< previous page

Question: I want to eat healthy and exercise, but I have a really busy schedule. I typically start the day early, and eat a lot of restaurant meals because of my work. How can I still reach my goals?

Answer: This is an excellent question because there are many common health and fitness issues involved in your situation. First off, you’re going to have to be diligent about sticking to a schedule, but after you get used to it, you’ll find it automatic. Most importantly, follow these three basic rules: 1) never miss breakfast. I actually encourage all of my clients to prepare a big, filling breakfast in the evening and put it in a microwave-safe container overnight. This ensures that you have a high-protein, high-fiber breakfast that can be ready in only 90 seconds or so. This night-before preparation is always a great stress reducer during a hectic morning. (Tip: try being creative with egg whites, ground turkey, spinach and feta cheese, and have a piece of whole wheat toast or a piece of fruit as your side.) 2) Work out in the a.m. This is one of the best “secrets” of the ultrasuccessful/suberbusy person. By waking up and getting straight into your exercise routine, you increase your metabolism, kick up your endorphins, reduce stress, and start the day with a caloric deficit. 3) Sleep. I always encourage people to do whatever they can to get a minimum of seven hours of sleep per night. When you miss sleep, you increase cortisol levels, which leads your body to store stubborn abdominal fat, increases stress levels, and ultimately contributes to serious heart-health concerns. Your body and mind need adequate rest. Make sure you get it.

Question: I usually eat healthy, but often have sugar cravings, especially in the afternoon. Any suggestions?

Answer: If you’re living relatively healthy—eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, along with some healthy fats—your body is likely trying to break the “sugar addiction” and convert to burning body fat as energy. This would explain the sweet tooth. But it’s a good sign.

To combat sugar cravings, make a single serving of sugar-free gelatin or pudding and top it with a couple of tablespoons of sugar-free Cool Whip for a quick afternoon sweet snack. Also, keep healthy fruits such as berries and apples handy to help stop you from reaching into the candy jar. You’ll find many more options if you check out healthy cookbooks and Web sites. Be creative with snacks, and you’ll eventually have an entire bag of tricks that you can share with other who deal with similar issues.

Get Active! By the Editors. The Active Life. Exercise and Fitness.

< previous page