Healthy Living in Connecticut Blog

When I started my health journey three years ago, I read many articles that stated that processed meats cause cancer. Dr. Fuhrman has been saying it for years. Dr. Oz just mentioned it in an episode last week. But when the World Health Organization (WHO) says that processed meats cause cancer, suddenly people are listening.

Processed meats include foods primarily in the beef and pork families, such as sausage, bacon, pepperoni and corned beef, but it can also include foods like chicken nuggets. Luncheon meats unless you are purchasing turkey or chicken breast, are probably processed meats.

If you have a lot of weight to lose, you were probably like me at one time. I would always try one diet after another and never get anywhere. If I lost weight, it wouldn't last and I would have to find another diet that worked.

So how did I finally lose over 150 pounds and keep it off for almost three years now? Well, believe it or not, I didn't focus on losing weight when I finally succeeded.

I've been eating healthy foods for over three years now. Mostly vegetables and fruit with minimal turkey, chicken and eggs. I do get a lot of nutrients from the food choices I make, but from what I've been reading, making smoothies gives you the ability to absorb even more nutrients. I figured it would be worth a try.

Last week, I made my first smoothie with broccoli and cauliflower. I thought it tasted disgusting, to be honest. I love eating broccoli and cauliflower whole, but juicing them was not a good idea. Maybe it was the way I made them, maybe I didn't add enough ingredients.

I just had my body fat checked again yesterday at Southern Connecticut State University. I had it tested a little over a month ago and wanted to see if there was a difference since then.

The numbers were good but it wasn't a big drop. I went from 13.35 down to 13.24 percent. That's okay, at least it's in the right direction! The woman who checked my body fat explained that it's a slow process as the body fat gets closer to 10 percent. I have patience though and I'm enjoying the results in my arms, chest and legs. I love having more muscle and I notice I have a lot more energy. Some other people have commented on that as well.

My motive is to build strength, and one way to help with this goal is the kettlebell swing.

I attended a workshop at the local YMCA yesterday and the instructor went through the process of how to do them properly. A lot of people do these exercises incorrectly at first, so it's important to find a class if you're interested in learning the technique.