Food, Fitness, and Finding Balance

 

Mediterranean
 Food

Food and water are essentials for all of us, and exercise plays a key role in strengthening both our muscles and cardiovascular system. When you combine nutritious, high-quality food with a well-rounded fitness routine—including strength training, stretching, and cardio—you can make significant strides toward better overall health.

Since eating habits are often the biggest factor in weight gain and obesity, that’s the focus of this post.

I spent a couple of months eating more or less whatever I wanted, just to observe the effects. The results were clear: I gained weight quickly. But when I switched to healthier alternatives—more salads and clean options—I noticed the weight began to drop. Pairing that with a moderate fitness routine made a noticeable difference.

When I was more disciplined, working out vigorously and carefully watching my food intake, the results were even more dramatic: improved muscle tone and a slimmer waistline.

That said, it can be tough to maintain an athlete-level routine if your goal is simply to live healthfully while still enjoying life. I’ve been part of the “gym rat” club many times, but now I focus on sustainable habits that support long-term wellness.

Here’s what I aim for:

• Plenty of vegetables and fiber

• Clean meats and fish

• Lower-calorie options

• Smaller portions

• Fruits and water

• Medium to complex carbohydrates

• High-protein foods

• Antioxidants

• An exercise routine that improves overall fitness without increasing the risk of injury

I’ve engaged in fitness training off and on over the years and hold a license in the field. If you’re interested in fitness coaching—either in-person (limited location) or virtual—feel free to reach out in the contact.form to the right.