The Need to exercise
Physical exercise is not a regular part of the lifestyle of many African American women. However there is hope! The key is to find an activity that you enjoy and feel comfortable doing. A good starting point is walking, especially if you have not been exercising regularly in the past. Walking is one of the best and least expensive exercises there is. All you need is time for yourself and a good pair of walking shoes. Walking doesn’t stress the body the way running does. Walking can help make your heart and lungs function more efficiently, help you lose weight, sleep better, and reduce stress. You should try to walk four times a week for at least thirty minutes each time.Nutrition
If you want to lose body fat and improve your health, you need to increase your exercise and significantly decrease the amount of fat (both animal and vegetable) that you eat. The consumption of fat that comes from animal sources such as lard, red meat, pizza (loaded with meat and cheese), ham hocks should be minimized. Fat that comes from plant sources like olive oil, peanut oil, canola oil, corn oil has not been hydrogenated (exposed to the action of hydrogen to produce a solid fat) does not seem to have the same corrosive effect on your coronary (heart) arteries. Eating more fruits and vegetables (at least 4 to 6 serving a day) is key. It is advisable that you to drink six to eight glasses of water daily (given that you have no other medical conditions). Water is important in body heat regulation, maintenance of blood volume, helps you eliminate wastes and acts as an appetite suppressant. Be on watch for more specific articles on ways to improve your nutrition.(published with permission in writing from:http://www.blackwomenshealth.com/)
