What does get fit mean?
How many of you have made the resolution that you will lose weight or get in shape this year?
You are not alone. Many of my clients ask me “how can I eat right for my body?” Well, it takes a variety of foods with various amounts of vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates and fat to ensure you are getting everything your body needs. As a REBEL, “getting in shape” to me doesn’t necessarily mean losing weight or having super toned muscles.
Ways to get fit in 2020
It means fueling your body properly, respecting it and treating it with kindness.
So here are some REBEL tips from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist about how to “get in shape.”
Get fit in a whole new way:
Eat right for the brain
The brain’s favorite form of food is actually glucose! Glucose comes from carbohydrates. The body breaks down carbs into glucose so it can be more readily used by the brain and other body parts. That being said, carbs, which are sometimes made out to be “bad,” are actually quite helpful and important for good nutrition. Also, fatty acids, especially omega-3’s, are important for having a healthy brain. Fat is actually used to build the membrane on the brain and the myelin (the “stuff” that surrounds nerves).
Balanced, homemade pizzas are great brain food!
Eat right for your muscles
Your muscles love protein and carbs. These 2 nutrient work together to build and repair muscle. Just like the brain, carbs are your muscles first choice for fuel. After exercise, the body is going to use carbohydrates for energy. You want to have enough carbs so your body can then use the protein to repair your muscle tissues.
Variety of colors
Did you know that veggies are different colors based on what vitamin/mineral they contain? For example, carrots and sweet potatoes are orange because of beta-carotene (vitamin A) is also orange. As we know, these 2 foods are packed with vitamin A! So, “coloring your plate” will ensure you are getting a wide range of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
This dish with sweet potato is FULL of beta-carotene
Eat right for your heart
Have you heard the term “heart healthy fats?” These are also known as the “unsaturated fatty acids.” You can find these in avocados, nuts, and olive or canola oil.
Water, water, water to get fit
Most of our body is composed of water, no wonder why it is important! Water helps to carry nutrients throughout our bodies to where they are needed. Also, water assists the kidneys to remove waste from your body. Don’t like water? Try infusing it with herbs and fruits! My personal favorite is strawberry mint.
Hormone balance to get fit
Fats, carbs and protein all play a role in hormone balance and it’s complicated to explain! One point I would like to mention is fat’s role in hormone production. Fats are a structural component of some hormones, so it’s important to have adequate fat in your diet. Fat in food, does not mean fat on body!
So, get fit in a whole new way this year!
Ready to REBEL against diets? Please click here or call us at 301-474-2499 for more information on how our dietitians can help!
Blog updated December 2019
Rebecca Bitzer loves to empower Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) and their clients. Co-author of Welcome to the Rebelution: Seven steps to the nutrition counseling practice of your dreams and Taste the Sweet Rebellion: Rebel against dieting.
