If you do get to leave your house, you'll see these signs everywhere instead of a pile-up on the 405. Fitness centers, gyms, restaurants and bars in Los Angeles throughout California are closed to help contain the spread of coronavirus.
It may seem the only thing you're currently doing is this :
Although the coronavirus is causing us to practice social distancing to flatten the curve, it is necessary for us to maintain physical and mental wellness. Dr.Korman and the staff at Marina Weight Loss Center want to help you stay on track towards achieving or maintaining your weight loss goals.
Not only will continuing to exercise and eat a healthy diet keep the scale needle moving to the left, it will help keep your mental health in check (the spread of corona virus has shown to increase anxiety).
Diet
With toilet paper cleared from the shelves, it's uncertain if fresh food items will be next to go. TV stations are recommending to stock up on non-perishable items. However, these items are highly processed, calorically dense, and low in nutrients. This combination is not bariatric-friendly.
What is bariatric friendly during coronavirus?
If a shortage of fresh produce and meat occurs, the freezer is your friend. Frozen vegetables, frozen low-glycemic fruits (such as mixed berries), and frozen meats such as chicken breasts do not lose any of their nutrients during the freezing process.
When purchasing frozen meats or meat substitutes, check the ingredients to make sure there are no added sugars or fats. There is no shortage of healthy recipes online geared towards frozen foods. Taco cauliflower rice skillet for dinner? Yum.
Opt for nut milks, such as unsweetened almond milk. These non-dairy options have a longer shelf life than traditional dairy milk and are lower in carbohydrates and calories. Although oat milk is gaining popularity as a non-dairy option, some brands can have around 20 grams of sugar and 120 calories per serving. Make sure to select a brand that is unsweetened.
What about workouts?
With gyms and fitness centers closed, it's time to get creative. There are two main options: live streaming services, or getting outside. Being in nature itself is a way to alleviate anxiety and stress.
If you are normally a gym fanatic or class enthusiast, this 20 minute full body work out will get your heart rate up and work out all the core muscle groups. If an Australian accent motivates you to get through a 30 minute low-impact work out, this YouTube exercise video for beginners may do the trick. Cardio combos is a more intense 30- minute work out if you are ready for a serious sweat session.
After you sweat, do a cool down of deep breathing. This will help prevent anxiety and stress you may feel due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Go Virtual
Although in-person support groups are being postponed at the moment, you are eligible to join Dr. Korman's closed Support Group on Facebook. This platforms serves as a safe environment for current patients and those considering a weight loss procedure to communicate their concerns, ask questions, and share successes.
Stay on Schedule
Even if you are working from home, you can still maintain a routine. Be sure to get proper sleep (7-9 hours), eat meals at consistent times, and write down your physical activity times on the calendar. This will help create a sense of normalcy for your mental health and keep you on track for your weight loss needs.
You may feel lonely or isolated (and stir-crazy) during these uncertain times. By following these tips and reaching out for support, we can maintain a sense of community.
To learn more or schedule a consultation with Dr. Korman, contact us here or call the office: 310-577-5540.