Basics of Nutrition
Good food, good mood
In a study of 200 people, British researchers found that when the men and women limited (not eliminated) the amount of sugar, caffeine, alcohol and chocolate they ate and increased how much water, fruit, vegetables and oil-rich fish they consumed, 88 percent said they felt happier, calmer and more energetic. All from changing how they ate!
High-octane fuel for optimal output
When you’re asking your body to perform at its highest potential, you need to show it some love. If you want your body to perform its best, make sure there’s a little something in your system when you work out, especially if it’s been more than three hours since your last meal. It shouldn’t be anything heavy that’ll weigh you down or upset your stomach. Try a glass of Gatorade or other sports drink, a piece of fruit, or a small energy bar (Luna Bars are great!). Avoid anything with a lot of fat, like nut butters and cheese, or high-fiber foods, like bran muffins, because they all slow digestion and could come back (literally) to haunt you as you turn up the pace on the treadmill.
Feel like a natural woman
Eat from the earth. It guarantees you’ll get the essential vitamins and fiber your body needs to survive and maintain a healthy body weight. Experts recommend 25 to 30 grams a day. Most Americans are lucky to get half that amount. Fiber does more than “keep you regular.” It also controls blood sugar levels, which is absolutely essential for having high energy and a good mood for your workouts and everyday life. Fiber also fills you up, so you’re a whole lot less likely to overeat.
What does 25 grams look like? One cup of oatmeal, half a cup of raspberries, an ounce of almonds, two slices of wholegrain bread and one pear. Try counting your fiber grams for just a day or two and see how much better you feel.