The Do’s & Don’ts For A Healthy Start To 2021

Addie Claire (dietitian) & Jeremy (fitness trainer) outside their new home being built by Redeeming Development Group. Represented by Anne Mason at Rich Realty Group.

January 2021: The Do’s and the Don’ts.

Usually, this is the one week of the year we spend in our PJs, unsure of the date or time. We have run out of holiday cheer and enjoyed enough cheese and cookies to make us actually crave a salad. Of course, this year, most weeks have felt like this! Perhaps more than ever, we are all looking forward to what this New Year will bring. If one of your goals is to feel healthier in 2021, carefully consider the following when it comes to your nutrition and fitness:

DON’T

  Waste a single moment feeling angry or upset with yourself.

·       The stress hormones released by this type of emotion will wreak more havoc on your body composition than any cookie or cocktail ever could. If you are not happy with your choices, instead focus on what you can do differently right now, not tomorrow.

  Focus on what to remove from your diet.

·       Research shows that focusing on “more” is more sustainable and effective than focusing on “less.” For example, instead of worrying about eliminating sugar or alcohol, think about ways you can get additional vegetables, lean protein and fiber.

  Jump back into an old workout routine.

·       Not only will you be disappointed (see above) but you can also hurt yourself. Your first few workouts should ease you back in, not make you so sore you dread walking the next day. 

DO

  Use science-based approaches.

·       There are a lot of people who call themselves nutritionists or fitness professionals who lack any scientific knowledge or formal training. Their advice can do more harm than good. Whether it is a famous or unknown person, always consider the source of your information. The nutrition and exercise advice you follow should be as evidence-based as the medical advice you follow.

  Set a realistic long-term goal and plan.

·       If you do decide to follow something strict this month, what are you going to do next month? Think about how you want to look and feel at this time next year, and plan accordingly.

  Focus on progress instead of perfection. 

·       It seems trite, but it is crucial. What really matters is consistent effort over weeks and months, not one dinner or one weekend of indulgence. One of the biggest issues we see is unrealistic expectations of effort compared to results. One month of consistent effort with a few rest or treat days is going to yield far better results than one perfect week.

Remember this: whatever you do to reach your goal, you will have to continue if you want to maintain those results. Example: if you follow a fad diet this month and lose 10 pounds, you will have to stay on (a version of) that diet indefinitely if you want to avoid regaining that weight. 

Happy New Year! 

Addie Claire Jones, MS, RD, CSCS & Jeremy Jones, NASM-CPT, FNS

Here is a link to the Composition Dietitian website and email.

Here is a link to Empire Training Systems website and email.

If you are ready to find your next home, maybe one with a nicer kitchen for cooking healthy meals, or more space for a home gym - call or text 919.273.5051 or send me an email to get the conversation started. I’d love to help you find your next home, just like I did with Addie Claire & Jeremy. I look forward to hearing from you and hope that 2021 brings you health, happiness and a new home :)! Happy New Year, yall!