It was great to learn from Franciscan Health we are not the only ones at risk from adding COVID pounds. No, not the dollars we save by eating in, and traveling less. We’re talking the extra weight we put on with the gym being closed, and spending more time at home. Having thoughtfully raised the question, Franciscan Health follows through by suggesting small changes to shed those extra COVID pounds
Ouch This May Hurt But It Could Also Be Fun
1… Purchase a few 9” diameter ‘fish plates’, and store the larger dinner ones at the bottom of the pile. Load half one fish plate with non-starchy veg, a quarter with protein, and the rest with whole-wheat or whole-grain.
Eat the non-starchy veg first to dent your appetite, and then dine on the rest with a clear conscience. Wash down with water. Pass on sweetened beverages like sweet tea and soda. Try not to cry. Healthy food does not have to taste like cardboard.
2… Don’t try to pile the fish plate six inches high with protein. Limit your chicken, hamburger, pork, steak, etc. to what you could fit in your outstretched hand. Try not to think of seconds. Imagine your appetite satisfying with the first serving.
3… Start taking free exercise by walking around the neighborhood. Aim to walk two-to-three times a week for thirty minutes. Like the rest of the Franciscan Health tips, you may find yourself continuing the exercise when lock down is over.
Vary These Small Changes to Shed Extra COVID Pounds
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, and Jill too we guess. Vary your weight management routine by adjusting your walking route, so it stays interesting. Invite the family dog to join in from time to time. Make small changes to shed extra COVID pounds fun on your plate, and feel better about it too.
Combine whole-wheat or whole-grain with protein by loading a half plate of lasagna or pizza for a new spin. Let’s make COVID 2021 healthier and it will go faster. And when they reopen the swimming pools in summer, we may not make quite such a dramatic splash.
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Preview Image: Healthy Eating Guide
