Every now and then, I see some common themes coming from my clinics.
This week, the main thing I am noticing is that the health of so many people is suffering because they are not taking time for themselves. Many people are working hard, with disrupted schedules and lifestyle and don’t take the time to nourish themselves.
It is important to
• Take the time to eat your regular meal – this is important for nutrition but also to take time out, to socialise, to have a “mental health break” of sorts. If you are in a job where you are in demand through the day, set your boundaries from the beginning. Make a protected meal time for yourself where people know they cannot disturb you, this could just be 30 minutes. Lots of people panic with this one but it does work.
• Plan your meals. You will know what the week ahead looks like, Plan for those busy days and disruptions. If you are prepared, you will have a better chance of eating well amidst the chaos.
• Prep your meals. Why not make a batch of meals and snacks and keep ready for the week? This may seem like a hassle but it pays off. Alternatively, make sure to cook extra each evening so that you can take leftovers for lunch.
• Sit and eat a balanced meal mindfully. Many are tempted to snack on smaller items, thinking it will help weight and be easier to eat quickly when busy. Really you aren’t doing yourself any favours – eating a meal with low Glycaemic Index carbohydrates (wholegrains etc), a good source of lean protein, vegetables/salad and healthy fats from olive oil, nuts, seeds or avocado is vital for energy and blood sugar balance, you will find you snack less when you make sure to do this.
I would suggest taking stock of where you are with eating well and your lifestyle and starting to put some plans into place for eating better. This will have an impact on weight, health in general, energy and performance, concentration and mood. I cannot express how much if a difference this will make. Try it. Please.
Do you have any tips that you could share to help others caught in the cycle?
