Jared Fogle, the famed weight-loss spokesman from Subway — he slimmed down from a massive 400 pounds during his college days by eating Subway subs daily — visited the CL Space with friends from the American Heart Association to share some low-fat nuggets of wisdom Wednesday, Nov. 5, for National Eating Healthy Day. He says he's been here for the Tampa Bay Heart Walk and has visited Tampa around 17 times throughout his spokesperson career. Fogle says he really likes the Bay area, and it would be his favorite place to live in Florida — though he chooses the Pacific Northwest as the best place to live a healthy lifestyle in the U.S.
Fogle admitted to not being a strict dieter, that he only eats the healthy Subway sandwiches a couple of times a week but maintains a healthy lifestyle overall. He shared some lifestyle tips for people who don't like dieting but really need to slim down to be healthy.
Don't drink your calories:"I drink zero calorie drinks and lots of water."
Try to exercise three times a week: "If I can't get into a gym, I just go out for a brisk walk. Take advantage of the Florida weather."
Sneak in veggies whenever possible: Green peppers or cucumbers Fogle's favorite add-.ons "I'm big on spinach too."
Don't take shortcuts:"Get as much walking in as possible throughout the day." Take the stairs, yadda yadda.
Watch your alcohol intake: "Especially this time of year. We have Thanksgiving, Christmas coming up, and Super Bowl Sunday will be here before we know it. You have to be conscious of it; it can't be a free for all."
Clothes don't lie. Let your wardrobe be your guide.
Don't use food to fill the void:"I used to focus on food and trying to feel full. Find other things to think about. Learn to be okay with feeling a little hunger."
You'll get amazing satisfaction from initial successes: "Being able to walk stairs and not feel out of breath is a cool thing."
Compare and despair, and don't share: "Just because your husband or best friend can eat loads of fattening food doesn't mean you can."
Avoid fried foods as much as possible: "I always go for the grilled."
Put sauces on the side. "A salad loaded with cheese and Ranch dressing has more calories than a burger and fries."
Don't beat up on yourself for falling off the wagon:"Let the past be the past."
Discover foods you didn't think you liked before: Fogle says he used to never eat avocado, spinach and Brussels sprouts but he enjoys them now.
There's no shame in a doggy bag: "When dining out, don't try to eat everything on your plate. Take some home."