Back-to-fall always feels like the start of something new – something akin to New Year’s without the cold weather or worldwide celebration – and a time to refocus on those health and fitness resolutions. To help you reset your diet and exercise goals for the upcoming season, here’s our handy list of health and fitness tips, from A to Z.
A is for Apple
Eating an apple a day (or any piece of fruit that matter) will help boost your vitamin C levels and flu- and cold-fighting powers.
B is for Breakfast
Not only will eating this “most important meal of the day” rev your metabolism, it will also give you energy to tackle whatever challenges come your way.
C is for Calcium
Fifty percent of women don’t get their daily dose of calcium. This fall, make an extra effort to get the recommended 1000 to 1500 milligrams of this important bone-building nutrient.
D is for Dieting
And saying “ditch the fad-diets.” Sensibly control what you eat and prioritize daily exercise.
E is for Exercise
Here’s to getting your body moving every day for at least 30 minutes (every one of your muscles will thank you!).
F is for Fiber
Your digestive system depends on fiber for regularity and to stay healthy. Up your intake of this important nutrient by adding whole grains (like 100 percent whole wheat bread and brown rice) to
your diet.
G is for Garlic
Research shows people who regularly eat garlic have lower blood pressure and cholesterol and are at less risk of cancer and stroke compared to people who don’t.
H is for Help
As a go-getter woman, it’s natural to think you can do everything yourself. However, don’t forget to rely on your support system when you need assistance (that’s what
it’s there for). This fall, don’t hesitate to ask for help whenever you need it.
I is for I
You can’t be there for everyone around you if you’re stressed and feeling out of control. Be a little bit selfish and indulge in daily doses of much needed “me” time.
J is for Jumbles
As in word jumbles or crossword puzzles. Research shows working your brain with these kinds of activities can stave of degenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and dementia.
K is for
Knowledge
Knowledge is power and every change in season is an opportune time to learn new things. Pick up a new book, dig into your favorite blogs, and seek out other ways to fill your brain.
L is for Local
Locally grown produce has more nutrients and more flavor than foods shipped from other countries. Visit your community farmers market, join a CSA, or frequent the nearest co-op for locally sourced
fruits, vegetables and other foods.
M is for Mozart
Studies show that listening to classical music like Mozart can boost brain productivity. Time to put that theory to the test! As you’re cleaning house, doing computer work or simply relaxing,
stream in a classical playlist and let the music do its thing.
N is for Nuts
Eating a handful of nuts every day is not only good for your health, it’s also good for the look of your hair, skin and nails.
O is for Organic
Organic foods are readily available and can be a delicious boon to your health. Opt for pesticide-free organic produce, meats, dairy and other food products whenever possible.
P is for Pampering
There’s nothing like giving in and allowing yourself to be pampered once in a while. Make an appointment for a mani/pedi, massage or sea salt scrub, then sit back and say
“ahhhhh”.
Q is for Quiet
From horn honking and noisy neighbors to the radio and cell phone, it seems that you’re always surrounded by some level of noise. Make time this fall to find a truly quiet place and take in
the silence.
R is for Rest
As in aiming to get eight hours of sleep every night. Adequate sleep is as important as eating those five to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
S is for Stress
And trying to reduce it — or at least manage it — whenever and whereever possible.
T is for Tea
Tea is renowned for its healing properties, with research showing this super drink can also boost metabolism and fight cancer. Next time you need an afternoon lift, swap that daily double shot
latte for a cup of green or black tea.
U is for Uruguay
Or any other country you have always wanted to visit. Start now and set up a savings for that once-in-a-lifetime trip.
V is for Vending Machines
And the promise to avoid them at work or school.
W is for Walking
Research suggests that people can keep weight off and maintain cardiovascular health just by walking 10,000 steps every single day. So walk on!
X is for X-citement
Filling your month with activities that you anticipate makes every week an enjoyable endeavor.
Y is for Yoga
Known to decrease stress and increase the body’s feel-good chemicals (endorphins), yoga is one of the best total body workouts for people of all fitness levels.
Z is for Zen
Let fall be the start of your commitment to go with the flow and live a healthy life.
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