On Health by Dr. Dree

It’s time to say bye to bikinis and hello to birthday treats, snowballs, big cookie days and stress eating! But not to fear; with all of the delicious treats to splurge on now that school is back in session, one CAN still enjoy delectable pastries and bon- bons without putting on that Fall 15! Here’s 10 tips how:

1. You can enjoy everything, but in moderation.

Don't be so focused on cutting out, instead, think of cutting DOWN on amount and portions.

2. Go green- as in eating!

Eat Spinach. And green beans. Or broccoli. Or kale. OR ALL THE ABOVE. Because girls need iron and all those veggies are high in iron and other antioxidants that have numerous health benefits. Don’t like green veggies? Idea: spinach in a morning smoothie. Trust me, 3 handfuls and you won't even taste it. THINK of the hidden health benefits!

3. The miracle drug: H₂O

 Our bodies are 60% water, so drink up. The recommended daily consumption is about 3 liters (6 disposable plastic waterbottles, 3 nalgenes) a day if you're not in the sun too much, 5-6 (or more) if heavily active. Drinking more water will help increase your metabolism, make you feel fuller, keep you energized, and help your brain function better. What’s not to love?

4. Get sleep-

Honestly, really, sleep trumps studying. Sleep trumps Grey’s anatomy. Sleep trumps everything. It's more important than cramming for that testand will actually help you do better in school. Plus, the more sleep you get, the better you’ll look (your metabolism works while you’re sleeping and in those hours you’re not eating or drinking any calories!) and feel. Take a nap, cut the procrastination, or just get to bed earlier- whatever it takes to catch more of those Z’s. Your body will thank you.

5. Play outside.

 Really, PLAY. Laugh, swing on the swings, hit the tennis ball or shoot some hoops with a sibling if ya have one or a borrow a kid if ya don't. Pet rocks work fine too. Laughter is the best medicine for stress.

6. Ditch the Chips.

Satisfy your crunch craving with raw veggies- carrots (eye-brighteners), sugar snap peas, celery, broccoli, bell peppers…the list is endless. If you MUST eat chips, try baked versions or vegetable chips (Barbara’s makes a delicious sweet potato & beet chip that is wonderful with hummus or chicken salad.)

7. Be a nut.

Snacks are important- they keep you from overeating at mealtimes. Want the perfect snacks? Think nuts: almonds, walnuts, peanuts, cashews, etc. Easy snack idea: 1 serving of dry-roasted edamame with fresh blueberries. Trust the doc, it’s delicious.

8. Work out.

Though it's kinda a given, working out and exercise still deserves a place on this list. Even just 10 minutes will release endorphins and make YOU happier and better able to focus in school and on homework (or [insert fave show]).

9. Take 5.

Take just 5 minutes a day and devote them solely to prayer or meditation but instead of YOU doing the praying or talking, clear everything out of your mind an just let God talk to you. Spiritual nourishment is just as important (more, really) as physical!

10. Set goals:

Want slimmer thighs, washboard abs, or Michelle Obama arms? Or do you just crave that healthy glow? Set personal goals for yourself in your eating, workout, and rest habits- daily, weekly, and monthly- and dedicate yourself to keeping track of progress and then achieving them.

**Dr. Dree is not really a doctor. These are just suggestions of healthy alternatives gleaned from several nutritionist visits, Pinterest inspiration lists, and life.