As you search for information of lentils on google, you run into numerable articles by those media houses and health sites, all by so called professional, maybe marginally better than those AI bots we all use these days. None of those writes of so called big media houses would have actual experience of hacking their own health and understand how food impacts there system beyond what books tell you, or you can search for on internet.
And then comes the world of lentils, which is ever so confusing. Forget of you arte a westerner, chances are even if uou are an Indian born in India, you might not know beyond Kali Dal or Peeli dal. Or maybe sambhar waali daal, and prasade waali daal – thats how we call know our dals. And in my experience any attempt to write a comprehensive blog post about the same, falls flat on the face, as their so much information about each of those lentils that we end up losing the focus or ability to make decision on all the data provided.
In this post I will try to keep things simple and share with you 3 awesome lentils – why they are awesome, and how I am leveraging them in my weight loss journey. And being vegan and all, they I am sure they much lighter on the environment and hopefully some of our consciousness as well.
Getting down to business, here are the 3 Dals or Lentils that are part of my weight loss aresenal, and as the legend goes, traditionally the legends in India have been recommending them for legendary number of years. Different cultures in India appreciate them in different ways and different forms. I remember the saying in our baniya community which has been traditionally vegetarian culture that as people grow old and wise, they stop indulging in lot of things in life and move to one item which becomes stable for them Moong! yup – the legendary moong dal, for those not familiar – hospital wali dal. The Plane Jane dal as plane jane as plane jane it can get, the john doe of dals – the yellow Moong Dal. However here I am talking about the Sabut Moong – which is not your usual hospital waali yellow dal, which is super easy to digest, however I am talking about Whole Moong which is not served in hospitals is it is slow to digest compared to broken or yellow moong dal – which happens to add several steps of processing to the whole or sabut moong I am recommending here.
So yes, the first entry is the Sabut Moong Daal – the Whole Lentil itself – probably in its least processed form, the whole bean/seed itself – complete with all that fiber, all the fat, all the nutrition that nature builds in that bean – the one the legends in India would tell you has ‘Power’ compared to mean and a quick read of the modern nutritional information now verifying that it indeed is loaded with protein, and has a load of fiber as a scoring point over its meaty competitors like chicken, fish or beef.
Its vegan, its whole, its I think cheaper than mean, greener – not only in color, and its so bloofy versatile. Well I will come to that later, but yeah, what I have noticed it that a meal of Sabut Moong with rice or roti or anything – keeps me satiated and full for longer times, which means lesser hunger bangs, longer fasting cycles, and generally a happier and content me. I will soon add a post about how versatile it is in its uses here.
Coming to other two lentils that I want bring to your attention – Dal Makhani – well without the Makhan ofocurse. But you know what if you make it properly and follow classical recipes – making Dal Makhani out of Sabut Urad does not invlove any usage or added butter, cream or fat. If soaked and cooked properly, the lentil itself releases all that is inside it, make it rich and creamy. Yes ladies and gentlemen, the ubiquitous Kaali Dal, the one sold as Dal Makahni at every darned Indian restaurant in the world – when done at home – done right – is the food that would keep you happy and satiated for along time – like moong, this one is also loaded with protein, fiber and natural fats to help you control those GI and GL spikes.
Last but not the least – Moth Dal – I am actually drooling writing this as I am hungry and a Moth dal Chaat would be such a welcome respite in this heat of Delhi. What we call a Chaat – in this case specifically – turns out what a westerner would call a Salal. Yup you are right – sweet chilli tangy sour all in one go, loaded with protein, fiber, is probably sprouted, serves well as chakna, what else should I tell you? Ok ever heard Moth Chawal, Moth Kachori? Yup this one is versatile and with a little innovation – can be used for so many things and in so any ways. Probably another blog post about the same in future.
Phew now that I have written all of the above without AI, let me leverage some of it and at least ask it to generate some pictures so that you can understand how it looks like when you are looking for it. Otherwise if you buy it online I am sure the labels would guide you through.
But remember especially when buying Moon and Urad – you get them in 3 forms – fully processed which looks like Yellow or White – easiest to digest, then you have less processed which is broken, but still has the fiber on top – this would look green or black on outside and maybe lighter yellow inside. And then there is the whole one – which is least processed and not broken. You can choose one as per your needs and uses.
A representation of what Dall-E by OpenAi thinks Urad Dal looks like.
The Glycemic Index (GI) has been a buzzword in the health and nutrition world for years, but what does it truly signify? As more individuals seek effective and sustainable weight loss methods, understanding the role of GI becomes paramount. In this guide, we’ll delve deep into the Glycemic Index, demystify its science, and debunk common myths, providing you with actionable insights for a healthier lifestyle.
The Glycemic Index is a ranking system that measures how quickly and significantly a carbohydrate-containing food raises blood sugar levels. Foods are ranked on a scale from 0 to 100, with pure glucose (sugar) serving as the reference point with a GI of 100.
Low GI (55 or less): Foods that are digested, absorbed, and metabolized slowly, leading to a gradual rise in blood sugar. Examples include whole grains, legumes, and most fruits and vegetables.
Medium GI (56-69): Foods that have a moderate impact on blood sugar levels. This category includes some types of rice, raisins, and certain breads.
High GI (70 and above): These foods cause a rapid spike in blood sugar. Examples are white bread, most breakfast cereals, and sugary beverages.
Understanding the GI of foods can help individuals make informed dietary choices, especially those looking to manage their blood sugar levels or achieve weight loss.
2. The Science Behind GI and Weight Loss:
The relationship between the Glycemic Index and weight loss is rooted in the body’s insulin response. When we consume high-GI foods, our blood sugar levels rise rapidly, prompting the pancreas to release a surge of insulin. Insulin is a hormone responsible for transporting sugar from the bloodstream into cells. However, excessive insulin can lead to:
Fat storage: High insulin levels signal the body to store excess sugar as fat, particularly in the abdominal area.
Hunger pangs: A rapid spike in blood sugar followed by a sharp drop can lead to feelings of hunger shortly after eating, increasing the likelihood of overeating.
Energy crashes: The post-meal slump many people experience is often due to a rapid drop in blood sugar after consuming high-GI foods.
On the other hand, low-GI foods provide a steady release of energy, keeping hunger at bay and promoting satiety. This not only aids in weight management but also supports stable energy levels throughout the day.
3. Debunking Common Myths about GI:
With the popularity of the Glycemic Index, several myths have emerged. Let’s set the record straight:
Myth: “All carbs are bad.”
Truth: Not all carbohydrates are created equal. While refined carbs like white bread have a high GI, many whole foods like quinoa, barley, and legumes have a low GI and are packed with essential nutrients.
Myth: “A low-GI diet means avoiding all sugars.”
Truth: Natural sugars found in fruits, dairy, and some vegetables can be part of a low-GI diet. It’s the added sugars in processed foods that often have a high GI and should be consumed in moderation.
Myth: “Low-GI foods are always healthier.”
Truth: While many low-GI foods are nutritious, some can be high in unhealthy fats or sodium. It’s essential to consider the overall nutritional profile of a food, not just its GI.
By understanding the facts and dispelling the myths, individuals can make more informed dietary choices that align with their health goals.
However it is also important to understand the Glycemic Loads of the food you are eating as well, to help understand the concept we have made a list as well as calculator here: Glycemic Index (GI) VS Glycemic Load (GL).
4. Benefits of a Low-GI Diet:
Embracing a low-GI diet offers a myriad of health benefits beyond just weight management. Here’s a closer look at some of the advantages:
Stable Energy Levels: Low-GI foods provide a steady energy release, helping you avoid those mid-day slumps and maintain consistent energy throughout the day.
Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Studies have shown that a low-GI diet can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain types of cancers.
Improved Blood Sugar Control: For individuals with diabetes or those at risk, a low-GI diet can help maintain stable blood sugar levels, reducing the need for insulin and other medications.
Enhanced Satiety: Foods with a lower GI tend to be richer in fiber and protein, which can help you feel full longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
Better Digestive Health: Many low-GI foods, such as whole grains and legumes, are high in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
5. Practical Tips to Incorporate Low-GI Foods:
Transitioning to a low-GI diet doesn’t have to be challenging. Here are some practical tips to help you make the shift:
Start with Whole Grains: Replace white rice and bread with whole grain alternatives like brown rice, quinoa, and whole grain bread.
Snack Smart: Opt for low-GI snacks like nuts, seeds, and Greek yogurt instead of chips or sugary treats.
Incorporate Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are not only low in GI but also packed with protein and fiber. Add them to salads, soups, or stews.
Limit Sugary Beverages: Instead of sodas or sugary juices, hydrate with water, herbal teas, or unsweetened beverages.
Read Labels: When shopping, check the labels for added sugars and high-GI ingredients. The fewer the ingredients, the better.
Cook at Home: Preparing meals at home allows you to control the ingredients and ensure you’re consuming low-GI foods.
7. FAQs about Glycemic Index and Weight Loss:
As the Glycemic Index gains traction in health and nutrition circles, several questions arise. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Q: Can I eat high-GI foods in moderation?
A: Yes, it’s about balance. While the focus should be on low-GI foods, occasional indulgence in high-GI foods is okay, especially if combined with low-GI foods to balance the impact on blood sugar.
Q: Is the Glycemic Index the only factor to consider for weight loss?
A: No, while GI is a valuable tool, other factors like calorie intake, portion sizes, and overall diet quality also play crucial roles in weight management.
Q: How does protein and fat affect the GI of foods?
A: Protein and fat can lower the GI of a meal. For instance, adding avocado or nuts to a dish can reduce its overall GI.
Q: Are all fruits high in GI?
A: No, many fruits like berries, apples, and pears have a low to medium GI. However, tropical fruits like pineapples and mangoes tend to have a higher GI.
Conclusion and Takeaways:
The Glycemic Index offers a unique lens through which we can understand our food choices and their impact on our blood sugar and overall health. By incorporating low-GI foods, debunking myths, and adopting a holistic approach to well-being, individuals can pave the way for sustainable weight loss and optimal health. Remember, it’s not just about numbers but making informed and balanced choices that align with your health goals and lifestyle.
FAQs
What exactly is the Glycemic Index (GI)?
The Glycemic Index is a ranking system that measures how quickly and significantly a carbohydrate-containing food raises blood sugar levels. Foods are ranked on a scale from 0 to 100, with pure glucose serving as the reference point with a GI of 100.
How does the Glycemic Index impact weight loss?
Foods with a high GI can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, leading to increased insulin production, which can promote fat storage. On the other hand, low-GI foods provide a steady energy release, helping to control appetite and support sustainable weight loss.
Are all carbs bad when considering the Glycemic Index?
Not all carbohydrates are created equal. While refined carbs like white bread have a high GI, many whole foods like quinoa, barley, and legumes have a low GI and are packed with essential nutrients.
How can I start incorporating low-GI foods into my diet?
Begin by choosing whole grains over refined grains, opt for fresh fruits and vegetables, and include legumes and lean proteins in your meals. Reading food labels and being aware of added sugars can also guide healthier choices.
Is a low-GI diet suitable for everyone?
While many people can benefit from a low-GI diet, especially those looking to manage blood sugar or lose weight, individual needs may vary. It’s always best to consult with a nutritionist or healthcare provider to tailor a diet to your specific requirements.
How does a low-GI diet compare to other popular diets like Keto or Paleo?
While the low-GI diet focuses on the blood sugar impact of foods, diets like Keto emphasize low carbohydrate intake, and Paleo prioritizes whole, unprocessed foods. Each diet has its merits, and the best choice often depends on individual health goals and preferences.
Can I eat fruits on a low-GI diet?
Absolutely! Many fruits, such as berries, apples, and pears, have a low to medium GI. However, it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes and opt for whole fruits over fruit juices or dried fruits.
Blog Tags for the Post: Glycemic Index, Weight Loss, Low-GI Diet, Blood Sugar Management, Healthy Eating, Carbohydrates, Nutrition Tips, Whole Grains, Insulin Response, Sustainable Weight Loss, Dietary Choices, Low-GI Foods.
GI vs. GL: Understanding the Impact on Your Blood Sugar
When it comes to understanding how foods affect your blood sugar, two terms often come into play: the Glycemic Index (GI) and the Glycemic Load (GL). While they might sound similar, they have distinct differences that can influence your dietary choices, especially if you’re managing diabetes, aiming for weight loss, or just trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Glycemic Index (GI): The Speedometer of Sugar Absorption
Think of GI as a speedometer that measures how fast a carbohydrate-containing food causes an increase in blood sugar levels. Foods are rated on a scale of 0 to 100, with pure glucose arbitrarily assigned a value of 100. This rating indicates the relative speed at which the body breaks down the carbs in a food into glucose.
High GI Foods (70 and above): These foods break down quickly during digestion, leading to a rapid increase in blood sugar. Think white bread, pretzels, and short-grain rice.
Medium GI Foods (56-69): These foods have a moderate effect on blood sugar. Examples include quick oats and brown rice.
Low GI Foods (55 and below): These foods break down slowly, releasing glucose gradually into the bloodstream, like lentils, most fruits, and non-starchy vegetables.
Glycemic Load (GL): The Bigger Picture of Blood Sugar Management
If GI is the speedometer, then GL is the complete dashboard that shows not just the speed, but also the volume of fuel being used. GL takes into account the GI of a food as well as the amount of carbohydrates in a typical serving size.
To calculate GL, you use the following formula:
GL=(GI×the amount of carbohydrate in one serving)÷100
Low GL (1-10): Foods in this category have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. Incorporating more low-GL foods into your diet can help maintain stable energy levels throughout the day, making them ideal for weight management and overall health. Examples include most non-starchy vegetables, some fruits like cherries and grapefruit, and legumes.
Medium GL (11-19): These foods have a moderate effect on blood sugar levels. They can be included in a balanced diet but should be paired with low-GL foods or healthy fats and proteins to mitigate blood sugar spikes. Examples include whole wheat products, sweet potatoes, and some fruits like bananas and pineapple.
High GL (20+): High-GL foods cause significant spikes in blood sugar levels. They should be consumed sparingly, especially for individuals managing diabetes, prediabetes, or looking to stabilize their energy levels. Examples include white bread, short-grain rice, and baked goods made with refined flour.
Glycemic Load Calculator
The Glycemic Load Calculator is a handy tool designed to help you determine the glycemic load (GL) of various food items based on their glycemic index (GI) and portion size. It is especially useful for individuals managing their blood sugar levels or following a low glycemic diet. This tool would help you understand the total GL of your individual food items as well as what happens when you combine them in certain quantities.
How it Works:
Search for Food Items: Start by typing the name of the food item you want to include in your calculation into the search box. The tool will display a list of matching food items with their GI and GL values.
Select Food Items: Click on the desired food item from the search results to add it to your selection. You can add multiple items to your list. For eg. for a salad with Nuts, Apples, and Honey – you will choose all three.
Enter Portion Size: After selecting a food items, you’ll be prompted to enter the portion size in grams. This step allows for a more accurate calculation of the glycemic load based on your intended serving size. I
View Total Glycemic Load: As you add food items and specify their portion sizes, the tool dynamically calculates and displays the total glycemic load of your selection. This value reflects the combined effect of all selected food items on blood sugar levels.
Clear Selection: If needed, you can easily clear your selection and start over by clicking the “Clear All” button.
Once you have the value, you can see what category your meal is expected to fall into – Low, High, or Medium.
Glycemic Load Calculator
Glycemic Load Calculator
Calculate the glycemic load of your food items based on their glycemic index (GI) and portion size.
Selected Items
Total GL: 0
The total glycemic load (GL) is a measure of how much carbohydrate a food will provide.
Powered by MasalaMonk
Note: If you are not able to find the food item you are looking for inb this calculator, leave a comment below and we will make efforts to add them as soon as we can. Also this is just a tool for you to understand, we advice you to rely on serious and professional medical advice before you make any changes or alter your diet.
Benefits:
Accuracy: Provides a more accurate assessment of the glycemic load by accounting for both the GI and portion size of each food item.
Convenience: Accessible online tool that streamlines the process of glycemic load calculation, saving time and effort.
Educational: Helps users understand the impact of different foods on blood sugar levels and supports informed dietary choices.
Whether you’re managing diabetes, seeking to balance your energy levels, or simply curious about the glycemic impact of your meals, the Glycemic Load Calculator is a valuable resource for optimizing your diet and overall health.
Demystifying Glycemic Load: Practical Examples and Implications
To truly understand the practical applications of Glycemic Load (GL), let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into some real-life food examples. By breaking down the calculation, we can see the real-world implications of this measurement for our daily food choices.
The Formula in Action
Recall the formula for GL: GL=(GI×the amount of carbohydrate in one serving (in grams))÷100
Example 1: Watermelon
Watermelon has a high GI of 72, which may initially cause alarm. But let’s calculate its GL:
Carbohydrates per serving (120g of watermelon): 6 grams
GI: 72
Using our formula: GL=(72×6)÷100=4.32
So, a standard serving of watermelon has a GL of 4.32, which is low. This means that despite its high GI, watermelon doesn’t raise your blood sugar significantly when eaten in typical servings.
Implications:
You can enjoy watermelon without worrying about a major spike in blood sugar levels. It’s refreshing, hydrating, and diabetes-friendly in moderation.
Example 2: Brown Rice
Brown rice has a moderate GI of 50. Let’s calculate its GL:
Carbohydrates per serving (1 cup cooked, approximately 150g): 45 grams
GI: 50
GL=(50×45)÷100=22.5
A cup of brown rice has a GL of 22.5, which is high.
Implications:
Even though brown rice is often touted as a healthy whole grain with a moderate GI, its GL tells us that it can still have a significant impact on blood sugar levels, especially in typical portions eaten.
Example 3: Carrots
Carrots have a medium GI of 47, but let’s look at the GL:
Carbohydrates per serving (one medium carrot, approximately 61g): 6 grams
GI: 47
GL=(47×6)÷100=2.82
A medium carrot has a GL of 2.82, which is low.
Implications:
Carrots can be eaten without much worry about blood sugar spikes, making them a great snack for those on a blood sugar-conscious diet.
Making Informed Choices with GL
What these examples show us is that the Glycemic Load gives us a more nuanced view of how our body might react to different foods. A food with a high GI might not necessarily have a high GL if the amount of carbohydrates per serving is low. Conversely, a food with a medium GI could have a high GL if eaten in large portions.
The Takeaway
When planning meals and making dietary choices, especially for individuals managing diabetes or insulin resistance, considering the GL offers a more accurate gauge of how the food may influence blood sugar levels. This empowers you to choose foods that keep your blood sugar levels more stable throughout the day, which is crucial for long-term health and energy management. Remember, it’s not just about the type of carbohydrate, but also the quantity that counts.
Why Both GI and GL Matter
Understanding both GI and GL can provide a more complete strategy for blood sugar management:
GI for Speed: GI is a useful measure when you need to know how quickly a food might spike your blood sugar. This can be particularly important for diabetics who need to match their insulin timing with meals.
GL for Volume: GL helps you understand how much a serving of food is likely to affect your blood sugar levels. This can be more useful for meal planning since it considers portion size.
Harmonizing GI and GL in Your Diet
To keep your blood sugar in check, consider both the GI and the GL of foods:
Choose low to medium GI foods: These are generally better for blood sugar control.
Pay attention to portion sizes: Even low-GI foods can lead to blood sugar spikes if consumed in large quantities.
Balance your meals: Combine higher GI foods with proteins, fats, and fiber to slow down the absorption of glucose.
By using the GI and GL in tandem, you can make informed decisions that go beyond just “good” or “bad” carbs, tailoring your diet to fit your health needs with precision and care. Whether you’re filling your plate with low-GI vegetables or treating yourself to a moderate-GL fruit, you’ll be doing so with the insight needed to maintain a stable and healthy blood sugar level.
Here is a list of some common foods and their GI and GL values that we generated or found via AI for quick and easy reference. For actual inpact you might want to do a CGM or other test on your own body to see how it behaves for a particular food item.
Fruits:
Apple, GI: 36, GL: 2 – A crunchy delight packed with fiber, aiding digestion and heart health.
Banana, GI: 51, GL: 12 – Energizing and potassium-rich, perfect for active lifestyles.
Strawberries, GI: 41, GL: 3 – Sweet and nutrient-packed, promoting skin health and immunity.
Oranges, GI: 43, GL: 3 – Citrus gems high in vitamin C, boosting immune defense.
Peach, GI: 42, GL: 5 – Juicy and refreshing, with vitamins A and C for overall wellness.
Mango, GI: 51, GL: 7 – Tropical sweetness brimming with vitamins for digestive health.
Watermelon, GI: 76, GL: 4 – Hydrating and refreshing, with a high GI but low carb content.
Grapes, GI: 49, GL: 8 – A cluster of antioxidants, supporting heart health and hydration.
1. How can knowing about GI and GL enhance my diet? Understanding GI and GL can help you make better dietary choices by showing how different foods affect your blood sugar levels. This knowledge is invaluable for managing energy levels, weight, and conditions like diabetes.
2. What’s a simple way to start using GI and GL in my daily meals? Begin by incorporating more low-GI foods into your meals. Pay attention to portion sizes to manage GL and balance your plate with healthy fats and proteins to stabilize blood sugar.
3. Can high-GI foods ever be part of a healthy diet? Yes, in moderation. High-GI foods can be included in a healthy diet, especially when paired with foods high in fiber, protein, or healthy fats to mitigate blood sugar spikes.
4. How do I calculate the GL of my favorite foods? To calculate GL, multiply the GI of the food by the number of carbohydrates in a serving, then divide by 100. Nutritional labels and GI databases can provide the necessary figures.
5. Are low-GI foods always healthier than high-GI foods? Not necessarily. Low-GI foods are generally healthier as they cause a slower rise in blood sugar. However, other factors like nutrient density and caloric content should also be considered for overall health.
6. Do I need to avoid all high-GI foods if I have diabetes? Not all high-GI foods need to be avoided, but it’s essential to balance them within your diet and monitor your blood sugar levels in consultation with your healthcare provider.
7. Is GI relevant if I’m on a low-carb diet? GI may be less relevant on a low-carb diet since you’re likely consuming fewer carbs overall, but it can still be a useful tool for the carbs you do eat.
8. Can the cooking method alter the GI of foods? Yes, cooking methods can affect GI. For example, al dente pasta has a lower GI than softer-cooked pasta. Similarly, the ripeness of fruits can affect their GI.
9. How can I maintain a low-GI and GL diet when eating out? When dining out, opt for dishes with lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains, and be mindful of portion sizes to keep your GL in check.
10. Where can I find a reliable GI and GL food database? There are various databases and apps available online that provide GI and GL values. The American Diabetes Association and Glycemic Index Foundation are good places to start.
Know how much much some of you love to have a physical printout for a tracker, we thought we will make a simple application that would take your name and start of the tracker date as an input, and it would align itself to generate a nicely formatted A4 size PDF file which you can download and take a printout.
How to Use this Habit Tracker Maker
Enter the name you want to print on the tracker.
Enter the date from which you want tracker to start, the day and dates would automatically align in generated PDF.
Hit the Submit Button.
You will be a given of list if habits to choose from, see what you to improve and what you want to track.
You can choose upto 10 habits, however if you choose less than 10, the tracker will generate with empty rows, where you can enter your own later with pen pr pencil.
Once you submit after selecting the habits, you will be taken to a page with download button.
This APP is absolutely free, an endeavour to boost traffic and engagement on our website.
We do not store or sync any data for this application, whatever you do, is on your device or browser and nothing saves or syncs.
If somehow above embed does not show up or is not working, you can also Habit Tracker Maker Application here: https://masalamonk.com/apps/habittrackermaker.html – just copy paste the link in browser and it shall work.
Again this is a free application, hope it serves the purpose in your life. If you wand up using it, leave a comment, that would make us happy.
Any feedback or suggestions are welcome, would love to see what can be improved and how.
Habits You can Track using the Tracker this App Generates
Health
Drink 8 glasses of water
10,000 steps a day
7-8 hours of sleep
Meditate for 10 minutes
Eat a healthy breakfast
Daily stretching
Limit caffeine intake
Eat two servings of fruits
Eat two servings of vegetables
Avoid processed foods
Productivity
Plan your day the night before
Set three main goals for the day
Use a Pomodoro timer
Check emails at fixed times
Declutter your workspace
Take regular short breaks
Learn to say no
Limit social media usage
Focus on one task at a time
Review your day
Learning
Read for 30 minutes
Listen to a podcast episode
Write a daily journal
Learn a new word
Practice a new skill
Watch a documentary
Read a research article
Solve puzzle games
Take an online course
Attend a workshop
Social
Call a friend or family member
Compliment someone
Spend quality time with family
Meet new people
Participate in community service
Join a club or group
Volunteer for a cause
Host a social event
Share knowledge
Ask for feedback
Personal Care
Practice gratitude
Set personal goals
Take a long bath
Listen to your favorite music
Spend time outdoors
Pamper yourself
Practice positive affirmations
Unplug for an hour
Reflect on your achievements
Plan a personal treat
Again this is a free application, hope it serves the purpose in your life. If you wand up using it, leave a comment, that would make us happy.
Any feedback or suggestions are welcome, would love to see what can be improved and how.
Treadmills and Strokes! Offlate we have been hearing a bit about the phenomena, of otherwise healthy people suffering some kind of stroke – while working out and that too mostly on treadmill.
As someone who has been leveraging walking and movement myself, I cannot help but stop think about the phenomenon and if you are regular as gym or use treadmill, this should be useful for you.
Imagine – You’re out for a run, walk or jog – feeling the burn, and suddenly your body’s like, ‘Whoa, slow down!’ You know the drill – heavy breathing, pounding heart, the works. Your body’s smart, it knows when to say ‘enough is enough.’ You will gasp, you will fumble, you will just not be able to move on, but before that stage, you will considerably slow down, automagically – thats how the body works.
But now, let’s switch gears to the treadmill. You’re pounding away, and that trusty machine just keeps on chugging. And here’s the kicker – your body’s still sending those ‘slow down’ signals, but the treadmill’s like, ‘Nah, we’re not stopping yet.’
So what happens? You end up pushing yourself harder than you should, all because that treadmill’s got your back – or rather, your legs. It’s like your body’s saying ‘stop,’ but the treadmill’s saying ‘go, go, go!’ And that’s where things can get messy. Your body’s hitting its limits, but the treadmill’s oblivious. The natural slowing down, the defense mechanism of the body I would assume, is bypassed – thanks to that machine at work.
So next time you’re on that treadmill, keep in mind – listen to your body, not just the machine. It knows when to call it quits, even if the treadmill doesn’t. Do not push yourself too hard.
I can go about harping on how awesome the outdoor is anyhow, but that is not the point of this post. Outdoor is the way of expressing it, If not running – you can do walking and jogging indoors as well, without really needing a treadmill.
