London’s Notting Hill Carnival is back after a two-year hiatus, and Indiyah Polack is enjoying every second. “Carnival day 1 done 💛💚🖤,” she captioned a photo of herself in a two-piece costume. How does she stay so fit? Read on to see 5 ways Polack stays in shape and the photos that prove they work—and to get beach-ready yourself, don't miss these essential 30 Best-Ever Celebrity Bathing Suit Photos!
1. She Loves Steak and Green Beans
Polack loves an alfresco lunch of steak and green beans when she’s with friends. “You can get B vitamins even if you’re vegan or vegetarian,” says Irina Todorov, MD. “Beans (legumes), whole grains, fruits and vegetables – especially leafy greens – are really good sources of B vitamins. Unfortunately, legumes are not a major part of the American diet, but they’re good for you in so many ways. Legumes, also known as pulses, are a food group that consists of beans, lentils and garbanzo beans. They help you maintain good health because they’re packed with plant-based protein and fiber and can lower your blood sugar and cholesterol.”
2. She Loves to Dance
Polack loves to dance, both at Carnival and as part of her lifestyle. “The physical benefits of dance cardio are an improved cardiovascular system, flexibility, strength, increased energy, memorization, and weight loss,” says Zumba instructor Alethia Tukes.
3. She’s an Early Bird
Polack will be up at 5am on some mornings,due to her busy schedule. “We know that exposure to sunlight has an impact on our moods,” says psychotherapist Michele Miller, LCSW. “For example, looking at seasonal affective disorder, it’s the longer, darker days that lead people to feel depressed and less energized—so, getting up earlier allows you to experience more daylight, which could make you feel more energized.”
4. She Likes Rice
Polack enjoys making rice dishes for boyfriend Dami Hope. “White rice is easily digested, low in fiber and when cooked and served correctly is unlikely to cause gastric upset,” says nutritionist Kerry Torrens. “It may be a useful inclusion for those who suffer from heartburn or nausea as well as during the flare-ups associated with conditions like diverticulitis and Crohn’s disease.”
5. She Enjoys Chicken
Polack loves chicken and keeps it in regular rotation when she cooks at home. "Rotisserie chicken is a healthy choice for people that want a lean source of protein but either don't have the time, interest or skill to cook. It's a low-fat cooking method and the chicken can be used in a variety of ways," says Lisa Andrews, MEd, RD, LD, owner of Sound Bites Nutrition.