It’s not a pipe dream. You can live doing what you love and, in return, love the life you live. Just ask our Health Raisers of the Week, twin go-getters Alexis and Samantha. These two beauties have tackled a few health beasts, but it has never stopped them. In fact, it was the fuel that fed their fire. After some heavy research and heavy lifting in the gym, these ladies discovered a new path for themselves – a path that led to a successful business venture.
What does health mean to you?
Health means caring about your body, what nutrients you fill it with and caring for yourself inside and out for the long-term.
What inspired you two to start living a healthy life?
Growing up, we had always eaten fairly healthy. But in December 2012, we were both diagnosed with severe hypothyroidism. We felt extremely sluggish, our digestive systems were out of whack and we were miserable. We did a ton of research and read how beneficial it was to follow a paleo diet, especially for those suffering from an autoimmune disease. So we picked up on that lifestyle and haven’t looked back!
We were gymnasts when we were younger, but we never really enjoyed working out in our college years. After our diagnosis, we learned about lifting weights and how good it could be for your body as a whole. Before we knew it, we were hooked! We even left our corporate jobs to pursue our passion for health and fitness. We now own and operate our own personal training business, Double Dose Fitness (www.doubledosefitness.com). And we recently launched a line of grain- and gluten-free baking mixes called Simply Stacked (www.getsimplystacked.com).
What are three things you do to stay healthy?
- Eat nutrient-filled foods
- Lift weights regularly
- Drink a ton of water each day
What is one motivational quote that you live by?
“If it’s important to you, you’ll find a way. If not, you’ll find an excuse.”
If you were stranded on a desert island, what Vitacost product could you not live without?
The one Vitacost product we couldn’t live without is Nutiva Coconut Manna Butter. We LOVE it!
What advice do you have for someone who is trying to live healthier?
Replace sugary drinks and soda with water or flavored water with frozen fruit. We also suggest replacing sweets, like candy, with more fruits and veggies. Don’t cut out everything from your diet at one time. It will be way too overwhelming, and you won’t be able to maintain it for very long. It is not a sprint; it is a marathon! You need to start slow and make it a gradual progress.
Is there a role model you look up to?
Our greatest role model is Randy Pausch. We love his book, The Last Lecture. He is extremely inspiring, lived his life to the fullest and inspired others to do the same.