With so many diets to choose from, and nutrition and exercise advice constantly changing, what are we supposed to eat and how are we supposed to work out these days? We get some sound advice from someone who’s done and tried it all. The Flexible Chef, Nealy Fischer, lets us in on her healthy snacking habits, her fitness secrets and her new book FOOD YOU WANT: For The Life You Crave
WHAT KIND OF DIET DO YOU FOLLOW AT THE MOMENT?
I’ve been on just about every diet in the world, but these days I follow a “fad-free diet.” Basically, I don’t get swayed by trends or extremes and just eat clean, sensible foods when I’m hungry. I mostly fill my plate with veggies and proteins (eggs, chicken, meat, and fish). I indulge in better-for-you carbs and sweets when a craving hits, and enjoy treats and guiltless pleasures in moderation.
3 TIPS TO EAT HEALTHIER IN 2019
Remember: “Healthy” is just as much a mindset as it is a choice. Spend some time figuring out what works best for you and your body. In the process, stay flexible and don’t succumb to extremes.
Get more addicted to the feeling of energy and liveliness than the fulfillment gained from daily pasta (or whatever your food weakness is).
Snack less and only eat when you’re actually hungry!
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR GO-TO HEALTHY SNACKS?
I’m not a big snacker, but when I need a mid-day nibble I’m kind of weird. I snack on dill pickles (I crave the salt mid-morning after a run), olives, carrots and tahini (tahini is the new hummus and has no carbs that leave you feeling bloated). I dip it in Jicama, celery and red pepper, my random two new favorite veggies. Salted dark chocolate always has a place in my travel carry on too.
YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE?
Chips! And, it’s true — it’s hard to stop after just one. When I’m in the mood for greasy potato chips, but looking for a slightly healthier option, I get flexible and whip up my crave-able kale chips, chickpea crisps, or some crispy oven-baked french fries. With a glass of chilled rosé!
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE CUISINE?
I often crave new things, so I mix it up. Japanese always wins, and Thai and Israeli food are tied for second place. In my upcoming book, FOOD YOU WANT: For The Life You Crave, I share a slew of global flexible cuisine inspired by my travels. It includes curries, falafel, and crispy sushi bites.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE CHEF?
Chef Erwin at the Aman resorts for his island-style creative flair. He actually inspired two of the recipes in my book! Ina Garten has been an inspiration for her simplicity. And I love all of Eyal Shani’s restaurants in Tel Aviv.
WHAT’S YOUR FITNESS ROUTINE?
As I get older, I’ve started incorporating more high intensity training into my regular workout routine. I do a combination of cardio, strength training, toning workouts, and some yoga. I shoot for more intense sweat sessions five times a week and then go on long walks and just chill on the weekends.
See also: Healthy Eats in Hong Kong
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE EXERCISE?
I do my own version of Tracy Anderson’s butt-sculpting and hand weight exercises. I combine these inspired moves with barre-style squats, planks, push-ups, and long hold stretches. I also love running! Not only does hopping on the treadmill or hitting the pavement help me to work up a sweat, it also teaches valuable lessons that can be applied in other areas of life. For example, I wrote an entire blog post on how running transformed my business because each run forces me to work hard and set a realistic goal. Running randomly with no destination is like living with no purpose. Plus, it keeps me in shape!
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE ACTIVEWEAR?
I wear Alo and Beyond Yoga leggings for barre and yoga or just to lounge it (they look great with boots!). Alo sports bras and Lululemon shorts for running. I also love Onzie for their cute seamless pants and sports bras.
