(NC)-Recent reports show that 60 per cent of adults in Canada are overweight or obese – if you’re among them you know the extra weight can have a very real impact on your overall health and well-being.
If you’re looking to shed some extra pounds this new year, take a few tips from Dr. Ali Zentner, an obesity specialist who herself lost 160 pounds and is now a triathlete and marathon runner. Dr. Ali is currently helping the town of Taylor, B.C. shed, literally, a ton of weight on CBC’s new series, Village on a Diet. Some of the tips Dr. Ali shared with Taylor residents can also work for you:
1. Don’t drink your calories:
Cut back on soft drinks, sugar in your coffee, juice and all other sugared drinks. Most of us wouldn’t consider eating four chocolate bars a day, but end up drinking the caloric equivalent. When you’re thirsty, opt for water instead.
2. Get some sleep:
Studies have shown getting a solid eight hours of sleep reduces your risk of obesity and high blood pressure. Make time for some zzz’s – you won’t regret it.
3. Organize a healthy dessert contest at work:
Invite co-workers to bring in their favourite healthy dessert and include the nutritional information on a card. It’s a fun team building activity – and it won’t add to the waistline!
4. Twist and shout:
Put your favourite music on and dance for 10 minutes straight in your living room. Dancing is a great way to raise your heart rate and get all your core muscles working. Don’t forget to sing your heart out too.
5. Get support:
It’s always a good idea to set a goal when trying to lose weight. For starters, you can make a pledge to CBC’s Million Pound Challenge by registering at LiveRightNow.ca. On the site, you can build a personalized profile and access healthy living tools and resources, plus invite family, friends and your community to get involved and help celebrate your success along the way.
