Monday, March 9, 2015

‘Bite Into a Healthy Lifestyle’ during National Nutrition Month by including Physical Activity in your Daily Routine

It is here… March is National Nutrition Month! The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics encourages everyone to return to the basics of healthy eating by focusing on consuming fewer calories, making informed food choices, and performing daily exercise. The goal of National Nutrition Month is “to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic disease and promote overall health.” Physical activity plays a very prominent role in each of these situations. Most health benefits will come from at least 150 minutes of moderately intense exercise a week. Endurance and muscle-strengthening workouts are also beneficial. Being physically active can not only make you slimmer, but can also prevent you from several diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and Diabetes Type 2. Regular physical activity also prompts better sleep, a better positive mental outlook, and relief of stress. Before a moderately intense workout, look for foods that are high in carbs, adequate in protein, and moderate in fat and fiber (For example, oatmeal with bananas or almonds with fat-free milk). Choose an exercise that is both sustainable and enjoyable for you.

Tips to get moving include:

·         Find a workout buddy who enjoys the same exercises as you!
·         Attend a fitness class.
·         Plan a hiking/canoeing trip instead of a beach vacation.
·         Sign up for a 5K walk/run with family and friends.
·         Take a 15-minute walk on your lunch break.
·         Sneak in exercises at your desk such as leg lifts or calf-raises.


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