Back to the Basics

Legendary basketball coach John Wooden once said, "It's the little details that are vital. Little things make big things happen." No where am I seeing that more clearly than in my fitness routine this year.

I have definitely been neglecting the basics of nutrition this year and the scale is proving it. I've put on some of the weight I lost last year, much to my disappointment and dismay. As I look back at what I've eaten—and the quantities thereof—I know exactly what is going on.

So it's about going back to the lessons we've all learned but don't necessarily follow.

• Stay hydrated. I have a three-liter bottle of water I keep at work, I used to drink it completely every day. Yes, it led to many trips to the bathroom (which is more physical activity which leads to more calories being burned) but it was giving my body what it needs. Recently I've been drinking more diet soda and maybe a liter of water during my eight-hour shift. Obviously that isn't working; the weight is coming back and my energy levels are dropping off.
• Moderation is vital. One donut every so often is OK. A dozen donuts every week is not. A slice of pizza is OK. A whole pizza is not. It's OK to feel hungry during the day. You don't have to feel completely satisfied and stuffed every waking moment. Otherwise your pants will begin to feel stuffed. :-)
• Fruits and veggies are important. It's easy in American culture to forget about the benefits of fruits and vegetables; especially fresh ones. Not only do they provide the body with needed vitamins and minerals, they also provide you with fiber which will help give you that satisfied feeling after a meal.
• Avoid prepared foods. One can of Chef Boyardee can provide you with as much as half of your sodium content FOR THE DAY. Microwave meals can be much, much worse. That 32 ounce bottle of Gatorade is 200 calories. So think about what you are buying at the grocery and read the labels. Sure it takes more time to fix healthy meals but in the long run, it is worth it.

So what other tips do you have on this subject? Share your favorites in the comments section and let's all live healthier lives together.