simple changes to create a healthier lifestyle

I’m so excited to have teamed up with FlapJacked Protein Pancakes to share some easy tips for living a healthier lifestyle.

I think a lot of people feel living a healthier lifestyle can be overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be!  Little changes can add up big over time and the best part is that in doing it this way, you never feel deprived as you implement them!

Here are a few of my favorite simple changes:

1. Try a New Activity

Now that the weather is getting nicer around the country, try to get out and enjoy it!  I’ve spoken to a lot of people who tell me they love to be active but feel bored with their usual running or yoga routine.  I think the important part of exercise is doing something you enjoy.  If you’re no longer deriving pleasure from your usual routine, don’t be afraid to change it up!  I personally love trying new outdoor activities – from hiking to zip lining, kayaking and paddle boarding – I love that these adventures get me outside and active as well as provide me with a fun, new experience!  Sometimes a change in routine is just what you need to reinvigorate your passion for being active!

2. Eat Breakfast

I’m sure you’ve heard this one before (and if you follow me on Instagram, you know I’m a regular breakfast eater) but you should always eat breakfast!  Your body has been fasting all night and needs to replenish its stores in order to help you function at your best for the day ahead.  Aim to include fruit/veggies, fiber, whole grains and protein.

A great place to start with this goal is using FlapJacked Protein Pancakes!  I particularly loved the Cinnamon Apple flavor – with 180 calories, 7g dietary fiber and 15g of protein per 1/2 cup serving all you need to do is add a little fruit and you’ve got yourself a complete meal that will keep you satisfied for hours!   Plus, they’re made with natural ingredients and are preservative and additive free!

But best of all?  They’re a cinch to make.  All you need to do is add water!  It’s a great breakfast you can pull together in minutes that will fill you up without weighing you down. 

3. Pack Snacks

I think this is one tip people often overlook but I promise it can really go a long way!  It’s SO easy to just grab whatever when you’re out and hungry and those choices can often end up being low in energy and nutrients.  Packing snacks will not only enable you to make a wise choice no matter where you are, but will also save you some money in the process!   

A few of my favorites?  Whole pieces of fruit, nuts, homemade trail mix (whole grain cereal + dried fruit and nuts), a cheese stick with whole grain crackers, a baggie of air-popped popcorn or hummus with veggie sticks.

4. Hydrate

Again, something I’m sure you’ve all heard before – but especially worth noting now that the warmer weather is here.  Your body requires A LOT of fluid to function normally.  An additional bonus to drinking enough is that we often mistake thirst for hunger.  Keeping hydrated will help to keep your hunger in check as well as make sure your body is running at peak performance.

The DRI recommends that the average healthy male (>19) should aim to consume 3.7 L/day and the average healthy female (>19) should aim to consume 2.7L/day.  Try sparkling water or adding citrus fruits (lemons, limes), cucumbers or berries to make it a little more flavorful if you’re having trouble downing plain water.

5. Sleep

It may sound strange, but getting enough sleep is actually a huge part of living a healthy lifestyle.  There are so many benefits to sleep it’s hard to pinpoint just one – from aiding in cognitive function to improving athletic performance as well as helping to keep your appetite in check – it is definitely one simple change you’ll want to implement! 

Start by getting in bed just 5 minutes earlier at first then build from there – ultimately aiming for 7-8 hours each night.  Plus, what’s better than going to bed knowing you can wake up and enjoy a delicious stack of pancakes first thing!?

Want to try FlapJacked Protein Pancakes for yourself?  Visit their site and use DISCOUNT CODE: CAITSPLATE for a 20% discount off the entire order NOW through May 31, 2014. And definitely check out their social media outlets where they share delicious ideas! Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

0