If you were to Google “diet tips,” do you have any idea how many results you would get? Millions—billions even. And each topic may have conflicting advice.
One might tell you low-carb is the best diet to follow—while another site says it will ruin your performance. Or one will tell you fat is evil—while another will tell you exactly why you need to eat MORE fat. It’s no wonder why people are confused. But…there is one key takeaway you do need to know:
Dieting is 80% of the battle. You simply can’t “out-exercise a bad diet”. The better your diet is, the more success you’re going to have.
So what are some keys to know and understand if you want to get the best from your diet plan?
1. Watch Your Portions
Skip the seconds (or thirds), and stick with one plate of food. Watching your portions helps you control how many calories you’re currently eating.
— Big Tip: Load your plate with veggies or greens first, then your protein, and lastly and starch or carbs.
And the fewer calories you consume, the better shot you have at losing weight, having more energy, or building muscle.
BUT:
2. Don’t Go Overboard on Cutting Calories
Sometimes people, when trying to lose weight (and are having a hard time seeing results), will cut too many calories from their diet. And when this happens, they often struggle to reach their goal. Your body is designed to conserve in times of energy deficiency, which often happens when you cut calories too drastically. You are designed to be efficient, so as you drop calories your body adjusts and you have to keep dropping to outpace it. This creates a ton of problems.
You need to consume the right amount of calories if you’re going to see changes. Check your base rate of daily calorie burn (BMR- google for your height and weight) this will give you a starting point. Now estimate or use an app to help you understand how many calories you are eating.
Don’t make it rocket science (unless you like to track numbers), just get an idea at least.
3. Find The Right Balance
Do you need carbs? How much protein do you need? What about fruits and vegetables? This is different for everyone. Just because your friend is successful eating a ‘keto’ diet, doesn’t necessarily mean you will have the same results. If you’re going to lose weight, you need to find the right balance that works for your body. And that should include some items from these groups:
- Protein
- Easily-digested carbs
- Healthy fats
- Complex carbs
- Fiber
The right balance of nutrients will stabilize your energy, and get you on the right path to losing weight—or reaching your ultimate goal. If you’re looking to get the best results from your program, changing your diet is going to be key. In fact, changing your nutrition is 80% of the battle. And this is why you should be researching the right approach that will fit with your goals, and adding them to your current routine if you’re looking for the best results.
If you are ready for some assistance….Contact us!
Dedicated to your healthy lifestyle,
Coach Greg