Let’s talk about meat!

Chances are you’re eating way too much…

The truth is, us Americans eat an excessive amount of meat. A study done in 2020 states Americans eat 273 lbs per person per year and lists us as number 2 in the world! Hong Kong was rated number one more than likely due to a much smaller society/population size but for a country our size, this is crazy!

You’re probably thinking, “and? so what?” Eating too much meat for years upon years has been linked to increased inflammation in the body, stress and damage to the kidneys, stomach and bowel issues, prostate cancer, elevated bad cholesterol, decreased good cholesterol, hypertension and high blood pressure, … you get the point.

I’m not saying go vegan or vegetarian and never look at meat again, unless you want to, but instead incorporate more plant-based protein sources into your diet. This will  provide a break from the constant levels of inflammation bombarding your body day to day. Some popular protein-rich plants you may like include lentils, beans, and even whole wheat and grains ( yup bread ).

If you’d like help maneuvering this new topic of healthier protein sources or want to learn more, along with getting some tasty recipes and personalized plans, click the link below to learn more about the Weight Management Program!

Let’s talk about hydration!

this is your sign to grab a glass and sip on some water while you read

Did you know 60% of our body is made up of water! You’re probably wondering “why?” Well I got a few pointers for you…

• Allows the body to move and transport nutrients from our stomach to the rest of the body; this is important in order to carry out daily bodily functions to keep us working properly.

• Clears out waste naturally produced doing daily activities.

• Regulates body temperature.

• Keep joints healthy, lubricated, and cushioned.

• Helps prevent constipation, kidney stones, overheating, and inflammation.

• Promote healthy brain performance ( water loss can lead to memory, mood, and concentration issues ).

• Helps with energy ( dehydration can make you feel sluggish and tired ).

• Weight management and weight loss ( because it makes you feel full and prevents you from eating as much ).

Tips to drinking more water throughout the day :

• Drink 16 oz of water first thing in the morning

• Order water with meals when eating out ( saves money too ).

• Add lemon, lime, herbal teas, or prepare a water with fruit in it for flavor.

• Carry a reusable water bottle throughout day.

• Drink warm water when it’s cold outside to keep warm.

• Drink ice cold water when it’s hot outside to keep cool.

PS - The taste of water reflects our mouth’s chemistry and biology, gross but true! Make sure you are brushing, flossing, and following your dentist’s recommendations on proper hygiene!

Let’s talk about a breakfast!

Most of us go without it…

Mornings can be the most stressful time of day for a lot of us. Whether it’s us rushing to get ourselves ready or we have a whole household to get ready, we tend to cut corners to make things easier, breakfast being the most popular candidate. We’ve all heard breakfast is the most important meal of the day but what does that mean and why?

Think about it, we are sleeping for roughly 8 hours per night and unless you eat in your sleep, we go without eating. During this time, our body is recovering and cleaning itself from the inside to prepare for next day’s activities using vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats, protein, water, and many other key ingredients.

Once we wake up, our small amount of protein stored up is depleted and we essentially start from ground zero each morning. By eating a protein-rich breakfast, we replenish these protein stores allowing the body to process and function properly and set up our whole day with a good foundation.

But if we skip breakfast, we do not replenish these stores causing the body to use our muscle for protein leading to inflammation and an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and obesity! This is especially important for children who are growing and need the necessary building blocks to have a good foundation for a healthy future. (This is why having a dietitian around is important!)

If you would like help navigating your meals and learning what foods are great for breakfast, click the link below to find out more about the Weight Management Program or to sign up!

PS - It’s not just for losing weight, but for anyone who wants to be healthier.