Have you noticed how many programmes on TV are covering lots of different diets to bring you information on which one is best?
It’s all petty confusing and consumers are left making a decision on either, what suits their budget or how easy the change is to implement.
So how do you know if you’re making the right choice and if it will work for you?
Firstly let’s start by addressing the scales and why every time you step on them you’re doing more harm than good. Your weight ISN’T the best way to monitor your progressions nor will it give you any specific information. Imaging you’ve been working out really hard during January and you lose 2lb in body fat and gain 2lb in muscle. This is a really good progression yet using the scales alone won’t show this. The number will read the same and naturally you would think there has been no change. This is the main reason why I discourage this type of tracking that solely use this method. Not only is it inaccurate, it also do not reflect any progressions you have made. Trying to attain a weight that is unsustainable can lead to long term health problems.
Calorie counting is another debatable approach to wellness and I’m going to try and explain why. While calorie consumption is important to a degree, please understand the more nutrient dense calories you consume, the better. For example, choosing a meal lower in calories isn’t necessarily healthier and doesn’t mean it’s better for you. A cereal bar that is just 99 calories, isn’t a better option to the avocado coming in at approximately 250 cals. Yes the avocado is higher in calories and fat, but the nutrients are far more nourishing to a processed cereal bar that contains articifical sweeteners and chemicals.
In all honesty the best ‘diet’ is no diet… You do not need to add up points, count syns or points. All you need is to be mindful of what you’re eating, why you are eating and get the correct balance of protein, carbs and fat. Eating food that is fresh, unprocessed, and high in vitamins and minerals, will not only keep you in great shape, but also keep your heart healthy and provide you with better immunity. Combine this with regular exercise, plenty of water and quality sleep, you’re on your way to good long term health.
Should I choose low fat?
No, because normally the fat has been removed and replaced with sugar or sweeteners. Eating a diet high in (good) fats isn’t unhealthy despite the goverment guidlines. Marketing companies are very good at promoting low fat products and programming us to believe they’re better for you. Please question this the next time you buy butter or marg. Butter contains just 1 ingredient and is much more natural, Marg contain a list of ingredients that you may not even be able to pronounce, let alone know what they are. Take a read of the Beginners Guide To A High Fat Diet if you want more information on this.
Lastly, never skip meals. Your body needs fuel to function as does your brain so it’s important you have an idea of what you’re going to be eating during the day. Be prepared with snacks and lunches so you aren’t caught short and in need of a quick meal. That’s when bad decisions are made. Try to prepare your meals in advance and reduce your intake of certain toxins like gluten. (These are foods containing wheat, barley and rye.) They can increase inflammation within your body along with bloating and spiking blood sugar levels. This has a negative effect on weight loss and your energy as they encourage the release of insulin, your fat storing hormone.
I encourage you to discover foods that make you feel good and look at natural ways to be healthy. Buying slimming shakes and weight loss plans aren’t the solution to long term health and you’ll find yourself yo-yoing from one to another. Let’s stop the madness today!
If you want more guidance on this subject, please check out 4D Fitness. It’s an online membership that coaches you to better healthy, with healthy meals, exercise programmes, reducing stress and implementing a positve mindset. It has everything you need to sustain healthy choices and you will receive a meal planner, recipes packs, workouts and online support in our private Facebook group and live Q&A sessions.
