Diet Advice That Actually Works

Everywhere you turn there are promises of a new leaner, fit and trim you. There’s always new a diet that eliminates something or has you eating nothing but Polynesian nuts and berries.  Or, a new medical breakthrough that promises to enhance metabolism and burn stubborn fat with a magic pill.  Although a few of these diets and supplements do work for some people, most are left disappointed and just as overweight as before minus their hard-earned money.  So who wouldn’t like some Diet Advice That Actually Works?  Below are some basic weight loss strategies that really work to help you achieve the body you desire.

1. Math is your friend
   Although most of us have sworn off math since freshman year algebra a successful weight loss plan comes down to simple math. You need to burn more calories throughout the day than you take in. With a simple plan you can allow room for all of your favorite foods and the ever popular “Cheat Meal”. Just make sure from week to week you are at a calorie deficit.
   My Fitness Pal is a great free website and app that makes tracking your calories easy and painless.  The app even lets you use your camera to scan the bar codes of foods you are eating and record not only the calories but  all of its nutritional information.
2. Protein-up to feel fuller
   Refined carbohydrates have almost no nutritional value. The biggest offender is white bread. These spike your blood sugar and insulin and  then causes them to drops rapidly, making you hungry for more. Foods high in protein keep you fuller longer and stop the overeating.  Protein not only helps you avoid the cravings but a high protein diet aids in building and maintain lean-muscle mass.  20 to 30 grams of protein is the perfect amount to give your body what it needs and ward off the cookie cravings.
3. Pass on processed food
   Processed food is hard for your body to recognize as nutrition.  These foods are pumped full of salts and chemicals to keep them shelf-worthy and cheap to produce.  Fruits, Vegetables, Dairy and Lean Meats are a great foundation for nutrition.  Your body is build to process these foods and absorb their nutrients and energy.  With whole foods you know what you’re getting and your body will thank you for it.
4. Mindful munching.
   Eating as a form of entertainment or to alleviate boredom can sideline our weight loss goals without us even knowing it has happened. A little bit of planning can keep us full from healthy snacks instead of running to the vending machine. Stay aware of what you are snacking on and make sure you have a plan for when hunger kicks in. A few great snack ideas are a handful of almonds, Greek yogurt with fresh fruit or a simple cup of cottage cheese.