We are a nation that is obsessed with dieting. Statistics indicate that
50% of all American women are on a diet at any given time. The
percentage of men dieting is 25%. Americans spent over 70 billion
dollars in 2011 on weight loss related services and products.
Approximately 95% of all dieters regain all the weight they lost within
five years. Diets don't work. It is lifestyle changes that will help you
to lose the weight in a healthy and permanent way. Chronic dieting in
fact, can lead to serious health complications and even slow down your
metabolism.
Before beginning any diet it is always a good idea to get a complete
physical from your medical provider. Sometimes weight problems can be
linked to underlying disease such as diabetes. One of the simplest
techniques is to continue eating foods that you enjoy. The deprivation
technique of most diets backfires on people. You will eventually give in
to the cravings and spiral into overeating. You should think about the
foods that you love and simply reduce the amount that you purchase and
consume. For example, if you enjoy chocolate chip cookies you should
still have a few throughout the week. This can be your "reward" snack.
The concept is simple to follow. You will be able to satisfy your
cravings and prevent binge eating. Just choose wisely and select a few
of your favorite foods.
Mini-Meals: We are a culture that believes in consuming three large
meals. But this eating style puts extra stress on our digestive system.
It is far better to eat smaller meals that are nutritionally balanced.
Your body will be able to metabolize the food more readily and you will
also have increased energy throughout the day. You will lessen the
likelihood of being hungry and eating things that are bad for you. For
example, a breakfast could be a cup of oatmeal with raisins and honey. A
mid morning snack could be fruit and yogurt. A small lunch could be a
few ounces of turkey with cheese. The idea is to eat small meals that
will provide you with the nutrients you need. Stay hydrated: Drinking
lots of pure clean water helps you to lose weight. Whenever you feel
hungry start by drinking a glass of water. You may simply be dehydrated.
If it's hard for you to drink plain water you can add herbal tea. Brew
and chill for a delicious calorie free beverage.
Protein is important: Many people avoid protein when trying to lose
weight because they think it is too high in calories. This is simply not
true. Of course, eating fattening red meats are high in calories. But
proteins such as turkey, chicken and white pork are lean and low in
calories. A 6 ounce portion of roasted turkey breast is less than 200
calories. There are many success stories of people who follow high
protein diets and take off the weight. You have to balance your protein
intake with adequate amounts of complex carbohydrates as well. Avoid
simple carbohydrates which are sugar and white flour products. An ideal
protein rich meal could be chicken with roasted vegetables and wild
rice. Protein snacks include nuts, cheese and yogurt. Protein helps to
preserve muscle mass. If you avoid protein when dieting you will lose
muscle and feel tired and weak. Protein also helps your body to burn fat
and improves the effectiveness of your metabolism.
Healthy Fiber: Fiber is effective for weight loss. Women should aim for
25 grams daily and men approximately 40 grams. You can find fiber in
foods such as whole grains, oatmeal, fruits and vegetables. Fiber helps
the digestive process and lowers your cholesterol. Increase your fiber
intake for your health as well as for weight loss. Spices: Hot spices
have been shown to speed up the metabolism and help in weight loss.
Spices help to flavor foods and reduce the caloric levels of the foods
you eat. Instead of adding fattening ingredients like butter and cheese,
try adding some delicious spices like garlic, turmeric, cilantro,
parsley and cayenne pepper.
Adequate Rest: If your body is stressed or you don't get enough sleep it
will be harder for you to lose weight. Your body produces a hormone
called leptin when you have enough rest. Leptin helps you to feel full
and satisfied after eating. A decrease in this hormone can leave you
feeling hungry even after eating. So make sure to get consistent and
sufficient sleep. If you are under a great deal of stress you need to
find constructive ways to deal with it. Prolonged stress can have
devastating effects on your health and well-being.
These are some effective general guidelines for losing weight. When
undertaking any dietary or lifestyle changes, always consult with your
medical provider especially if you have been diagnosed with any disease
or are taking prescription medication.
The Issels Medical Center in Santa Barbara, California is a world
renowned alternative cancer treatment center. The Issels Treatment is an
Integrative Immunotherapy program with a 50 year history. Founded in
1951 by a pioneer in integrative cancer medicine, Dr. Josef Issels, MD.,
a German oncologist, The Issels Medical Center in Santa Barbara,
California treats patients with all natural non toxic therapies for a
variety of health conditions including cancer.
If you would like more information regarding the treatments available at
The Issels Medical Center in Santa Barbara, California, please call
805-962-2126 or toll free at 888-374-7735. And please visit the website
at: http://www.issels.com/Questionaire/questionnaire_IMC.aspx.
By Tina C. Loren
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tina_C._Loren
No comments:
Post a Comment