As fall approaches, you might be finding yourself in an energy slump. While the days start to get shorter and you start to get back into a routine, you may be finding yourself unable to keep up with all of the demands.
Celebrity nutritionist and fitness expert JJ Virgin may have the answers you need to get back into the game.
In a recent interview, she spoke about her energy boosters.
For starters Virgin said, first thing in the morning think fiber. She recommends going “slow and low” utilizing low glycemic carbs. Examples of these power packed foods are the protein-rich grain quinoa, lentils, apples, berries, and nuts.
Keep your fiber intake up throughout the day, Virgin said, trying to attain at least 50 grams. If you’re not there yet, she suggested trying to increase by 5 grams a day until you reach your fiber goal.
Virgin said the reason for this is that “fiber tempers your blood sugar response.” She referred to this as “living by the plate” with her magic plate consisting of clean lean protein and low glycemic carbs.
“Fiber is critical for steady energy, as well as satiety, good cholesterol and digestive bacterial support. “
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Virgin spoke about the “fat-free” craze of a few decades ago, where everyone actually got fatter. She said to not fear fat and “make an oil change.” Healthy fats from olive oil, coconut oil, avocados, nuts and her favorite palm fruit oil can really make a difference.
According to PalmTreeOil.com, “The tocotrienols present in palm tree oil have been reported in scientific literature to prevent cardiovascular diseases, lower the serum cholesterol level, decrease platelet aggregation, inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells."
Virgin said that the above mentioned healthy fats, including palm tree oil, can give you “fresh sustainable energy” and keeps you from craving sugar.
When it comes to energy and reducing cravings, Virgin could not over-emphasize the importance of staying hydrated. She actually puts her clients on a water drinking schedule to make sure they get in an adequate amount each day.
She suggested drinking eight 16 ounces of water when you first wake up, as well as eight 16 ounces 30-60 minutes before each meal. Virgin said that it is important to limit yourself to only eight ounces with a meal.
Prior to bed, she said to drink another eight ounces which she says can also shut down evening hunger. Virgin said, “If you are moderately dehydrated you raise cortisol levels and that water consumption is critical for a good metabolism.”
JJ Virgin’s latest book entitled “The Virgin Diet” is set to be released in November, 2012. Look for more articles featuring JJ Virgin, as well as a live chat with the celebrity nutritionist and fitness expert in October, 2012.
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