Eat Healthy Even If You Are Sick 10/20/2009
I always worry that I will lose focus on my diet and gain weight when I’m sick. When I get a bad cold I usually tend to lie around the house and snack constantly because I’m bored. In my research and study due to a recent cold, I found some ways to maintain my diet and not put on pounds by following some simple suggestions: Eat Protein Prevents muscle loss – so all that work in the gym won’t be to waste! Repairs and builds cells which is much needed when you are sick. Fills you up – studies prove that protein satisfies you and decreases hunger more than fats or carbs (results show people ate 10% less) Food options : Lean meats (chicken, pork, beef, fish, and lamb), eggs, cheese, beans, soy products (tofu), and nuts I keep light soups on stock (chicken vegetable, Black bean, Gumbo), make egg white omelets, and eat low fat lunch meat. Get Enough Calories When sick you’re body is working harder so you may need more calories. Like me and your snacking because you are just home and bored? Turn on a movie and lay in bed to keep your mind busy. Also, drink plenty of fluids to keep you hydrated and your stomach full. Eat Fiber Eating fiber is hard enough to remember to begin with, so when you are sick remember to fiber up! Eat your daily dose of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to stay on track. How I get my fiber in? I make fiber packed muffins (see the Bread page), munch on double fiber toast with low fat cottage cheese on top, eat fiber rich cereal mixed with light fiber cereal, and take fiber chewables. Get Nutrients Vitamins and minerals are important for your health. Make sure you are getting your recommended daily dose – always take your multivitamin. Hate pills? vitamins – they aren’t just for kids either. Eat foods that are rich in nutrients – I make sure to eat plenty of fruits and veggies. Try an orange – it’s loaded with vitamin C to help fight colds. Information from this blog and more on eating healthy when sick at : http://www.webmd.com/diet/guide/healthy-eating-when-you-are-sick http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/guide/benefits-protein CommentsLeave a Reply |
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