With diet fads splashed across every magazine and billboards touting the amazing power of super foods and slimming pills, it’s no wonder that men and women alike are at a loss for what to eat. At The MAX Challenge, nutrition plays a critical role in our approach to health, and we endeavor to educate all of our members on the value of a well-rounded nutritional regimen.
Because we know that health is more than just how a number on the scale, we teach everyone in our program how to make dietary changes that are enjoyable, impactful, and maintainable. Among others, consider the following:
Drink Up
Not only will water refuel your electrolytes, but it will help to flush toxins from your body and keep your organs in working order. While the exact amount that you need will depend on your body, lifestyle, and nutritional needs, start with replacing sodas and sugary juices with water-based drinks to begin the cleansing process. As a baseline, if you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.
Leafy Greens
Get your fill of vitamins while saving on calories and fat with a host of leafy greens. Toss a salad, sauté spinach, or boil your own broth with kale, collard, and chard. As with any diet change, consult with your doctor before bulking up on too many greens, as the high Vitamin K content can potentially interact with certain medications.
Get Your C
Whether you prefer clementines in the summer shade or oranges picked straight from a tree, a fair share of citrus will serve up more than enough of the immune-boosting Vitamin C. Add a few wedges of tangerine` to your salad, or squeeze a bit of lime on your tacos. For an extra benefit, get your daily dose of D with a fresh-squeezed lemonade on the front porch!
Go Pro-Antioxidant
From blueberries and green tea to cranberries and dark chocolate (yup, you heard us!), antioxidant-rich foods will promote cell regeneration and potentially stave off the severity of illness and disease. While research is still on the table, current evidence suggests that there is at least no harm in going a little crazy on these oxidation inhibitors. If nothing else, be aware that supplements have NOT been shown to have the same benefits of foods containing antioxidants.
Cinnamon
Revered since ancient times, cinnamon is a present-day commodity that you likely come across on a regular basis. Rather than save it for raisin toast and swirly buns, add a dose of this anti-inflammatory metabolism booster to your morning smoothie to experience its full range of impressive benefits. In fact, recent studies even link cinnamon to better cardiovascular and neurocognitive health! (If possible, go for the Ceylon variety, which is considered the true cinnamon).
Whether you’ve just begun your journey to health or perhaps are well on your way to becoming your best self, the expert staff at The MAX Challenge are here to help. To learn about staying fit, healthy, and happy, contact Marlton, New Jersey’s premier fitness and nutrition program at THE MAX Challenge of Marlton, NJ.
