We all know that nutrition and exercise are important for our well-being and help us lose weight, but should you focus on one more than the other this New Year?
Nutrition
Research shows that cutting calories through dietary changes seems to promote weight loss more effectively than exercise and physical activity. Most people find it hard to eliminate the amount of calories through exercise that can just be done through proper nutrition. That’s why eating the right food is generally more effective for weight loss. Eating right not only helps you lose weight, but it keeps you healthy too.
Maintaining a balanced diet by healthy eating can:
- Give you vitality and energy for life
- Help you stay at a weight that's right for you
- Boost your immune system
- Improve sports performance
- Delay the effects of aging
- Ward off serious illnesses like heart disease, certain cancers, mature-age onset diabetes, and gallbladder disease
Exercise Benefits
Physical activity has many proven benefits. It is important because it can help you maintain your weight loss and build strength. People who lose weight and keep it off get regular physical activity. And getting regular exercise can help prevent excess weight gain in the first place.
Maintaining a consistent active lifestyle can:
- Help prevent diseases like heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes and other diseases.
- Improve stamina
- Strengthen and tone
- Enhance flexibility
- Control weight
- Improve quality of life
The Winner is…
Can’t make up your mind on which is more important? Good. Exercise or nutrition alone is not the best way to live a healthy life. Doing both– proper nutrition and exercise – can help you lose weight and live a longer life.
Start Small
So what do you need to work on the most this year – nutrition or exercise?
We have to eat everyday to survive, so start out by raiding your food pantry and replacing a bag of chips with fruits and vegetables. Then, instead of turning on the TV when you get home, take a 30 -minute walk around the neighborhood or come to a group exercise class at the Y nearest you.
The Y of Central Florida is a leading voice on health and well-being in our community. We bring families and people closer together, encourage good health and foster connections through fitness, sports, fun and shared interests. As a result, thousands of youth, adults and families are receiving the support, guidance and resources needed to achieve greater health and well-being for their spirit, mind and body.
