Leading doctors, psychologists and nutritionists from a successful health program have put together five easy tips for making your diet resolution successful in 2012.
A statement from MyWhey today said, “It’s the perfect time to kick-start a new health plan.”
Among the tips was information that suggested a lack of sleep can increase a bodies tendency to store fat a second tip was to watch the amount of food aten in social environments.
The tips are listed below:
- SLEEP ON IT – The good news is that research over the past decade has shown that a lack of sleep can increase your body’s tendency to store fat and may make you feel hungry by affecting the secretion of cortisol, the hormone that regulates appetite. Exercise can help to make you tired, thus promoting a deep and refreshing night’s sleep. Once the festive season ends make sure you go back to your regular sleeping patterns.
- BE REALSTIC - One of the biggest mistakes people make when starting a new diet is setting unrealistic and unclear goals that are destined to fail. Work on a healthy eating plan and incorporate physical activity slowly and increase steadily to ensure you don’t burn out too quickly. Start with aiming to lose 5kgs and re-evaluate once you’ve reached that target for another 5 and so on.
- PEER PRESSURE – Find like-minded friends or walking buddies to keep you motivated on your new resolution. You gain a sense of commitment when walking or exercising with a group, plus it’s a great social outlet that makes exercise more enjoyable. Friends, family or work peers also following a diet or fitness program provide great additional support and encouragement along the way.
- SNACK ATTACK - We tend to make unhealthy snack choices when stressed, so instead of choosing foods high in salt, fat or sugar, opt for carrots, fruit, almonds and sunflower seeds. It’s all about what’s on hand and convenient, so prepare health snacks ready to go. And remember to drink plenty of water in between meals – this not only hydrates the body but will fill you up so you eat smaller portions. It’s important not to beat yourself up if you do have the odd chocolate bar. Remember you are only human and then just get back on track with your program.
- WALK THIS WAY – Walking provides a low-impact cardio workout that can be incorporated into everyone’s daily life. Start with a 15-minute walk around the block first thing in the morning, which is a super-efficient time to exercise as it kick-starts your metabolism, and always walk on an empty stomach. Remember to take the stairs over escalators and lifts.
For more tips on getting a healthy start to the New Year and to access a selection of deliciously easy recipes, visit www.mywhey.net.au.
