LetsExercise.com |
| Ask An Expert - by Charlene Miskulin |
| Answers to Q4 A, Q4 B & Q4 C are below |
Q4 A: Dear Char: I have a cold and I am not feeling well, should I be working out? Vickie (37, Chicago)
Answer: There are two sides to this issue. If you have a fever, I wouldn't be working out. If you have just a cold, a light workout would be OK. I have read both pros and cons to working out while sick. So my rule of thumb is if I have a fever, I don't. If I have a cold, I do. I usually feel better after a workout as long as I don't cough all over my neighbor exercisers and get them made at me. As always, consult your doctor and listen to your body. I hope you are feeling better, and it might take a week or two for your body to workout like it did before you got sick.
Q4 B: Dear Char: I love your column, what do you eat to stay healthy? Ben (28, Chicago)
Answer: Well Ben, I am a vegetarian, the kind that still eats eggs and cheese, but no meat. I eat oatmeal and juice for breakfast, a half a sandwich and low-fat chips for lunch, and low-fat pizzas or meat-free corn dogs and salads for dinner. In between, I love frozen yogurt, no-fat pudding, fruit, diet soda (especially diet sprite) salsa, beer (oh that slipped in), popcorn, and peanut butter. My down fall is the Mexican restaurants here in Texas. They are wonderful!! Char.
Q4 C: Dear Char: I am going to be a freshman in High School this fall, and I have a Swim Team at 6:00 AM, than an advanced dance classing during school, and drill team practice after school. Do you have any advice for me related to healthy eating and fitness? Cassie (Age 14, Texas)
Answer: Congratulations!! Sounds like you have a very, very busy year ahead. First, keep in mind it will take a couple of weeks for your body to become accustomed to your new physical routine. It will adjust, and you can help it out by keeping water with you AT ALL TIMES!! Not drinking enough water is a major energy zapper. Next eat something small throughout the day. Keep fruit, pretzels, and power bars on hand for fuel throughout the day. Third, SLEEP, yes sleep, if you don't get to bed early and sleep enough your body will be exhausted. Your body needs that time to repair itself.
