“Low-fat” and “low-calorie” are nothing more than synonyms for “added sugar.” You’d know this if you took the time to read the Nutrition Facts panel or scan ingredient lists. Our Health Raiser of the Week did. Amy was on a mission to look flawless in her wedding gown, so she did what she thought was right: counted calories. Luckily, it didn’t take long for this fit chick to figure out she was headed down the wrong aisle. After some research (and reading!), Amy wasn’t only ready to say “I do” to the man of her dreams, she had made a vow to herself: stay healthy, stay happy from now until eternity.
What does health mean to you?
Health means living a balanced life. I don’t believe in being extreme. Although I eat healthy foods, I do indulge and eat what I want if I’m craving something in particular. Also, I think it’s important to take care of your health holistically by remaining mindful and in touch with your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. All of these contribute to leading a healthy and happy life!
What inspired you two to start living a healthy life?
It all started when I was trying to get in shape for my wedding. I was learning how to cook and trying to find healthier recipes. Through my research, I discovered that many of the “foods” I was putting in my mouth (that I thought were healthy) were completely processed and hardly food at all. Now I strive to make every meal as nutritious and full of clean ingredients as possible. I don’t count calories. I count nutrition! After a while, I noticed that when I ate healthy, I also worked out more consistently, felt happier and had more energy.
What are three things you do to stay healthy?
- I eat unprocessed, clean foods and cook my own meals every chance I get.
- I exercise! I love the gym for lifting weights and doing cardio. I also hike at least once a week.
- I see a therapist every other week. Like I said, I believe health isn’t just physical, but mental and emotional as well.
If you were stranded on a desert island, what Vitacost product could you not live without?
The giant tub of Vitacost Coconut Oil is my must-have! It would provide me with healthy fats if I had nothing else to eat, as well as act as a lotion and lip balm – you can’t go wrong!
What advice do you have for someone who is trying to live healthier?
Take the plunge! Start trying to make healthier choices meal by meal, day by day. Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither will a lifestyle change. Start off slow and don’t be too hard on yourself. If you keep steadily making positive changes, you’ll see results.
Is there a role model you look up to?
I look up to my parents. They’re the most selfless, amazing people! They also raised two strong, independent women. I always wonder what they did and how I can recreate their parenting when I have kids of my own. Funny enough, I got them into Vitacost, and now they order healthy hauls all the time!