Recently I moved back to Alaska after a short few months in Utah. During my time in Utah I gained about 10 pounds. Why? I can't say I fully understand why I began eating more starchy foods like potatoes and rice. It began to show in my stomach and hips. So, I'm getting back on track now that I'm in Alaska and spring is here with summer about one week away.
I'm beginning with water:
People who drink more water especially in place of sugar-sweetened drinks generally weigh less. Simply switching from soda to water significantly lowers my daily calorie intake. Drinking water before meals helps me eat fewer calories and aids in weight loss.
Sleep
I haven't been sleeping well because it has taken a minute or two to find a place since I've been back. But now that I'm getting that in order, sleep will come. Believe it or not feeling groggy can lead to overeating and unwelcome weight gain. Sleep helps regulate the hormones my body needs for weight control. The ideal amount of sleep I need nightly is 7 to 8 hours.
Veggies and Protein
Getting my diet back on track after the move means focusing on vegetables and protein-rich foods to fill me up without the extra calories. I'll shoot for filling my plate half full with vegetables at each meal. Healthy protein-rich foods to pick from include fish, grilled chicken, very lean red meat (occasionally), eggs, cottage cheese, milk, cheese, nuts, seeds, and nut butter.
Melissa Saulnier survived Ovarian Cancer in 2006.
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers/viewers of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions. Melissa Saulnier does not take responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. All viewers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement or lifestyle program.