Life is busy. We all want short cuts, faster ways, and guarantees that our efforts will not be wasted. I hear the same things in my clinic when I’m coaching people about their health. As a general rule, there are several common things that most people can improve upon and see results in a matter of a few weeks.
These may sound harsh. Remember, you can only enjoy the results you earn! Put in the effort, and reap the rewards!
Let’s focus on the top 5.
Quit drinking all coffee, green tea, black tea, white tea, carbonated beverages, juice.
Why? All of these increase the acid level of various tissues and organs in the body.
What are common benefits? Many stomach acid problems improve immensely, many stiff, achy joints become more mobile, sometimes we see skin problems clear up, edginess usually disappears, your adrenals (stress-coping glands) will thank you!
How long to see results once the change-over is complete? 2 – 3 weeks.
What can you do instead? Drink water, herbal tea, and my personal favourite – hot water.
How much? (1/2 oz per lb of body weight).
Have at least one bowel movement per day, preferably two or three (one for each meal).
So, now you ask, “how do I do that without using laxatives? The answer is: increase your veggie intake, focusing on produce that is at least similar to what is grown near where you live. I don’t know anyone who eats too many veggies. I don’t think it is possible to eat too many. Check this out: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/magazine/6248975.stm
Why? Veggies provide bulk that carries metabolic debris out of your body and prevents you from re-absorbing it. They also provide various vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants when they are very fresh.
What are common benefits? Improved bowel frequency, strengthened immune response because the gut is not harbouring old gunk that serves as a breeding place for bacteria and viruses.
How long to see results once the change-over is complete? A few days.
Ho w much? At the very least, strive for 1 fist-sized serving of veggies for every 25 lbs of body weight each day. If you live in a cold climate, those veggies should be lightly steamed, baked, or souped in the winter. Raw is fine in the summer if your gut can handle it.
What can you do to make it easier? Purchase pre-cut, pre-washed veggies, portion them into single serving snacks with a little container of dip or humus.
Get 8 hours of sleep per night.
I’m amazed at the number of people who come in wanting me to give them a magic bullet to increase their energy when they are getting less than 7 hours of sleep, and in some cases as little as 5. Sorry folks. There is no magic bullet!
Why? Sleep deprivation (less than 7 hours of sleep) weakens the immune response, depresses the body’s ability to heal, makes people less productive and more grumpy.
What are common benefits? Enhanced energy, better moods, better skin tone, stronger immune response.
How long to see results once the change-over is complete? It may take you a few weeks to create new sleep patterns. Along the way, as your body gets accustomed to going to bed earlier you will probably sleep better.
How much? At least 7 hours and preferably 8 hours.
What can you do to make it easier? Turn the TV and computer off 2 hours before you want to go to bed, and start dimming the lights. This will encourage melatonin production which may help you to sleep better.
Get some physical activity if you don’t already.
Why? Active people are healthier.
What are the common benefits? Daily moderate exercise enhances sleep, helps with weight regulation, enhances cardio functioning, enhances immune response, boosts energy, increases ability to handle daily stress.
How long to see results on the change-over is complete? 3 – 4 weeks.
How much? 30 – 45 minutes. If you are not active now, start with 15 minutes, 6 days a week and gradually build it up. Progressing too quickly can make your lymphatic system dump too many old toxins into circulation and you’ll end up feeling like you have a flu.
What can you do to make it easier? Schedule times to workout (go for walks, take a class, etc) with friends, choose activities you like, make sure you have the right gear to do the activity comfortably, don’t just get a membership to a gym - pay to take a class.
Hug a family member and tell him/her you love him/her.
Why? People who are in positive relationships are healthier.
What are the common benefits? Decreased cortisol (stress hormone), reduces blood pressure, slower heart rates.
How long to see results on the change-over is complete? Sometimes immediate.
What can you do to make it easier? You can tell the person you want to hug “I need a hug” or “I’ve got a hug with your name on it that I’d like to give to you.”
Judith Cobb
The information in this website is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. It is meant as information only. For any health concerns you have, please consult with the trained health practitioner of your choice.
