Happy Monday!

Happy Monday!

For most of you, it is time to get back to work, catch up on where you left off last week and maybe hit the gym. If you are like some people, you over indulged this past Thanksgiving, I did. I also know I need to get back on track. I am not going to beat myself up or live with regret that I ate apple pie, broccoli & cheese casserole, more than one portion of dark meat, some fruity cream cheese dessert, or scalloped potatoes, oh yeah and some chili. The truth is, I was mindful of my portions and I do not eat like this often.

My Thanksgiving was spread out over multiple households, and because I exercise, my metabolism is good. I know that living in guilt is not healthy, therefore I choose to move ahead.

My happiness will come from knowing that I will be back into my exercise routine, maybe even a little extra tomorrow. For those of you that are feeling a little ashamed of yourself, be proactive about your choice and begin this week fresh and happy.

Pack yourself a nutritious lunch, be mindful of the portions, drink plenty of water, and get up once in awhile and move around. Do you have a gym membership? Get back in there, you will have plenty of company.

The holiday season can be a difficult weight gain time for many. Emotions run rampant throughout the holidays and can cause stress eating. Others may feel compelled to overindulge at office parties, or with friends. Be mindful of who you choose to be around. If you are next to the buffet table, you will probably hit it more often. Grab a smaller plate if there is an option or have a light snack before you go. Stay filled up on water. Move around and mingle, you will be less apt to overeat.

I started a new client this past weekend, and am proud to say that the client did not want to wait until after the holidays to begin. This will be a huge advantage! So, set the mood for your week with a Happy Monday! Press forward and put these positive steps into place. You have an entire new year, and life, just around the corner. Don’t wait to make a resolution that you will begin something later. Do it now!

In fitness, Bob

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Are Artificial Sweeteners Bad?

I always thought I was doing myself a favor when I would use an artificial sweetener or sugar substitute in my tea, cereal, or anything else I would sprinkle it in, or on. Now all of a sudden I hear advertising claims for the use of sugar.  What gives?

Artificial sweeteners can raise insulin levels, which in turn will send a message to the brain to store fat, which leads to weight gain. It may be psychological as well. When we are told that something has no calories or less calories, we automatically believe that there is room for more. Maybe by cutting calories in your diet soda intake, you justify the burger, fries, chips, second portion of mashed potatoes or whatever you have.

Did you know that as little as one diet soda a day can increase your risk of diabetes or metabolic syndrome? Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that includes increased cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, larger waistlines and elevated glucose. This raises your risk of stroke, diabetes and heart disease. Other negative affects can be headaches, tooth enamel loss and an increased risk of depression. Lower bone mineral density in female soda drinkers, raises the chance of osteoporosis as well.

Nutritional Value? Forget it. Not with an artificial sweetener. Do yourself a favor and drink water. So you like the bubbles? Get sparkling water, or put a straw in the glass and blow bubbles. Just kidding about the straw, I wanted to see if you were still reading. But I enjoyed it as a kid. My dad wasn’t so thrilled with me though.

If you are weaning yourself off of regular soda, a diet alternative soda may be for you, but only if it is short term. Our brains are wired to receive the signal that it had sugar, Not an artificial sweetener.

Our brain responds to sweets by telling us to have more. When we take in a sweet flavor without calorie content, the craving is not satisfied and we drink or eat more sweets to try to make up that difference, thus taking in more calories. Remember that the excess is stored as fat. Sugar actually sends a signal to the brain that it has received it’s reward, Sucralose, (my sweetener of choice),will not do that. So the viscous cycle continues. I will throw a word of caution about the excessive use of refined sugars. Moderation!

I am not a licensed medical professional, registered dietitian, nor do I claim to have all the answers. I am trying to raise your awareness of the possible dangers or hurdles you could face with a weight loss program. If you question this, please research for yourself. Knowledge and the application of it will take you extremely far. 

In fitness, Bob