A recent article in Time magazine revealed married individuals are twice as likely to become obese than people who are just dating. While the theories for weight gain range from less time at the gym to a new importance to mealtime, we think becoming a newlywed is a good reason to find ways to enhance your health in the home.
Kitchen
Where better to start your transformation than the place where you prepare your meals? If you're in the process of registering, consider appliances that are designed with your health in mind. A slow cooker is a must-have for any busy couple. You'll have no reason to get takeout if you've got a yummy meal waiting for you when you walk in the door. Your pocketbook and waistline will thank you, too. We like Hamilton Beach's Set 'N Forget Programmable Slow Cooker, $80 (hamiltonbeach.ca).
Another element to consider in your kitchen is the colour of your walls—seriously. Certain colours have been shown to stimulate appetite, including red, orange and yellow. So it’s no surprise that fast food joints tend to use these hues. Cool colours like blue and green are less likely to increase your hunger, so consider that before you pick up the paintbrush.
Bedroom
A good night’s sleep is a key component to good health, including a healthy waistline. At the SLEEP 2009 convention in Seattle, one study reported weight gain in those who experienced restricted sleep. It's also been discovered that when you're sleep deprived a hormone called ghrelin, responsible for feelings of hunger, actually increases, while the hormone leptin, which tells your body it’s full, decreases. Sounds like a recipe for a late-night carb attack if you ask us! If you can't up your sleeping hours significantly, be sure the sleep you do get is quality. A good mattress is a must if you don't already have one and planning to make your bedroom a place of rest and relaxation, by avoiding TV and late-night work on the laptop, is the key to sweet dreams. We like Bath & Body Works Sleep Aromatherapy Concentrated Room Spray in Lavender Chamomile, $7 to help set the tone.
Backyard
Now that you and your mister have settled into your new abode, chances are you have more outdoor living space. If this is the case, take the time to enhance it just like you would any other room in the house. Plus, getting in touch with nature, even if it means lying on a lounger in your backyard, is an automatic stress reliever. Those of you with green inclinations should consider taking up gardening. Gardening torches calories, and homegrown fruit, vegetables or herbs are a delicious and healthy way to spice up your meals. We like the affordable and stylish outdoor furniture from PC Home (home.pc.ca).
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