Thoughts From Your Health Coach: Robin Morton
quick links to topics in this month's newsletter
antioxidants | success story | referral credits | health care reform needed
Welcome to the September, 2009 Coach's newsletter. If you have questions or suggestions for future newsletters, please contact Robin and she'll answer your questions and consider adding your topic to an upcoming newsletter.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are molecules contained in certain foods such as fruits and vegetables that aid in protection of body cells from oxidation. Oxidation is detrimental process that damages healthy cells. Cell damage is caused by many reactions started by the process of oxidation involving free radical chain reactions.
One of the most notable antioxidant vegetables is organic broccoli. Broccoli is a widely studied vegetable for its antioxidant qualities. Health conditions of people with cancer, heart disease and ulcers are thought to improve when the diet is rich in this wonder vegetable. Other vegetables rich in antioxidants are bell peppers, green leafy lettuce (any color), carrots and cucumbers.
When preparing your lean and green meal, keep in mind that the more colorful the plate is, the more antioxidants will be present. This will provide ample opportunity for your body to fight free radical damage caused by oxidation.
Another Success Story Unfolds
During the past month, I had occasion to speak to one of our group members who has lost 110 pounds during the past year. She discussed some secrets she wanted to share. One of the first things she told me about was the fact that when she first started losing weight she was on another program. During the first couple of months of her program, she started losing her hair. Her doctor told her she was not getting enough protein and suggested she look for some protein supplements.
When our group member found our program she was able to utilize the easy meal plan that provides protein with every meal. She stopped losing her hair and feels more satisfied after eating each meal. When she feels satisfied, she is able to go about her day without worrying about what else she is going to eat that she should not be eating. Just following the meal plan is all she does. She is so thankful for the Take Shape for Life Program, and will continue her weight loss journey until she reaches her goal of 120 pounds.
Sharing the Program
When you share your story with others, they not only are happy for you but they may think of others who may benefit also. Your friends may have a reason to eat healthier: maybe they are overweight, feel tired, or are fighting a condition such as diabetes or heart disease. Remember, when you share with others and they become interested and sign up for the program, you will receive a $25 credit towards your next purchase! What a great way to spread the word of health.
National Changes in Health Needed
One of the things I became acutely aware of this past month during advanced health coach training is the need for National improvement of health. More than 30% of our population is overweight. Our lifestyle is conducive to sedentary lifestyles. It’s time to ban together and fight our nation’s biggest challenge: obesity. Feeling better by carrying the correct amount of weight for each of our body sizes is the key! Eating healthy meals is the means for this end.
At the Take Shape for Life Convention, I noticed a very interesting fact. Not only were over 1200 people healthier and full of energy from this program at this event, but they also had little or no saggy skin! As a health professional, I have seen so many individuals that have lost and gained weight during the years, which resulted in sagging skin as they age. I was pleasantly surprised and pleased when I personally saw so many people who are on this program looking so good at any age. Following a simple, delicious, nutritious and satisfying program is the key to success.

