When it comes to managing our weight, time management is very important for success. Making those necessary healthy lifestyle changes requires time and attention but often competes with work, family, activities, volunteering and socializing commitments. Being aware of the need to set time aside for these changes will enable you to move forward in your weight loss efforts.
• It takes time to eat healthy. Planning meals, grocery shopping and food preparation takes an average 60 minutes each day.
• Sitting down and eating 3 meals per day takes time.
• It takes time to fit in regular physical activity each day. The Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines suggest at least 30 minutes of activity 5 days per week.
• We should also strive for 6-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night.
• Food journaling what you eat and drink in a day provides valuable insight into your eating habits and is a necessary activity for making healthy changes, but also requires time.
While it seems like this might be a lot of things to consider, the time you invest in yourself and in your health will be well worth it.
Remember, there are 1440 minutes a day. Take time to look after yourself!
Christina Vesty is a registered nurse and is the Chronic Disease Management Coordinator at the Leduc Beaumont Devon Primary Care Network. 