It’s true: abs really are made in the kitchen. Exercise all you want, but if you’re not fueling your body with proper nutrition, chances are you’ll have a difficult time finally slimming your stomach. I meet with hundreds of people per week and they all have one thing in common: they desire overall wellness and health. Everyone wants to look and feel great, but the best way to get there isn’t always clear. I guide my patients through exercise routines, nutrition logs and regular adjustments, but sometimes an even more tailored approach is necessary. If you’re feeling bloated, fatigued or you just can’t seem to lose the weight around your midsection, the nutrition tips below will help you.
Drink water and green tea. Staying hydrated helps your body function at peak performance, meaning all the vitamins and nutrients you consume can really be absorbed into your system. Also, you’ll curb inflammation which helps your overall comfort level. As a bonus, drink green tea. The antioxidants in green tea may inhibit your body’s absorption of fat. Avoid alcohol, though, as it dehydrates your body.
Eat more potassium and less sodium. When your sodium level is too high, your body holds onto fluid, causing you to look puffy. Reduce your salt intake and eat more potassium, which helps your body get rid of excess water weight. Ideally, you should consume 4,700 mg of potassium per day. Bananas, oranges, spinach and edamame are all packed with potassium, so aim for incorporating these in your regular diet.
Snack on almonds. Almonds are a great source of vegetable protein and fiber, meaning your body will remain fueled for longer and with a higher metabolic rate. They help your body digest other foods better, so they’re a great guilt-free snack option throughout the day. You can even get creative by sprinkling sliced almonds on Greek yogurt or encrusting them on chicken breasts.
Consume flaxseed oil and extra virgin olive oil. Both of these oils reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol thanks to the presence of omega-3 fatty acids. Replace butter with extra virgin olive oil in all your cooking and stir flaxseed oil into your morning smoothie. By reducing systemic inflammation, you not only look and feel better but you lower your risk of heart disease and even Alzheimer’s disease.
Cut out sugar. The benefits of eliminating sugar from your diet are off the charts. Your body holds on to excess fat when it can’t metabolize everything properly, which is what excess sugar and sugar alcohols do to your system. Snack on fruits use natural sweeteners like maple syrup and agave instead of artificial sweeteners or candies.
Regular discomfort, fatigue or feeling bloated shouldn’t be something you live with on a daily basis. I can help you address the source of these issues through guided nutrition, exercise and wellness routines. Consult with me at Lifestyle Chiropractic and begin looking and feeling your best!
Best of health,
Dr. Chad M. Hoffman
Lifestyle Chiropractic
(920) 499-3333
drchadmhoffman@gmail.com
