Join us on Saturday, February 23rd and Sunday, February 24th as the Calgary Public Library presents our Mind, Body, Spirit Weekend. It is a weekend full of insight, rejuvenation, and inspiration held in the John Dutton Theatre at the Central Library. Over the last four weeks we have interviewed four of the nine presenters. This week we have Dana Hansen, who will be presenting Improving Metabolism and Weight Loss on Saturday, February 23rd from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. If you missed the first three interviews, don't worry, you can still see them on our Good Life blog. For more information on our Mind, Body, Spirit Weekend and to register please see our program page.
What is metabolism and what is the connection with weight loss?
Metabolism refers to the series of chemical processes that convert the food we eat into energy for the body. When the metabolism is sluggish, the body is slower to burn ingested calories and weight gain can result, as these calories are stored as fat. Simply put, boosting metabolism means greater calorie burn throughout the day!
It’s clear that genes play an important role in metabolism. We can’t change our genes but can metabolism be influenced by environmental factors such as diet and exercise?
Making changes to our diet and level of physical activity are the two single most powerful tools we have for boosting our metabolism. In my program, I provide a variety of tips on research-proven methods on how to eat and exercise for maximum metabolism-revving effect.
Dana, you have a business helping people live healthy and full lives. What brought you to this point in your life?
As a pharmacist, the more I've learned about treating disease with medication, the more interested I've become in preventing the lifestyle-related chronic diseases that are currently plaguing our society. I truly believe that wholesome nutrition and regular physical activity are key to living a life full of health and vitality.
For Mind, Body, and Spirit you’ll be talking specifically about metabolism and weight loss. Do you cover other topics in your practice?
In my consulting practice, I tailor my services to meet the needs of the individual client or group. For example, I have helped clients enjoy a reenergized general health by guiding them through improvements in their nutrition and lifestyle habits. I also offer nutritional coaching combined with a personalized training program for clients with specific physical performance goals. In the group setting, I deliver engaging seminars for businesses or in private homes on a variety of topics ranging from healing inflammation to mood-boosting foods.
Dana Lee Hansen, PhD, is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, certified fitness instructor and practicing pharmacist who is passionate about empowering others with the tools they need to achieve their health and wellness goals.