Gained it Fast and Cant Seem to Lose it.

Question
QUESTION: I gained around TEN pounds in two weeks, and now I have a small belly. My stomach used to be really flat and now, well, there's a bulge.

I tried exercising but I get totally dead tired after just fifteen minutes on an elliptical exerciser-- on the cross trainer.

I try to maintain what I eat but I guess on certain days (like on parties), I eat more than I probably should.

Can you please give me some advice on how to lose the extra poundage that I gained? More exercise? Or change in diet?

It's been a few months since the gain and I just can't seem to lose it. Any help would be really appreciated. Thanks.

ANSWER: Hi Hazel,

I can give you some general guidance but you are missing one crucial piece of information- How/why did you gain the 10 pounds in 2 weeks? As this sounds like a complete departure from what you normally do.

Generally, to lose the excess fat around the belly takes serious commitment to what you eat AND a daily exercise plan.If you are getting tired in 15 minutes now, then continuing will mean you will become stronger over the weeks and be able to do more exercise.

Just take it one step at a time, as any sudden or severe changes in eating or exercise will result in the fat being lost and then coming back with interest!

Always include enough protein from lean meat/fish/chicken etc. You check how much you need on my site below. Drink 6-8 glasses of water a day and always have fresh/frozen veg with as many meals as you can.
Reduce the amount of dairy and wheat, and you are just about there.

Hope this gets you started in the right direction

All the best

Nevil

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: well, i gained it by literally going out everyday of the week and having a big dinner because it was a constant pile of parties and restaurant dinners..
ended up being really bloated and didn't seem to lose the weight..
also the weeks before that, i guess i haven't been careful with what i ate, and constantly snacked as well.
that, and the 2-week parties did me in, i think.

THANKS so much for your advice..=)

Answer
OK- looks like you need to be really disciplined in your new habits if you want to get back into shape. You've experienced what consistency can do in a bad way, and now it is a question of being consistent in a good way!

Unfortunately, the fat can go on fast but does take longer to get rid of if you want to do it for good and with health as a foundation.

I would suggest you work on being able to say 'no' to foods that you know would go against your goals, but also allow yourself the odd treat once a week. That will keep you from feeling deprived.

Identify where your weakest area is and tackle that first. If it's snacking, then always have a supply of the healthiest snacks with you. I supply some fantastic snacks and weightloss meals, that also give energy and internal health, if you want to take away the shopping and preparation parts of your new programme.

Increase the exercise as you feel your body can cope with it and always try to do things you enjoy- you'll stay motivated for much longer. Weights are the best way to lose the fat and they won't bulk you up either!

Let me know how you get on after a few weeks.

All the best

Nevil

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