How I approach healthy eating and exercise as I near 50, is a journey of personal transformation that Kristi Manikel, a fitness enthusiast and a healthy food aficionado, embarked upon. As she approached her 50th birthday, she decided to prioritize her wellness, focusing on muscle building. She has managed to up her workout game from three to five times a week while incorporating more protein and whole foods into her diet.
Making Healthy Eating a Priority
“I’ve slimmed down, tightened up, and I just have a lot more energy now,” shares Manikel. After her recent divorce, she has dedicated her Sunday mornings to batch cooking and meal planning for the week ahead. To ensure she gets enough protein, she buys chicken thighs and breasts, ground beef, and steak in bulk, often from Costco or a meat wholesaler, storing it all in her deep freezer.
Meal Planning and Grocery Shopping
Manikel prepares one pound of ground beef at a time, making taco bowls or meatballs tossed in marinara for meals throughout the week. In addition to her Costco runs, she makes frequent trips to Carload Food Market, a local green grocer in her Toronto Bloor Street West Village neighborhood. There, she stocks up on fruits and vegetables, along with regular visits to local fish and butcher shops.
The Impact of Regular Workouts
Beyond the slimming effect, her regular workouts may be increasing her longevity. According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, women who engage in muscle-strengthening exercises can reduce their cardiovascular mortality by 30 per cent. Women who do moderate-intensity exercise – such as Manikel’s brisk walks around her neighborhood – five times a week can reduce their risk of premature death by 24 per cent.
Adapting to Changing Eating Habits
“As I get close to 50, I’m trying to pay more attention to these things, and I’m realizing they’re more important,” says Manikel. Now that she’s cooking for one, she’s focused on simpler meals and reduced alcohol intake. She also uses her air fryer often to roast vegetables or cook chicken or meatballs.
Shopping Habits and Regular Groceries
Manikel shares her grocery shopping habits and some of her regular purchases, which include Stracciatella Cheese, Farro, Poblano peppers, Hemp hearts, and Chocolate coconut bars. These items not only satisfy her taste buds but also contribute to her health and nutritional needs.
As Manikel approaches 50, her journey is an inspiring example of how healthy eating and regular exercise can make a significant difference in improving one’s quality of life and potentially increasing longevity. It’s never too late to start making health and wellness a priority.
