Utah is one of the fittest states in the nation, with obesity rates ranking at 5th lowest in the country. It also has the lowest instances of diabetes and hypertension. Living Elevated is synonymous with healthy living and outdoor culture. Elevate your life by getting fit.
Eat Right in the Right Amounts
The best diet for everyone doesn’t exist. Each individual has a specific set of dietary needs (not wants). However, eating moderately works for everyone. If you want to lose weight, cut your portions, preferably sugar. Your sugar intake is a more significant factor to your weight than the fats in your diet, so lay off on the junk foods and sodas. Consuming high amounts of sugar every day can elevate your blood sugar levels and potentially lead to insulin resistance, which increases the tendency of your body to store fat, particularly around your belly area. High blood sugar also disrupts the function of leptin hormones in your body, increasing your appetite and decreasing your body’s capability to burn fat naturally. Cutting sugar will eventually get your insulin and leptin levels back to normal, giving your body the ability to burn fat more efficiently.
Get a Bit of Exercise
Utah is famed for its outdoor culture. Even residents of Salt Lake City (the most urban city in the state) take time to appreciate the great outdoors. Run, take hikes, or do a bit of cycling — any physical activity will do, as long as you do it regularly. If you don’t have the will or you lack the motivation, join a group. The social aspect of group activities will help you stay on track. You’ll have an easier time pushing through when you’re unmotivated if you have people to talk to and share your experiences. Try to get a bit of sun, but not too much. Sunlight can raise your serotonin levels, making you feel a little bit happier. While the sun can ward off depression (and weight gain associated with it), too much sun can lead to problems. Utah’s elevation means higher concentrations of ultraviolet radiation, so don’t forget to put on sunscreen whenever you go out into the sun.
Mobility Problems or Injuries
Mobility problems and injuries can limit your physical activities, but it can’t stop you from burning fats. Swim a few laps in the pool; swimming is low impact, and the water makes it easier for you to move. Even if you can’t swim, just staying in the water will ramp up your body’s natural tendency to burn fat to maintain your core body temperature. At home, you can soak into a tub of cool water, but it may be worthwhile to invest in a walk-in bathtub if you have mobility issues. Walk-in bathtubs also allow you to stay longer in the water. You’ll be in a sitting position enabling you to read, watch a movie, or even type on an unplugged laptop.
Striving for a healthier body today will pay off in the future, especially if losing a few pounds can protect you from diabetes and heart problems.
