Did you know that water plays a vital role in supporting healthy weight loss? Unlike fat, our bodies can't store water, so it's necessary to replenish yourself continuously throughout the day. Additionally, staying hydrated speeds up metabolism, facilitates the removal of toxins from your body and can help prevent overeating.

As we approach the warmer months, ensure you practice the habit of healthy hydration with these tips:

• Monitor your water intake. Certain health conditions and lifestyles can determine how much water you need, so consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate amount for you. As a baseline, we recommend drinking 64 ounces^* of water per day.
• Keep a water bottle close. The easiest way to remember to drink more water is to always keep a water bottle handy, in your car, at your desk, or when practicing the habit of healthy motion. Your water bottle is a visual queue to hydrate, and you are more likely to refill your bottle when it is empty. Need a new water bottle? Visit OPTAVIAGear.com for a selection of different sizes and designs!
• Drink water with every meal. Drinking water with your meals not only helps you stay hydrated but can also help improve your body's digestion. If you are hydrated, your body will produce sufficient saliva, which helps break down food into nutrients that your body can easily absorb.
• Get water from veggies. Your food choices significantly contribute to hydration and account for roughly 20 percent of your daily fluid intake. Next time you hit the grocery store try iceberg lettuce, celery, or cucumbers – these options are high in water content. For perspective, the water composition of a cucumber is 96%, making it a great option to include in your Lean & Green Meals.

Proper hydration is as critical as healthy nutrition when working towards your health goals. Connect with me, your independent OPTAVIA Coach, to discuss other creative ways to stay hydrated.

Mother’s Day is approaching! Even though one day a year really is not enough to honor the most important people in your life, Mother’s Day is an excellent opportunity to express your gratitude to those who cared for you.

Here are some ideas to ensure you stay on Plan while enjoying the special day:

• Have a Lean & Green brunch, lunch, or dinner. The key to a great day is a healthy and nutritious meal. Check out the OPTAVIA App for more than 200+ delicious Plan-approved Lean & Green recipe options to share with your friends and loved ones.
• Host a lawn game. Spring is here and it is the perfect time to take advantage of the nice weather by getting outside for a game of croquet, corn hole, outdoor Jenga, or horseshoes. Split into teams and drum up some friendly rivalry. Make it a Mother’s Day tradition and pass the trophy to the winner each year.
• Head to the Farmer’s Market. Visit a nearby Farmer’s Market and spend the morning picking produce, browsing artisanal products, or planning your Mother’s Day meal ahead. You’ll never know what you may stumble upon!
• Have a movie day. Get the whole family together and pick out a few movies to watch throughout the day! Kick back, relax and enjoy the family time.

For more ways to celebrate, reach out to me, your independent OPTAVIA Coach or other moms in the OPTAVIA Community.

Better Habits, Better Life

Struggling through unhealthy habits for years, Hal built up the courage to admit he had an addiction to food. Having little to no success with countless dieting systems and suffering through side effects of diet medications, Hal decided he had a lot to live for and as a result, he took a bold approach toward healthy living.

As a desperate last step, Hal considered and consulted with physicians on the option of bariatric surgery. However, weighing the risks and using the lives of his two children as his WHY, Hal decided not to proceed and remains thankful that he did.

“Word passed around my synagogue about a weight loss program that a few of my friends were having success with. Having gone through several programs, I was skeptical. However, after seeing the results of the OPTAVIA Program from my friends, I reached out to my friend and independent OPTAVIA Coach, Jill who was amazing.”

Hal describes his first interaction with his OPTAVIA Coach as easy and memorable. “She had a humorous approach to coaching that really helped. Hal was introduced to an OPTAVIA Plan that changed the way he looked at food. “It took food out of the ’reward’ zone. This was what I really needed.”

Hal began Plan in August 2022 and has experienced impressive results. “I’m not exaggerating when I say I feel lighter. Even walking up the stairs is easier.”

Hal’s appreciation for the results he’s been able to achieve with OPTAVIA and his Coach positions him well for his next journey as a Coach. “I never thought I would, but I’m confident that I can help others overcome their addictions to food. I can really make a difference to support the mission of Lifelong Transformation, One Healthy Habit at a Time.