Healthy Monday

Headaches, indigestion, loss of appetite, muscle tension, sleep issues and allergic reactions could actually be signs of stress. Giving yourself time to pause, consider the situation and breathe deeply when you encounter these signals is the first step towards finding the cause and limiting it in the future.

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Past studies on food and color suggest that color can indeed affect your portion size or the amount of food you decide to consume. Things like a well lit or dim dining room or kitchen, and the color of the walls in these areas have been studies in terms of impact on food consumed. Now some new observations seem to indicate that:

Regular physical activity benefits every part of your body and can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, type-2 diabetes and more. While it’s recommended that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week, every bit is better than nothing! It’s important to start moving and gradually increase intensity and duration.

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Here's a quick conversion chart so you can substitute “light” olive oil or soybean oil into recipes. If I am baking I prefer a more neutral tasting oil like soybean oil, which has the added benefit of helping to lower your LDL or bad cholesterol:

Incorporating new habits into your daily life takes work, so aim for progress, not perfection! Start with small changes that you can easily fit into your daily routine and go a little further each week.

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Take time this week to think about your goals for the coming year. Set a healthy resolution and stick to it by evaluating your progress and setting new goals every Monday. When you refocus your intentions each week, you’re much more likely to change for good!

(link: http://www.mondaycampaigns.org/Healthy-Monday)

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Its easy to use the holiday season as an excuse to overindulge, but don’t abandon a year of healthy habits in the homestretch! Remain committed to your diet and fitness goals and be sure to make time in your schedule for exercise and stress reduction.

(link: http://www.mondaycampaigns.org/Healthy-Monday)

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Seasonal stress leaving you anything but merry? Take time this week to set realistic expectations about your holiday schedule and budget. Remember it’s ok to say no if you’re feeling overwhelmed, and leave yourself plenty of time for mindful moments and celebrations!

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Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you can’t keep moving! Make the most of the great indoors this week with jumping jacks, leg lifts, sit-ups or an at-home fitness video. Encourage your family to think up active games and join in on the fun.

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Just because a food is branded as “low-fat” or “fat free” does not necessarily mean it’s a healthy choice. Check food labels to make sure fat hasn’t been replaced by unnecessary sugar, calories and artificial flavorings. When in doubt, opt for whole foods instead.

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