Counting Calories? There's Been a Change in Thinking
By Stephen R. Farris
When it comes to dieting, usually the first thing that comes to mind is cutting calories, followed by healthier food choices, and maybe adding some type of exercise in the mix.
But back to that calorie counting thing; it's basically something that has always been taught we do when starting any diet, whether for losing weight or maintaining a certain weight.
However, there's a new strategy by nutrition experts. Focus more on the quality of food you consume, and practicing a more healthy lifestyle to get rid of those extra pounds and reach your desired weight goals.
Body Types
When it comes to body types, no one is created equal. They're all different in many ways, which includes the way everyone's metabolism works as well. Most people may lose large amounts of weight, but after a while, some of it comes back or they end up weighing more than when they originally started a weight-loss program. It's actually not their fault, but the culprit lies inside the brain -- the hypothalamus region. It generally acts as a safeguard for our bodies, and when our weight drops past a certain point -- in a nutshell -- it tries to halt further progression. In reverse, it may trigger our bodies to return to the weight we were at.
Food Choices
Food choices is another aspect of weight loss that has to be considered. Not necessarily how many calories they contain, but rather the health value for your body. Breaking it all down, if you consume processed foods on a regular basis (each meal) then it's more likely you'll gain weight. If you include a diet of unprocessed food products, according to food studies, you're less likely to gain weight, but instead, it should be easier to maintain it or even lose a few extra pounds when needed. Bottom line, your brain actually likes and prefers food in natural forms.
If you're serious about losing weight or managing the weight you're at, then you should try doing the following:
- Focus on diet quality
- Exercise regularly
- Get better sleep at night
- Check you meds
- Reduce stress levels
- Seek advice from a medical professional
Speaking of the last item on that list, try visiting with your local chiropractor when it comes to exercise and nutrition. He/she can offer tips and suggestions to get you started toward your goal of creating a more healthy, active, and vibrant lifestyle.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Clarksville, Tenn.