Simple Changes, Big Rewards II

Regardless of religion or lack there of, you probably had at least one big, delicious holiday meal this weekend.  Eh, it's a holiday, and you know how I feel about skimping on the important things.  But now it's time to get back on track.

Last week we talked about taking a few baby steps towards a healthier life.  In addition to your new habits of an apple a day and salad before dinner, let's add a couple more!

Drink your water.  We often hear that we mistake thirst for hunger.  Or that water aids in digestion or flushes away toxins.  I don't know if any of that is true, but I do know that water has no calories and if you drink a glass it will make you feel full and you won't be able to over-stuff your belly with food.  Bottom line, your body is 60% water so you need it.  We've all been told that we need to drink 8 8oz glasses, but how many people actually do it?  I'm going to suggest you suck down 8 clear, crisp, chilly ounces of H2O before each meal.  It will keep you hydrated and take up space in your stomach where seconds would have gone.  Feel free to go crazy and drink water during your meal too!

More fruit...Have a banana!  We all know that bananas are full of potassium, good for heart, brain, kidneys, and muscles.  If that's not enough, they also contain vitamin B6.  B6 aids in white blood cell production; and that helps keep you from getting sick.  Add a banana to your breakfast line up, a smoothie, or have one as a little sweet after your lunch, just get one in each day.

Don't forget to keep up your apples and salads!