Over the last decade, nutritionally-speaking, I've found a few key elements that remain true for everyone. Below are a few suggested areas to focus on when aiming to improve overall health.
Drink more water! Hydration effects our energy production, digestion, temperature regulation, etc. Our bodies are roughly 60-70% water, we need it to function properly. I’ve had many clients end chronic headaches simply with an increased water intake!
Along with water, electrolytes are key! The word "electrolytes" sounds like "electricity" because that's what they're good for -- managing the electricity of your body! Without electrolytes present to send signals and assist in processes, the body doesn't function very well. Common electrolytes include sodium, magnesium, potassium, and chloride. Pink salt is a great source of sodium, while the rest can be found naturally in vegetables and natural foods. There are also several companies creating great electrolyte drink mixes - just be sure the product isn't laden with sugar!
Avoid processed foods. Our bodies were made to process whole, natural foods.. not synthetically made look-a-likes. Unfortunately, most ready-made convenience foods contain an alarming amount of preservatives, additives, and stabilizers that never existed 100 years ago. Our bodies are still figuring out what how to process these ingredients, and are not doing a very good job. Typical reactions include: bloating, indigestion, decreases energy, compromises the immune system, and can even effect mood. Start reading ingredients, and if you can’t pronounce it, don’t eat it!
Speaking of processed foods, let's touch on SUGAR. If you know or follow me online, you know my opinion of processed sugar: there's nothing healthy about it. Sugar is unquestionably linked to diabetes, heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, a list of cancers, and even mental disorders. Simply put, sugar causes inflammation. When we pair this inflammation with the surplus of calories most of us are in, and the lack of activity that coincides, it's not a pretty picture. If you do one thing to improve your health this year, reduce and/or eliminate processed sugar! The cascade of health benefits that follow will be well worth the sweet tooth pangs.
Get active! Regular exercise reduces stress, improves nutrient partitioning, and reduces risk for a long list of diseases. Simply put, bodies were made to move. I urge everyone to find an activity they love so that they stick with it! Personally, I love weight lifting, yoga, and hiking. You’ve gotta find what suits you and turn it into play rather than a chore!
Now that I've given you a few ideas of what to focus on, get out there and take some action! Go on a walk, throw out the drawer of candy, or just drink a glass of water... "The difference between your dreams and reality is called ACTION."
Comments