Both very different stories and very different people.
The first one was of a gentleman who'd passed away peacefully at the age of 94. He was a pioneering research scientist in the field of nutrition who was still working into his eighties. His specialty was Essential Fatty Acids, indeed he named them "Omegas." Likely he really loved what he did for a living and practiced what he preached.
The other obit was of a women, who, apparently, also practiced what she preached. And died doing it. This gal collapsed of a heart attack at the gym, doing her daily workout. She was 44. One person remarked, "She was really healthy as far as we knew." She was considered quite "fit."
Hmm... that's doesn't seem quite right in my book. "Fit" means sound mentally and physically healthy. You don't drop dead of a heart attack at 44 if you're healthy.
So, what's my take-away from this? When it comes to exercise, don't overdo it. It's not the end all be all for "Fit"ness. In fact, fitness experts recommend at least a day off a week from active training. Walking doesn't count - a daily walk is beneficial.
And when it comes comes to nutrition, maybe look at the guy in the first obit again... he specialized in the field and lived until he was 94.
Now, I'm not saying food, or what we ingest is more important than exercise.
They are both very important and together make a world of difference. For most people who want to make a change, it's a lot easier to start exercising than it is to change eating habits.
For starters, it's cheaper. You just need to get a pair of shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather and take a walk. Or if you can't walk, swim. Whatever gets you out of your chair. Then, when you can, add in some resistance training. As in, get some dumbbells to start with and do simple exercises.
That's enough to start. And you'll do great things for you body.
It's the eating healthy thing takes more work.
Someone told me recently that when asking their MD for advice on proper diet, he was told this: "Eat food that rots. And nuts."
Oh, if only it were that easy. I mean, that's a start, but that doctor is clearly someone who isn't trained in nutrition! It's a good sound bite, though.
Teaching people how to incorporate nutrition in their life is one of the things I help individuals with in my practice quite regularly. You can save a lot of time and money by seeking knowledgeable people. And we all like to save time and money!
