By Shannon Flanagan
Making time for some regular exercise is something that should be a part of anyone’s overall health and fitness plan. But, many people find it difficult to stay on track with their program, once the initial enthusiasm of the New Year has faded.
Kick start your New Year’s resolution with the right mindset to get the body you really want! Here are some simple diet rules and fun tips!
Elimination
A key factor in making weight loss easy is to eliminate foods:
• With high levels of calories vs. foods with less calories
• That are processed
• Sweet drinks (soft drinks, cordial, fruit juices, etc.), coffee/tea (with sugar and milk)
Soak Up Some Sun
While it is cold, it’s always best to still get some sun. Lack of sunlight can trigger a drop in the feel-good brain chemical serotonin, leading to depression and cravings!
• Drink your morning cup of coffee outside, work by a window (if you can)
• Take at least 15 minutes to walk on your lunch break.
• A well-lit home and office can help, too: Add cool fluorescent lights, the type used in therapeutic light boxes
Winter Foods
The produce that’s naturally in season in winter is your secret weapon for keeping off the pounds…squash! So start eating those dark-greens, orange fruits, and veggies!
• Broccoli
• Carrots
• Kale
• Oranges
• Spinach
• Sweet potatoes
• Swiss chard
• Winter squash
Drink Water
Ever hear that water can help you lose a few extra pounds? It can—if you eat foods that contain a lot of water, like fruits and veggies. Researchers speculate that the water in these foods may fill you up so you eat less. Make the strategy work for you by adding more of these in-season fruits and veggies—each is at least 90% water—to your meals.
Lettuce
With a mere 60–70 calories per pound, lettuce is high on the list of diet-friendly foods. Romaine lettuce alone is a great source of B vitamins, folic acid, and manganese, which helps regulate blood sugar and is essential for proper immune system function. Choose other dark green or purple varieties such as green or red leaf for the most nutrients, and toss with a zesty homemade vinaigrette
Exercise
Obviously we all need to exercise, especially in the wintertime! Don’t let the holiday weight gain overwhelm you, rather, take this time during the New Year to get it OFF!
• Write down your goals
• Devise a routine
• Stay consistent
• Modify when needed to make your workouts challenging
Move More Indoors
Even if you’re eating the same amount of food as you did in July, you’re not moving around as much, leading the scale to inch up.
• Find an indoor activity you love
• Try Nintendo Wii Fit –perfect your virtual ski jump or hula hooping form and more
• Go to the GYM –the best choice naturally to burn those cold- weather calories