Oct 10, 2013

Longterm Weight Management

"The people most successful at maintaining appropriate weight simply move more." Holly Wyatt, MD

Even fidgeting can help with weight control, but for cardiovascular health and healthy bone structure, we need more vigorous exercise.  According to a recent study from Stanford, people who eat well and exercise have the most success at maintaining a good weight -- and being healthier overall.  This study recommends 60 minutes per day, which can be broken up into 10 minute segments.  Muscle burns twice as many calories as fat, so we also need to have resistance training -- which is using weights or one's own body to build muscle.  Mediterranean diets help to maintain weight.  These diets include lean protein, lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats - like olive oil.  It takes more energy to digest these types of food, which can help us burn 20% more calories just by what we eat.  As caregivers we may feel too busy to exercise and prepare the right kinds of foods, but I would challenge us:  can we really afford not to?! 

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