Smart ways to get your health and fitness back into a normal routine

(BPT) -

This past year has been a rollercoaster, adding a lot of stress to everyone’s lives and, for many, their health, fitness and nutrition have suffered because of it. Gyms and even outdoor exercise spaces were closed. People worked and studied from home full time, meaning they were more sedentary. Being at home meant it was easier to snack and the temptation to order delivery was ever present. As so many people prioritized staying safe and limiting the spread of the virus, some healthy lifestyle choices were forfeited.

If you put your health and fitness goals on hold over the last year, you're not alone. Now that the world is reopening and people are seeking a return to more normal routines, it's time to take smart steps to get your wellness habits back again. Consider some simple suggestions from the experts at The Vitamin Shoppe to get your health and fitness back on track and build momentum toward a better you:

Create a daily routine

There were probably times during the pandemic that felt like your main goal was to simply get through the day. Now that life is starting to balance out, it's time to create a routine to give your day structure and set you up for success. Try waking up and going to bed at the same time every day, allotting space for seven or more hours of sleep. Designate times for breaks throughout the day so you can manage stress. Plan walks and other fitness activities into your day to move your body. Make a system that works for you and stick with it.

Additionally, consider incorporating the fitfactor™ Weight Management System from The Vitamin Shoppe^® into your routine. The system is inspired by consumer research to be an integrated offering of nutritionist-recommended, personalized top-quality products combined with free nutrition coaching. Through a simple online quiz The Vitamin Shoppe can help you find the right products for your lifestyle or wellness goals.

Start your day the right way

Breakfast helps fuel you for the day ahead, and just because you're heading back to work or school in person doesn't mean you should skip it. Meal replacement shakes can be an option for getting ample nutrition with lots of satisfying protein to keep you energized when you’re in a hurry. Try a delicious fitfactor Protein Shake in Milk Chocolate that provides vitamins and minerals as a low-calorie meal replacement while supporting blood sugar control for a nutrient-packed breakfast option.

Try a plant-based option

Whether you’ve maintained a plant-based diet or are looking to adapt to one, your fitness journey doesn’t have to take a lot of guess work in trying to keep your diet consistent. One idea is incorporating smoothies into your meal plan since they are an efficient and effective way to get all your nutrients. One of our favorite plant-based protein options is fitfactor Plant-Based Protein Shake in Vanilla, which is low in calories and high in fiber. Try adding some green veggies, berries or fruits for added flavor and nutrients. With 24 grams of plant-based protein that helps with appetite control and Fibersol^®-2 vegetable fiber that aids in digestive health, you can feel good about sipping on this shake.

Re-introduce healthy snacking

It’s possible that during stressful times, you may have given in to comfort foods, especially not-so-healthy snacks (we’ve all been there at some point!) but try to remember that constant, heavy snacking can lead to the consumption of a lot of empty calories. Re-introduce healthy snacking into your wellness habits by buying fresh fruit, pre-chopping veggies like carrots and celery into snack-ready portions, and stock up on fitfactor High Protein Bars in great tasting flavors like Chocolate Covered Strawberry for those moments you feel a snack craving. The bars taste like a treat but are designed to help you control cravings and keep you satisfied throughout the day. With 20 grams of protein, 16 grams of fiber, six grams of net carbs and only three grams of sugar per serving, you can be confident you're making a good snacking choice. Tuck one in your purse, backpack or workout bag for a fun and fit snack on the run.

Research supplements to support your goals

Ask your health care provider about which supplements can help support your health journey. Many people take a multivitamin daily and there are other supplements that can help make a difference in reaching your goals. For example, fitfactor Control 360 is thermogenic (fat burning) and a non-stimulant advanced formula to help you burn more calories with Capsimax^® and support appetite control. This supplement also promotes healthy cognitive function and stress management with Sensoril^® ashwagandha extract, an ingredient backed by clinical research, but without common allergens like gluten, dairy or nuts.

Stay positive

The pandemic started over a year ago and breaking unhealthy habits can take time. If you slip, be kind to yourself and start again with an open mind and positive outlook the next day. Your health and wellness are worth the effort and now is the ideal time to start on a fresh journey to help you be your best self, however you define it. For more information and inspiration, visit VitaminShoppe.com, the leading destination for lifelong wellness solutions.