30's, Protein, & The Body That Nobody Warned You About

All I worry about, other than wondering when this fog is going to clear from around my head, is how much protein I am consuming. Does this have protein? Is this enough? How can I have more? Since I have started working out properly with a personal trainer, I am becoming more mindful (at least I like to think that), learning so much from him and in the process understanding what is working for me too.

I watch recipe reels on Instagram (don't roll your eyes) and my god, eating protein is so freaking hard. My whole reason for writing this blog is because I want to rant about something that didn't happen and should have - why didn't anyone teach us in school the importance of working out, staying fit, eating better! And the fact that I am going to be measuring protein like my muscles and my life depend on it. Which they actually do, if you think about it.

The minute we (women) cross our 30s, our bodies transition too. It's a known fact. If you have been athletic in your 20s, this transition is easier. But if you haven't - and like me, you only focused on working hard, making something of yourself, and making some money in the process - you ignored your health a hell of a lot more than you thought. To add to that, the great food culture that we are experiencing. I mean, you need something to feel better. I am thinking the Nutcracker's 7-layer dark chocolate cookie with vanilla ice cream. (Mmm, yum.)

Coming back to writing now. I was saying - if you're younger and reading this post, do yourself a favour and get moving in any way that you love. It's so much more important than you think. And get on the protein wagon sooner. In simple words, it's basically the fuel your body needs to build muscle and burn fat.

I am 35, and soon I'll be 36. My only aim is to stop dreaming about sweets and get really fit. So fit that I am proud of myself for doing it. It's really a lot harder at 35, and it will be a lot harder if I delay it any further. A woman's body does change significantly through your 30s - muscle mass starts declining from around age 30 (a process called sarcopenia), recovery takes longer, and it takes considerably more time, effort, and willpower to reach your health goals.

Since I have been training, I can say one thing with much conviction - my cramps, my back pain, any pains, have significantly reduced. I need to work on my stress levels and sleep. Severely lacking in that department.

But well, I am happy to report - I am doing better, eating better, and physically quite sore. I just did a killer leg workout, hit my protein goal for the day, and now I need to lie flat on my bed. Going to do just that now.