Diet and Exercise for the 4 Seasons
By Brandi Goodman
Everyone says diet and exercise are key to living a healthy life and maintaining weight. Just how can those things be achieved, though? There's more to it than eating right and exercising daily. All four seasons require a different approach to the mantra.
Winter
The winter season doesn't have the same fresh produce on store shelves you may be used to eating. You may find what you like, but a lot of the packages will have already-molding pieces and look less than ideal. You need to stick with the varieties that are in season during this timeframe. Beets, broccoli, winter squash, cabbage, carrots, pears, and sweet potatoes are just some of the selections heavily available during the winter months.
When it comes to exercise, many people stop going outdoors once the cold weather hits. This limits what you can do. You can still go outside for a winter walk or jog. You just need to bundle up in layers so you stay warm. Find a local gym or fitness center and you can work out that way as well. Otherwise, there are plenty of at-home options to try, such as following along to videos or using your furniture.
Spring
Onions, potatoes, radishes, peas, and apricots are all available in the springtime. Add them to your weekly menu along with any other produce you find worthwhile at the store. Spring is a great season for exercise. The cold of the winter has gone away and the air is warming up tremendously. You can work out without overheating when you're outside. Get outdoors for a nice walk or some playtime at the park with your kids.
Summer
Summer has people moving the most. You may find yourself outside running, swimming, playing volleyball, shooting hoops, and engaging in many more physical activities. You don't need to "work out" per se because you're already getting in so much exercise when you're enjoying your summer pastimes.
The available fresh produce is also at an all-time high. Watermelon, cherries, strawberries, tomatoes, peaches, and lemon are just a few of your options. Enjoy all the fruit you can because not many are in season throughout the colder months.
Fall
Fall sees the start of school and the end of summer. For many, this makes it difficult to engage in physical activity. You just feel too busy. Fall shows all start up as well, giving people an easy excuse to sit on the couch and not get a workout in. Try to incorporate your exercise time into your TV time and you'll be all the better for it. Use your couch for tricep dips. Stand in front of the television and jog in place. Get out the treadmill or otherwise exercise equipment and watch while you work.
Don't forget about the healthy snacks. Apple slices are a great option, along with pumpkin seeds, blueberries, and zucchini bites.
Consider the season you're in when planning meals and exercise routines. You should always be working out and eating right, but exactly how you do that can vary greatly. Stick with some seasonal advice and you'll be on the right track.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Arnold, Mo.