Shortcut to Health

We all understand the basics and ideal way of staying healthy but there are many barriers which prevent us from actually following it. Mentioned below are some short cut versions of the ideal ones.

Ideal: 30 minutes exercise a day for a healthy you.

Shortcut way: Break these 30 minutes into 3 10 minutes sessions. These bursts for shorter period have high health benefits which are backed by research. Keeping the workouts at the same intensity, you would lose more or less the same number of calories. Some ideas that you can take up are: a brisk post lunch walk, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, taking your (or your friend’s) energetic pet for a ride.

Ideal: Having at least 5 servings of fresh fruits and veggies in a day.

Shortcut way: Try incorporating dried fruits and a single serve pack of apple sauce, if you can’t buy fresh fruits for whatever reason. Eat frozen berries, which are great for weight loss, make a health smoothie and dollop it up with fresh fruits. Try multivitamin which would take care of a shortfall if any.

Ideal: Sleeping for at least 7-8 hours a night.

Shortcut way: If you can’t sleep at a stretch take a nap, research has shown that people who took regular naps were less prone to heart disease than those who didn’t . Once back from work lie for around 20-minute and revive yourself. If you are lucky enough and not driving to work take a nap as you travel.

Ideal: Eating any kind of fish twice a week.

Shortcut way: Swap fish with flax seed or maybe fish oil. Sprinkle flax seed on salads that you eat. Consult your doctor of fish oil supplements and include them in your diet.

Ideal: Having a healthy breakfast.

Shortcut way: Take your breakfast on-the-go. You can opt for cereal bars which are an excellent option, make sure you read the contents before eating it.

Ideal: Weight train at least two times a week.

Shortcut way: You can use your own body weight for exercise than using dumbbells. Try push-ups or lunges, you can go for Pilates or yoga sessions. Try doing running, jumping or dancing.