Watch Your Weight
By Stephen R. Farris
Watching our weight should be a priority, especially with obesity levels in the United States at an all-time high. Another concern in keeping our weight in check is the risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, certain cancers, high cholesterol levels and arthritis. Here are a few tips to help keep your weight maintained and help you to lose unwanted body fat.
Watch Your Calorie Intake
Cutting back on the number of calories you take in each take can help you lose weight. While a calorie may be a calorie, just remember to put the right calories in your body, such as green leafy vegetables, fresh fruit and proteins such as chicken and fish.
Keep Those Carbs Low
A few carbs doesn't hurt, but consuming too many carbs defeats our purpose in losing or maintaining our weight goals. Limit the amount of carbs you include in your diet plan.
Mediterranean Could Be an Option
Many people are opting towards the Mediterranean diet these days. The emphasis is cutting out red meat, all processed foods and dairy products. The diet leans more towards the healthy fats such as those found in olive oil and nuts, adding to that fruits and vegetables along with a few other nutritious items.
Breakfast Is Important
Don't leave out or skip out on breakfast. It's the most important meal of the day. Get your energy levels kick started with fresh fruit juices, or even make a smoothie. Add fresh fruit to your breakfast table, or fresh berries when in season. They can be added to oatmeal and cereals, not only for added flavors, but for additional fiber as well.
Stop Before the Full Mark
Try eating smaller portions when it comes to mealtime and only eat until you begin to have that full feeling. Most restaurants have what they call a "lite menu" that contain smaller portions of the much larger entrees. If they don't, then don't hesitate to ask for a doggy bag or take home container and same the leftovers for another meal. Also when eating out, try to avoid fast food places. Their menus are loaded with unhealthy fats and usually exceed our daily caloric intake too.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Murfreesboro, Tenn.