Dieting The Easy Way – Some Basic Food Tips

A lot of people out there view dieting as the equivalent of having to starve themselves or start popping those magical slimming pills – don’t get me wrong some slimming pills do help, but it ain’t that easy, then again it ain’t that hard either. Weight loss can be achieved by pleasurable dieting too, you does not have to be torture. Follow a few simple rules for healthy dieting and you have a wide choice of what you can eat and enjoy what you like to eat. Healthy diet and adequate exercises are the sure and safe ways to lose weight. Do one and you will lose some weight – do both and you are on to a winner.

A healthy diet will protect your body from illnesses by providing appropriate nutrient – this is what your body needs and wants. At the same time you would be able to shed the excess fat gradually in a safe way by maintaining a true balance.

There are many websites out there that will advice you on what should be your calorie intake, based on your personal details and based on your diet they can also tell you what your present intake is. But it should don’t take a calculator and a almanac of food nutrition to prepare a meal – just a bit on common sense.

A Well-Balanced Diet should include the following three key elements – Carbohydrates, High-Quality Protein, and Healthy Fats.

Carbohydrates In Your Diet

About 40-60% of your calorie intake should come from carbohydrates. That means if you’re on a 1500 calories a day diet, you should be striving to get about 800 calories a day from “good” carbs. Restrict or avoid white flour, desserts, ice creams and sugary foods in general. Get rid of the fizzy drinks, try the diet option – which has near enough zero calories, or better yet go for water – boring i know. They contribute to weight gain and add nothing to your energy sources. Use oatmeal or whole grain cereal instead. Include whole grain breads, fruits and vegetables, oatmeal, whole grain cereals. You will be getting sufficient vitamins, amino acids and fiber too you will feel fuller longer – this will help prevent you snacking.

Proteins In Your Diet

About 20-30% of your calories i.e. about 375 calories should come from “wild” (not processed or farm raised) animal sources such as fish, meat, poultry, yogurt and eggs and from vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and seeds. Protein is actually the hardest form of food to break down into energy – so you will use up calories just try to digest protein – bonus.

Fats In Your Diet

The balance calorie intake, about 325 in our example, shall come from “good” fats such as “wild” cold-water fish, flaxseed, walnuts, olive oil, etc. They give Omega 3 essential fatty acid that is very essential for your overall health and well being. Avoid or at least limit use of hydrogenated oils.

A Little Extra Food Advice – Power Foods

Fish: Fish is low in fat, high in protein (as red meat), and provides omega 3 fatty acids which few other proteins would. Also as a general rule fish has fewer calories. Try to eat at least 2-3 servings of fish per week as replacement for red meat. Still have some meat if you want, but go for something that looks lean – turkey is very good for you and is a better source of protein than chicken.

Spinach: This is the cheapest source of nutrition for your body. It is rich in folic acid, minerals, and vitamins – especially Vitamin B. You can prepare it in a variety of ways. Use it often in your diet – don’t worry, you won’t end up looking like Popeye.

Olive Oil: It is a “good” fat with loads of benefits to the body. This is a basic source of fat in the Mediterranean diet – studies have found that those that live in the Med, live longer.

So, take it or leave it, its up to you. follow these simple suggestions or don’t, and good luck with the dieting!