HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE

At the beginning of summer we always think we’ll maintain our healthy diet and keep our motivation to exercise high. Some people are good at maintaining this whilst others may get bored of it or life just gets in the way.

We have provided some tips to help you change your lifestyle and reach your goals.

Make realistic goals

Going from 0 to 100 is an easy way to burn out. Do you find that you overeat but under nourish? E.g eating foods that are high in calories but not consuming much fruit and veg.

This can often leave us feeling sluggish and still hungry, as we aren’t giving our body what it really needs.

When you begin exercising you may find an increase in your energy levels because exercise makes us feel good. Brisk walks and gentle stretches are a great way to start. After this you can increase the frequency or intensity by adding in cardio or resistance exercises.

By feeding your body with the right food alongside exercising, you will not only improve your workout but you will feel even better as the energy you put in is the energy you give out.

Don’t restrict

Have you noticed when your on a diet and tell yourself you can’t eat certain foods all you think about are those foods?  This is because we usually want what we can’t have. ‘Dieting’ fails for a number of reasons, one of them based on restrictions. Restricting your food can unfortunately lead to cravings, for more food.

I recommend eating healthily 80% of the time and treating yourself 20%. This can be achieved by finding healthier alternatives as opposed to completely omitting certain foods. E.g swap McDonalds for sweet potato fries and make your own burger. 

By swapping calorie dense foods for nutritious foods you will probably consume fewer calories and many more nutrients. This will make you feel nourished.

By still allowing yourself a treat 20% of the time, when you feel you want it you can still achieve your goals and feel like your not missing out.  

Sustain your energy

Eating nutritious food provides energy to sustain mood and activity. The quality and quantity of this food is also important. Opt for non-processed and unrefined carbohydrates, healthy fats and increase your protein intake. Although macro nutrients are important, micro nutrients are often forgotten about. Minerals and trace elements are needed by the body to aid energy generation as well as many other functions.