Finding the motivation to move

Have you ever wondered why we move? Humans have an innate inquisitive nature, that leads us to want to know ‘what is on the other side’. The other side of the hill, the mountain, the continent, or the sea for example. We were always on the lookout for food and water. Throughout evolution, until very recently, our ancestors had to travel, often great distances, to find food and water. They always moved first, then ate and drank after. Then it is likely that they rested and prepared for the next journey. It is only in recent, modern times that we were blessed (or cursed) with the convenience of food and water within a few feet of where we sit. That has always led me to the conclusion that modern convenience drives lazy behavior. We are inherently lazy creatures and will take advantage of this at every opportunity. 

So, what was it that really made us move?

A substance that we all have, Glutamine is the instigator of much of this. Glutamine is an incredibly important amino acid found in the body. In fasting (hunger) state, glutamine is converted into Glutamate. Glutamate is the major excitatory neurotransmitter. In other words, it gets you moving. It stimulates multiple pathways that encourage you to move and to prepare your body for the reward (food, glorious food!) that is coming your way. In a fed (satiated) state glutamine is preferentially converted into GABA. GABA is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in adults. In other words, it sedates you, causing relaxation and rest (the post meal laziness). 

The Benefits of Physical Activity Before Eating

We've all been there. It's dinner time, we're finally home after a long day of work, and the last thing we want to do is cook a healthy meal. So you order takeout, plop down on the couch, and turn on the TV. Sounds familiar? In today's fast-paced world, it's easier than ever to eat unhealthy processed food and with working sedentary jobs, it's no wonder that obesity rates are soaring. But what if I told you that there was a way to make healthy eating easier - and it doesn't involve giving up your favorite TV show? All you need to do is move!

Physical activity before eating helps enhance digestion because it improves circulation to transport nutrients more efficiently. It can also help regulate blood sugar, reduce stress hormones, boost energy levels by increasing endorphins, and provide psychological benefits and improve mood by reducing stress hormones. And most importantly, all these factors can contribute significantly to weight loss/management goals. Now, I'm not saying that you need to go for a run every time you sit down to eat. But even a short walk around the neighborhood or some simple jumping jacks can make a big difference.

Why am I telling you this?

I’m overall responsible for reviewing blood samples within Valeo Health. We can see these issues developing, from eating too often to overhydration (way more common than you may think) to muscular skeletal issues because of sedentary behavior. I’m also responsible for finding solutions. At Valeo, we understand the difficulty is that, as mentioned above, there isn’t a “one size fits all” solution when it comes to diet and lifestyle advice. Get tested, have your results and lifestyle professionally analyzed and recover your functional human state.