Updates from Angela Anderson

In this informative blog post, we explore the importance of protein as a fundamental macronutrient for overall health. Proteins are the building blocks of the body and play a vital role in growth, repair, and maintenance. We delve into the structure and composition of proteins, their various functions in the body, and the sources from which we can obtain them.

A balanced diet that includes both animal and plant-based protein sources is key to meeting our body's protein requirements. While animal products provide high-quality protein, plant-based sources such as legumes, nuts, seeds, and grains also contribute significantly. We explore the importance of a diverse amino acid profile and the need to combine different plant-based proteins for individuals following vegetarian or vegan diets.

Protein is not only important for muscle structure and function but also acts as enzymes, supports the immune system, balances hormones, transports molecules, and provides structural support. Additionally, protein can play a role in weight management, as high-protein diets can help reduce calorie intake and increase calorie expenditure.

This article also addresses common myths surrounding protein consumption, including misconceptions about excessive intake, the inferiority of plant proteins, and the necessity of protein supplements. We emphasize the importance of meeting individual protein requirements without exceeding them unnecessarily and the ability of a well-planned vegetarian or vegan diet to provide all essential amino acids.

In conclusion, protein is a critical macronutrient with diverse roles in the body. Incorporating a variety of protein sources into a well-balanced diet is essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being. Understanding individual protein needs and dispelling myths about protein consumption contribute to a holistic approach to nutrition and a healthier body.

Start the new year off by freshening up your diet and getting back to the basics of good nutrition. Many of us sustain ourselves with the Standard American Diet (SAD), which is loaded with unhealthy fats, processed foods, and sugars. It's time to start looking at our food choices from a scientific perspective and understanding how they affect our health. This week, we will explore the essential macronutrients - proteins, fats, and carbohydrates - in greater detail, gaining a deeper understanding of their functions in the body. Stay tuned for the whole series for a great tool to help you ensure you're getting the right balance of macronutrients at each meal.

In this blog post, the author encourages readers to reflect on their personal milestones and create a timeline of their life events. By mapping out these pivotal moments, individuals can gain a fresh perspective and understand the interconnectedness of their experiences. This exercise serves as a form of detective work, allowing individuals to uncover patterns and reflect on the peaks and valleys of their stories. The author provides a step-by-step guide on creating the timeline and prompts readers to consider their initial feelings and responses, the risks taken to achieve milestones, and the impact of important events. The author also invites readers to share their learnings from this exercise.

Setting and achieving goals is crucial for personal growth and evolution, yet only around 8% of people are successful in achieving their desired goals. The most successful individuals have SMART goals, which are specific, measurable, action-oriented, realistic, and time-bound. They write down their goals or create vision boards as visual reminders, revisit their goals frequently, and take action towards them. They break their goals down into smaller achievable steps, prepare for roadblocks, adjust course when necessary, and hold themselves accountable. By following these strategies, individuals can achieve success and continue setting new goals for further growth and success.

Discovering the true meaning of wellness is a personal journey, with different interpretations for everyone. Two influential figures in the wellness field, Halbert L. Dunn and Dr. Bill Hettler, have contributed significantly to the definition and understanding of wellness. Dr. Hettler's Six Dimensions of Wellness model, which encompasses emotional, physical, intellectual, occupational, spiritual, and social wellness, serves as a valuable framework for self-reflection and goal setting. Balancing and nurturing all six dimensions is key to achieving true well-being. As we approach the new year, it's important to consider the broader scope of wellness and assess areas that require attention, with self-awareness playing a vital role in this journey. To explore the Six Dimensions of Wellness further and plan for the upcoming year, resources provided by the National Wellness Institute, such as their website and printable workbook, can be valuable tools to enhance overall well-being.