We all want to be a healthier version of ourselves, but
we think it takes a lot of effort, or it is expensive with gym membership, or
we never just find the time to do it.
Lack of success can usually be attributed
to something I like to call
‘Too much, Too fast’.
Research has shown that to be able to go through a
lifestyle change you have to take baby steps. It is just like swimming, you
start off at the shallow end of the pool and work your way to the deep end.
With the recent increase of cases of Cancer, Diabetes and
Heart problems, we need to start caring more about our health. The public Library of science Medicine study indicates
that many could increase their life expectancy by going through simple changes.
Another study also says that exercising, moderate intake
of alcohol, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and not smoking can add
up to 14 years to your life.
To help us through our transitioning into a healthier
lifestyle, I have put together this list as a guide (I am also in the transition period :)
Have a positive mindset that you can do it.
When we set ourselves up for failure or think we cannot achieve a goal, we almost always never do. Having a positive attitude not only increases the chances of success but also helps build a healthier immune system and boosts overall health.
Start with Small Changes
Drastic changes often yield
minimal results, therefore starting small and gradually getting used to it can
make you keep up with the lifestyle change.
Make a conscious decision to change
one thing a day.
This can be using the stairs instead of the elevator, parking
your car as far away as possible so you could walk the remaining distance.
As
for your diet, swap the chocolates with an apple or banana. Gradually reduce
your portion size so your system gets used to the changes.
Eat Healthy
We hear this all the time
and sometimes from our doctor, but what does it really mean? A healthier diet
consists of eating lots of fruits and vegetables. This could be raw or cooked. The vitamins and minerals helps strengthen our immune system and repel illness
and infections especially Cancer.
We should also reduce our sugar intake by about 90% because
sugar gives us all this energy that we don’t use up which increases risk of
weight gain and tooth decay.
Gradually take out juices and sodas, especially
alcohol from your diet; it causes more harm than good.
All this cannot help us
achieve success if we do not do it in moderation. You can use a BMI calculator,
which can be found online, to determine what your calorie intake should be.
Exercise
This is the best way to burn
calories. You can fit in 5-10 mins of exercise throughout the day that will add
up at the end of the day.
Take walks around your neighborhood.
Are you a TV
buff?
Why not walk around the room during commercials or do a few sit-ups or
jumping jacks.
If you love dancing, then crank up the radio or your iPod speaker
and dance to the upbeat Naija (or your fave) music, you’ll be surprised how much calories you
burn.
It is all about finding ways to integrate physical activity in your life.
Exercise is known to reduce the biomarkers of ageing; we all want to look as
young as we can so why not start working on it now.
Stay Hydrated
This is very important. It is
necessary to help our blood carry nutrients and waste around the body and to help
the chemical reactions that occur in our cells.
Drink 2 Liters of water a day.
This can be easily done by drinking 2 cups each in the morning, afternoon and
evening.
Water is important for healthy skin, hair, and nails, as well as
controlling body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. You could also substitute
with drinking tea such as green tea and peppermint tea.
Don’t forget to go easy
on the sugar; I personally take it without sugar and it still tastes good.
BEST OF LUCK GUYS
meera
No comments