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As I celebrated another birthday this week, I found myself reflecting on how my health focus has evolved over the years. In my younger days, I always focused on calorie counting, avoiding foods high in fat and lots of running to keep a weight balance. Now, well into my fifties, I have definitely reframed my mindset. My focus now is on longevity and supporting optimal health so that I can enjoy the experience of healthy aging.
Here’s how I’m working longevity into my life:
No. 1 Counting Plants, Not Calories
Gone are the days of obsessing over calories and being afraid of too much fat. Now, I include plenty of plants in my diet with daily doses of colourful vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, herbal teas and healing spices. this help fuel my body with the powerful antioxidants, phytochemicals, vitamins and minerals. I call it Vitality Nutrition.
No. 2. Breaking Up with Alcohol
In our alcohol-centric culture, this was not an easy break up but I was 'sick and tired' of feeling 'sick and tired'. I took an honest look at my relationship with alcohol and noticed it was taking more than it gave. This has by far been the best decision I have made for my health. Since the break-up, I have experienced incredible improvements in my sleep, my skin, my weight balance, my digestive symptoms and best of all my energy levels.
No. 3. Reducing Sugar
Just like alcohol, even more pervasive in our culture is the message to consume sugar. I began to notice with sugar came belly bloating, low energy and constant cravings for more. These foods are designed to hijack your brain chemistry and make them irresistible. I switched to whole food sweet treats, although there may still be some sugar like baked goods with dates, I know I am still choosing highly nutritious ingredients that I control.
No. 4. Building Muscle : Stimulating mTOR & MPS
As we age, building muscle is critical. My focus has completely shifted from trying to burn calories to building muscle. Strength training stimulates mTOR (mechanistic target of Rapamycin) for MPS- muscle protein synthesis that promotes muscle repair and tissue building. Building muscle is essential for a healthy metabolism as we age as well as maintaining bone and joint health at its optimum.
No. 5. Prioritizing Quality Sleep
Quality sleep to me is the most important pillar to health that supports everything from mental health to metabolism. For sleep restoration, I have introduced an evening routine that includes supplemental Magnesium and adaptogens like 5-blend mushroom hot chocolate for nervous system regulation.
No. 6 Daily Movement
They say 'motion is lotion' so I also make it a priority to move everyday to keep my body fluid. I prefer walking outdoors for a daily dose of Nature which nourishes in body and mind. My motto right now is 10 k a day.
No 7. Nutritional Cleansing: Detoxification
In my Functional Nutrition training, I discovered a whole new passion for everything detoxification. I appreciate it for the role nutrition plays. Twice a year, I practice a 30-Day whole-foods based detox designed for deep cellular repair and whole system reset. If you are interested in learning more- I would love to guide you through my 30-Day detox protocol. Feel free to reach out.
No. 8 Finding Joy
Living joyfully and finding what gives my life meaning and purpose is a key priority. Whether it is creating new nutrition protocols, writing blog posts or coaching clients, I focus on what brings fulfillment. Joy is an essential ingredient for optimal health.
I believe it is never too late to invest in our health and well-being. As I enter my fifties, my focus has shifted from quick fixes to sustainable habits that nourish my body, mind and soul. Every choice I make now is an investment in quality of life for longevity and healthy aging. From building muscle and eating nutrient-dense foods to embracing joy, I am creating a life that will allow me to thrive with energy and purpose.
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