Fad diets are just that, a fad. You can’t eat diet bars and salads forever. We need to start eating the way that we want to feel. If you want to feel like a greasy pepperoni pizza…go for it. Instead, avoid putting the processed junk in your cart. If it comes in a box or a bag, it is likely loaded with salt, sugar and preservatives. All of this stuff stimulates your appetite, spikes your blood sugar and makes you feel sluggish and fatigued. Instead, reach for the WHOLE foods. Items like fresh fruits (or frozen with no added sugar), fresh veggies, unsalted nuts, lean proteins and dairy products in their most natural forms. If you need to buy a few things in packages, look for whole grain products or items with 5 or fewer ingredients that you can actually pronounce. A diet high in processed foods leads to obesity, diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia. These diagnoses often require several medications to treat and put you at risk for long term health consequences. Taking care of your body now, can prevent you from paying hefty medical bills and prescription drug costs later.

We need it folks. I don’t care if your job is “physical”, you need to exercise outside of work. The recommended goal is 30 minutes 5 days per week. I’ve heard a lot of people say, “I don’t have time”. Trust me…you do. Did you have time to watch your favorite Netflix show last night? Did you have time to hit the snooze button 3 times this morning? You have time. You need to start treating your body like it belongs to someone that you care about. Exercise is not only good for your heart, lungs and muscles, but also for YOUR MOOD! Exercise releases those “feel good” chemicals and gives you MORE ENERGY to get through your day. Who doesn’t want that?? You don’t need to have a goal of running a marathon (but kudos to you if you do!), but you need to get out there and move. Start small with a 10-15 minute walk in the evenings. Slowly increase the time and distance. You will be glad you did.