Every time I need to attend a training, seminar, conference, or convention, I do get excited to learn new stuffs. At times, they just become refreshers, but are still worthwhile. Education is indeed a continuing process. But what usually concerns me is the food that would be served, especially if the activity would last for a number of days. I always look forward to having vegies and fruits on our table. It is because they have become the main part of my regular diet. Yes, finally, I listened to the experts. I worry about gaining weight, but I got tired of doing regular cardiovascular exercise. I know it is not something to be proud of. Although the scale says now that I'm within the normal range.
I can say that the most recent conference that I attended is the most memorable one, not only because I had the occasion to strike up new acquaintances and to deepen, expand and solidify my understanding of the laws based on actual implementation, but also because my heart's simple desire was granted - having fruits and vegetables on our table. No! It's having overflowing supply of fruits and vegetables, locally produced in an organic method of farming. And that is for three days! Truly, Eden Garden and Nature Park (in Davao City) is a paradise.
Lawyers are not robots who can survive without anything to fill their tummies. And indeed, lawyers are human beings who also require proper diet in order for them to live long - and healthy - and of course, to function well. It is one profession where "stress" is almost imbedded and we all know that "stress" is a health hazard. Lawyers do a lot of trouble shooting and a wide range of problem solving and in the process, endanger their health, sometimes due to non-observance of a proper diet.
There is no question that fruits and vegetables are loaded with nutrients and even have anti-aging properties. I have heard and read a lot about this. In fact, scientific studies have always been cited as basis that nutritious vegetables can not only help you to stay young, healthy and trim, they can also give you spectacular protection against various diseases.
But while we think that vegetables and fruits should always find their way in our every meal, we should not forget that a healthy diet is a balanced diet. Our body needs nutrients that may not be supplied by fruits and vegetables. In an online article1, I got this very important reminder:
"In your busy life as a practicing lawyer, you probably feel overwhelmed, tired, unable to focus, and even depressed. You may think it is the nature of practicing law to feel this way, but a simple look at your diet might prove otherwise. You may not be eating enough protein.
Protein is made up of amino acids, which are the ‘building blocks’ of the human body. These building blocks repair the body and largely control how you feel mentally and physically. For example, protein increases focus and energy by causing the body to produce dopamine and norepinephrine, two substances that make you feel more alert and full of energy. It also causes the release of the hormone glucagon, which regulates glucose (blood sugar) levels for proper brain function. This, in turn, regulates hunger and energy levels. And because protein is more difficult to digest than carbohydrates and fats, it lasts longer in the body, suppressing hunger and satiating the appetite so you feel full after you eat and maintain that feeling longer."
Happy eating, Panyero 'n Panyera... :)
Footnote:
1. http://www.thecompletelawyer.com/?p=18
