Because Knowledge is Power
 

J.Lo’s Secret Isn’t Very Secret

She’s turning 50 years old, and she looks better than ever. Also, with her 2019 Grammy performance being arguably the best live performance of her career, she’s got energy and stamina that blows us away.

Looking toned and fit in one piece bodysuit, doing literal flips across the stage, it begs the question…What’s her secret?

Let me break it down for you…

Of course, she’s a celebrity with limitless money for private chefs and trainers. Yet, the basic concepts of her routine hold true no matter what budget you are working with.

DIET

J. Lo cut out processed foods from her diet years ago. She says she mainly eats organic, nutrient-dense meals with vegetables and fruits making up the bulk of the meals. Lean proteins like poultry and fish are a staple with the occasional red meat of course.

The key is that she eats like this most of the time.

She reportedly goes through periods where she cuts out sugar completely, but denies being that strict most of the time.

SLEEP

I believe this is the MOST underrated anti-aging “secret,” so I was thrilled to read J Lo quoted as saying: “Ideally I would love to get nine or 10 hours of sleep, but either way, I always make sure I get at least eight. “

I’m a big fan of getting enough sleep, because when we don’t get at least 8 hours consistently, our cortisol levels shoot up and our bodies go into fight or flight. That means sugar cravings and a tendency to pack on the pounds in the middle section.

Figuring out how to get the sleep we need is just as important as (if not more than!) than getting in our exercise!

Speaking of…

EXERCISE

Success here actually means thinking SMALL, not big—a 20-minute cardio session is way better than nothing. If that means running up and down stairs in your office building because you can’t get to the gym, good for you!

J. Lo is committed, saying she never skips a workout, busy as she is. On her last birthday, she posted pictures of herself at the gym, “before the partying.”

She also switches up her routine all the time. This is key if you want to look forward to your exercise. The same cardio machine or exercise class will lose its appeal over time and you will get bored. Also, if you’re always doing the same routine, chances are you aren’t challenging your heart and muscles.

SKIN CARE

The diva says she washes her face after every workout and always applies a moisturizer with sunscreen. We know sun protection is important, and not letting your sweat sit on your face helps keep pores clean and tight.

As far as I’m concerned, the best skin regimen is useless if you don’t drink enough water!  The star drinks water all day long—getting more than the 8-10 full glasses recommended daily. Water is key to great skin, metabolism and overall health!

These are all achievable healthy habits for anyone. You don’t have to be a pop star or millionaire—you just have to break it down to these basics and put your mind to it.

Written by

0phthalmologist & Health Professional