Water, On the Rocks

Tuesday's Tip

Remember how it was hard doing what your mom and dad told you to do when you were growing up? I always thought I had all of the answers all to hear the words, "I told you," from my parents if I didn't listen to them. They were very good, though, with the live-and-learn concept with my brothers and me. Because of that, and now with being in my 20s, I find myself readily turning to them for all kinds of advice whether big or small.

My Dad used to not be the healthiest guy out there, especially being the creator of our family motto- We never go hungry. He was a textbook example of how unhealthy decisions can negatively impact your life- fast food nearly every day for lunch in his 20s, ate lots of red meat, smoked, had a couple of beers every night, didn't exercise much, ate far beyond what he should, and had a history of heart problems in his family. My Dad made life-changing decisions in the summer of 2009 when, at the young age of 50, he had a heart attack and had to have emergency surgery to put in 5 bypasses. He made a complete 180 with his life as he swung his health focus to the complete opposite side of the spectrum. He was eating healthy at every meal and while snacking by incorporating fish, chicken, whole wheat, veggies, fruits, and eggs into his diet, toned down the amount of time he spent smoking and cut back on how many beers he had each night, started and sometimes ended his days with trips to the gym, and watched his portions. Not only did he shed the weight off, but he felt so much healthier, both physically and mentally. I was so proud of my Dad and, more importantly, so thankful to still have him in my life after the frightening summer of 2009. With being able to eat more food and more frequently when you make healthy decisions, he found that he can most definitely still live by his motto.

I credit my Dad for this Tuesday's small but mighty tip: Drink a glass of ice cold water when you first wake up in the morning. Think of it as your digestive system's alarm clock for the day. It kick-starts your body's metabolism right away! Thanks Daddio :)