MaXIMIze - Physical Health - Choices

At the beginning of the month, I asked what type of fuel do you put in your body. Do you remember how you answered that question? Or, how would you answer that question right here, right now?

I also asked if you exercised, and if so, did you give it the focus it deserves, or were you multi-tasking through it - watching TV, listening to podcasts, reading, conversing with someone else. Recent studies have shown that multi-tasking while exercising lessens the impact of the workout.

So, it is as important to make the choice to single-task our exercise routine as it is to eat healthfully.

As to eating healthfully…

Do you drink enough water during the course of the day? Most recommendations are for eight eight-ounce glasses - sixty-four ounces, or a half-gallon, or nearly two liters. If you're exercising a lot or sweating excessively due to heat or other factors, you may need more water during the course of the day.

Are you practicing portion control? For example, a serving of meat is roughly the size of your palm. May of us overindulge, particularly if we eat out. It's okay to eat half the meal and bring the rest home to eat at another time.

Are you getting enough fruits and vegetables? The current recommendation is nine servings - or four and a half cups - two cups of fruit and two and a half cups of vegetables.

There are recommendations for grains - six servings - and dairy - three servings - as well. And a serving of grains is one slice of bread or one half cup cooked rice, pasta, or oatmeal, for example. A serving of dairy is one cup of milk or one ounce - usually one slice - of cheese.

Of course, if you have food allergies or sensitivities, you have to adjust your diet accordingly.

It is highly recommended to stay away from processed food and added sugars - and diet food and drinks as well. As close to natural as possible is best for both digestion and overall health.

Now these serving recommendations are based on a 2,000 calorie diet - usually for a person in their 30s or younger who is at least moderately active (30 minutes of exercise or more per day on average). If you need less, eat less. 

Next week we'll recap the posts on physical health, and look forward to June's topic - spiritual health.

Until next time, Namaste!