How to avoid BPA – An endocrine disruptor

Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a chemical used primarily to make polycarbonate plastics (e.g. bottles, food containers, processing equipment) and epoxy resins (e.g. protective linings in cans and bottles).  Worries about this product started back in 2008, due to BPA’s “hormone-like” properties. It was declared a toxic substance in Canada in 2010.

Eating for two?

It is a common misconception that once a woman is pregnant, she is “eating for two”.  This is a risky way to think, as in many cases it will lead to higher gestational weight gain than required or recommended. 

Checking in halfway - our progress!

Hey everyone,

We thought we should give a quick update on how our new workout and nutrition strategy is going, as it is already mid-January!  We have spent the first two weeks repeating three different workouts (see previous post for details). We have been focused on improving both our strength and form, with fewer exercises but more sets. We have definitely noted good gains in the program thus far!

Is it safe to eat fish during pregnancy?

Many women are leery to consume fish during pregnancy due to concerns regarding mercury consumption and the effect on their developing baby.

Studies, however, show that it important to consume fish which contain omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy and when breastfeeding.  These polyunsaturated fatty acids are vital in fetal and newborn central nervous system (brain) and visual development.

Nutrition challenge - whey protein!

Hey everyone,

This week, we have decided to challenge ourselves with a new meal plan. After thinking about our holiday and daily eating patterns, we have realized that evening is often our weak point; where we are most likely to snack. We often find that we have a healthy dinner, but then snack throughout the evening.

A New Workout Plan

Hey everyone,

At the outset of 2012, we have decided to implement a new fitness plan, building on our five fitness principles (covered in a recent post).  We are streamlining our exercises (i.e. focusing on foundational exercises) and hope to really perfect these movements through focus and repetition.  As a result, we will be performing the same exercises repeatedly over a one month period (before re-assessing and modifying our program).  We will constantly critique our form to derive maximum results and minimize the risk of injury.

What type of exercise is safe during pregnancy?

This is a very common question from both women who are active and fit pre-pregnancy and those who want to get fit during a pregnancy.  The first question you need to ask is whether it is safe for you to exercise during pregnancy?   This is something that you should discuss with your doctor prior to continuing or starting an exercise plan.  For more information on this, please see a previous post under “Pregnancy” entitled: Is it safe for me to exercise during pregnancy. Once you and your doctor have determined that exercise is safe for you, you need to re-evaulate your fitness regime and potentially modify it to make if safe for you and your developing baby.

Happy New Year! Our 5 new fitness principles of 2012.

Hey everyone,

Welcome to 2012! The start of a new year is always exciting, as it prompts you to revisit your previous goals and measure your achievements, as well as establish new goals and resolutions for yourself.