GIVEN the pandemic, it is very crucial to make living consciously a way of life by observing a balanced diet and exercise to have a healthy body and mind.

There is a need to look at ways to cope with the current situation and be more vigilant in how we live our lives.

Hence, Amway Malaysia has embarked on empowering Malaysians to embrace balance in their lifestyles.

"It is pertinent to look after ourselves in an effort to maintain good health while we are coping with the current situation. As we are constantly faced with the emergence of new Covid-19 variants, we should place great emphasis on observing our health by monitoring our diet and practising an active lifestyle," Universiti Malaya Centre for Sport and Exercise Sciences senior lecturer and deputy director for research, Dr Sareena Hanim Hamzah.

While practising a well-balanced lifestyle, we should consistently observe our diet habits to provide sufficient energy and nutrients for the body and avoid overeating, she adds.

In order to remain active, it is also advisable to do at least 150 – 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week for substantial health benefits.

This also helps pump up endorphins and reduce stress. Hence, we can maintain a balanced lifestyle.

Exercise and eat right every single day. Picture: Created by tirachardz - www.freepik.com
Exercise and eat right every single day. Picture: Created by tirachardz - www.freepik.com

"A healthy diet is also important in supporting our immune system. A good healthy diet with rich nutrition can reduce the likelihood of developing other health issues, such as obesity, heart disease or diabetes," says dietitian Indra Balaratnam.

Many people are pursuing a healthier lifestyle by adding protein to their diet. There are various sources of protein such as the natural consumption of protein food, protein supplements and meal replacements.

Protein has been associated with muscle gain, muscle recovery or weight loss.

Protein is a macronutrient for our body and is broken down into amino acids. It is important for growth, maintenance of body tissues, metabolic regulation which helps in maintaining a healthy weight, curbing hunger and speeding muscle recovery, explains Indra.

One can find natural protein in meat, fish, egg, tofu, beans and dairy products.

Protein also plays a role in increasing neurotransmitters that communicate with our brain to make us feel awake and alert.

Indra says including protein-rich choices as part of our healthy, balanced breakfast can help us feel energised and more satisfyingly nourished.

Include protein at every meal. Picture: Created by timolina - www.freepik.com
Include protein at every meal. Picture: Created by timolina - www.freepik.com

Amway Malaysia recently conducted a social media poll asking Malaysians about their favourite breakfast beverages. It garnered responses from 1000 respondents.

According to the results, Malaysians prefer coffee, tea and protein shakes as their morning beverages.

Sareena says one should have a healthy and balanced diet plan by including protein in every meal besides carbohydrate and other nutrients. Protein shakes can work as a complement to other dietary elements. Constant exercise coupled with healthy consumption habits can also lead to a balanced lifestyle.

As part of the campaign to empower the general public on the importance of a balanced lifestyle and protein intake for overall health, Amway Malaysia has collaborated with healthcare experts and dietitians.

It also initiated a webinar called "Start Your Day Right With A Nutritious Drink". The session is available for the public and can be accessed on Amway Malaysia's Facebook page. For more information, please visit https://www.amway.my/.