Temptation surrounds us constantly. Commercials, magazine ads, and the convenience of unhealthy foods and lifestyles are almost impossible to ignore. It is becoming more and more difficult to stay healthy in the world we live in today. So what can you do to be healthier? Follow these 5 easy life tweaks for a healthier you.
#1 Put a water bottle on your desk
Why it works: The visual reminder of having a water bottle on your desk will remind you to hydrate! Seeing a water bottle at work is a constant reminder to chug H20. We recommend choosing a durable bottle like Cayman Fitness insulated stainless steel model which keeps liquids cold for 24 hours!
The Benefits: According to familydoctor.org, “your body depends on water to survive. Every cell, tissue, and organ in your body needs water to work correctly.” Staying hydrated will help you stay alert, make you less hungry and even help you to work out longer. The benefits are endless.
#2 Pack a lunch!
Why it works: If you are going out to lunch with your coworkers everyday, not only are you hurting your budget, but you are hurting your waistline. According to Everydayhealth.com, many of us suffer from, “portion distortion — a general inability to judge correct portions of food that you don’t prepare yourself”. Eating out constantly without the ability to judge portions can lead to overeating and weight gain. When you pack your own lunch, you know the amount you are eating and can stick with healthy portions and fresh options.
The Benefits: A fatter wallet and a thinner you! Being able to control your portions and how your food is prepared will reduce hidden calories and reduce your tendency to over eat. You will avoid any added butter and oils restaurants may use to prepare your foods!
#3 Snack all day
Why it works: According to everydayhealth.com, “avoiding extreme hunger increases the likelihood that you'll pick the healthy snack rather than raiding the doughnut box in the break room or overeating at meals.” Grazing throughout the day on healthy snacks like almonds and fresh fruit and veggies will help you regulate your hunger and reach for healthier options.
The Benefits: You will have reduced urges for binge eating and crave healthier options. Healthy eating is a cycle, the healthier you eat, the less junk you crave.
#4 Give yourself fitness options
Why it works: Having fitness options at home allows you to work out even with limited time. We recommend stocking up on hand weights, resistance bands, and a jump rope. Even if you only have 10 minutes, you can break a sweat and get your heart rate up before or after work. As myhomeworkout.com explains, “the time it takes to drive back and forth - from home to the gym - adds up fast.”
The Benefits: Save time, save money and see results. If you are able to provide yourself with the tools you need, you can work out on the cheap without wasting extra time. Use your extra time to grocery shop for a healthy dinner!
#5 Find a Buddy
Why it works: Working out with a friend means, if you aren’t working out, neither are they. Having a workout buddy adds a layer of accountability to your fitness goals. You are not only planning your workouts in advance, but you will be able to have more fun doing it. In our busy lives, sometimes keeping up with friends can be difficult. Catch up with your buddies while you work out for an extra boost of endorphins!
The Benefits: As Active.com says, “with a {workout} buddy it's more fun, you're going to do it more, stick with it longer and in the end you'll get better results.” The double layer of accountability means you are more likely to stick with your goals and end up enjoying your workout!