Motivation can come from a variety of sources. The impulse to exercise more, eat cleaner and live healthier could be brought on by an important birthday, a new year, a life-altering event or by the introduction of a new, resounding person or philosophy. In other cases, motivation might simply come from the need to prove naysayers wrong. For Alisha Gulla-Carter, that’s exactly what happened.
After some friends balked at the idea of her running a half marathon, Alisha set out to prove them wrong. Not only did she persevere, she shattered their expectations—and her own—and ran two! After all that hard work, her body was addicted. Exercising and healthy living became her way of life.
Her healthy lifestyle set off a change of positive reactions. By examining her diet, Alisha learned she had a severe gluten intolerance. She eliminated gluten from her diet and many of the health problems she experienced disappeared. Now, she feels better than she did in her 20s! Want to know her secrets? Alisha spills the details of her healthy life below.
What is your healthy living “philosophy”? What does healthy living mean to you?
My healthy living philosophy is about striving for balance in my mind, body and soul. It means taking care of my body by eating healthy, organic, whole foods, exercising every day and using natural products in the home; trying to find balance in the stress and chaos that is life; and taking time to appreciate the journey!
What’s the hardest part of healthy living for you?
Just trying to remember “everything in moderation.” I love to eat and I love desserts, and even though I try to make healthy versions of things, I still have to hold back and practice restraint so I don’t over-indulge!
How do you stay inspired? What motivates you?
It’s much easier to stay motivated now because my body literally craves the exercise and healthy food. I never thought that would happen! So, it’s easier to stay motivated when you truly enjoy how you are feeling. I never want to go back to feeling tired, run-down and depressed. My family also inspires me because I want to live healthy for them.
What does a typical day of eating look like for you?
In the morning, I have a shake for breakfast, usually Vegan Shakeology with fruit and some added hemp powder. For lunch I try to eat a salad or a sandwich with lots of veggies and avocado. For dinner it’s usually something quick, easy and healthy that I can throw together. Throughout the day I have lots of snacks—fresh fruit, nuts, hummus and veggies, etc. I am usually eating something every 2-3 hours. I love to eat and I’m a firm believer that healthy foods can still be delicious!
What is your favorite food splurge and how often do you splurge?
I love, love, love mint chocolate chip ice cream and Udi’s gluten-free pizza. I’ve cut them back to about twice a month, which is great for me!
How often do you exercise and what do you like to do?
I try to do some form of exercise every day. My favorite thing to do is lift weights. I also love yoga, PiYo, Pure Barre classes and just running around with my son.
How long have you been shopping at Vitacost?
I think it’s been about 3-4 years now!
How does Vitacost play a part in your health?
I love that I can order all of my natural, organic products and food, and have them delivered (for free!) right to my door! It’s a one-stop shop. Vitacost’s prices are so affordable that I’m able to buy everything I need on a budget. Vitacost makes living an organic life very affordable and cost-effective. I also love the blog and recipes for meal and snack ideas, and I refer to it often!
Which clean-eating foods/healthy-living items from Vitacost are musts for you?
- Caribbean Solutions Sol Guard SF 25 Sunscreen
- Vitacost Certified Organic Hemp Protein High Fiber Drink Mix
- Dessert Essence Thoroughly Clean Face Wash with Eco Harvest Tea Tree Oil and Sea Kelp
- Vitacost All Natural Smooth and Unsalted Lightly Toasted Almond Butter
- First Colony Discoveries Organic Whole Bean Coffee Colombian Santa Marta
- Traditional Medicinals Organic Nighty Night Herbal Tea
- A lot of the Kind Bars but we are loving the Almond Protein Bar Roasted Jalapeño
- All of the Acure Organics products but I cannot live without the Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo & Conditioner
- Vitacost Turmeric Extract Curcumin C3 Complex with Bioperine
- Earth Friendly Ecos Natural Laundry Detergent Free and Clear
What’s your favorite part about shopping at Vitacost?
It might be a tie—I love the Vitacost family and that they truly care about the customer. Another one of my favorite things is the wide variety of products—there’s always something new to discover and try! And I love that Vitacost saves me time and money.
Do you have a favorite recipe (or recipes) on the Vitacost blog?
Quick Vegetable Stir-Fry Bowl with Quinoa
Gluten-Free Blueberry Protein Waffles
Roasted Veggie Penne Pasta with Chicken
Vegan Spring Rolls
What’s your health “dream”—where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
My goal is to own my own Pure Barre studio with an adjoining studio to offer additional fitness classes and private personal training for my clients. In the middle of the studio, I want an organic, open-air cafe!
