Unfortunately, we are creatures of habit: once we start a routine we usually stick to it. Think about it: Most mornings we get up, have coffee, eat the same breakfast, etc. One of the best things we can do to recharge our batteries this time of year is to change up our own habits.
Jill MacInnes
Here are 5 simple tips for healthy change. If you start today, you’ll be leaner, healthier and more energized just in time to hit the beach:
#1 -- Increase your sleep. Just pick 3 nights a week and turn in one hour earlier. That extra sleep will help slow the production of cortisol, which increases belly fat and can suppress the immune system. You’ll be amazed at how much better you feel!
#2 -- Change your workout. If you run, add the elliptical and bike to your workout. Increase your resistance level on the equipment each week, or else reduce it and increase the reps. Our bodies adapt quickly and the fat burn will only remain high if we constantly challenge our limits. Enlist a personal trainer to design creative workouts and provide new motivation. Boot-camp workouts can really challenge the body to reach new levels of fitness. Step it up a notch!
#3 -- Cut meat out of your diet two nights a week. You can replace the meat with fish, or do what I like to do: collect your favorite fresh vegetables, roast them in the oven and pile them on top of a healthy plate of brown rice. This helps you increase your nutrient levels and decrease saturated fat and extra calories.
#4 -- Add a cup or two of green tea to your daily routine. Research shows that it boosts your metabolism, can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, dental cavities, kidney stones and more. And get this: There‘s no downside!
#5 -- Remove two processed foods from your diet. This one is actually the hardest. We are addicted to the convenience and taste of processed foods. It’s a fact. So if you’re a salt junkie and need your chip fix, try replacing them with a handful of salt-free trail mix or roasted nuts. If you have a sweet tooth, try some grapes or other fruit instead. If you have the time to make a smoothie, add cocoa powder to mango and banana with skim milk -- and enjoy a chocolate delight!
Make a habit of change. You’ll look better, feel better, and BE better!
A former corporate vice-president, Jill MacInnes became a health coach to fulfill a passion for educating people about the benefits of whole foods and the many ways that simple changes in lifestyle and diet can improve life. She received her training at The Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City and is certified by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. Jill also leads workshops on nutrition and provides one-on-one coaching in healthy cooking, whole-food eating plans and leading a healthier lifestyle. Find her at: Mylifetreesolutions.com
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