Here we are…A few days into 2024! I know 2023 was quite the year, most likely filled with ups and downs for all of you. In our fast-paced world, the demands of daily life can seem overwhelming and often take precedence over our health. I know it can seem like creating a health-focused lifestyle is completely out of reach. But I have good news for you: It’s a lot easier than you might think.
The goal for any lifestyle change is sustainability. Consistency is king. It’s really easy to look at the year ahead and choose a short term solution to get the results you want. But the truth is, health is a journey, not a destination. True well-being goes beyond just the absence of disease; it involves nurturing the body, mind, and spirit to achieve optimal health.
Life is all about choices.
Transforming your health is too.
In the pursuit of health and well-being, many individuals are drawn to the allure of fad diets and quick-fix solutions. Especially this time of year…I get it, you want results. But, taking time to create changes that are sustainable will help you form lasting habits. This method will win every time.
Functional medicine is rooted in a holistic approach to healthcare, emphasizing the interconnectedness of every body system. We recognize that factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress, and physical activity play pivotal roles in overall health. When you truly understand that your body is intricately connected, it makes it easier to ‘connect the dots.’ Focusing on gradual, sustainable changes, it leads to more consistent results.
Prevention is ALWAYS the best medicine.
When you choose a health-focused lifestyle, your focus will start to shift to preventive measures rather than reactive treatments. Adopting habits that support well-being can prevent the development of chronic conditions, such as autoimmune disease, digestive issues, and more. Investing in health early on can lead to a more fulfilling and active life. Studies show that Individuals who prioritize their well-being often experience increased energy levels, improved mood, and better cognitive function. Who doesn’t want to age optimally?
On the other hand, short-term solutions often involve drastic changes that are challenging to sustain in the long run. Rapid adjustments to eating patterns or extreme exercise regimens may not align with your lifestyle, making relapse more likely. In some cases, it can actually make you feel worse. It’s time to rash the fads….’New year, new you’ should mean something a little different to you this time around. Focus on creating healthy habits.
Now is the time to evaluate what habits are no longer serving your goals and replace them with habits that support optimal health.
I guarantee if you focus on these areas, you’ll start noticing major changes. Remember, health is a journey. If you stick with it, you will see results.
1. Prioritize Nutrition:
- A balanced and diverse diet rich in organic, whole foods is what I am always looking for.
- Make sure to choose foods that keep your blood sugar stable.
- Food is fuel. Mindful eating helps foster a healthy relationship with food.
- Stay Hydrated!
- Eliminate processed foods.
2. Monitor Blood Sugar:
- Most patients we work with are experiencing blood sugar swings that they aren’t even aware of.
- Check blood sugar 45-60 minutes after a meal and again at the 2 hour mark. Target range: 85-110 all day.
- Low blood sugar is the #1 stressor to the adrenals. Making sure to get enough protein and healthy fat can help keep your blood sugar more stable, and minimize crashes.
- Keep a food log to track foods that create spikes or crashes and remove them.
3. Emphasize Regular Physical Activity:
- You should enjoy exercise. Focus on what makes your body feel good.
- HIIT is an excellent way to boost brain function, stabilize blood sugar, and build lean muscle.
- Keep your heart rate in a ‘safe’ range: 180 minus your age to steadily build endurance without overtaxing the adrenals.
- Consistency over intensity, always.
4. Optimize Sleep Habits:
- Quality sleep is crucial to overall health.
- Create a calming bedtime routine. I also like to read and use my infrared sauna to help me relax and get my body ready for sleep.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- No screen time or work at least one hour before bed.
- Balanced blood sugar during the day means balanced blood sugar all night. If you’re waking in the night, it could mean that your blood sugar is crashing.
5. Manage Stress:
- Mindfulness, prayer, meditation, and deep breathing can all positively affect stress levels.
- Deep breathing alone can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone). Look into deep breathing techniques and choose one that works well for you.
- Chronic stress is tied to many health conditions. Learning how to manage daily stress can make a huge impact.
- Take regular breaks for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. A walk outdoors has also been shown to reduce stress levels.
- Adaptogens like Ashwagandha, Holy Basil, Rhodiola, and even Reishi can help regulate the way your body responds to stress. Make sure to check with your health care provider before starting any new supplements.
6. Practice Gratitude:
- Gratitude has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental resilience, fostering a more optimistic outlook on life.
- Individuals who regularly express gratitude often report better sleep quality and enhanced immune function.
- The positive emotions associated with gratitude contribute to lower blood pressure and a healthier heart.
Making lasting changes starts with small changes and consistency.
Each person is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. If you are dealing with chronic health issues, it is vital to get to the root cause instead of short term fixes or band aid solutions.
If you’re ready for support, reach out to our team today!