As you continue on your journey to optimal health and wellbeing, there are some additional tools in our arsenal that could optimize your current state and keep you in the best condition possible, regardless of your age!

These tools are supplements and nutrients. Supplements and nutrients are not like medications; they are actually already present in your body. By supplementing them in the right amount, you are helping your body reach its optimal efficiency.

Remember, before starting any new supplement protocols, please meet with your healthcare provider to make sure none of your medications or conditions will be affected by nutritional intervention.

Check out the following supplement guidelines recommended by Co-founder and independent OPTAVIA Coach, Dr. Wayne Scott Andersen, in Your LifeBook: Element 21^*:

• Add fish oil. Select either 4oz of fatty fish three times a week, 3-6 walnuts a day, or one to three grams of omega derived from a cold-water artic fish 30 minutes before a meal.
• Take a daily multivitamin. Start with a one-a-day multivitamin specifically designed for your gender and age.
• Add B complex vitamins. The B complex vitamins work as a team. Unless you have specific needs, it is usually best to take them in the form of a high-potency B complex formula.
• Augment with other Key Vitamins. Add any other necessary vitamins and minerals that are not part of your multivitamin and B complex.
• Add Key Minerals. This includes calcium, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.
• Take an anti-inflammatory package. Inflammation is an area that may go unnoticed by patients' healthcare providers, but extinguishing the inflammatory flame is a significant part of our core strategic plan to optimize your health.

You now have a great outline of the nutritional support you need, not only to correct any deficiencies, but also to help you flourish at your best. Add these to the anti-inflammatory practices you learned in Element 20 of Your LifeBook, and you’re ready to take on the world!

Connect with me, your independent OPTAVIA Coach, if you have any questions about implementing supplements into your routine.

Did you know that October 13 is national train your brain day? There’s no better way to train your brain and enhance your skills than grabbing a good book!

Not only is reading a great way to practice the macroHabit of a Healthy Mind, but it can also take your mind off mindless eating and allow you to center yourself.

Reading is a win-win. There are many benefits to reading so grab a book today and check out these advantages:

• Reduce stress. No matter how much pressure you face at work or in your personal life, it slips away when you read. A well-written novel, article, essay – any format of writing - can transport you to other worlds and places,, while also informing you.
• Boost your sleep. Reading can enable you to relax and de-stress, especially with a nice cup of decaffeinated tea. It will settle your body after a long day of being in front of electronics and even promotes a good night of peaceful sleep. Reading a good book and settling down after dark is a much better option than watching television or scrolling on your cell phone.
• Improve personal growth and development. Self-help and educational books directly serve this purpose, but even great works of fiction can also challenge us to think differently about the world and about how people interact with each other. Learning from books allows us to keep our minds active while also learning new skills and understanding new ideas. Truly a perfect way to practice macroHabit of a Healthy Mind!

Remember to start small by reading just a little bit each day and read something you genuinely enjoy. Dr. A’s Habits of Health or Your LifeBook are also great options on your journey!

Reach out to me, your independent OPTAVIA Coach, for book recommendations and ways to train your brain.

Smiling Through Helping Others

After Laura’s fiancé passed, she felt herself struggling to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

“I spent two years caring for my fiancé and our farm but did not take time to care for myself.” Laura found herself overweight, unhealthy, and unable to ride her horses.

"I stopped going out with friends and hated looking in the mirror, and I never let people take pictures of me unless I was hiding behind my horses or dogs."

Laura saw her niece's mother post a picture of her weight loss, and immediately reached out, learned about OPTAVIA, and got on plan. As time passed, Laura noticed weight loss_*, newfound energy, and truly felt a healthy glow!

Eventually, Laura decided she wanted to share her amazing secret and help those around her feel the same. Laura became an independent OPTAVIA Coach and wakes up every day smiling because she can help others.

“I have been told by so many people that I am an inspiration to them and that I give them the courage to move forward with their own health. It is such an amazing feeling to be told that!"

Laura is now back to riding horses and meeting new people in the Community. She is extremely grateful to OPTAVIA for giving her this wonderful gift.