Healthy Living Tips
In this section, fellow Alpha Gams will share a wealth of information concerning nutrition, exercise and more that will help all sisters in our quest to "Defeat Diabetes One Step at a Time." Check back often, as new tips will appear twice monthly!
Nutrition/Dietetics
Trans fat is a new addition to the Nutrition Facts Panel. These fats are getting a great deal of attention because clinical trials have shown that they raise total blood cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol as well as lower HDL (good) cholesterol thus increasing the risk for heart disease and stroke. Recommendations are to consume foods with no more than 1 gram of trans fat and less if possible. Foods that are high in trans fats include commercially baked and fried foods, margarines and shortenings.
Click here to view all Healthy Living Tips about nutrition and dietetics.
Jane Fucik Allendorph, Philanthropy Committee Member, is an initiate of Beta Xi Chapter at Purdue University and a registered dietician.
Healthy Eating
The national weight registry, which keeps data on people who have lost a significant amount of weight and kept is off, reports that the vast majority of these people make breakfast a habit.
Click here to view all Healthy Living Tips about healthy eating.
Penny Yocum Edmondson, Philanthropy Committee Chairman, is an initiate of Beta Xi Chapter at Purdue University and a nutrition and wellness teacher.
Exercise
Disclaimer: Before beginning any exercise routine, be sure to check with your doctor.
The ringing in of the New Year always ushers in countless resolutions. Instead of trying a quick fix, turn your resolution to get fit into a long-term goal. Joining a gym or fitness club might help to provide the structure and resources you need to succeed.
It’s important to choose the right gym. Keep these considerations in mind:
- Location: Is it located near your home and work? Will it be a convenient place to travel to on a daily basis?
- Hours and Class/Trainer Schedules: Do the club’s offerings and hours work with your personal schedule?
- Congestion: Will you be able to access the equipment that you need during the times you plan to visit?
- Staff: Is the staff helpful, knowledgeable and courteous?
- Safety and Cleanliness: Is the equipment kept in good repair? Are the restrooms, mats, locker room and exercise equipment clean and sanitary?
- Cost: Is there a long-term contract involved? Will membership fees fit into your personal budget?
Click here to view all Healthy Living Tips about exercise.
Mary Kay Price, Philanthropy Committee Member, is an initiate of Beta Delta Chapter at Indiana University.
Events and Activities
Since January is a time for making resolutions, hold your chapter or club meeting at a local recreation/exercise center or gym. Ask one of the trainers to give a general overview (“tour”) of the equipment, then spend the remainder of the time trying it out. Afterwards, head to a local eatery for a light snack
Click here to view all Healthy Living Tips about events and activities.
Deanna Bogie Conaty, Philanthropy Committee Member, is an initiate of Gamma Omicron Chapter at Eastern Kentucky University.
