I will let you in on a fact that very few people know about me.
During my late teens, I used to weigh 105 Kg.
The number itself wasn't what bothered me, but rather the detrimental impact it had on my health. Constantly low energy and exhaustion from the slightest exertion were daily realities for me.
I vividly recall my turning point. It was during my 2nd year of university.
I arrived home and descended a mere 10 steps from the first floor to the basement, where my study room was. Overcome by fatigue, I collapsed into my chair, a daunting pile of study materials before me.
I knew right then and there that I needed to commit to a change. I made a decision to prioritize my health and commence a transformation journey.
I consider this turnaround one of my life’s proudest achievements. The positive ripple effects of that change continue to influence my life to this day.
However, I recognize that I am not alone in this struggle. Many of us grapple with striking a balance between our demanding lives and maintaining our health.
Thus, I decided to reach out to my friend Carla Cid Palazón - an accomplished Fitness and Nutrition Coach. She is on a commendable mission to help busy entrepreneurs improve their everyday habits.
Here's the valuable advice she has to share:
1. Prioritize Protein: Make sure to include a good source of protein in every meal - whether you are eating at home or eating out. It will keep you satiated longer.
2. Healthy Snacks: Prepare nutritious snacks beforehand to replace stress-eating. Some ideas are: yogurt with fruits, rice cakes with cream cheese, banana with peanut butter, dark chocolate with strawberries.
3. Simple Eating: Opt for whole foods and easy-to-prepare meals. Pay attention to portion sizes. A good starting point is to follow the Plate rule: Divide your plate into 3 parts where 40% is protein, 40% are fibrous carbs, and 20% are starchy carbs.
4. 8K steps a day: Make a daily goal of at least 8,000 steps throughout the day. Make it a game by challenging a coworker or a friend.
5. Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to support digestion, energy levels, and hunger management.