Article Surfing Archive

Most people consider the word "diet" to be taboo. A word that shouldn't be spoken at all, or briefly mentioned and forgotten. However, for any man or woman looking to improve their physical appearance, fitness, or performance, a well-balanced goal focused at a specific goals can greatly improve a body's health and wellness.

Diet isn't about starvation; it's about improving the life you live on a daily basis. In fact, it's possible for you to eat more food than you are now, and still lose wait. Yes, that's correct! Eat more food, yet lose weight. There are several key components that need to be addressed. The main variables are which foods you eat, how much you eat, and what time it's eaten. Most">All three play an important role, so it's necessary that you understand them in order to make improvements to your diet in a safe and efficient manner.

There aren't a whole lot of bodybuilders or supermodels eating cake, candy, or coke, at least during model season. Sugar is the biggest culprit when it comes to controlling weight and body fat. If one of your lunch habits is to drink a bottle or can of soda, it's possible to lose several pounds a year by just replacing the sugary drink with a glass of water.

Treat yourself to good food. Eating healthy food doesn't need to be depriving. The staples of a healthy diet fruit, vegetables, meats, whole grains, and nuts can be as delicious as junk food if you take the time to prepare them creatively. Watch out for foods that are deceiving. Some foods may appear healthy, sound healthy, or boast claims such as "low fat" or "lean". Forget the misconception that fat is the enemy. Recent studies have shown that high-fat diets, around 40% of daily caloric intake, is effective at fat loss. You still need to watch out for trans fat and hydrogenated fats, but sugar is the main culprit to a healthy diet.

How much food you eat is dependent on your personal goal. It's better to eat several "small" meals, rather than a couple large meals. A general rule of thumb for individuals looking to lose weight is eat whenever you are hungry, but only until you aren't hungry anymore. Don't stuff yourself like you are sitting in front of a Thanksgiving feast, but don't deprive yourself either. Stick with whatever amount keeps your optimism high and gives you results at a healthy pace.

If your goal is to gain weight, it's just as important to be eating every two to four hours. However, the quantity needs to be much greater. Your body may only need 2500 calories now, but if you want to eat like a 250-pound football player, it's necessary that you start eating like one.

One area of nutrition that is often overlooked is the time when foods are eaten. Carbohydrates, especially sugars like fruit and soda, should only be eaten in the morning or immediately after a workout for optimal results. Whenever sugars are sent into the blood stream, insulin is released as well, which puts the body into a "fat-absorbing" mode. Definitely not what you're after! Fatty and protein-heavy foods can be eaten at almost any time, but once again, sugar should be kept under close control.

Nutrition doesn't have to be complex. Eat every couple hours, eat a moderate portion of protein with every meal, and minimize your sugars. Diet is an intimidating word, but once you find what works best for you personally, the results are extremely rewarding.