Get Healthy with Heather

GET HEALTHY WITH Other studies point to a high salt intake contributing to calcium loss – so beware of ‘hidden’ salt in processed foods. Phosphoric acid, used in carbonated sodas, can also increase calcium loss while other guilty parties include caffeine and smoking.

The evidence is fairly clear that the most critical factors in protecting bone health and preventing osteoporosis are weight-bearing exercise throughout life and adequate calcium and vitamin D intake. Weight-bearing exercise means climbing the stairs instead of taking the elevator, walking to the shops instead of driving, and of course dancing. Heather says dancing is a great way to exercise…

“To be on Dancing with the Stars was a dream come true – it meant I could raise thousands of pounds for animal awareness and Viva!’s campaigns, while doing something I love! Being vegan has boosted my energy and fitness and definitely helped me be able to do hours of training each day for the Show.”

Muscle You don’t build muscle by eating muscle (meat) you do it with regular training and hard work – unfortunately there’s no magic bullet. The best muscle fuel is a wholegrain, plant-based diet that includes plenty of complex carbohydrates, ‘good’ fats, plant protein, vitamins, minerals, disease-busting antioxidants and healthy fibre. No surprise then that Carl Lewis, the American track-andfield athlete who won nine Olympic gold medals during the 1980s and 1990s, found that his best year was the first year he went vegan!

Don’t forget that eating well is only part of the equation; you have to exercise regularly, too!

“I lead a hectic life like many mums but try to exercise every day. It keeps my energy levels high along with my vegan diet.”

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