GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK SOMETIMES

While eating healthy and exercising are important, experts say it is OK to cut yourself some slack at times

Zeenia F Baria , TOI 16th aug 2013

Are you among those who diligently follow a healthy diet and work out in the gym regularly? While these are essential must-dos for good health, experts say that sometimes, it is OK to give yourself a break. And with the erratic weather tempting you to stay indoors, here are some simple diet and fitness alternatives that are not only enjoyable, but also effective.
HAVE SOME POPCORN Snacking between meals is usually a tricky thing. While one should ideally stick to healthy food items, more often than not, junk or fried food tempts us. When you feel like reaching out for that unhealthy snack instead of a bowl of fresh fruit, have some popcorn instead. Surprised? Clinical nutritionist Dr Nupur Krishnan says that popcorn is an healthy alternative. “That is because it has almost double the amount of antioxidant polyphenols (which protect against cancer and heart disease) per serving than fruits and vegetables. It is a completely unprocessed whole grain and has high fibre content, which ensures that you stay full and digest properly. Not only that, popcorn also helps lower cholesterol, is low in calories and has B vitamins. Healthy snacking boosts energy levels and helps you concentrate better, which in turn makes you more productive,” she says. So, while you maintain a healthy diet, have a bowl of plain popcorn or add some spices instead of processed foods, which are high in sugar, salt and oil content.
LAUGH OUT LOUD Once in a while, we all feel too tired to go to the gym or exercise at home. And experts say it is OK to cut yourself some slack. Research has found that repeatedly laughing till your tummy hurts has the same effect on your body as moderate exercise. Not only does a good laugh improve your mood, it
also lowers your blood pressure, reduces bad cholesterol, enhances your immune system and is good for your heart. Just 15 minutes of daily laughter is known to help your blood vessels function better and has benefits that are similar to a simple workout. While we are not asking you to give up working out in favour of laughing, it is OK sometimes to make the swap.
BITE INTO SOME DARK
CHOCOLATE A little bit of dark chocolate every other day is good for your health, say experts. A plant compound called epicatechin, which is found in dark chocolate, stimulates the
same muscle response as exercise, which slows down muscle aging. Dark chocolate also has antioxidants, which keep you healthy and even prevent wrinkles. Don’t get carried away and gorge on a huge chocolate bar — the idea is to eat in moderation and enjoy the benefits it provides to your health.
CREATE A MUSIC LIBRARY Reams may have been written about the benefits of music, and here it is one more time. Want to lead a healthier lifestyle? Make sure music is a part of it! Studies say that listening to music will not only improve your mood, but also reduce stress, increase the level of disease-fighting antibodies and improve cardiovascular health. Some experts even suggest that music can provide relief from pain, helps one recover faster from an illness and even improves mental health. Make it a habit to play music in the background at home. Or listen to it while you cook, travel or when doing your daily chores and errands.
TAKE A WALK OUTSIDE While the rains keep playing peek-a-boo in Bangalore , take advantage of the sun whenever it comes out. Though the beauty industry cries itself hoarse on how important sunscreen is and how much damage sunrays can do in the long run, many people are forgetting that Vitamin D is important for the human body. Spending a few minutes in the sun (preferably early in the morning or before sunset) helps your body produce Vitamin D — a nutrient that is essential for good health. Lack of Vitamin D is known to increase the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease and even mental illness.

15 minutes of daily laughter has benefits that are are similar to a simple workout