The Power of Protein for Sustainable Fat Loss

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Hey friends, sustainable fat loss isn’t just about restricting calories or pushing yourself through grueling workouts. It’s about creating an internal environment where your body naturally burns excess fat. This requires a multi-pronged approach, and protein plays a central role in each step. Whenever I start to work with a new client, I ask about sleep, hydration, and PROTEIN intake.  That’s because protein is crucial to achieving and maintaining weight loss goals.

Here’s Why Protein Matters with Fat Loss:

  • Hormonal Harmony: Protein is the building block of hormones. Without sufficient protein intake, your body struggles to produce hormones that regulate appetite and fat burning.
  • Hunger Control: Balanced hormones translate to regulated hunger. Adequate protein keeps you feeling satisfied, preventing unnecessary cravings and overeating.
  • Cellular Reprogramming: Fat is the preferred fuel source for a well-functioning body. Protein is essential for restructuring your cells to burn fat efficiently instead of relying solely on sugar.
  • Cellular Renewal: Old, sluggish cells struggle to burn fat. Protein supports the creation of new, metabolically-active cells that contribute significantly to fat burning.
  • Muscle Building and Retention: Muscle tissue is a major fat-burning engine. Protein fuels muscle growth and repair, maximizing your body’s ability to incinerate calories.
  • Optimal Digestion: Protein plays a vital role in breaking down food effectively. Poor digestion hinders nutrient absorption, leaving your body without the building blocks it needs for fat-burning processes.

The Protein Advantage:

  • Enzyme Production: Enzymes, the chemical catalysts that drive fat burning, are built from protein. Insufficient protein intake limits enzyme production, hindering your body’s ability to burn fat efficiently.
  • Cellular Reconditioning: When transitioning from a high-sugar diet, your cells are initially programmed for sugar uptake. Protein is critical for restructuring them to become adept at utilizing fat for energy.

Beyond Protein Bars and Powders:

While convenient, protein bars and powders can burden your digestive system and may not provide optimal protein sources. Focus on incorporating whole food proteins like lean meats, fish, eggs, and legumes into your diet. These offer a complete protein profile and support healthy digestion for maximum benefit.

The bottom line is that protein is not just a building block for muscle; it’s the foundation for a body optimized for sustainable fat loss. By prioritizing whole food protein sources, you’ll support hormonal balance, hunger control, cellular reprogramming, muscle building, and optimal digestion – all essential ingredients for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

P.S. When we eat proteins that are not hormone/corn/soy free, ingesting those forms of meat raise cortisol. Try your best to eat whole, unprocessed foods  and prioritize protein intake. Your challenge this week is to track protein intake. I’d like you to take your goal weight multiplied by 1.05 to calculate a target amount for daily protein (in grams). And, try really hard to get protein from real food vs. protein powders –this one is a struggle for me, so I am right there with you. 

You got this!

Lisa

5 Key Power Moves to Become Fierce, Fit, and Fabulous

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Hi friends, if you want to know the “5 Key Power Moves” check out this summary of my recent conversation with the CEO of Rugged Human.  In our conversation, we cover the gamut of good health, working out, and ways to improve performance. Give it a listen and while you are at it, check out Rugged Human.

I’m interested in any questions or comments you have for future posts!

 

Cheers to your health,

Lisa

Are Seed Oils Sabotaging Your Health?

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Necessity may be the mother of invention, but the story of artificial trans fats is one of unintended consequences. In the early 20th century, trans fats offered a solution: stable, solid fats that extended shelf-life and pleased consumers. However, health experts revealed a darker side, urging us to avoid trans fats. Yet, the rise of vegetable oils as a substitute raises questions about their safety.

A little history…
Warnings about the dangers of artificial trans fats emerged in the 1950s, but the food industry downplayed the risks. (Argh!) Continued research in the 1980s and 1990s confirmed the health hazards, with a pivotal 1993 study in The Lancet fueling action. By the 2000s, health organizations worldwide pushed for regulation. Finally, in 2006, the US FDA mandated trans fat labeling, and by 2020, their use in food products was banned.
Replacing trans fats with vegetable oils may offer a false sense of security. While vegetable oils are widely used and less harmful than trans fats, they still present health concerns. These oils are linked to an unhealthy omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, excessive linoleic acid, and potentially harmful free radicals from cooking. Research suggests potential links between vegetable oil consumption and various health risks, similar to those that led to the trans fat ban.

Reduce Vegetable Oils and Embrace Good Fats…

The concern is that traces of trans fats linger in common foods, while widely used vegetable oils raise alarming health concerns. (See my prior post about the Dangers of Seed Oils.)

What You Can Do:

  • Limit: Reduce seed oils like soybean, canola, and sunflower oil.
  • Swap: Choose healthier options like olive oil (for low heat), avocado oil (for higher heat), coconut oil (for cooking), butter, or ghee.
  • Read Labels: Look for “vegetable oils,” “hydrogenated” words, and named seed oils on labels.
  • Dine Out Mindfully: Ask restaurants to substitute unhealthy oils with healthier choices. (I try to remember to take my homemade dressing in these little portable dressing containers!)
  • Find Better Options: Use Localfats.com to locate restaurants using healthier oils.

Just do what you can and choose natural fats from avocados, fish, and nuts, and limit processed foods and artificial ingredients.

You got this! One step at a time.

Lisa

Why Everyone Should Lift Weights

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Ditch the Stereotypes, Embrace the Benefits: Why Everyone Should Lift Weights

Weight training isn’t just for sculpted bodies or gym rats anymore. It’s rapidly becoming a powerful and accessible form of exercise for people of all ages and abilities.

The best part? The benefits of weight training are universal! Whether you’re a woman, man, or young adult, incorporating lifting into your routine can bring about:

1. Increased Strength: Putting stress on your muscles during lifting triggers them to adapt and become stronger. This translates to effortless everyday tasks, improved athletic performance, and a boosted sense of confidence.

2. Boosted Metabolism and Weight Management: Building muscle is like adding fat-burning furnaces to your body. Muscle tissue burns more calories at rest than fat, helping you manage weight and achieve your fitness goals.

3. Improved Heart Health: Don’t underestimate the impact of lifting on your heart. Studies show that it can lower blood pressure, reduce hypertension risk, and enhance circulation, keeping your cardiovascular system strong and healthy.

4. Better Body Mechanics: Strong muscles are the foundation for good balance, coordination, and posture. This leads to smoother movement, reduced risk of injury, and a more confident physical presence.

5. Protected Bones and Muscle Mass: Lifting weights stresses your bones in a healthy way, boosting bone density and lowering your risk of osteoporosis. Additionally, it helps preserve and build muscle mass, crucial for overall health and well-being.

So, how often should you lift? It’s an individual journey! Beginners can start with 2-3 sessions per week for 20-30 minutes. As you progress, you can increase the frequency and duration to fit your goals. Remember, consistency is key!

Don’t let outdated stereotypes hold you back from experiencing the transformative power of weight training. Customize your approach, find what works for you, and unlock a world of strength, health, and confidence!

How often you lift weights depends on your individual goals and experience level. Here’s a roadmap to guide you:

Beginners:

  • Aim for 2-3 sessions per week for 20-30 minutes each.
  • Focus on mastering proper form and technique to build a strong foundation.

Advanced Lifters:

  • Gradually increase to 4-5 sessions per week for 30-60 minutes.
  • Consider incorporating split routines, targeting different muscle groups on different days.

Remember:

  • Listen to your body: Take rest days when needed to avoid overtraining and injury.
  • Consistency is key: Aim for regular workouts to see optimal results.

Bonus Tip: Consult a certified trainer for a personalized workout plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. They can help you determine the optimal frequency and duration for your weight training journey.

Conquer the Winter Blues: Unfreeze Your Fitness

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The icy grip of winter tightens, days dwindle like fallen snow, and motivation for that jog around the park? Buried deeper than a penguin in Antarctica. But hold on, fellow fitness enthusiast! Resist the siren song of hibernation, for within the winter wonderland lies a treasure trove of movement possibilities. Let’s ditch the doldrums and rediscover the joy of staying active, even when the thermometer dips lower than your willpower.

Indoor Oasis: Your Living Room Gym Awaits

No need to brave the blizzard! Transform your living room into a winter fitness haven. Dust off those trusty bodyweight exercises: lunges that sculpt and squats that strengthen, push-ups that defy gravity, and planks that chisel your core. Invest in a set of resistance bands for endless possibilities – bicep curls with a wintery twist, rows that banish holiday-season slouch, and leg presses that’ll have you conquering icy hills with ease. Embrace the cozy atmosphere: light some candles, put on uplifting music, and let your workout feel like a cozy dance party, fueled by hot cocoa and determination. Mmmm!

Embrace the Chill: Winter Sports – Nature’s Playground

For those who crave the crisp bite of fresh air, winter offers a playground of invigorating possibilities. Lace up your boots and hit the snow-covered trails for a cross-country skiing adventure. Imagine the crunch of snow under your feet, the rhythmic whoosh of your poles, and the breathtaking scenery surrounding you. Feeling playful? Grab a sled and relive childhood joy, careening down snow-covered hills with laughter echoing in your wake. Ice skating offers a graceful glide, a dance on a frozen canvas, where strength and artistry meet. And who can resist the thrill of a downhill tumble? (It’s all part of the fun, right?) For those of us in Texas, we may not have snow, but we DO have the cold right now!

Community Spirit: Warmth Within, Togetherness Without

Staying motivated isn’t a solo act. Find your community, your winter fitness family. Join a local indoor exercise class, a yoga studio offering candlelit sessions, or a dance group that grooves to frosty beats. Let the energy of others fuel your own, and forge bonds with like-minded individuals who share your love of movement, even in the coldest months. Don’t underestimate the power of virtual communities! Join online fitness challenges, share your winter workouts on social media, and connect with others who are also battling the winter blues. The encouragement and shared experiences will keep you warm and moving.

Building a Cozy Routine: Embrace the Slow Burn

Forget about pushing yourself to the limit in sub-zero temperatures. Instead, embrace the winter pace. Schedule shorter, more frequent workouts throughout the day. (Check out my 4-minute Instagram Tabata workouts, for example!) Take a brisk walk during your lunch break, do a quick yoga flow while the kettle steams, or squeeze in some bodyweight exercises while your morning coffee brews. These bite-sized bursts of activity are more manageable and add up to big benefits. Listen to your body, prioritize rest, and savor the slow burn of consistent movement.

My Winter Story: From Icicles to Inner Fire

Last winter, I fell into a familiar trap: the cozy hibernation mode. “It’s too cold to go for a trail run!” But one freezing morning, inspiration struck in the form of some girlfriends braving the cold, so I donned my warmest gear, laced up my sneakers, and stepped into the crisp air. The initial shock, a slap of cold reality, soon gave way to invigorating warmth. My lungs filled with icy air, my muscles protested, then embraced the challenge. And as I finished that run, while my cheeks were numb, I felt a fire rekindled within.

Challenge Accepted: Ignite Your Winter Flame

This winter, let’s challenge the narrative. Let’s banish the notion that cold weather equals fitness surrender. Instead, let’s embrace the season as an opportunity to move differently, to discover new joys of movement, and to build a cozy, sustainable fitness routine that keeps our flames burning bright. So grab your warmest scarf, your most determined spirit, and step out into the winter wonderland. Remember, the snow might be cold, but your inner fire is hotter than ever.

Ready for the Adventure?

Share your favorite winter workout tips in the comments below! Have a favorite cozy routine? A quirky indoor activity that keeps you moving? Let’s inspire each other and conquer the winter blues together! Remember, a little movement is better than none, and every snowflake we dance through strengthens our resolve. Let’s make this winter a season of movement, a testament to our unwavering spirit, and a celebration of the joy that comes from staying active, even when the world around us is frozen.

Consistent Powerful Change with a Keystone Habit

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Happy New Year, friends! ✨

As the fireworks fade and the champagne flutes dry, many of us find ourselves contemplating the blank slate of a new year. We whisper aspirations about healthier habits, bolder careers, and deeper connections. But…change can be hard. We’ve fallen victim to resolutions before, derailed by the inertia of old habits and the siren song of comfort.

THIS year, let’s rewrite the narrative. Forget the lofty, all-or-nothing ambitions. Instead, let’s embrace micro-transformations, focusing on consistency over complexity. The secret weapon? A keystone habit. (see Forbes article on keystone habits for more)

Research tells us that building one keystone habit, a fundamental behavior that ripples into other areas of life, is far more effective than juggling an unwieldy list of resolutions. Think of it as planting a single acorn, nurtured each day, destined to become a mighty oak, its branches reaching towards a healthier, happier you.

So, how do we cultivate this keystone habit? Start small. Pick something achievable, something that ignites a spark of joy. Maybe it’s a 10-minute morning meditation, a brisk walk beneath the sunrise, or whipping up a nutritious breakfast instead of grabbing a sugar-laden pastry. These seemingly insignificant acts, repeated daily, become the threads woven into the tapestry of lasting change.

Simplicity is key. Don’t overcomplicate the process. Your keystone habit should be a seamless integration into your routine, not a battle of willpower. Find what resonates with you, what aligns with your natural rhythms and preferences.

Harness the power of the morning. Early hours hold a quiet magic. Our minds are fresh, our resolve unwavering. That’s why I champion the power of sunrise movement. A simple yoga flow, a jog bathed in golden light, walking barefoot in the grass, a dance session infused with your favorite music – these energize your body and spirit, setting the tone for a focused, productive day.

Consistency is the cornerstone. Every missed practice isn’t a failure, but a gentle reminder to recommit. Remember, progress, not perfection, is the true measure of success. Be kind to yourself, celebrate small wins, and trust in the momentum of daily repetition.  (See “8 Steps to Create Consistency in Workouts” post)

This year, let’s ditch the pressure and embrace the process. Let’s focus on nurturing one powerful habit, a keystone that unlocks a cascade of positive transformations. What will your keystone be?   The acorn you plant today might just become the oak that shades your tomorrow.

Wishing you a year brimming with health, happiness, and the quiet power of consistent, mindful change.

Happy New Year!

Lisa

Don’t Derail Your Health Goals This Holiday Season!

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The holidays are a time for celebration, feasting, and indulgence. But don’t let the festive cheer derail your healthy lifestyle! Here are 11 tips to help you stay on track and enjoy the holidays guilt-free:

  1. Get Enough Sleep: Sleep is essential for immune function, mood, and cravings. Aim for 7-8 hours per night.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and cravings. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  3. Choose “Healthier” Drinks: Opt for organic/biodynamic wines, champagnes, or clear, unflavored liquor like vodka or tequila. Avoid sugary mixers and artificial additives.
  4. Make Time for Self-Care: Schedule activities that relax and de-stress you, like yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.
  5. Plan Ahead to Avoid Stress: Make a list of tasks and delegate whenever possible. Set realistic expectations and don’t overcommit.
  6. Wash Your Hands Often: This simple habit can help prevent the spread of germs. Use natural soap and water instead of antibacterial products.
  7. Take Precautions When Traveling: I always pack healthy snacks and use non-toxic personal care products.
  8. Include Lighter Fare in Your Feast: Serve roasted vegetables, homemade pickles, and fresh salads alongside your traditional dishes. And, if few others eat it, that’s more healthy leftovers for YOU!
  9. Don’t Skimp on Raw, Cultured, and Bitter Foods: These foods aid digestion and support gut health. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, sauerkraut, and leafy greens in your meals.
  10. Say No to What Doesn’t Serve You: It’s okay to decline invitations, food, or drinks that don’t align with your goals.
  11. Practice Gratitude: Focus on the positive aspects of the season and express your thankfulness.

Remember, the holidays are a time to celebrate and enjoy!

Cheers!

10 Ways to Stay on Track with Your Clean Eating Goals During the Holidays

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The holidays are a time for food, family, and fun. But for those who are trying to eat clean, it can be a challenging time to stay on track with their goals. Here are 10 tips to help you stay on track with your clean eating goals during the holidays:

  1. Practice the 80/20 rule: Eat clean 80% of the time and indulge 20% of the time.
  2. Set SMART goals for yourself: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
  3. Consider non-food related gatherings with friends: Find other ways to socialize that don’t involve food or alcohol.
  4. Never go to a party hungry: Eat a nutritious snack before you go so you’re less likely to overindulge.
  5. Stick with your exercise program: Exercise helps to maintain your fitness level and supports your digestion.
  6. Manage your stress: Stress can lead to cravings and unhealthy eating habits.
  7. Say no to energy-sapping foods: Choose foods that provide a steady source of energy, such as lean proteins, nuts, and eggs.
  8. Find a partner or support system: Having someone to support you on your journey can make a big difference.
  9. Consider doing an alcohol-free or sugar-free challenge: This can be a great way to reset your habits.
  10. Enjoy time spent with your loved ones: The holidays are about more than just food. Focus on creating memories with the people you care about.

Embrace the holidays with a focus on clean eating and mindful indulgence to maintain your health and well-being throughout the season. Remember, an occasional treat is part of the festive experience, so savor your chosen indulgences and seamlessly transition back to clean eating at your next meal.

Wishing you & your family a season of healthy and enjoyable holidays.

Cheers!

 

 

 

 

Trying to Lose Fat & Getting Frustrated?

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Hi friends, is this you? Often, when starting a workout and weight loss program, we want to see results quickly! But…this can often lead to extreme measures (crazy, long workouts or super low-calorie diets) that are impossible to sustain.

To lose weight, start by making small, sustainable changes to your daily routine instead of trying to do too much at once. This will help you build discipline and avoid feeling overwhelmed, which can lead to giving up.

These small, repeatable habits will lead to lasting results.

So even if they seem small or insignificant, focus on doing them consistently. Remember, what we do consistently, we get good at.

If we consistently do things that make us gain weight, we will gain weight. If we consistently do things that help us lose weight, we will lose weight.

So focus on repeatable habits that can help you build a healthy lifestyle and see the results snowball over time.

Here are some examples of small, repeatable habits that can help you lose weight:

  • Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning. Add a squeeze of lemon or a few drops of chlorophyll for an added health boost.
  • Eat a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts as a snack instead of chips or candy… or start skipping snacks.
  • Take a walk after dinner instead of watching TV.
  • Track your steps and increase them each week.
  • Schedule your workouts – or work in short micro workouts throughout the day (try my Tabata workouts!)
  • Add stretching pre & post workouts.
  • Pay attention to protein intake and make sure you are getting at least 25-30 grams with every meal.
  • Cook more meals at home instead of eating out.
  • Get 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

These are just a few examples, and there are many other small changes you can make to your daily routine to help you lose weight. The most important thing is to find habits that you can stick with over time.

Remember, it’s not about being perfect. It’s about making progress…one small step at a time.

You GOT this!

P.S.  Our body doesn’t like change. It can feel threatened and this mechanism is a part of how it protects us to survive.

What I’m trying to say is the longer you’ve had the weight — or the farther you are from your goal, the longer it will probably take for you to get there — especially if it means hitting a new level of leanness you’ve never achieved before.

So while you may look at your friend who gained 12 pounds (like you) and you want your results to happen just as fast, IF you’ve had the weight on for a year and she just gained it on vacation, it’s probably going to come off more quickly for her.

Be patient. Be consistent. Don’t give up.

~xo

TABATA – A High-Intensity Workout That’s Perfect for Everyone

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You know I love Tabata workouts…and for SO many reasons beyond their efficiency.

Here’s why.  Tabata is a type of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) that is known for its efficiency and effectiveness. This type of workout consists of 20 seconds of intense exercise followed by 10 seconds of rest, repeated for a total of 8 rounds. This may not seem like a lot of time (just 4 minutes!), but it is enough to get your heart rate up and burn calories.  I fell in love with Tabata workouts when I was in the corporate grind and working a lot of hours. These workouts provided a great boost during the day while allowing me to stay in shape. Do several of these workouts throughout the day and VIOLA!

Another reason I love Tabata workouts is that they are great for people of all fitness levels. Because you work at a speed that is challenging for you, Tabata is accessible to everyone. In fact, it is often recommended for people who are new to exercise because it is a safe and effective way to get started.

Tabata workouts are also perfect for people with busy schedules. (This is how I came to love Tabatas.) A single Tabata workout only takes 4 minutes, so you can fit it in even on the busiest days. And if you have more time, you can string together multiple Tabata workouts for a longer session.

In addition to being efficient and effective, Tabata workouts are also a great way to get a full-body workout. The 20-second bursts of intense exercise work your heart, lungs, and muscles all at the same time. This makes Tabata a great choice for people who are looking to improve their cardiovascular health, build muscle, and lose weight.

Another reason I love Tabata workouts is that you can easily create a workout depending on fitness goals. I personally use the 2nd option below quite frequently. Here are two common ways to structure your Tabata workouts:

  • A/B: Choose two exercises to alternate between. You’ll do each exercise for 20 seconds of intense effort followed by 10 seconds of rest, for a total of 8 rounds. This is a great way to get a full-body workout, as you’ll be working different muscle groups with each exercise.
  • A/B/C/D: Choose four exercises to move through. You’ll do each exercise for 20 seconds of intense effort followed by 10 seconds of rest, for a total of 4 rounds. This is a great way to challenge yourself and your cardiovascular system, as you’ll be working different muscle groups in quick succession.

You can also choose any exercises you like for your Tabata workouts, such as:

  • Cardio exercises: Jumping jacks, burpees, mountain climbers, sprinting, rowing, jumping rope
  • Plyometric exercises: Squat jumps, tuck jumps, lunges, box jumps, push-ups, sit-ups
  • Strength exercises: Dumbbell rows, push-ups, squats, lunges, pull-ups, bicep curls

No matter which exercises you choose, make sure to listen to your body and take breaks when needed. Tabata workouts can be intense, so it’s important to pace yourself and avoid overdoing it.

Here are some ideas for Tabata exercises you could include in your next workout:

  • Push-ups
  • Triceps dips
  • Mountain climbers
  • Tuck jumps
  • Burpees
  • High knees
  • Bodyweight squats
  • Bodyweight lunges
  • Lunge jumps
  • Jump squats
  • Jumping jacks
  • Jump rope
  • Speed skaters
  • Box jumps

If you’d like to make your Tabata workout more strength-based, you can incorporate weights. Some of those exercise ideas include:

  • Clean and press
  • Dumbbell snatch
  • Front squat
  • Alternating reverse lunge
  • Push-up to mountain climber
  • Biceps curl

When doing Tabata workouts, it is important to listen to your body and take breaks when needed. If you are feeling lightheaded or dizzy, stop the workout and rest. You can also modify the exercises to make them easier if needed.

Tabata workouts are a great way to get a quick and effective workout that is perfect for people of all fitness levels. If you are looking for a way to improve your fitness, lose weight, or build muscle, Tabata is a great option.

Before you go, the trainer in me wants to share some additional tips to get the most out of your Tabata workouts:

  • Warm up before each workout with 5-10 minutes of light cardio, movements and dynamic stretches.
  • Choose exercises that you can do safely and effectively at a high intensity.
  • Focus on form over speed. It is better to do the exercises correctly at a slower pace than to rush through them and injure yourself.
  • Listen to your body and take breaks when needed.
  • Start with 2-3 Tabata workouts per week and gradually increase the number of workouts as you get fitter.
  • Be consistent with your workouts. The more you do, the better the results you will see.

With a little planning and effort, you can easily incorporate Tabata workouts into your fitness routine and start seeing results quickly.

Try it….as one of my mentors used to ask, “What have you got to GAIN?”

the answer: A lot.

 

 

 

 

 

 

P.S. Follow me on Instagram @Hlthchic for FREE Tabata workouts weekly.