I have to admit but I sometimes eat the ‘naughty’ foods! That’s right, even though I’m a health and fitness professional, I do slip up at times and indulge in a little feast but I don’t mean sneaking to the fridge at 3 in the morning!!
What sort of foods am I talking about?
Well, every now and again, I enjoy red wine, ice cream and chocolate cake. Ok, the secret is out. I’m not a perfect example of a fitness professional!!
BUT, I can control what I eat and when I want to eat it. I know if I tried to convert everyone I train into eating a 100% healthy diet, I know it will be very difficult to maintain for them, especially in the long term. I’m realistic and you should be too.
I would always advise my clients to eat well 80-90% of the time and, for the remainder, enjoy their treats (without going too mad though). You can choose your treats, whether it’s red wine or ice cream, and enjoy them. Now I’m not suggesting you drink the whole bottle in one go, or eat the whole tub but just be sensible.
In the main, try to avoid foods that contain obesity additives (ingredients that your brain gets hooked on) and sugar. For example, processed foods including packaged meats, certain cheeses, fried fish cakes, biscuits, crisps, pastry products, ketchup, margarine and spreads plus many more.
These should not really be classed as food as such as they have very little nutritional value and contain ‘empty’ calories (sugars and saturated fats).
Also, most takeaway food will contain lots of hidden sugars, fats and salt and also have a high calorie content. Takeaway foods usually contain some combinations of obesity additives. However, there can be some exceptions to this so ask before you buy. Something like Tandoori Chicken is a better choice.
So, what sort of foods would make GOOD choices?
Choose fresh and natural foods such as oily fish, lean meat and poultry, fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, wholegrains, high-fibre cereals, free-range eggs, natural sweeteners and nut butters. Remember, these foods should form 80-90% of your diet.
So, if your goal is to lose weight, you’ll need to create a calorie deficit. That doesn’t mean starving yourself or reducing your calories massively. If you’re used to eating 1800 calories per day then dropping to 1600 would be ok, as long as you’re eating the foods above 80-90% of the time. DON’T drop to 1000 calories or under as you’re asking for trouble. You’ll lose water and muscle tissue, which will lower your metabolism, making it harder to keep the weight off.
Combine a good diet with increased activity and exercise. The extra activity will help you to burn more calories so you can still eat plenty of good foods. Enjoy!
Oh, if you’re interested to find out which foods are really healthy, why not grab a copy of my FREE 5-Week Detox Meal Planner? It may just kick start your health. Just click here: