Today, I am 34 and feel better than ever. I am healthy, happy, strong, fit, upbeat, positive and excited about the future. Now I want to inform you, I did not wake up like this, yes I have always been the outgoing, free spirit, fun loving kinda gal, I’m a true aries at heart to say the least 😉 but I have also dealt with a bad illness, bereavement and bad break-ups in my life which also had a impact on who I am today. The moment I came near to fatal death, I decided to choose, to live fully everyday, count my blessings, be grateful, optimistic  stay positive and upbeat, no matter what kind of grim or grey situation would occur, and most importantly take responsibilty for my health, no doctor, pill or pain killer was going to be the solution. I wanted to wake up every day with a spring in my step.  I wanted to have energy, banish bloat, combat ageing and illness with a holistic approach through nutrition. My experience with my illness, having a passion about holistic nutriionst from my teens, and attending Nutrition school has made a significant difference win my life. These are 10 fabulous tips that is a outline of things I do my life that nourish me from the inside out that I learned from Institute of Integrative Nutrition.

1) Feed your soul with primary food. Friends and family, physical activity, spirituality, and a satisfying career feed us. Lack of primary food creates over-reliance on secondary, edible food.

2) Drink water. Most people are chronically dehydrated. We often mistake thirst for hunger. If you feel hungry between meals, drink a glass of water before giving into cravings. Limit liquid calories from soda and juice.

3) Eat a plant-based diet. Plant foods are typically lower in fat and calories and higher in filling fiber than meat, dairy, and processed foods, while providing loads of essential nutrients.

4) Chew your food well. Digestion begins in the mouth. By thoroughly chewing your food, your body will better assimilate nutrients; you will also slow down your eating. It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to register that it is full. By slowing your eating, you’ll feel full and satisfied on less food.

5) Eat real food. Avoid products with high-fructose corn syrup or a long list of unpronounceable ingredients. They tend to be highly processed, lacking the nutrients your body needs, and are often loaded with empty calories.

6) Eat breakfast. Skipping meals causes your blood sugar levels to peak and dip, affecting your energy and moods. It can also cause overeating later on because you’re so hungry.

7) Eat mindfully. Turn off the TV. Get away from the computer. Sit down and savour the food you are eating with no distractions.

8) Get moving. Do any type of physical activity every day. Find movement or exercise you enjoy.

9) Sleep, rest and relax. When you are sleep-deprived or stressed, your body will crave energy, causing cravings for sugary snacks and caffeine as an energy boost.

10) Schedule fun time. Boredom and stress can lead to overeating. Make sure to take time to laugh, play, and participate in activities that bring you joy.

Tips from Institue of Integrative nutrition 

To stay in tip top shape physically, emotionally and mentally. Make a habit to include nutrient packed foods that hydrate and nourish you on a daily basis, set aside time for yourself and loved ones,  So book yourself that massage, start your day with a superfood smoothie, and organise a fun girls night out! Your health will reap the benefits with a balanced lifestyle and you will be soon on your way in the fab lane. 

If you want to learn more about Nutrition school and have a passion for health and nutrition get in touch: ashfabnutrition@gmail.com

Ashley xoxo