Non-Surgical Healthy Lifestyle

Diet & Exercise

Keeping a healthy diet and exercising regularly are equally important. Many people only consider improving their diet and/or exercise routines when they wish to lose weight. Diet and exercise, however, should not be forgotten once weight loss goals are achieved. In addition to maintaining a healthy weight, those who exercise regularly and keep a healthy diet enjoy many health benefits, including:

Decreased risk of heart disease and other related health issues

Studies have shown that those who regularly exercise and eat healthy have less heart problems. A diet low in fat and cholesterol reduces the chance of clogged arteries. In addition, regular exercise of moderate intensity helps lower blood pressure, improves the body’s ability to use oxygen, and can decrease the heart rate over time.

Improved mood

When you are hungry, your body is signaling its desire for nutrients, which cannot usually be fulfilled through the consumption of high-fat foods with low nutritional values. In addition, blood sugar levels that are too low or too high can cause irritability in many people. From an exercise standpoint, studies have shown that exercising causes the body to release endorphins, which promote your mood and self-esteem.

Improved energy levels

Blood sugar levels that are too low or too high can cause lethargy and fatigue in most people, and eating properly maintains the blood sugar at proper levels. Exercise promotes the flow of blood and oxygen throughout the body, improving the efficiency of your heart.

Improved sleep

A good night’s sleep is important for concentration and memory. Exercise is known to improve people’s abilities to fall asleep and stay asleep. While exercise can help people fall asleep, it may over-energize some people if done too close to bedtime. Therefore, it is important to adjust your exercise schedule if you have trouble falling asleep after exercising.

While diet and exercise are important steps to leading a healthy life, those who have not exercised in a long time should start out slowly to avoid injury. If you have any underlying health conditions, or if you are unsure of how to begin, you should consult with your doctor to develop a diet and exercise plan tailored to your specific needs.

© 2018, Dr. Nick H. Gabriel. All Rights Reserved.
Bariatric Surgeon Dr. Nick H. Gabriel, D.O.