STRONG IDEA: Food as Fuel – Part 5 of 5
By Emily Stapleton on May 14, 2013 from Strong Ideas via Connect-Bridgeport.com
This is the final post in a five-week series on nutrition. I’ll remind you once more that I’m not a nutrition expert; just a regular Jane trying to lead a healthy lifestyle and encourage others to do the same. I’ve attempted, throughout this series, to present a positive approach to nutrition. To read the other four posts, click the links below:
Part 1 - Drink Water
Part 2 - Eat More Fruits & Veggies
Part 3 - Consider Protein
Part 4 - The Skinny on Fat
Following is one final IDEA that, if you take seriously, can change the way you view food and in turn the way you eat.
It sounds simple, but that’s the point. Everyday as you plan what you eat and as you physically put food into your body, think of food as fuel. Food should provide energy to sustain your body and your daily activities. I’m not suggesting that you not enjoy eating. If you can learn to think of food as fuel, you will be able to enjoy meals and snacks without guilt.
1: Drink Water
Drinking water is the single best thing you can do for your health. Take your body weight in pounds and divide by 2. That’s the number of ounces of water you should aim to consume each day.
Drinking water is the single best thing you can do for your health. Take your body weight in pounds and divide by 2. That’s the number of ounces of water you should aim to consume each day.
Fruits and vegetables contain vital nutrients and most of us aren’t getting enough. Most people need approximately 2 cups of fruit and 2 1/2 cups of vegetables each day.
3: Consider Protein
Proteins are a part of every cell, tissue, and organ in the human body. They are constantly being broken down and replaced through protein that we eat. Most Americans already get plenty of protein, so this one is super easy…just make sure you are consuming a protein sources three or four times per day.
Proteins are a part of every cell, tissue, and organ in the human body. They are constantly being broken down and replaced through protein that we eat. Most Americans already get plenty of protein, so this one is super easy…just make sure you are consuming a protein sources three or four times per day.
Make sure you are getting most of your fat from healthy sources like fish and nuts, consume red meat only a couple times per week, and eat 2 or 3 servings of dairy each day (can be reduced fat versions). You’ll get what you need, but not too much.
5: Write it down.
Throughout the series, I’ve asked you to keep a written log of your food and beverage consumption. Writing down what you eat keeps you focused and leads to better overall compliance to a plan. I don’t suggest that you continually write down your food intake as it can become a bit overwhelming and even lead to compulsion. However, anytime you feel yourself getting off track go back to recording your intake to help you refocus.
Throughout the series, I’ve asked you to keep a written log of your food and beverage consumption. Writing down what you eat keeps you focused and leads to better overall compliance to a plan. I don’t suggest that you continually write down your food intake as it can become a bit overwhelming and even lead to compulsion. However, anytime you feel yourself getting off track go back to recording your intake to help you refocus.
Until next week,
Emily Stapleton
