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Monday, January 26, 2015

'I remember being ten years old and feeling fat'.

Monday, January 26, 2015 - 0 Comments

Christine Vivier before and after losing weight

Christine Vivier remembers being ten years old and feeling fat. She remembers the woman's mother on accident diets and usually being 'unhappy along with her weight'.

She's had the love-hate relationship with food the majority of her life, however now, as mom of a two-year-old woman, she wants to show over a brand new leaf.

Personal tragedy has additionally played a part. Her bon viveur father-in-law died before her from the heart attack within 2013. She attempted CPR, but within vain.

Christine, thirty-two, from Edinburgh, says weight loss program has helped alter her attitude in order to food and instilled her having a new set of principles to reside by.

"Eat scaled-down portions", "5 A DAY" as well as "150 minutes of exercise" have grown to be the mantras associated with her new more healthy lifestyle.

During the actual 12-week plan, your woman lost nearly 10kg (1. 6st) and states she feels well informed, energetic and happier than ever before.

How did you hear concerning the plan?
I was sick and tired of crash diets, when i felt they focused an excessive amount of on weight reduction, rather than long-term wellness. The NHS weight loss program made sense – it had been about making little changes and building healthy habits. It required to work for the household as well, therefore it couldn’t be as well disruptive. The rules from the plan are easy and simple to follow: decrease portion sizes, eat five portions of fruit and veggies a day, and exercise with regard to 150 minutes per week.

Why did you choose to lose weight?
The cappuccinos as well as cakes were the habit I required to break. I’ve had an adverse relationship with food all my entire life. I remember being ten years old and sensation fat, and this particular continued through my personal teenage years. I recall my mum happening crash diets as well as always being unsatisfied with her pounds. I have the two-year-old girl as well as I don’t want her to undergo the same point. In 2013, my father-in-law died from the heart attack whenever he was fifty eight. It was their second heart assault. He'd had 1 when he had been 42. He smoked cigarettes and loved their food. I needed to give him CPR, but he died right before us. It had been quite traumatic. I wish to change; for me personally, my daughter, and my loved ones.

How much do you lose?
My personal starting weight had been 69kg and I’ve dropped nearly 10kg. I’m nevertheless going, because I such as round numbers and I wish to reach 10kg. Which round figure is actually keeping me inspired. I feel excellent! I can visit my closet as well as put anything upon. I’ve got much more confidence, more power and I'm usually a happier individual.

Did you discover the weight loss neighborhood helpful?
Yes, very useful. I used to eat lots of junk food. I continued the weight reduction forum and posted about this. I received plenty of encouraging replies like "you’ve come towards the right place".

What exercise did you need to do with the strategy?
I made sure I acquired 150 minutes of exercise per week, and I tried to become more physically energetic generally. In the start, I felt therefore embarrassed; everything was going out. I did 3 to 4 runs a 7 days, cross-training one day per week and a period on weekends. It wasn't always simple to fit in close to parenting duties. I’m now training for any half marathon.

How did you intend your meals?
I planned my meals per week in advance, while using Change4Life Smart Quality recipes. It’s fantastic, you will find so many quality recipes. I also utilized the MyFitnessPal app to create my own quality recipes. I made certain I ate eat lots of vegetables at meals. I also considered food and exercised the calories per portion while using app. Getting used in order to smaller portions made an impact to my pounds.

How did following a plan impact upon family life?
My hubby lost weight too, even though he wasn't following the strategy, and my child loved eating veggies. When we continued holiday, I put the master plan on hold. We didn’t count calories from fat, but I simply applied the principles from the plan.

How did you cope with cravings?
When I accustomed to give in in order to my sugar urges, I'd feel truly guilty. The plan can help you focus on the actual positives and study from slip ups. You learn to identify your activates. I’m an psychological eater and dark chocolate is my weak point, so I do not have any in the home. You need to locate healthier food trades and alternatives for the comfort eating. Right now, when I really feel a craving arriving on, instead associated with eating, I just get a run or the walk.

How did a person stay motivated about the plan?
I filled within the food and exercise chart every evening. I kept it during my bedside table. I'd look back at those hateful pounds whenever I needed a lift. They're a good way to see what lengths you’ve come. Change doesn’t occur overnight – the body change quicker compared to our minds. To avoid myself from obtaining bored, I might have a day removed from counting calories. I also created plenty of mini goals on the way, like training to operate 10km. Trying to get rid of weight is like being inside a relationship: you constantly have to re-evaluate and maintain it fresh.

How has got the plan changed a person?
Following the plan throughout, losing weight as well as running 10km possess all really increased my self-belief. It feels as though such an achievement. Over these final 12 weeks, I've turned my entire life around. No-one may take that away through me.

Sunday, January 25, 2015

10 amazing 100-calorie snacks.

Sunday, January 25, 2015 - 0 Comments





Tuck into a few of the nation's favourite goodies without derailing your diet plan with these astonishing 100-calorie snacks.
From British classics just like a cheese toastie to some silky banana milkshake, you can appreciate these popular treats and stay in charge of your calories.
Many of these low-calorie bites through dietitian Azmina Govindji need only three elements and take under five minutes to organize.

Cheese and tomato toastie -- 93kcal (390kJ)


A slimmed-down version of the all-time British classic but believe it or not scrumptious. Simply chop the actual tomato and spring onion on the slice of crispbread, cover with grated parmesan cheese and place below a pre-heated grill for two minutes.

  • 1 wholegrain crispbread: 39kcal (164kJ)
  • 15g grated 30% much less fat mature parmesan cheese: 47kcal (197kJ)
  • 40g tomato: 7kcal (29kJ)
  • A good optional sprinkling associated with chopped spring red onion (calories nominal)

Warm chocolate with marshmallows -- 99kcal (416kJ)


Lose yourself to have an instant in this particular indulgent hot dark chocolate. For a little bit of guilt-free luxury, we have added a scattering of airy marshmallows as well as frothed the blend.

  • 1 sachet associated with diet hot dark chocolate: 60kcal (252kJ)
  • 200ml of warm water
  • 12g of small marshmallows: 39kcal (164kJ)

'Three-fruit' fresh fruit salad - 102kcal (428kJ)


Refreshing and simple to make, this 'three-fruit' fresh fruit salad, which consists of store-cupboard-friendly tinned pineapple, provides two-and-a-half portions of the recommended 5 Each day.

  • 50g of seedless dark grapes, cut in two: 30kcal (126kJ)
  • 50g of the diced apple: 26kcal (109kJ)
  • 100g associated with chopped tinned pineapple within juice: 46kcal (193kJ)

Parmesan cheese and pickle canapés -- 100kcal (420kJ)


Enjoy not just one but three of those party nibbles without having breaking the calorie financial institution. Use a potato peeler to obtain melt-in-your-mouth wafer slim cheese slices as well as top with gherkin pieces and pickle.

  • 3 drinking water biscuits: 42kcal (176kJ)
  • 15g associated with 30% less body fat mature cheddar: 46kcal (193kJ)
  • 30g gherkin: 4kcal (17kJ)
  • 6g (1 teaspoon) associated with pickle: 8kcal (34kJ)

Strawberries as well as cream - 92kcal (386kJ)


Absolutely no, your eyes are not deceiving you: you are able to enjoy this summer favourite for less than 100kcal (420kJ). Greatest prepared with completely ripe strawberries, which are now available throughout the year.

  • 110g of strawberries: 30kcal (126kJ)
  • 30g fifty percent fat crème fraîche: 62kcal (260kJ)

Smoked cigarettes salmon and lotion cheese parcels -- 106kcal (445kJ)


For a little sophistication, try these types of delicate smoked fish parcels. To put together, place four whitening strips of salmon with an even surface as well as spread 5g associated with soft cheese combined with some dill from one end of every strip. Starting in the cheese end, lightly fold each remove into rolls.

  • 48g associated with smoked salmon reduce into four actually strips: 68kcal (286kJ)
  • 20g associated with medium fat gentle cheese (5g for each parcel): 36kcal (151kJ)
  • 2ml associated with lemon juice: 2kcal (8. 4kJ)
  • Optionally available sprinkling of clean dill (calories nominal)

Apple company and peanut butter -- 96kcal (403kJ)


Wanting something crunchy as well as nutty? These fresh apple company slices and peanut butter would be the perfect combination to maintain you going until the next main meal.

  • 50g chopped up apple: 26kcal (109kJ)
  • 12g (1 teaspoon) associated with peanut butter: 70kcal (294kJ)
  • Optionally available sprinkling of cinnamon (calories nominal)

Cooked beans on toasted bread - 99kcal (416kJ)


Probably the ultimate in comfort and ease food, we believe you need to still have the ability to enjoy this national treasure even though you're watching your own calories. Weigh your piece of bread once it has been toasted.

  • A 22g piece of toasted wholegrain or even wholemeal bread: 48kcal (202kJ)
  • 60g associated with baked beans: 51kcal (214kJ)
  • Optionally available sprinkling of chives (calories nominal)

Banana milkshake -- 98kcal (412kJ)


Not sure how to proceed with over-ripe plums? Why not change your speckled bananas right into a smooth and rich and creamy milkshake. To maximise the sweetness from the milkshake, use really ripe bananas. Blend the bananas using the milk and spread on some cinnamon.

  • 100ml associated with semi-skimmed milk: 46kcal (193kJ)
  • 55g really ripe banana: 52kcal (218kJ)
  • Optionally available sprinkling of cinnamon (calories nominal)

Home-made snacks - 89kcal (374kJ)


The actual smell of newly made popcorn is actually up there along with freshly baked breads. A good supply of fibre, popcorn could keep you feeling complete for longer, which makes it an ideal treat. Plus, it's quite simple to make!

  • 20g associated with popping corn: 62kcal (260kJ)
  • 3g (1 teaspoon) associated with oil: 27kcal (113kJ)
  • Optionally available sprinkling of chilli natural powder and Worcestershire marinade (calories nominal).

Saturday, January 24, 2015

Top rated diets review for 2015.

Saturday, January 24, 2015 - 0 Comments

With a lot of diet options to select from, it can be difficult to find a weight loss intend to suit you.


To assist, the British Dietetic Association (BDA) discusses the benefits and drawbacks, and gives it's verdict on probably the most popular diets.
5: 2 diet plan
The 5: 2 diet is dependant on a principle referred to as intermittent fasting (IF) – where you consume normally for five days per week and fast about the other two times. On top of reducing your weight, fans claim the actual 5: 2 diet plan can improve life-span, brain function and force away conditions such because dementia and Alzheimer’s. Nevertheless, evidence on the potency of the 5: 2 diet is limited in comparison with other types of weight reduction techniques.
One 2010 study found that ladies placed on the 5: 2 diet achieved similar amounts of weight loss to women on the calorie-controlled diet, and were also not as likely to develop chronic diseases for example type 2 diabetes. A 2012 study suggested how the 5: 2 model might help to lower the danger of certain obesity-related cancer, such as breasts cancer. If you are thinking about it, you should first speak to your GP to see if it's suitable for a person. Not everyone may safely fast.
Benefits:
Sticking to a regimen for 2 days a 7 days is more achievable than 7 days, so you may persevere with by doing this of eating and successfully slim down. Two days each week on a restricted diet can result in greater reductions in excess fat, insulin resistance along with other chronic diseases.

Negatives:
The non-restricted days don't mean unlimited lavish feasts. While you don’t have to be as strict about your consumption of calories, you still have to make healthy choices and become physically active. Skipping meals might make you feel light headed, irritable, give you headaches and allow it to be hard to focus, which can affect work along with other daily tasks. Other reported unwanted effects are difficulties resting and daytime drowsiness, bad breath as well as dehydration.
BDA consensus:
The 5: 2 is really a simple way to lessen calorie intake. There are numerous versions of the dietary plan, with some much less safe than other people. Many studies upon intermittent fasting tend to be short-term, involve small amounts of subjects, or tend to be animal-based. If you decide to follow it, choose an evidence-based plan depending on healthy, balanced eating and compiled by a dietitian, like the "2-Day Diet". It’s vital for the health to prevent nutritional deficiencies, dehydration as well as overeating on non-fast times. Never attempt in order to delay or skip meals if you're pregnant, have experienced, or are vulnerable to, eating disorders or even diabetes.
Dukan diet plan
The Dukan diet is really a low-carbohydrate (carb), high-protein diet plan. There’s no limit to just how much you can eat throughout the plan’s four stages, providing you stay with the rules from the plan. During stage one, you’re on the strict lean proteins diet. This is dependant on a list associated with 72 reasonably low-fat protein-rich meals, such as poultry, turkey, eggs, seafood and fat-free dairy products. This is for typically five days to achieve rapid loss of weight. Carbs are away limits except for a tiny bit of oat bran. In contrast to the Atkins diet plan, Dukan’s phase 1 bans vegetables as well as seriously restricts body fat. The next three phases from the plan see the actual gradual introduction associated with some fruit, vegetables and carbs, and finally all foods. The aim is actually gradual weight loss as high as 2lb a week and also to promote long-term weight loss. There’s no time period limit to the last phase, which involves using a protein-only day once per week and taking physical exercise.Dukan diet plan
Pros:
You can slim down very quickly, which may be motivating. It’s an extremely strict and prescriptive diet plan, and some people like this. It’s easy to follow along with. You don’t have to weigh food or even count calories. Aside from keeping to low-fat, low-salt as well as high-protein foods, there’s no restriction how much you can eat on your first two days.
Cons:
At the beginning of the diet, you might experience side effects for example bad breath, the dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia and nausea from eliminating carbs. The insufficient wholegrains, fruit and veg within the early stages from the diet could cause problems for example constipation.
BDA consensus:
Rapid weight loss could be motivating, but it's unsustainable and harmful. The Dukan diet plan isn’t nutritionally well balanced, which is acknowledged by the truth that you need a supplements and a fibre top-up as oat bran. There’s a danger that this kind of diet could improve your risk of long-term health issues if you don’t stay with the rules. This diet lacks variety within the initial phases, so there’s the risk you’ll obtain bored quickly and provide up.
Paleo diet plan
The paleo diet plan, also known since the caveman diet, was Google’s most searched-for weight reduction method in 2013. The diet includes foods that may be hunted and fished – for example meat and sea food – and foods that may be gathered – for example eggs, nuts, seed products, fruits, vegetables, herbal treatments and spices. It’s a regime in line with the supposed eating habits in our hunter-gatherer ancestors throughout the paleolithic era, prior to the development of farming around 10, 000 in years past. That means cereal grains such as wheat, dairy, processed sugar, potatoes and salt – in addition to anything processed – are strictly from the menu. There is absolutely no official "paleo diet" however it is generally seen as an low-carb, high-protein diet plan, with some variants on carbohydrate as well as meat intake. Advocates say the actual paleo diet is really a long-term healthy eating plan that will help you lose weight and lower your risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and other health issues. Most studies about the paleo-type diet tend to be small, and more long-term research is required to show conclusively whether it is because effective as many people claim. One 2008 study suggested how the paleo diet “could reduce the risk associated with heart disease”. Nevertheless, several limitations within the study meant it had been not possible to express whether the paleo diet was anymore effective than every other low-calorie diets.Paleo diet plan

Benefits:
The paleo diet encourages you to definitely eat less prepared food and more fruit and veggies. Reducing your use of high-calorie foods will lower your calorie intake and enable you to lose weight. This diet is simple as well as doesn’t involve calorie-counting. Some plans pass the "80/20" guideline, whereby you’ll obtain 99% of the advantages of the paleo diet should you adhere to it 80% of times. This flexibility could make the diet simpler to stick to, so you may be successful.
Negatives:
There are absolutely no accurate records from the diet of the Stone Age forefathers, so the paleo diet is basically based on an informed guess and it's health claims absence scientific evidence. Most versions from the diet encourage considerable amounts of meat, which runs counter-top to current health suggestions about meat consumption. Many versions ban milk products and wholegrains, which form a part of a healthy, well balanced diet. Like just about all high-protein diets, the paleo could be expensive, depending on the selection of meat cuts. You can't really follow without consuming meat, seafood or even eggs, so it’s not just one for vegetarians!
BDA consensus:
Most versions from the paleo diet leave out key food organizations, raising the possibility of nutritional deficiencies unless of course careful substitutions are created, and dietary supplements might be necessary. The diet has some strengths, so an adapted version that does not ban any meals groups – for example wholegrains, dairy and legumes – will be a better choice. This diet lacks variety, so there’s the risk you’ll obtain bored quickly and provide up. If you need to copy your paleolithic forefathers, you’re better away mimicking their exercise levels, rather compared to their alleged diet plan.
Atkins diet
The Atkins diet is really a low-carb, high-protein weight reduction programme. You begin with a low-carb diet created for rapid weight reduction. This lasts a minimum of two weeks, based on your weight reduction goal. During this particular phase, you’re on the protein, fat and incredibly low-carb diet, such as meat, seafood, ova, cheese, some vegetables, butter and natural oils. In contrast towards the Dukan diet, Atkins allows unlimited fat plus some veg, such because peppers, cucumber as well as iceberg lettuce, throughout phase one. Throughout the next three stages, the weight loss will probably be more gradual, and physical exercise is encouraged. Much more carbs, fruit and vegetables are introduced for your diet, with the purpose of working out exactly what your ideal carb intake would be to maintain a healthy weight for a lifetime. Phase one is made to help you lose as much as 15lb in fourteen days, reducing to 2lb in order to 3lb during stage two.Atkins diet
Pros:
You are able to lose weight quickly, which can end up being motivating. The diet also encourages individuals to cut out the majority of processed carbs as well as alcohol. With it's diet of red-colored meat, butter, lotion, cheese and mayonnaise, it’s mostly of the diets out there that attracts men.
Cons:
Initial unwanted effects can include poor breath, a dried out mouth, tiredness, dizziness, sleeplessness, nausea and constipation from eliminating carbs and fiber. The high consumption of saturated body fat may increase your own risk of cardiovascular disease, and there tend to be concerns that deficiencies in fruit, veg and milk products, and a higher protein intake might affect bone as well as kidney health in the long run.
BDA verdict:
Rapid weight reduction can be encouraging, but it is actually unsustainable. The Atkins diet plan isn’t nutritionally well balanced. By limiting fruit and vegetables, it contradicts all of the healthy eating advice that people have tried therefore hard to spread to people. The actual meal choices tend to be limited, so there’s a risk lots of people will get bored stiff quickly and decrease out or have a "pick and mix" strategy.
Alkaline diet
The actual alkaline diet, in whose celebrity fans apparently include Gywneth Paltrow, Jennifer Aniston as well as Victoria Beckham, is dependant on the idea our modern diets cause the body to produce an excessive amount of acid. The theory is actually that excess acid in your body is turned in to fat, leading in order to weight gain. High acidity levels are also blamed on conditions for example arthritis, osteoporosis, fatigue, kidney and lean meats disorders. The diet recommends reducing on acid-producing foods for example meat, wheat along with other grains, refined sugars, dairy products, coffee, alcohol and processed foods towards “alkaline foods”, which slow up the body’s acidity amounts. This translates because plenty of fruit and veggies. The idea is that the alkaline diet helps you to maintain the body’s level of acidity at healthy amounts. There are different versions from the alkaline diet. Some followers follow the "80/20 rule" comprising a diet depending on 80% fruit and vegetables and 20% grains as well as protein. Originally developed to assist prevent kidney gemstones and urine infections by utilizing diet to change the acidity levels within the urine, there is little evidence to aid the diet’s newer health benefits. The weight reduction observed among followers is prone to be due in order to eating plenty of fruit and veggies and cutting lower on sugar, alcoholic beverages and processed meals, which is standard healthy weight reduction advice.Alkaline diet
Pros:
This diet contains plenty associated with good healthy consuming advice, such reducing meat, avoiding sugars, alcohol and prepared foods and eating more fruit and vegetables, nuts, seeds as well as legumes. This means that you'll be cutting out foods you might normally eat as well as replacing them along with healthier choices, that will also reduce your calorie consumption.
Cons:
Your entire body regulates its level of acidity levels, regardless associated with diet. When reducing dairy products for example milk, cheese as well as yoghurt, you have to find other calcium supplement substitutes, as cutting out a whole food group is never advisable. Getting to grips using what you can as well as can’t eat about the diet can end up being time-consuming, particularly at first.
BDA verdict:
The idea of the alkaline diet plan is that eating particular foods can help keep up with the body's ideal pH stability (acidity levels) to enhance overall health. However the body maintains it's pH balance no matter diet. The diet lacks evidence plus some versions that advise eliminating entire food groups ought to be avoided. The more balanced versions from the diet provide variety and can include all the meals groups. If you will try the alkaline diet plan, choose a well balanced plan, stick to it towards the letter and stay away from supplements and additional diet-related gimmicks.
Cambridge diet plan
The Cambridge Pounds Plans are dependent around buying and eating a variety of meal-replacement products using the promise of rapid weight reduction. There are six flexible weight loss programs ranging from 415 calories to at least one, 500 calories or even more a day, based on your weight reduction goal. There can also be a long-term weight loss programme. The pubs, soups, porridges and shakes may be used as your sole supply of nutrition or as well as low-calorie regular foods. While on the actual programme, you receive guidance and support upon healthy eating and exercise from the Cambridge adviser.Cambridge diet plan
Benefits:
Many people on really low calorie diets (VLCDs) discover the weight loss to become sudden and very dramatic. The meal replacements are nutritionally balanced, so you likely will be getting all the minerals and vitamins you need, although not from actual food.
Cons:
Initial unwanted effects can include poor breath, a dried out mouth, tiredness, dizziness, sleeplessness, nausea and constipation from reducing carbs and fiber. The hardest the main plan is sticking with it. Giving up regular meals and swapping them for any snack bar or perhaps a shake can end up being boring and really feel socially isolating. This isn’t an agenda you can stick to in the long run.
BDA verdict:
You have to like the dinner replacement products to remain with the strategy. Rapid weight loss could be motivating, but it's unsustainable. A VLCD which involves eating 1, 000 calories each day or fewer shouldn't be followed for a lot more than 12 continuous days. If you are eating less than 600 calories each day, you should possess medical supervision.
South Seaside Diet
The South Beach Diet is really a low-GI diet initially developed for heart patients in america. There’s no calorie counting with no limits on servings. You're encouraged to consume three meals as well as two snacks each day and follow a workout plan. People who've more than 10lb to get rid of start with stage one. This is a two-week rapid loss of weight regime where you consume lean protein, such as meat, fish as well as poultry, as nicely as some low-GI veggies and unsaturated fat. Low-GI carbs tend to be re-introduced during stages two and 3, which encourage steady and sustainable weight reduction.South Seaside Diet
Pros:
If you are able to avoid phase one and begin on phase 2, there are less dietary restrictions in all of those other plan than another popular diets. Following phase one, this diet broadly follows the fundamental principles of wholesome eating. No major meals groups are eliminated and lots of fruit, veg as well as low-GI carbs tend to be recommended.
Cons:
The severe nutritional restrictions of phase you can leave you sensation weak and missing some vitamins, mineral deposits and fibre. You might initially experience unwanted effects such as poor breath, a dried out mouth, tiredness, dizziness, sleeplessness, nausea and constipation.
BDA consensus:
The first fourteen days are the hardest to get via. We’re concerned this diet promises this type of large weight reduction, up to 13lb, within the first two days. This, however, defintely won't be all fat. A few of the weight loss includes water and carbohydrates – both that would be replaced when you start eating more usually. Once you see through the initial stage, the diet follows the fundamental principles of healthy eating and really should provide the nutrients you have to stay healthy.
Slimming Globe diet
Slimming World’s weight loss program encourages you in order to swap high-fat meals for low-fat foods which are naturally filling. You choose the food from a summary of low-fat foods these people call "Free Foods", for example fruit, vegetables, pasta, taters, rice, lean beef, fish and ova, which you may eat in limitless amounts. There’s absolutely no calorie counting, absolutely no foods are prohibited, and you’re still allowed the casual treat. You could possibly get support from other slimmers at weekly conferences and follow a workout plan to turn out to be gradually more energetic. The plan is made to help you shed about 1lb to 2lb per week.Slimming Globe diet
Pros:
No foods tend to be banned so foods offer balance and variety and therefore are family-friendly. The portion dimension from each food group will be different depending on that plan you adhere to. The "Body Magic" booklet they offer gives ideas that will help you raise your exercise levels. Meeting like a group can supply valuable support.
Negatives:
Slimming World doesn’t teach you about calories from fat. Without having discovered calories and part sizes, you may find it difficult to keep the weight off in the long run when you come from the programme.
BDA consensus:
The group conferences encourage members to talk about successes, ideas and recipes with one another, but they might not appeal to everybody. While the diet plans may lack a few flexibility, they are usually balanced. However, without researching calories and part sizes, you may find it difficult to make healthy options once you’ve remaining the programme.
Slim-Fast diet plan
The Slim-Fast diet is really a low-calorie meal replacement plan for those who have a BMI associated with 25 and more than. It uses Slim-Fast’s selection of products. The plan suggests three snacks each day from an considerable list, including crisps as well as chocolate, two meal alternative shakes or bars and something regular meal, taken from a summary of recipes on the actual Slim-Fast website. You can remain on the diet provided you want, based on your weight reduction goal. Once arrived at, you’re advised to possess one meal replacement shake each day, up to 2 low-fat snacks as well as two healthy foods. The plan is made to help you shed about 1lb in order to 2lb a week and you will follow the diet provided you want.Slim-Fast diet plan
Benefits:
Meal replacement diets could be effective at helping many people to lose pounds and keep this off. The strategy is convenient, since the products take the guesswork from portion control as well as calorie-counting. No meals are forbidden, although you ought to eat lean proteins, fruit and veggies.
Cons:
On their very own, meal replacement diet programs do little to teach people about their diet plan and change their own behaviour. There’s a danger of putting the actual weight back on again when you stop using these products. You may think it is hard to get a 5 A DAY of fruit and vegetables without careful preparing.
BDA verdict:
Should you don’t like the taste from the meal replacement items, you won't stick with the plan. The Slim-Fast plan can be handy to kickstart unwanted weight loss regime, but it’s essential that you take advantage of the online support to understand about the concepts of healthy eating and how you can manage everyday drink and food.
LighterLife diet
The LighterLife weight reduction plans combine an extremely low-calorie meal alternative diet with every week counselling. With LighterLife Complete, for people having a BMI of 30 or even more, you eat 4 "food packs" each day, consisting of shakes, sauces, mousses or pubs, and no traditional food. LighterLife En aning, for those having a BMI of 25-30, involves eating 3 food packs each day, plus one meal from a summary of approved foods. You remain on the plans before you reach your focus on weight. The meal plans can result in very rapid weight reduction and you’re advised to determine your GP before beginning. How long you remain on the diet depends upon how much weight you need to lose.LighterLife diet
Pros:
The counselling will help you understand your romantic relationship with food, so hopefully you may make lasting changes to maintain the weight off permanently. With the dinner replacements, there’s absolutely no weighing or calculating, so it’s a hassle-free method of weight loss.
Negatives:
Initial side effects from the diet can consist of bad breath, the dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, nausea and constipation from reducing carbs and fiber. Surviving on the strict diet associated with shakes and soups along with other meal replacements isn’t a lot fun, and may feel socially separating.
BDA verdict:
Rapid weight reduction can be encouraging, but it is actually unsustainable. LighterLife’s VLCD and it is counselling component may work with some, particularly those who have struggled to slim down for years, have health problems due to their weight and therefore are clinically obese having a BMI in excess of 30. A VLCD which involves eating 1, 000 calories each day or fewer shouldn't be followed for a lot more than 12 continuous days. If you are eating less than 600 calories each day, you should possess medical supervision.
WeightWatchers diet plan
The WeightWatchers plan is dependant on the ProPoints program, which gives the value to meals and drink depending on protein, carbs, body fat and fibre content material. It is basically a calorie-controlled diet plan, where you obtain a personal daily ProPoints allocation, which you may use how you such as. There’s no limit on the quantity of fruit and most veg you are able to eat. You also obtain a weekly ProPoints safety net in the event you go over your own allowance, and a person exercise plan. The weekly conferences and confidential weigh-ins provide support and additional motivation to motivate long-term behaviour alter. The plan is made to help you lose as much as 2lb a 7 days.WeightWatchers diet plan
Pros:
No meals are banned, to help you eat and drink what you need providing you stay with your points allocation. The ProPoints system is simpler to follow for many than calorie keeping track of and less limited than other programs. This is since it introduces a back-up of points, which may be saved up for any special occasion, like a night out, a tiny bit of alcohol or goodies.
Cons:
When a person begin, working out the actual points system could be just as time-consuming because simply counting calories from fat. Some people really feel pressured into buying WeightWatchers-branded foods.
BDA consensus:
The ProPoints plan is usually well balanced and could be a foundation for long-term modifications in dietary routines. The support group approach might help keep people inspired and educate all of them about healthy consuming. But it’s crucial that you make the connection between your points system and calories if you wish to avoid putting the actual weight back on when you leave the program.
Rosemary Conley diet plan
Rosemary Conley’s Diet plan and Fitness programs combine a low-fat, low-GI diet with physical exercise. You can adhere to her recipes or purchase from her range associated with calorie-controlled ready foods and snacks. You’re encouraged to consume food with 5% or even less fat, except for oily fish, porridge oats as well as lean meat. The network of nearby Rosemary Conley night clubs offers weekly physical exercise classes, support as well as motivation. You find out about calorie counting as well as portion size, which will help you sustain your weight reduction beyond the program. The diet is made to help you shed a stone within seven weeks. Just how long you stay about the plan depends in your weight loss objective.Rosemary Conley diet plan
Pros:
The programme relies around calories, having a focus on reducing fat. The "portion pots" – that are used to measure foods for example rice, cereal, pasta and cooked beans – educate you on about portion manage. Physical activity is a fundamental element of the weight reduction plan, with exercise sessions ideal for all ages, sizes and abilities offered by their weekly courses with trained frontrunners.
Cons:
Some low-fat items aren't necessarily more healthy, as they can be high in sugars and calories. It's unrealistic to anticipate people to day their portion containers and, therefore, portion control might be tricky away in the home.
BDA consensus:

The diet as well as exercise plans provide a balanced approach to weight reduction that teaches a person about portion dimension, the importance of physical exercise and making more healthy choices. The educational element is extremely useful for long-term weight management after you have left the program.

Friday, January 23, 2015

Top 10 Tips to Stay Slim Forever

Friday, January 23, 2015 - 0 Comments

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Most people diet, get results… and gradually put the weight back on, says registered dietitian Joy Bauer, the “Today” show’s nutrition expert and author of Joy’s LIFE Diet: Four Steps to Thin Forever (Collins Living, HarperCollins, 2009).
But by changing your eating habits, keeping yourself motivated and re-educating yourself, you can prevent the post-diet pile-on.
“I know this plan works,” Bauer says.

Here are her top 10 tips for staying slim for life:

1. Get Passionate

For weight loss to be permanent, your motivation needs to be all about you. You can’t lose weight for your mom, your best friend or even your spouse. “Figure out why you finally want to lose the weight,” Bauer says.
Perhaps you want to wear a skinny sheath to an upcoming wedding or climb stairs without panting. Maybe you want to ride bikes with your kids or throw out your “fat” clothes.
“In my book, I call this ‘Passion for Action,’” Bauer says. “All the successful people we’ve talked to say that’s why they prevailed this time.”

2. Don’t Go Negative

Worried you have too much weight to lose? Tried diets before – and failed?
Forget all that and give yourself a fresh start, Bauer says. Many people who eventually succeed at losing weight have tried “cabbage soup, prepackaged foods… and every single conceivable diet.”
Previous attempts − or failures – don’t affect your future success, she says. “You’re never too old. Start now. Every day counts.”

3. Feel Your Success

Success breeds success, and this is particularly true with weight loss: The more you lose, the more empowered you’ll feel.
So how do you get to feeling successful? By experiencing − and noting − all the smaller achievements along the way.
“You are just as successful on Day 1 of a diet as you are on Day 301,” Bauer says. “Success is in the doing.”
Of course, you need that initial feel-good rush.
That’s why Bauer kicks off Week One with a quick-loss diet. You’ll give up plenty of favorites but lose about seven pounds, just enough get you going.

4. X-Rated Foods

On the road to thin forever, you’ll need to put a scarlet letter on some old favorites – sugar, artificial sweeteners, processed foods, alcohol.
But don’t toss them in the trash: They can be reintroduced into your diet after significant weight loss.
Bauer also enforces a “no starch with dinner” rule the first week. That means no rice, pasta, bread and potatoes, among others.
Many starches are good for you, but they also make us overeat, she warns. So avoid them until your body is reprogrammed to crave less.
Also off-limits: diet soda. They don’t carry calories, but they do “keep sweetness on our taste buds and our minds,” Bauer says. It’s easier to diminish your sweet tooth by avoiding sweeteners entirely.
Eventually, one or two such treats may re-enter your daily eating plan. And by then, you’ll know what your body can handle.

5. Reprogram Meals

Thin people don’t skip meals. So what’s their secret? They eat regularly – at least every five hours. That way they don’t end up scarfing down bags of potato chips. Bauer recommends eating three full meals, plus a snack, every day.
Also, start meals with a dinner salad or bowl of veggie soup to help fill you up. And stock up on “unlimited” foods – herbs, non-starchy veggies, extracts – that help you feel satisfied without piling on the calories.
Lastly, stick to curfew: Close up your kitchen by 9 p.m. Late-night snacking can derail your good work.

6. Learn Proper Portions

For lasting results, you need to reprogram your portion perception. Overloaded plates and 32-ounce Big Gulps may be the new normal, but they’re not proper – nor are they healthy.
Read nutrition labels to learn what a portion is, Bauer says. Use a small food scale until you can accurately eyeball what 3 ounces of meat looks like.
More tips:
  • Ask your butcher to wrap your meat in 4-ounce packages.
  • Buy 1-cup containers to set aside pre-measured favorites, such as cottage cheese and rice.
  • Use measuring spoons and cups to get an honest assessment of salad dressings, condiments and cereals.

7. Reality Bites

You can’t live without starch or fat forever. We have family dinners, restaurant visits, cocktails with friends and holiday parties.
“You must lose weight eating the same types of foods you’ll be eating after the weight is lost,” Bauer says. “That way you won’t gain it back.”
To start, eat smaller portions.
And modify your favorite recipes to make them healthier. For example, one of Bauer’s clients who loved Cuban food learned how to enjoy her beloved “plantains” cooked with Pam. “They don’t have to be slathered in oil,” Bauer says.
In restaurants, ask for meats to be grilled, vegetables steamed, and dressings and condiments on the side.
Worried about giving into cravings for dark chocolate, frozen yogurt or wine?
You can slowly reintroduce “fun food” once weight loss is well under way, Bauer says. But keep it to 150 calories or less.

8. Exercise Is No Option

Exercise may be a drag, but it’s essential to staying slim. Of the hundreds of people who have maintained a weight loss for five years or longer, 94% reported that exercise was key, according to the National Weight Control Registry.
Exercise has other benefits: It improves energy levels and blood flow, strengthens bones, combats diseases such as type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and more.
Don’t have time for a long workout each day? Squeeze in “bite-sized” exercise (three 10-minute sessions), Bauer says. When you have more time, go for a “full portion” of one 30-minute workout.
In fact, don’t call it “exercise,” Bauer says. Tell yourself you’re “going out for some ‘private time,’ or ‘play time,’ or that you are ‘reenergizing.’”
Sometimes semantics make all the difference.

9. You Have a Dream

“There will be times when you will want to pack your bags and move into a Krispy Kreme shop,” Bauer says in her book. So remind yourself of your original passion.
As you lose weight, put up a photo of your goal: the wedding dress you’re trying to fit into, the beach you’ll hit in a bikini, the mountain you want to hike.
If you’ve reached your goal, pin up a photo of something you never thought you’d do, like climbing a rock wall. Keep your motivators front and center to stay focused.
Or join an online community, where “you can constantly connect, high-five over success, or pull yourself out of a funk,” she says.

10. Financing Calories

Many thin people aren’t that way naturally – they work at it. They have strategies to prevent them from overindulging, such as banking calories.
If you know you’ll want to splurge on delicious food at a party, eat fewer calories for each meal leading up to it. You’re “saving” all the calories that’ll be “spent” at the party.
Another simple strategy: Limit foods that aren’t good for you.
Thin people aren’t thinking “that every meal is their last meal,” Bauer says. Even if the food is delicious, they stop eating when they’re full.
“They know if they put down their forks, they’ll ultimately feel better,” Bauer says.
Staying thin forever isn’t out of reach or just for the wealthy.
“Some people think that you have to have fancy chefs or personal trainers,” Bauer says. “But you don’t. You just have to get your head in the game

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12 tips to guide you lose weight at the 12-week plan


1. You shouldn't skip breakfast
Research shows eating breakfast lets you control your body fat. Some people skip breakfast as they quite simply think will help you them lose body fat, but missing servings doesn't help us reduce weight and isn't acceptable for us as we can avoid essential nutrients. It could even encourage us towards snack more in the daytime because you look hungry.

2. Eat regular servings
Some people suppose missing meals can certainly help them lose body fat, but it's been shown eating regularly in the day helps burn calories at a faster rate. It also cuts down on the temptation towards snack on foods excellent for fat and carbs.

3. Eat plenty of fruit and veg
Fruit and veg are less calories and excess weight, and high through fibre – two to three essential ingredients for successful fat burning. They also hold plenty of nutritional requirements.

4. Get further active
Studies show routine activity is key to burning fat and keeping it again off. As well for the reason that providing numerous health rewards, exercise can help get rid of the excess calories you should not cut through food plan alone.

5. Drink quite a lot of water
People in some cases confuse thirst with the help of hunger. You can land up consuming extra calories each glass of the water is really things you require. You should make an attempt to drink about six or eight glasses (1. step 2 litres) of solution, preferably water, day-to-day – or more within the medical warm or you could be exercising.

6. Partake of high-fibre foods
Foods containing a bunch of fibre will have you feeling extensive for longer, which is perfect for losing weight. Fibre is actually found in food stuff from plants, such as fruit and veg, oats, wholegrain bakery, brown rice not to mention pasta, and cocoa, peas and lentils.

7. Read through food labels
Knowing how to study food labels can assist you to choose healthier methods, and keep some check on the length of calories, fat, salt and sugars you take in. Use the calorie information to edit how a specified food fits to your daily calorie allocation on the weight loss plan.

8. Have a smaller plate
Studies show individuals use smaller plates typically eat smaller portions as they are still satisfied. With the use of smaller plates not to mention bowls, you are able to gradually get would always eating smaller a percentage without going starving. It takes on the subject of 20 minutes for ones stomach to tell mental performance it's full, so eat slowly and forestall eating before that is felt full.

9. You shouldn't ban foods
Don't ban any sort of foods from your weight loss plan, especially the ones that appeals to you. Banning foods is only to make you hunger them more. There's no reason you should not enjoy the occasional treat truthfulness stay within a daily calorie allocation.

10. Don't stock take out
To avoid enticement, avoid stocking take out, such as chocolate bar, biscuits, crisps not to mention sweet fizzy cold drinks, at home. Preferably instead, stock up concerning healthy snacks, along the lines of fruit, unsalted rice cakes, oat cakes, unsalted and / or unsweetened popcorn, and fruit juice.

11. Cut downwards on alcohol
Did you realise a standard decanter or glass of wine can contain quite a few calories as a chocolate, and a pint from lager has about the same calorie count being packet of crisps? In the future, drinking too much in many cases can contribute to body fat gain.

12. Plan your diet
Plan your for the morning, lunch, dinner and snacks for ones week, making sure you stay on your calorie allocation. Try to insurance policy for four to ten days' worth from meals and any snacks. Make a shopping list, but don't shop while you are hungry as that cause high-calorie impulse purchase!

Monday, October 13, 2014

Tips to Lose Weight Without Diet and Exercise

Monday, October 13, 2014 - 0 Comments

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Dropping a few pounds doesn’t have to involve deprivation or intense workouts. These tricks will help you slim down the easy way

1. Drink Enough Water

There are so many reasons why water is, among other things, good for your waistline. Drinking cold water can help up your metabolism, since your body will work harder to warm up the liquid, meaning more calories burned for you. Drinking water regularly also helps keep you feeling full so you don’t snack on empty calories, and hydrating before you exercise will help release muscle-building hormones in your body — which spells good news for not only your strength goals but also your metabolism.

2. Get Enough Sleep

Celebs and doctors alike can’t stop talking about their go-to weight-loss secret: one of the keys to losing or preventing weight gain is getting enough sleep. Why? Turns out we end up eating more when we’re sleep-deprived. A recent study, for example, showed that participants who got only four hours of sleep ended up consuming 300 more calories than when they were well rested.

3. Practice Portion Control

Even if you’re not on a diet, being mindful of how much you’re eating is good practice. It can take a few minutes for your brain to recognize that you’re full, so get in the habit of knowing how much an actual serving size is (and how much it takes until you’re full), and you’ll be less apt to pack on the pounds due to overeating.

4. Drink Green Tea

Water’s not the only metabolism booster in town. Studies have shown that drinking green tea can give your metabolism a tiny increase — which can add up to over 400 extra calories burned a week! Not only that, the beverage has got some major antioxidant power, so drink up.

5. Use Your Friends

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be much easier with the support and motivation of like-minded friends. Having a healthy support group can lead to better choices for yourself; you may find yourself moving more, skipping more calorie-laden happy hours, and making other lifestyle choices that can contribute to weight loss.

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4 Best Exercises for Older Adults

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Maintaining a healthy exercise routine is a fundamental part of life for all ages. Each age group stands to benefit from the advantages regular exercise can bring to one’s overall health. This is especially true for older adults who are 50 years and older.
Regular exercise combats all forms of disease by strengthening muscles, including the heart. This improves circulation which reduces the occurrence of high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Regular exercise along with a healthy diet reduces the risks of heart attack and stroke.
Yet not many 60 year olds can start a rigorous exercise routine without injury. Most need to practice an exercise routine that is challenging yet doesn’t provoke stress or cause injury.
The National Institutes on Health point out that there are 4 general types of exercise that are necessary to maintain good health, particularly in older adults.

1. Strength training

By working with light weights or exercises that use one’s own weight to build muscle increases metabolism which keeps blood sugar in check.

2. Balance

According to NIH, 300,000 older adults are admitted to the hospital for broken hips each year. Oftentimes, medications can cause side effects such as dizziness or confusion that increase the likelihood of falls with older adults. Other older adults may be suffering from problems with the inner ear which can impede one’s depth perception. Also, impaired vision caused by poor lighting or other household hazards or diseases like cataracts makes it difficult for older adults to safely navigate around the house. Once you have cleared your exercise routine with your physician, you can experiment with various balancing exercises.
Doug Schrift of Eldergym.com describes this type of exercise as an opportunity to ignite your “internal spatial orientation.” For example, if you close your eyes and start raising your arm above your head, you should have a pretty good sense of the location of your arm because of your inner sense of feedback. Balancing exercises strengthen that sensation.
Those who play tennis on a regular basis improve their sense of balance. But sometimes all it takes is placing a strip of masking tape on the floor. With a chair close by for support, you simply practice walking on that line. Dancing, high knee marching and high above-the-head reaching moves are all beneficial forms of balancing exercises.

3. Stretching

Encouraging and maintaining flexibility is an important part of good health. The Asian culture, particularly the Chinese community, have been practicing the art of Tai Chi for centuries. This series of movements are ideal in all aspects of exercise. It builds strength, trains on balance and encourages stretching while not creating a negative impact on the body.

4. Endurance

Strengthening the skeleton and muscles is important. So is strengthening the cardiovascular system. “The most underrated form of exercise out there is walking,” said Dr. Jeremy Osmond, Director of Rehabilitation at Orchard Park Post-Acute Rehab Center in Orem, Utah. “Everybody should be doing it. It’s the simplest form of exercise but it is so healthy and so good for you.”
Also, swimming, biking, low-impact hiking, even household chores increase the heart rate for an extended period of time. Start by exercising in five minute intervals and build from that.
Exercise is something everybody needs to incorporate into their daily routine, and older adults are no exception. By investing a small amount of time every day for exercise, you can enjoy big rewards in maintaining good health.

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Shape Up in 7 Minutes

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1.  Snappy strengthening moves

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Get more bang for your workout burst with these one-minute power moves from Equinox NYC instructor Omar Sandoval’s hot new Titan Method class.
Choose a move for the arms and shoulders, a move for the abs and back, and a move for the legs and butt and do all three exercises at a fast clip (hello, cardio!) before taking a 30-second rest; then whip through them again.
For the full Titan class effect, do any five moves back-to-back, rest 30 seconds, and repeat. For best results, slip this speed session in every other day.

2.  Arms & shoulders: Squat and press

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Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and a pair of 8- to 10-lb dumbbells between feet. Push hips back to lower into a squat (keep knees behind toes); grasp a dumbbell with each hand.
Engage core, push through feet, and rise to standing, bending elbows to bring weights near shoulders. Press weights overhead; lower weights back to shoulders, then back to floor. Repeat for 60 seconds.

3.  Arms & shoulders: Clean and press windmill

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Stand with feet shoulder-width and an 8- to 10-lb dumbbell between them. Push hips back to lower into squat (knees behind toes); grasp dumbbell with left hand. Push through feet and rise to standing, bringing dumbbell toward left shoulder; push it overhead.
Bend at waist to right, allowing right foot to turn out; right hand is on inside of right leg. Continue to bend sideways, sliding right hand down to foot, keeping left hand overhead. Reverse movement to return to squat; continue for 60 seconds.
Switch sides and repeat.

4.  Abs & back: Dumbbell plank

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Get into the “up” part of push-up position with feet wider than shoulder-width, hands each gripping a dumbbell directly below shoulders. Your body should be in a straight, diagonal line from head to heels (as shown). Hold for 60 seconds.

5.  Abs & back: Plank with side snatch

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Come to plank position with body straight, feet wider than shoulder-width, hands gripping 8- to 10-lb dumbbells.
Engage core muscles; in a single movement (keeping arms straight), twist at the waist (allowing toes to pivot) and lift dumbbell in left hand out to left and up overhead Return to plank position; continue for 60 seconds, then switch sides and repeat.

6.  Legs & butt: Shuffle dumbbell swing

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Stand with feet wide, an 8- to 10-lb dumbbell between feet. Squat down (knees behind toes) and shuffle to left, then back to center; grab dumbbell with both hands. Straighten knees while turning legs and body to right, swinging weight up and straight out to right as if swinging a baseball bat.
Return to squat position and repeat on opposite side; continue alternating for 60 seconds.

7.  Legs & butt: Superhero jump

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Get into “up” part of push-up position; step left foot forward into lunge position, leaving right hand on floor and lifting left hand out and back. Push into both feet and jump up onto left foot, raising right knee and touching left hand to it. Return to lunge, then push-up position.
Continue for 60 seconds, thenswitch sides and repeat.

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Success Story: 'I Lost More Than 40 Pounds and Got Super-Strong'

Before: 186
After: 143
The Lifestyle
When she was in high school, Josie Maurer, now 41 and a mother of four, was a track and cross-country runner, as well as a competitive cheerleader. Since she was always moving, she never worried about the fact that she ate fast food or drank soda several times a week. In fact, the 5' 5" Delaware native maintained her 130-pound weight until she had her first two kids. "I know I gained the first 10 pounds after my first two kids were born by eating a bag of Cheetos after lunch every day," says Josie. It wasn't long after that when she began having "double lunches" because she was still hungry after the first.
Although there weren't any stressors or life events that she can pinpoint as causing her to eat more, the mindset that she could eat whatever she wanted carried over from high school, while her teenage metabolism did not. In the eight-year span between giving birth to her second and third child, Josie's weight slowly crept up to 186 pounds.
The Change
Josie was slowly putting on weight, but she didn't really feel like it was a problem. "I thought, 'Hey, I still look good,'" she says. "I still had my confidence." But in 2006, the then-mom of three saw a photo of herself. "I thought, 'Oh my gosh, that isn't me,'" she says.  When she saw that picture, she was disappointed with how things had gotten so out of hand and decided to take control of her weight again.
At first, Josie didn't change up the kinds of foods she was eating—but she did start counting calories and tried to keep her daily intake at 1,500. Although she was eating less, she was still consuming fast food, packaged foods, and very few vegetables. "I think I just didn't know how else to lose weight," she says. "I thought that was all you needed to do." At the same time, she began walking during her hour-long lunch breaks at work. This combination helped her drop 20 pounds before she became pregnant with her fourth child.
Although she gained most of the weight back during pregnancy, Josie says she knew she needed to get right on track with her weight loss after giving birth in 2008. This time, she swapped calorie counting for eating fresh foods like fish and veggies—and traded walking at lunch for strength-training and cardio workouts five times a week. "I like the way strength-training makes my body look, and my weight loss has gone faster because of it." Plus, she dropped the idea that she needed to have a treat or dessert every day. "I was putting in so much work with the exercise, and I wasn't seeing the results because I was still eating sweets daily." Josie bought weights and equipment to work out at home, which she says is ideal since she doesn't have a ton of time to spend getting to and from the gym. By January 2014, Josie was down to 143 pounds.
The Reward
For Josie, the best part of losing the weight is feeling lighter and having more energy. "I feel like I'm back to my sporty self again," she says. Josie's inner athlete comes out every time she strength trains, and she's recently set her sights on conquering the pullup bar. "I'm not the pullup queen," she says, "but there is such a difference with trying to pull your weight with extra weight [that she was previously carrying]." Today, Josie can do three pullups—very impressive!
Josie's Tips
Start with small changes. "It can be overwhelming when you're first start trying to lose a lot of weight," she says. "It's important to pick one or two small changes and perfect those things. I started walking every day during lunch and then counting calories. Once I created that foundation, I built on it from there."
Prepare your meals ahead of time. "Now I take the time to prepare food so that I have what I need for the day," she says. "The food I pack for my lunch is so much better than what I would get if I ran out and bought something. When you have meals ready for you, you can't say, 'I don't feel like cooking, so I'm just going to go grab something." It makes a huge difference because you're not just getting hungry and making impulsive choices."
Don't be afraid to strength train. "Strength training helped me challenge myself, and it helped me get past my weight-loss plateau. Once I started doing strength training with body weight and weights, I saw huge changes in my body in a shorter period of time."

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