I have thoroughly enjoyed my time blogging for LOOP over the past 4 months. In honor of my last blog, I thought I leave you with some tips for the road! Eat well and prosper…and always enjoy the ride!
Tip #1
Are you training for an endurance event? If so, be sure that you are planning and practicing your “event eating.” If you are training for more than 90 minutes you should be refueling your body during exercise. You need between 120-240 calories of carbs every hour to spare muscle glycogen stores and maximize your endurance capacity. Try snacks like pretzels, candy, and carbohydrate gels to provide lasting energy.
Tip #2
Bananas are a great fruit when it comes to fitness. They are easily transported in your gym bag or purse, they are available year round, and they are a good source of potassium, fiber, and vitamins C and B6 to keep your immune system healthy and your electrolytes in check after a tough workout. Try slicing and freezing bananas for a cool, grab-and-go summer treat. Pair with peanut butter for a balanced snack.
Tip #3
Slow down and savor your food! Eating your meals and snacks too quickly can block the release of hormones that tell you when your body is satisfied. Having your meals in a more relaxed atmosphere where you can focus on your food will help you to avoid overeating and may help to prevent weight gain. Not sure how to slow down? Avoid distraction during meals, put your fork down between bites, and chew your food well.
Tip #4
Are you eating spinach? If not, why? It’s packed with fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and folate. It can be eaten raw or cooked and incorporated into your favorite foods. Spinach can fit in every meal: add it to your eggs at breakfast, eat a spinach and spring greens salad at lunch, and chop it up to add into your favorite family casserole, enchiladas, or lasagna for dinner. Start eating this versatile veggie today!
TIP #5
Ever walk into a grocery store and feel a bit lost? Grocery shopping starts at home. Plan your weekly meals ahead, prepare your grocery list and then hit the aisles. Avoid going to the grocery store hungry and stay on task while shopping. It’s easy to be distracted by end cap deals, but if it’s not on your list, you probably don’t need it. These simple tips will help you save time and money.
