Personally, the reason why I can never stick to a clean diet or a strict fitness regimen is the fact that I never see results immediately. Of course, this is a poor way of measuring the effectiveness of your health and lifestyle choices.
Additionally, a healthy lifestyle isn’t something that should be temporary—we need to be in it for the long run, and results will come slowly but surely. Little changes to your everyday routine, such as drinking more water, squeezing in a workout and getting more sleep, will surely bring about small changes in your mood and body.
Here are a few of things you can change in order to see small improvements!
Recharge your health and fitness, and:
Drink more water.
The benefits: I don’t need to tell you the largest benefit of drinking water—aka surviving. On top of that, because your body is 70 percent water, hydrating helps keep your organs functioning, energize your muscles, maintain your bowel functions and so much more. Be nice to your organs and hydrate!
What you’ll notice: Your skin will be glowing, you’ll feel more full before meals and you’ll be a little less fatigued (and you know that’s what we need as college students).
How long it’ll take you to notice: Of course, you’ll notice some of these things at different times, but for the most part, you’ll be noticing the changes in as little as a week.
Make the switch from white carbs to whole wheat or whole grain carbs.
The benefits: Yes, there is a difference. White carbs like white flour, white rice and so on, that have been bleached and stripped of their nutritional value. They’re empty calories that raise your blood glucose levels. Whole grain carbs, on the other hand, are high in fiber and magnesium, and have been proven to lower heart disease risk, aid digestive health and lower the risk of heart attacks, strokes and Type 2 Diabetes.
What you’ll notice: You won’t notice as much, as eating whole grain is something that helps your insides more than your outsides. But you will be fuller faster and you may have smoother bowel movements.
How long it’ll take you to notice: This is a diet change you should consider making long term, and the benefits won’t be apparent for a few weeks.
Get more sleep.
The benefits: On average, college students should be getting 7-9 hours of sleep a night. You’re probably scoffing and shaking your head, “Yeah right.” Well, it’s very true. Sleep loss can lead to heart problems, insomnia, depression and can even affect your memory and hurt your cognitive process (aka dumb you down). Get your sleep, kids.
What you’ll notice: You obviously won’t feel the need to sleep in class, your memory will be slightly better and you’ll be less prone to chronic headaches. Plus, you probably won’t look like the walking dead, but don’t take my word for it.
How long it’ll take you to notice: If you’re adjusting to a new sleep schedule, it can take anywhere from one day to a week to get used to it depending on the person.
Go to the gym regularly.
The benefits: I’m sure you’re well aware of the benefits of fitness, but let’s just stress how important it is to your health; regularly working out is good for weight control, mood improvement, energy boosts and better sleep. In addition to that, a regular exercise routine (at least 30 minutes a day) can help combat diabetes, depression, arthritis, cancer, heart disease and high blood pressure.
What you’ll notice: With the right routine and diet, the biggest thing you’ll notice is probably weight loss or muscle gain. Besides that, you’ll definitely feel more energized and awake, which I know, must sound funny since working out can tire you out. But remember, exercise releases endorphins, so yes, you will feel happy and refreshed.
How long it’ll take you to notice: This really depends on the person, but if you have a good routine going with a healthy diet, it is standard to lose up to two pounds in one week. Personally, I definitely feel much more energized immediately after my workout. Two days after the workout, and you can catch me in bed, icing various body parts and cursing the gym. The Bronco Recreation and Intramural Complex (BRIC) and I are in a love/hate relationship.
Did you make any other small changes to your lifestyle that rewarded your body, attitude or mentality? Share your experiences with us using the hashtag, #CampusCropChat on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and don’t forget to follow ASICPP on Snapchat.
For more tips on health and fitness, make sure to like and follow Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) Campus Recreation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Want to incorporate fitness into your routine? Check out the BRIC‘s Spring Quarter Group Fitness schedule here.
And remember to show us how you recharge with the hashtag, #RechargeCPP on Instagram!
