Thursday, April 24, 2014

The 7 dwarfs of Menopause (Itchy, Bitchy, Sweaty, Bloaty, Sleepy, Forgetful & Psycho)



They say that everything goes down hill once you reach 27, so by the time you reach 50 you probably have one foot hanging over the cliff. As you age your metabolism slows down, making it harder to work out, and you probably are entering a time when nagging aches and pains are more prevalent causing you to have a tougher time to reach your fitness goals. If you are 50 years old and still want to shed your fat cells and get the body you want then don't give up. With some simple tips and motivation you will reach your goals in no time.
1. Drink Plenty of Water -Our bodies are made of water so fuel your cells and help keep them kicking with your daily water intake. Plus if you are drinking water chances are you aren't drinking drinks that are loaded with sugar and extra calories that you don't need, unless it's a cocktail!!
2. Put on a Pedometer and Walk - This one is another no brainer. The more you walk, the more calories you burn, and the more fat you will shed from your body. This inexpensive little device can work wonders and will help you stay on track to lose the weight.  Don't worry, it doesn't sound of an alarm if you cheat!!!
3. Do Low Impact Exercises - If you need to burn that fat off of your body, but you have aching joints then try some low impact exercises such as swimming, riding a bike, or using an elliptical machine. You can achieve the results you want and avoid the stress on your joints. Take some alive or motrin afterwards!!
4. Get Plenty of Fiber in Your Diet - Most people don't get enough fiber in their diet. You can get the fiber that you need by consuming whole wheat and multi grain products. These foods are going to be healthier for you and promote weight loss. Or like me put Flax seed in everything you eat!!
5. Eat a Variety of Fruits and Vegetables - When you go to the grocery store pick up as many different colors of fruits and vegetables as you can afford. These life giving foods have nutrients that your body needs and chemicals that can boost weight loss.  And help you're intestines!!
6. Workout With a Friend -  (Shout out to my girl Kelly) This tip may not seem like one that will help you in the short run, but If you get a workout buddy or walking partner then you are more likely to stick with it and in the end you will shed more unsightly fat from your body.
7. Start Drinking Green Tea - If you like drinking tea then this one should be no problem for you. Green tea has healthy antioxidants that help eliminate free radicals and it has been reported to promote weight loss.  Honestly, haven't done this step yet, but have tried it!
8. Lift Weights - As you start to get older it becomes more difficult for people to lift heavy weights or even simple stuff like their groceries. The sooner you can get on a weight lifting program the better. It doesn't have to be something strenuous and crazy. You can start off with some 5 pound weights and do some basic exercises.  If it hurts, move to a lighter weight amount, don't over do the is step, trust me  :(
9. Take a Multi-Vitamin - As you start to age it is important to make sure that all of the vitamins and minerals in your body are in balance. Try getting a vitamin supplement for women over 50.  Nature Made has one for women over 50, I love it, and it is usually buy on get one free at Kroger!!
10. Workout on a Regular Basis - If you want to shed the fat off of your body then you have to work out on a regular basis. Schedule a special time for only working out and treat it as if it was a business appointment. Thank God, I'm retired, I can work out when I want, usually in the morning when it's not too busy!! 

Monday, April 14, 2014

Apple or Ice Cream

Apple or Ice Cream?
Summer time is right around the corner and I have 2 Dairy Queens within a 2 mile radius, no temptation there!!
Here are five steps you can use to lose weight in menopause and keep it off. Don't give up ladies, if nothing else I feel stronger:)
1. Make time to exercise daily. You don't have to run a marathon. Just 30 minutes daily walking or gardening or dancing. It doesn't even have to be at the same time -- add the times together for a total of 30 minutes.
2. Talk with a nutritionist or do a google search. You'll be amazed at the stuff in your refrigerator and cabinets that isn't good for you that can be swapped out for healthier choices.
3. Keep the soda and sweetened juices out of the house. Try water (seltzer) with a lemon or lime wedge. So refreshing! (I'm keeping the wine)
4. Keep fruit in a bowl in plain view. You'll be amazed at how it encourages snacking on them (and keep sweets out of view or better out of the house and use only as a treat).  Still working on the sweets things!!
5. Pick a partner to exercise or walk with and pick a time to do it. It will become part of your schedule and, therefore, much more likely to do.  Or go to the local Planet Fitness and chances are you will run into a lot of people you know already!
 Good Luck Peeps!
Candy


Thursday, April 3, 2014

Working towards a better you!!!

  • Hello Peeps,
  • My Blog for this wonderful rainy day in Michigan.
  • Stay active and get plenty of regular physical activity. Incorporate both aerobic (walking while on cell phone or shopping), add strength training exercises into your routine, (lifting a glass of wine or two to your lips, red wine preferably, it's good for the heart).
  • Cut back on calories by about 200 per day, (just cut out the 2 cookies you grab on the way out the door).
  •  Focus on eating nutritious foods, including bananas, blueberries (unless of course you have diverticulitis, and can't eat seeds), dark leafy greens, soy (what really is soy???), salmon, whole grains, yogurt (the John Stamos kind…) and plenty of water.
  • Limit alcohol and salt, (that's no fun!!!)
  • Maintain a positive, healthy attitude, Well, do the best you can!
  • Good Luck,
  • Candy