Come see why we're voted BILLINGS' BEST fitness center
Come see why we're voted BILLINGS' BEST fitness center
Your Life, Your Gym
Read the latest fitness and nutrition articles from our own Granite Health and Fitness team of personal trainers and group training instructors.
12 Week Program to guide you on how to create results that LAST! Members can now register ONLINE!
Before we know it the sun will be shining, we'll be out on the lake, mowing the lawn, camping in the mountains, enjoying BBQs with friends and family, attending weddings, and going on vacations. Throughout the year, many set exercise and nutrition goals to help prepare their body for the summer. When the long-awaited summer hits, we typically choose to be outside and lose our routine with planned exercise and are faced with eating differently due to our summer activities. Try these 4 simple summer nutrition tips to help keep you on track.
In order for our cells to function, we need water. Water helps us to balance fluids and electrolytes, regulate temperature, digestion, blood circulation, heart health, the extraction of waste, and delivery of nutrients; it's pretty much needed everywhere in our body. Aim to consume about half your body weight in ounces of water per day. You may need more if you are active or out in the sun for longer periods of time. Try flavoring your water with lemon and basil, cucumber and mint, or orange and thyme.
Micronutrients are commonly referred to as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Some of these can be produced within our own body while others need to be acquired from outside sources like fruits, vegetables, and meat. They are important because they help with protecting our bodies from disease. Micronutrients also help with creating enzymes that break down food and are used all-day to keep every system in our bodies functioning.
To obtain our micronutrients, focus on eating nutrient dense whole foods meaning foods that are found in nature and not processed. These include fruits, vegetable, seeds, nuts, legumes, whole grains, and animal products. When going to BBQs, opt for fruit instead of chips as a side, grilling sweet potatoes for fries, and grilling Portobello mushrooms to use as hamburger buns.
To help us feel well and stay energized when taking day-long or weekend trips within our beautiful state, plan snacks to take with you and make conscious choices when stopping at convenience stores. Look for better options like fresh fruit, hard-boiled eggs, or vegetable cups instead of chips, nachos, and candy. Pack trail mix with raw nuts, seeds, and cocoa nibs, jerky low in sugar and preservative free, or apple slices with peanut butter which store well in the car.
When the sun is shining, it's easy to quickly consume several libations that can throw us off track without realizing it. For every beer, glass of wine, or cocktail you drink, try drinking a glass of water in between. Also, consider making a change to your mixers and opt for a better choice like flavored sparkling water instead of soda or fruit juice.
