Covid-19 is a wake up call for weight loss. We saw that the countries hit hardest were wealthy nations, including the United States. After old age, the second leading risk factor for severe effects of COVID-19 is obesity. This is not good news for Americans as 70% are overweight and a third of us are obese. This is a wake up call for change! And it must be weight loss change that sustains forever; not just another diet.
Government subsidies for weight loss
Unfortunately, our government subsidizes things like soybean and corn which are mostly used to feed livestock. The rest is used for ingredients in ultra processed foods which lead to overeating and weight gain. Consequently, this results in heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, etc. How great would it be if our government subsidizes fresh produce? That would result in nation-wide weight loss. We don’t have immediate control over massive government change, although we all should demand this, but we do have control over our own consumption. Let’s start by voting with our forks by forcing companies to change. If we don’t buy their products, they will have to change their methods.
Work/life balance as wake up call for weight loss
American lifestyle is filled with stress which elevates cortisol, leading to more weight gain. How can you reduce stress and find balance? How can you implement better boundaries? It’s not easy at first, but it’s essential. Get support here from me, friends, family, or at least find a different mindset within yourself. This one is a big wake up call. Stress affects our eating habits, digestion, sleep, energy level, weight, immune system, and so much more.
Inflammation as wake up call for weight loss
Inflammation definitely hinders our immune system which is a big factor with Covid-19. Decreasing inflammation includes eating a well balanced diet, balancing mental health, adequate sleep, and exercise. The mind and the body works in conjunction in our health.
Exercise as wake up call for weight loss
Why move our body? So many reasons including: improve cognition, reduced risk of dementia, reduced anxiety and depression, improved sleep, lower risk of heart disease and hypertension, reduced weight gain, reduced risk of falls/injuries, lower risk of type 2 diabetes, and lower risk of cancer and early death. Some ideas include brisk walking, team sports, biking, yoga, dancing, swimming, running, tai chi, qigong, Pilates, weight lifting, hiking, boot camp training, roller skating, etc. The benefits are endless.
Support is the key to success.
This is a lot to change all at once and can feel overwhelming. Humans are hardwired to need support both personally and professionally. Get a free 30-minute phone consultation. See if this is the right match for you by addressing natural weight loss, cravings, emotional eating, balanced diet, disease prevention, nutrition, and getting to the root cause of what’s keeping you stuck. Demystify all the internet noise and get clarity. See what others are saying on Google and Yelp.
For more articles, read https://happyfoodhealth.com/blog
~ Samantha Hua, Online Nutrition Coach & Holistic Health Coach, San Diego, CA
