You matter. And in case you haven’t thought about it, your own health and fitness should be near the top of your priority list.
Fitness involves more than exercising at our gyms in Corpus Christi, and while regular exercise is recommended by doctors and fitness experts alike (at least 30 minutes daily), that’s only part of the equation.
Our bodies are fueled by the nutrients we consume, and some meals and snacks provide more energy than others — and what you eat often plays a role in chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and poor digestion.
If you find yourself confused and overwhelmed by the surplus of nutritional claims on television and social media, just remember to keep it simple.
Eat Fresh!
Avoid processed foods and shop the perimeter of your favorite grocery store for the freshest food and produce. Fresh fruit and vegetables are a great source for vitamins and minerals, and many even helps keep you hydrated. (Think about a juicy watermelon or grapes).
Every season yields different fruits and vegetables, so you can easily keep your snack and meal menus interesting. Seasonal food also means grocery stores and farmers’ markets will be well-stocked.
For example, summertime brings us delicious avocados, blueberries, cherries, blackberries, peaches, melon, and tomatoes – and beets, bell peppers, corn, zucchini, and carrots too. If your favorites aren’t available, try frozen. Fruits and vegetables that are flash frozen are the next best thing to fresh.
A Winning Combo
A lifestyle that combines regular exercise with healthy food choices sounds good, right? We’re here to encourage you! Making the commitment to good nutrition may help prevent high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, osteoporosis, and poor gut health.
While calories are not a bad thing, try to be mindful of the types of calories you’re consuming. Some act as fuel, like fruits and veggies; others are empty calories that convert to fat. (We know what you’re thinking. Doughnuts are a great treat occasionally – just not every day)! Why not try a cool fruit smoothie instead?
Start slowly when making changes to your daily nutrition. Pick what you’ll enjoy, but don’t be shy about trying new things. Talk to one of our Corpus Christi personal trainers. And find more ideas for healthy snacks, especially with Autumn and the holiday season approaching!
Do you have some ideas to share? We’d love to hear from you!
