We are bombarded on a daily basis through all kinds of media, particularly social media, about the best way to eat and the perfect, FAD Diet for you.
There is so much pressure on everyone to choose the diet that is popular at the moment, or the one that some ripped celebrity is currently using.
No matter who you are or what your goal is, you are an individual and, in my own professional opinion, these diets DON'T work for everyone. If they do work they usually tend to be short lived as they are completely unsustainable.
What I am trying to do is help you guys make the right decisions when it comes to food and help you get the results you want when it comes to eating healthy.
I understand that we are all different and therefore have different needs when it comes to nutrition but I'd like to share a few rules of thumb when it comes to nailing what's right for you.
The first step is to slowly create new habits that you can easily fit in to your lifestyle.
#1 WATER;
I'm going to start by asking you to look at your water intake, does it meet your requirements on a daily basis?
There are a few ways to find out whether you are or not;
Thirst, Dry Mouth, Decreased Urine Output, Dark Coloured Urine, Muscle Cramps, Light Headedness, Sleepiness, Lack Of Tear Production Leading To Dry Eyes, Blurred Vision, Irritated Eyes, Gritty Eyes, Lethargy
Wow - that's quite a few indicators. If you have any of the above I suggest you start increasing your water intake.
Water consumption should really be 2.0L - 2.5L per day for Women (this should be more on days you exercise). 2.5L - 3.0L for Men (this should be more on days you exercise).
Drinking water can help you to maximise physical performance, can affect your brain function and energy levels, may help prevent and treat headaches, can aid weight loss, improve your skin tone and prevent premature skin ageing.
#2 MENU - PLANNING & PREPARATION;
Do you plan your meals for the whole week or do you leave it until you feel you need something?
Leaving things until you get hungry can lead to you making 'loose' food choices and convenience becomes the top of your list. I don't know if you've ever been shopping for your lunch when you're hungry, but studies show that shopping for food in this state means you are less likely to choose healthy foods and usually head for what's easiest.
Planning your meals and snacks, buying them in advance and preparing your daily food in advance, will set you up for success in the long run.
If you undertake this kind of preparation when you're not hungry you are far more likely to choose better, healthier foods. On a day to day basis being hungry should really not be a part of your day.
Easy to access good, healthy snacks can not only save you a fortune but also prevent you getting hungry. A well balanced meal, pre-made with fresh meat, vegetables and fruit will guarantee you're not heading for the convenience of junk food to save you.
So , you've got 2 habits for starters - work on adding these into your lifestyle and it will stand you in great stead for healthy success.
In Fitness & In Health
John 'Not The Food Police' Withinshaw