How To Eat Healthy?
First they said cut back on fat
and exercise moderately three times a week. Then it was vigorous exercise five days a week - and butter was
better than margarine. "Why can't they make up their minds?" the teachers I know cry. But sound medical
research has been telling us the same story for decades: Eat fruits and vegetables, stay active, relax
occasionally, and do what you love.
The latest Surgeon General's
report shouts out, "Warning: Physical inactivity is hazardous to your health!" The American Dietary Association
restructured food groups to drum home the importance of vegetables and whole grains. Finally, the
American Medical Association and the American Institute of Stress promote relaxation because 90 percent
of all doctor visits are due to stress-related illness. Health professionals have always agreed that
through simple prevention and common sense we will live happier, longer lives. Nevertheless, developing
your own wellness habits can be a major task.
Here are some tips that health
specialists agree will help guide you on your path to well-being.
1 Set goals. Write them out and
then detail each step toward your ultimate goal, whether it's a desired weight or a general sense of good
health. Choose goals that are reasonable, that you believe in inherently, and that you deeply want to achieve.
Most of all, realize that achieving goals takes some sacrifice.
2 Make appointments with
yourself. In your weekly planner, schedule time for exercise, healthy food preparation, and relaxation. If you're serious about taking care of yourself,
your workout should have a place right next to parent conferences and faculty meetings.
3 Experiment with foods to
find healthy foods you enjoy eating, so eating well will not be a chore.
4 Make time to do weight-bearing
exercises such as weight lifting or calisthenics. The only way to decrease fat is to put fewer fat calories in
your body and increase the amount of muscle you have. Muscle is our number-one fat burner, so the less you
have, the slower that cheesecake comes off your hips and tummy.
5 Walk at a vigorous pace for 30
minutes most, if not all, days of the week. Walking for the fun of it is good relaxation as
well.
6 Take extra care over the
holidays. Little things can make a big difference this time of year. Plan your holiday activities so you can
continue your daily 30 minutes of vigorous walking. Remember that excess alcohol and food add lots of calories and can cause fatigue and depression, so celebrate
carefully
7 Whatever you do, avoid guilt.
You are worth the investment you put into healthy living. If you stray off the path for a day or two, you will probably do so for a
good reason. Let yourself enjoy life - and leave the guilt to those who have time and energy to
waste!
You are an everyday hero. Your
health is important and affects many people. Take time to take care of yourself.
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