I wanted to write up my version of this post- Jen shared on Instagram earlier this week. I thought it was so powerful to share the concrete ways anti-inflammatory lifestyle shows up in our lives. 

Here’s the plan I created with my dietician based on scientific evidence for more energy, better mood, decreased inflammation & depressive symptoms.

1. I <almost> never skip breakfast. 
   I enjoy a cup of coffee along with protein-packed oatmeal or 100% whole grain toast with avocado, smoked salmon and everything but the bagel sprinkle. 
   Eating breakfast helps keep my energy stable and my blood sugars in check.
   
   
2. I eat a quarter of a cup of nuts or a serving of nut butter with a piece of fruit 5 days per week.
   Nuts are a great source of polyunsaturated fats, fiber and antioxidants and I love balancing their flavor with a little natural source of sweetness & fiber from an apple, berries or citrus.
   
   
3. I cook with olive oil daily.
   For high temp cooking, I’ll substitute avocado oil.
   I love drizzling a little olive oil on vegetables or a salad.
   
   
4. I drink green tea or a match latte in the afternoon.
   Green tea is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory chemicals and has just a bit of caffeine.
   
   
5. I eat beans 3-4 times per week.
   A plant-forward eating pattern is supported by science. Beans are an incredible source of protein and fiber that feeds our good gut bugs.
   I love adding them to homemade soups, casseroles, and salads.
   
   
6. I eat 2 cups of vegetables daily.
   Cooked or raw. Fresh or frozen. I am for a rainbow of colors when possible so I get diversity in the types of fiber, antioxidants, and liver-detoxing compounds naturally found in veggies.
   
   
7. I am working on incorporating daily walks or bike rides into my routine.
   Low-impact exercise like walking & cycling is proven to elevate mood, improve heart health, and help maintain weight.
   
   
8. I meditate, self-coach, and take moments for mindfulness daily.
   This is my favorite way to stay grounded and regulate my nervous system. I have learned how to interrupt my negative self-talk and align my actions with my values.
   
   
9. I protect my sleep routine above almost everything else.
   This means lights out by 9pm nearly every night of the week.
   Or I squeeze in a power nap if the kids have been keeping me awake. 

But here is the deal...

It didn't start out this way. 

FAR from it. 

It has taken me the last few YEARS to get to this place. 

Slowly improving my ability to digest more fiber. 

Slowly increasing my energy levels to be able to take on more activity.  

Learning how to say "no" and ask for help. 

I have an AMAZING YEAR in the works for 2023 and I would love to invite you to join Jen and I in the BELONG community.

Founding members can join for $23/month (until 12/25) and get access to Jen’s NOURISHED PASS for the year too! 

Jen and I wanted to make Belong affordable but not free. 

Why? 
Because when we invest in ourselves, we commit. 
We show up with a different energy. 

The result? 
We get better results. 

To join and commit to your anti-inflammatory nutrition & lifestyle program click here.

We can't wait to see you inside. 

P.S. Did you know that Belong is totally separate from social media? 

No Facebook required!