I am a working mother with a busy schedule. I work in the office during the day and then at home, so I always feel tired. I’d like to be more active and have more energy throughout the day. What activities do you suggest I include in my daily routine?
Sara Alicia- Los Angeles.

It’s great to hear that you want to be more active and want to feel better. It only takes a little planning and dedicating time for these activities. By incorporating these changes you’ll notice the effects, such as feeling more energetic and being in a better mood. Here are my suggestions for being more active:

Go out dancing.

Get an exercise DVD such as Fiesta Latina Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 that you can do at home at your own schedule.

Walk as you talk on the phone.

Use the stairs instead of the elevator.

Take a water aerobics class or any aerobics class.

Do some stretches and abs crunches as you watch TV.

Play with your kids, preferably outdoors.



Due to health concerns, I know it is important to eat food that is low fat and low calorie. I don’t have a lot of time to prepare my meals, so I eat out a lot, especially fast food, which has resulted in weight gain. What can I do to reduce calories and eat healthier?
Alex- Phoenix, Arizona.

Here are a few ways to improve your eating habits. These small changes bring big rewards. The main thing is to reduce calories and fats. Being consistent is essential to obtaining results. Remember that nothing is more important than your health, so make an effort and surely your body will thank you back.

1.Prepare your meals: Include fruits and vegetables at every meal as much as you can. If you are still hungry after a meal, eat more vegetables, salad or fruit.
2.Reduce the sodas, sugary drinks and artificial juices. Drink water or a low calorie beverage.
3.Reduce the calories by reducing the portions: serve smaller portions that what you usually eat.
4.When you eat out, ask for the smaller portion on the menu. Share the main dishes and desserts with family or friends, or split the portion to take home.
5.Reduce the fat: prepare low fat versions of your favorite foods. Use low fat mayonnaise, low fat condiments or low fat soups.
6.Use less cooking oil. Cook your meals in the oven, on the grill or use the non-stick pans with spray oil.
7.Use low fat dairy products, like low fat or non-fat cheese.
8.Eat lean meats or chicken without the skin.
9.Read the food labels. Sometimes the items that say low fat have a lot of calories or sugar.
10.Eat 5 or 6 meals a day:

1.Breakfast
2.Light Snack
3.Lunch
4.Light Snack
5.Dinner
6.Light Snack


Other suggestions:
Exercise almost every day of the week. Think about the things you are willing and are able to do.
Decide how you will reduce calories and weight.
Plan on how you will keep track of your progress.