration and giving up. It helps to focus more on what you can control: your actions.

Developing an exercise habit is a huge accomplishment in and of itself. You can do it. And the other benefits will come on their own.

1CBS News. CDC: 80 percent of American adults don’t get recommended exercise.

Source:
Resources For Living. Exercising and beyond: establishing a healthy habit.

Consider talking to your primary care provider before starting any new fitness plan. Your Costco benefits can help you prepare, both physically and mentally. See the resources below for more information.

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Recipes

Healthy recipe

shrimp and broccoli in a tray

HEALTHY RECIPE

JANUARY 2024

Sheet pan shrimp and broccoli stir-fry

Planning to eat healthier this year? This easy sheet pan recipe is your perfect kickoff. It’s loaded with vitamins and minerals, including zinc and vitamin C to help strengthen your immune system. The dish delivers perfectly cooked, crisp-tender broccoli and shrimp that’s juicy and succulent. Don’t worry if it seems like there’s not enough sauce; it will combine with liquid that the shrimp releases as it cooks, so everything will be nice and saucy at the end. Serve with your favorite side, such as rice or cauliflower rice.

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Ingredients: 9
Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 35 min
Serves: 4
shrimp and broccoli in a tray
Ingredients:

4 sprays cooking spray

1 pound broccoli florets

1 cup chopped red onions

1 ½ tablespoons canola oil

3 tablespoons oyster sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon sriracha hot sauce

2 medium cloves garlic, minced

1 pound large, peeled and deveined uncooked shrimp

Directions:
Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray.

Step 2

On the sheet pan, combine the broccoli, onion and oil; toss well to coat. Roast for 12 minutes.

Step 3

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, vinegar, sriracha and garlic.

Step 4

After 12 minutes, remove the sheet pan from the oven (keep the oven on). Add the shrimp and sauce to the pan and stir well to coat.

Step 5

Return the pan to the oven; roast until the shrimp are done, 5 to 7 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving size: 1 ½ cups | Calories: 195 | Total fat: 7 g | Saturated fat: 1 g | Sodium: 1133 mg | Total carbohydrates: 15 g | Fiber: 4 g | Protein: 19 g

Source: WeightWatchers

With the WeightWatchers program and app, you can lose weight and eat healthier. Costco employees can join WeightWatchers for as low as $14 per month, and spouses/domestic partners and dependents can join for as low as $19.50 per month. Participants must be age 18 or older to join. Sign up at WW.com/Costco or call 866-204-2885.

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Kudos to you!

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KUDOS TO YOU!

DECEMBER 2023

Thanks for a great year

It’s hard to believe another year is ending. But what a year it has been! Your dedication, resilience and unique talents played a major role in Costco’s success. We’re grateful for all that you do.

Another thing we appreciate — your commitment to your emotional, financial and physical well-being. Over 100,000 of you took the We’re in This Together pledge this year, and many of your spouses and domestic partners joined in, too. An increasing number of you used Resources For Living® to support your mental health. And in one month alone, your enrollment in Omada for Joint & Muscle Health nearly tripled — a sign that you know the value of keeping your body healthy.

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What will you celebrate?

Next year is full of opportunities to make changes for the better. You can start by pledging to continue to work toward your emotional, financial and physical well-being goals, beginning in January, 2024.

If you enrolled in the quarterly Well-being Challenges this year, thanks for participating. Challenge #4, our final challenge of 2024, focuses on your emotional, financial and physical welll-being. Why not give it a try? The challenges are a great way to take small steps toward your larger goals and celebrate your progress.

As always, your well-being portal will be full of news and information about a variety of health topics each month to support you emotionally, financially and physically. Check back often so you don’t miss a thing.

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A year of Your Stories

Our 2023 podcast series featured inspiring stories from four of your co-workers. Each shared their well-being struggles and highlighted the important role Costco benefits played in their journey to better health. This month, Costco employee Reese Schmelling tells his story and how the Live Healthy Team* played a critical role in his recovery.

You can listen to all four podcasts now. Their stories might help you in your own well-being journey.

quotes

Costco continues to be committed to prioritizing the health and well-being of our employees. That’s why we work hard to provide you and your family with valuable and affordable benefits to help you receive quality care whenever needed.

We want you to be familiar with these benefits and resources so that you can get the most out of them. And the best way to do that is by participating in the We’re in This Together pledge. By participating, you’ll receive information specific to your needs.

Thank you for the important role you play in making Costco a great company. And best wishes to you and your family for a healthy 2024!

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Craig Jelinek,
CEO

Ron Vachris signature

Ron Vachris,
President

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*Available on the Mainland only.

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Take action

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LEARN MORE

DECEMBER 2023

Well-being toolkit

By learning about and using your Costco benefits this past year, you’ve worked hard to improve emotional, financial and physical well-being for you and your family. Studies show that higher levels of well-being are associated with a lower risk of disease and injury, better immune function, increased longevity, heightened personal development and greater social connectedness. This well-being toolkit will help you keep up the good work you started.

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How to use your toolkit

Your well-being toolkit provides simple ideas to help you live healthier, improve your quality of life and realize your full potential. To get started, choose the aspect of your emotional, financial or physical well-being you’d like to work on, and then try one or more of the suggested activities. Use the toolkit whenever you need support to be your best self.

Keep the well-being toolkit as a handy checklist to use anywhere, at any time.

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Take an emotional breather

Build resilience

  • Create a list of things you’re grateful for, such as a great friend or warm cup of coffee.
  • Look at a difficult situation from different angles to find another solution.
  • Go to a park or greenspace and soak up nature.

Strengthen connections

  • Spend time with your kids, friends or family members doing something you all enjoy.
  • Ask for help when you’re tired or overwhelmed.
  • Volunteer for causes you care about in your community.

Be mindful

  • Take slow, deep breaths through your nose and out through your mouth.
  • Go on a stroll and engage all your senses.
  • Do a mental scan of your body to feel more connected to your physical and emotional self.
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Take a financial time-out

Know where you stand

  • Track your spending to see where your money is going.
  • Check your FICO credit score (the number used to predict how likely you are to pay back a loan) through your bank or online service.
  • Set up a budget to make sure you can cover your expenses.

Tackle debt

  • Create a debt pay-off plan.
  • Cut down on expenses that aren’t necessary.
  • Reduce your credit card use.

Save for the future

  • Save money for an emergency fund.
  • Increase your Costco 401(k) contribution.
  • Set up automatic recurring deposits into a savings account.
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Take a physical break

Get active

  • Set specific goals for your physical activity, like “walk a mile every day.”
  • Try a free 20-minute online workout — there are lots to choose from on YouTube.
  • Take the stairs or walk whenever possible.

Mind your metabolism

  • Stand or walk regularly to reduce your time sitting down.
  • Drink water before grabbing a snack to help fill you up.
  • Sleep at least seven hours a night to keep metabolism steady.

Maintain your muscle

  • Walk with small hand weights to work your arms and your core.
  • Do pushups, squats or lunges when watching TV.
  • Eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein.

Your Costco benefits can help you on your well-being journey. See the resources below for more information.

Sources:
Forbes. How to create a financial wellness checklist.
National Institutes of Health. Emotional wellness toolkit.
National Institutes of Health. Physical wellness toolkit.
Ramsey Solutions. The 7 baby steps.

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LEARN MORE

DECEMBER 2023

Handling holiday mishaps

The holiday season is often called “the most wonderful time of the year.” But from December into the new year, emergency rooms tend to see a sharp increase in accidents and injuries associated with the holidays.

The good news is that you don’t have to roll yourself in bubble wrap to stay safe this season. With some awareness, preparation and safety measures, you improve the chances that you and your loved ones will enter the new year injury free.

When things happen that you can’t prevent and you need help, turn to your Costco benefits. You’ll find the care you need when you need it to get back to good health.

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6 common holiday injuries and accidents (and how to avoid them)

number 1

Fall-related injuries during holiday decorating

Everyone wants to deck the halls, but at what cost? According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), approximately 160 decorating injuries occur each day in the U.S. during the holiday season. Almost half of those accidents involve falls that often lead to broken bones, concussions and pulled muscles.

Avoid the injury: If you’re using a ladder to hang your decorations, check for broken or worn parts, especially if you haven’t gotten it out since last year. And when using the ladder, always work with another person. A good rule of thumb from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons: For every four feet of height you have to climb, move the base of the ladder one foot away from the wall.

number 2

Fall-related injuries on ice or snow

A winter wonderland, though beautiful, can also be a risky place. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately 1 million Americans are injured annually from falling on ice or snow. These injuries can range from minor sprains to broken bones and concussions.

Avoid the injury: Taking slow, short steps and wearing footwear with non-slip rubber soles can go a long way in preventing falls. Stay on designated paths that have been cleared (if possible), and don’t take shortcuts. And avoid walking on a particularly dark area — it could be black ice.

number 3

Toy-related injuries

Toys are supposed to bring smiles, not tears. But in 2021, emergency rooms across the country treated almost 152,000 toy-related injuries among children aged 14 and younger.

Avoid the injury: Make sure to read all the instructions for new toys, and follow age guidance and safety information listed on the package. If you or your children are using new riding toys (e.g., bikes, scooters, skateboards), wear protective gear and helmets. And remember to keep small parts and packaging away from young children.

number 4

Cutting injuries from unwrapping gifts

Opening holiday presents can be a whirlwind, especially with kids, as bows, ribbons and torn paper fly through the air. It can also be dangerous. Using tools like scissors or knives when you’re in a hurry, distracted or overly excited can cause lacerations or puncture wounds that require a trip to the emergency room. On average, 6,000 people a year are treated for package-related injuries, according to the CPSC.

Avoid the injury: When using scissors or a knife, always cut away from yourself and away from anyone else. Help children who are struggling to open a gift. Stay away from using tools like razor blades, box cutters or pocketknives. Have a first aid kit nearby. And keep ribbons and bows away from pets. They can cause intestinal blockages that often require surgery.

number 5

Cooking and electrical accidents

Whenever there’s extra cooking, baking and deep fried turkeys happening, an increase in fires or minor burns is inevitable. When you add candles, overloaded electrical outlets and a Christmas tree into the mix, the chance of a fire goes up from there. The American Red Cross estimates that holiday fires cause more than 2,000 injuries each year.

Avoid the injury: Never leave the stove unattended, especially if there are children around. Turn off the oven as soon as food is done cooking. Use your deep fryer outdoors, away from trees and wooden structures, and turn it off immediately if oil starts to smoke. If you have a live tree, keep it watered, or look for a fire-resistant artificial one. Keep all trees at least three feet away from heat vents, radiators or other heat sources. Blow out candles when you leave a room.

number 6

Food-related concerns

It’s easy to get caught up in holiday celebrations, but all too often, people get sick from the food and drink they enjoy. Two food-related concerns to be aware of are food poisoning — which can occur when food is left out too long at parties and buffets — and allergic reactions, as more people eat away from home and sample unfamiliar food.

Avoid the injury: If you know you have food allergies, be cautious about trying food that’s new to you or if you don’t know the ingredients. At parties, eat early, when the food is first put out. If you’re the host, wash your hands frequently and prevent cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and produce. Refrigerate any leftovers within two hours of serving.

If you do sustain an injury over the holidays, your Costco benefits are there to support you. Check out the resources below for more information.

Sources:
UCLA Health. 7 common holiday injuries and accidents and how to avoid them.
Cleveland Clinic. How to walk in snow and avoid winter hazards.

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Recipes

Healthy recipe

fudgy coca brownie

HEALTHY RECIPE

DECEMBER 2023

Fudgy cocoa brownies

Is it time to add a new treat to your holiday baking traditions? This recipe could be it. A combination of classic ingredients creates a delectable, chocolatey brownie that comes together in about a half hour. Make sure to bring your brownies to room temperature before serving. And since the recipe is ready in a snap, make a double (or triple) batch to freeze or gift to a neighbor or co-worker. It’s an easy way to show your gratitude for their help and kindness.

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Ingredients: 10
Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 35 min
Serves: 16
fudgy coca brownie
Ingredients:

¾ cup all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

¾ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup packed brown sugar

1 large egg

2 large egg whites

¾ cup, divided chopped walnuts

Directions:
Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with foil or parchment, allowing the foil or parchment to extend over the rim of the pan by 2 inches. Spray with cooking spray.

Step 2

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and whisk in the cocoa powder and vanilla extract. Let stand 5 minutes.

Step 4

Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg and egg whites to the cocoa mixture. Whisk until blended. Stir in the flour mixture until blended. Stir in 1/2 cup of walnuts.

Step 5

Scrape the batter into the baking pan and spread evenly. Scatter the remaining 1/4 cup of walnuts over the batter. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs clinging, 20–25 minutes.

Step 6

Let cool completely in the pan on a rack. Lift from the pan using the overhanging foil or parchment as handles. Cut into 16 squares. Note: For easier cutting, refrigerate the cooled brownies about 1 hour.

Nutrition

Serving size: 1 square | Calories: 141 | Total fat: 7 g | Saturated fat: 2 g | Sodium: 64 mg | Total carbohydrates: 20 g | Fiber: 2 g | Protein: 3 g

Source: WeightWatchers

Give yourself a gift this year! Costco employees can join WeightWatchers for as low as $14 per month, and spouses/domestic partners and dependents can join for as low as $19.50 per month. Participants must be age 18 or older to join. Sign up at WW.com/Costco or call 866-204-2885.

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Enhanced benefits

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ENHANCED BENEFITS

NOVEMBER 2023

Here’s what’s new for 2024

Costco takes your health and well-being very seriously. That’s why your Costco benefits are continually evolving to provide affordable, quality care for you and your family. You’ll find exciting new benefits plan enhancements for 2024 to help with hypertension management, mental health support and vision coverage — all at no cost to you or your covered family members.

Watch the Benefit Changes video to learn more about these enhancements.

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Explore your enhanced benefits

Help for hypertension

A new virtual blood pressure management program from Omada is coming in 2024. Omada for Hypertension provides one-on-one support and guidance from a personal health coach and clinical specialist, as well as the tools you need to track and monitor your progress. In addition, you’ll get a personalized care plan, weekly lessons and membership in an online support group.

Employees who are enrolled in a Costco medical plan and their covered dependents age 18 or older can participate in Omada for Hypertension at no cost, starting January 1. If you’re enrolled in Omada for Diabetes or Prevention, your health coach can also assist you with this service.

supportiv logo

Peer support when you need it

Beginning January 1, all Costco employees, their household members and dependent children age 13 or older will have free access to Supportiv. This online peer-to-peer support program matches you with other people going through the same struggles you are, such as emotional challenges, parenting concerns, relationship issues and much more. The conversations are through live small group chat sessions that are professionally moderated and fully anonymous. It’s your place to de-stress and feel supported 24/7, 365 days a year – no appointment necessary.

Use your vision benefit throughout the year

Starting in 2024, your vision and hearing aid* benefits will be supplied through EyeMed. With this change, you no longer have to use your vision benefit in a single purchase — it’s available to use throughout the year. For example, if you buy a pair of glasses in January for $100, then lose them three months later, you’ll still have $75 to put toward a replacement pair. You must use your full benefit by December 31, 2024.

To learn more about these benefits plan enhancements, visit Costcobenefits.com.

*Hearing aid and eye exam benefits in Puerto Rico will continue to be supplied by Triple-S.

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Recipes

Healthy recipe

HEALTHY RECIPE

NOVEMBER 2023

Slow cooker chicken taco soup

As we enter the busy holiday season, it’s more important than ever to take care of yourself. That includes giving your body the nourishment it needs when it needs it. Here are some guidelines that might help:

  1. Stick to your regular meal schedule. Even when things are hectic, eating at your usual times can help you avoid overeating later.
  2. Make sleep a priority. Good sleep can boost your mood and help you make healthier food choices.
  3. Don’t skip the food traditions you love. Savor your favorites in moderation. Saying “no” can backfire and make it harder to stick to your goals.

This slow cooker chicken taco soup recipe can help you meet all of the guidelines listed above. With only five minutes of prep time, it can fit into even the most overscheduled days. There’s no chopping or browning — just stir everything together in the cooker (no need to thaw the veggies) and let it go. The soup has just the right amount of spice and warmth for colder nights. And it’s a light enough meal to send you off to bed feeling satisfied, but not stuffed.

Print

Ingredients: 12
Prep Time: 5 min | Total Time: 6 hr 5 min
Serves: 6
Ingredients:

2 cups frozen corn kernels

1 ½ cups frozen pepper strips

⅔ cup frozen chopped onions

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon salt

16 oz salsa tatemada (roasted tomato salsa)

15 oz can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 ½ pounds uncooked boneless skinless chicken thighs

6 tablespoons shredded reduced-fat Mexican-style cheese

2 tablespoons cilantro leaves (optional)

Directions:
Step 1

In a slow cooker, combine the corn, pepper strips, onions, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, salsa, and beans. Stir in 2 cups water, and place the chicken thighs in the mixture.

Step 2

Cover and cook on low until the chicken is very tender, 6 to 7 hours.

Step 3

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Shred the meat with 2 forks and then stir it back into the soup.

Step 4

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with the cheese and cilantro, if desired.

Nutrition

Serving size: 1 ⅔ cups | Calories: 309 | Total fat: 8 g | Saturated fat: 2 g | Sodium: 897 mg | Total carbohydrates: 29 g | Fiber: 7 g | Protein: 31 g

Source: WeightWatchers

Give yourself a gift this year! Costco employees can join WeightWatchers for as low as $14 per month, and spouses/domestic partners and dependents can join for as low as $19.50 per month. Participants must be age 18 or older to join. Sign up at WW.com/Costco or call 866-204-2885.