People are constantly on the go. It’s normal for us to run from one classroom to the next or drive from one business meeting to another; but when doing so, sitting down to eat a healthy meal or spending time at the gym is placed last on our list of priorities. Fast food restaurants and convenience stores are common options, because both are less time-consuming than making our own food. Therefore, many of us struggle with eating healthy, exercising regularly and maintaining our weight. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 78.6 million adults in the United States are obese. Obesity can cause other conditions, such as heart attack, stroke and type 2 diabetes. The annual cost of obesity in 2008 was about $147 billion in the U.S. This amount is still less than the $146 billion the federal government provided in student financial aid in 2011. We have the power to prevent obesity and its related conditions plaguing our society. Here are 10 ways to keep obesity away.
- Make an appointment with your physician or peer nutritional counselor to assess your BMI, waist circumference, and learn what types of food you should avoid and what types of food you should implement into your daily meals.
- Download MyFitnessPal (free app) and create a profile. MyFitnessPal is an amazing calorie counter filled with tools to promote weight loss, weight control and physical activity.
- Set measurable and realistic eating and fitness goals.
- Increase your water intake. Water purifies your system, flushing salt and other impurities out.
- Try to replace unhealthy food with healthier options. Like pistachios instead of potato chips.
- Shop for groceries on the weekends or order them online to save time, money and calories. Start paying attention to nutrition facts.
- Exercise. Participate in something you enjoy. If you are not a fan of working out or going to the gym just walk more. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Tell your family and friends for support and accountability.
- Reward yourself after achieving your eating and fitness goals.
- Don’t be too hard on yourself. Make becoming healthier and staying fit fun, especially if you are constantly on the go.
