Q: What is more important in the battle of the buldge? Diet or Exercise?
A: It is often said that weight management is 75% diet and nutrition, and 25% exercise.
But is this really true? There are elite athletes that eat whatever they want and still maintain a low percentage of body fat, and amazing abs. On the other side of the equation are the rest of us that can eat a minimum of calories, and still gain weight.
There are a couple simple nutritional changes that can hep you get leaner, have more energy, and find a fitter you!
1. Improve the quality of what you eat
Eat more vegetables, fruit, low fat meats and fewer sweets and processed foods. Processed grains are a big part of the American diet and by eating a little less, you can also see a reduction in your waist line.
2. Balance your energy sources
Main sources of metabolic energy are carbohydrates, protein and fat. Make sure you are getting enough, but not too much of these 3 main sources of energy. Regardless of what your weight/fitness goal is, reduce the fat intake to see overall body fat loss. You can maximize your fat burning potential and your workouts by paying attention to what you eat.
3. Time your nutrition
A good breakfast will get you started with enough energy to fuel your body when it needs it most - during the day. Eating before and within 2 hours of finishing your workout will allow your body to make the most of the time spent in the gym or fitness class.
4. Manage your appetite
Learn the difference between cravings and real hunger. Are bored or craving something, or are you really hungry? Sometimes thirst will disguise itself as hunger - when was the last time you drank some water?
