These days many of us are looking for ways to shed those extra pounds due to a little too much indulgence over the holidays or, perhaps trying to get rid of the undesired COVID pounds.
These frigid winter days certainly do not help. Many are even more sedentary than ever – working remotely all day, by the time you finish work, it is dark outside and there is very little incentive to put even a toe outside in the cold. Some of us with the island blood are likely nodding ‘yes’.
While many Caribbean folks have not really stressed too much about ‘a little weight’, this mindset is changing.
Although having a little weight in the right places have for eons been valued, especially for women, we must start being more vigilant. This means educating ourselves about what we eat, how much we eat and being more active.
I’m not saying that everyone must strive to be svelte or what Jamaicans would call “mauger”, but we can aim for a healthy weight for our body type.
Afterall, metabolically obese normal weight (MONW) individuals, who are not obese based on body mass index (BMI), are also prone to Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, similar to obese people.
Abdominal fat and inactivity are also the culprits. A long-term change in diet and increased activity can make a positive difference.
Personally, I know that we are not meant to be sedentary beings.
As the pandemic continues and the winter months are fully upon us, let’s make some small changes that will make us feel good and look even better. Changes that will last a lifetime.
Be more mindful of what you eat: prepare your meals, rather than order out.
It is not that you should never order out, however, when you do, select from a menu that is not only nutritious but health conscious.
It is all about healthy choices. Reduce portion size and increase your fibre, it will keep you full longer. There is lots of fibre in fruits and veggies.
And remember to hydrate: consuming water should be a priority even during the winter – as the cold and heat tend to dry out our skin. Aim for at 6-8 glasses of water per day. Herbal tea (unsweetened) can be included.
Also be on the move: if you’re finding it too cold to get out, there are some great walking exercise videos on YouTube, try them out. Speak with your doctor before doing the high impact ones. No need to stress about it, start small and work your way up.
Have questions on how you can eat healthier? Share them with us. Some will be answered here. Send your questions to: info@latropiqua.ca.
Marlene Roache is a Healthy Eating Coach, Owner, La Tropiqua, Healthy Living-For Life www.latropiqua.ca
