What better way is there to enjoy the warm weather than to embrace a new wellness routine? This could include a diet rich in seasonal produce and a well-planned fitness program with plenty of outdoor time. The Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) has some helpful tips to get you back in shape and enjoying spring to the fullest, naturally:
Out with the old, in with the new
According to the CHFA, now is the ideal time to make small changes to your diet by including fresh, in-season fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamins and fibre. It will have a big impact on your weight-loss goals and general well-being.
Take it outside
Put your running shoes on and go out for a stroll. Cardiovascular exercise not only helps with maintaining a healthy weight by increasing your metabolism, but it also improves heart health by reducing cholesterol and enhancing blood circulation. Performing cardiovascular exercise also changes the hormonal profile in your body considerably. It releases ‘feel good’ hormones that can help ease symptoms of depression and fatigue, as well as releasing hormones that can help decrease appetite.
Recent studies show that maintaining healthy gut flora is also key to achieving your weight-loss goals. Adding a probiotic to your regimen can help you maintain a healthy weight by fostering a healthy digestive tract that is able to eliminate harmful bacteria, toxins and other waste products, helping to improve your overall digestive health. Probiotics also help to strengthen your immune system and improve cardiovascular health. When making significant changes to your fitness, nutrition, or supplement routines, it’s always important to talk to your health care practitioner to ensure that these changes are right for you.
