Tuesday, September 22, 2015

7 Tips for Getting a Morning Workout

Many people have trouble falling asleep at night if they work out later in the day. Exercise increases brain activity and adrenaline, so why not use it to your advantage and carry that alertness throughout your day instead of letting it work against you?  

But finding time to exercise in the morning presents its own set of challenges. Here are seven tips to help get you moving in the morning: 

1.   Get a good night’s rest. If you have at least 8 hours of sleep, you’ll be able to get out of bed and get going much easier.

2.   Get your gear ready the night before. This will make it much easier to get yourself ready early in the morning.

3.   Decide on your workout the night before. That way, you’ll have a clear plan to follow when you wake up.

4.   Attend a class. Many gyms offer classes that start around 6 am. No one wants to be the person who walks out during a class, so you’ll be motivated to stay until the end.

5.   Have a tasty treat waiting for you. I love a fresh cup of coffee after an early morning workout. Maybe for you it’s a smoothie or egg-white omelet. Anything that’s healthy and helps you get over the finish line will do the trick!

6.   Find a buddy. Scheduling your early morning workout with a friend will give you accountability so you’re less likely to ignore the alarm clock.

7.   Keep at it. Getting up early for exercise will become a part of your routine before you know it!

For more tips on exercise, please contact Better Living at (734) 747-0123.
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Friday, September 11, 2015

5 Alternatives to Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is a nutrient-dense, versatile and convenient food. And people with peanut allergies or a distaste for peanut butter don’t have to miss out. There are more substitutions for peanut butter out there than ever before. Here are a few:


1.       Almond butter: The most common peanut butter substitute, almond butter is a great source of omega-6 fatty acids, and a better source of omega-3 fatty acids than peanut butter. Almonds are the most nutritionally dense nut, including potassium, calcium, vitamin E, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus.

2.       Cashew butter: This one is my personal favorite because of the great taste. Though it’s not as high in protein as peanut butter, it contains important nutrients like copper and iron, in addition to healthy fats.

3.       Sunflower butter: Sunflower seeds are rich in omega-6s, and also a great source of magnesium and vitamin E.

4.       Pistachio butter: Pistachios are a great source of omega-6s, fiber, and potassium. Some research even suggests that pistachios can lower cholesterol and boost antioxidant levels.

5.       Hazelnut butter:  Though not as high in omega-3s or protein as peanut butter, hazelnut butter is good source of omega-6s, and it’s packed with fiber, vitamin E, copper, and manganese.

Check your local Whole Foods or other grocery store to see what’s available in your area. There are a lot of recipes online if you prefer the DIY approach!

For more ideas on healthy proteins contact Better Living at (734) 747-0123.

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