Self-care starts with what you put into your body and how you fuel yourself from the inside out. Consuming whole, real foods that grow out of the ground and staying away from processed foods will help you fuel and nourish your body. By doing this, you will discover that you have more energy, feel lighter, less anxious/depressed, clearer skin, sleep better and just overall feel better. When you eat processed, unhealthy food, you are increasing your chances for obesity,
Type 2 diabetes and other health ailments. Approximately 1 in 3 adults and 1 in 6 children (ages 2-19) are considered obese. Obesity rates have doubled in adults and tripled in children since the 1980s. Approximately 1.5 million Americans (adults AND children) are diagnosed with diabetes every year. Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in the United States. Type 2 diabetes is one of the fastest growing chronic conditions worldwide and it is very preventable. These are just a few of the astounding statistics surrounding poor health.
Here’s the good news, you can avoid or significantly reduce your risk of becoming obese and lowering your chance of developing Type 2 diabetes. You can make small lifestyle changes that have a big impact. Eat lean proteins such as fish, chicken, grass fed beef and eggs instead of high fat options. Eat leafy greens and fresh vegetables in your salads. Choose spinach, arugula, or kale instead of iceberg lettuce. Drink water, LOTS of it, instead of sodas and juices. Calories count, even if you drink them. Eat healthy fats like nuts, seeds and avocados while avoiding saturated or trans-fats found in most processed foods. REDUCE your salt and sugar!!! This one is key! Most people that I have worked with one on one do not realize how much sugar and salt they are intaking and how that impacts their lives.
Once you get your nutrition under control, start exercising! Exercising not only helps you build muscle so you can burn more calories in a resting state, but it makes your heart stronger. This will further reduce your risk for heart diseases related to being obese. Just get your body moving. Go for a hike! We have so many outdoor resources in our backyard. Take a walk around your neighborhood, take the stairs instead of the elevator, park in the farthest spot possible from the store, the options our countless! Bottom line is make time for yourself. Prioritize your health and take care of yourself. As a result, you will feel better and take better care of those that are around you.
You will quickly realize the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle. If you need a jump start and help in taking care of yourself and being accountable to someone for your weight loss, don’t hesitate to email me. I have worked for almost six years with clients in improving their overall health and helping people feel and look their best. It takes daily discipline, dedication and planning. There is no magic pill or quick fix. Trust me, you can do this. Take care of yourself by every bite that you eat and you will change your life.
