When you decide to go on a weight loss diet, it is easy to be overwhelmed by the amount of information available. But it is simple to reduce your weight if you keep these things in mind:
It is not necessary to follow a printed diet plan. In fact, most fad diets and those often printed in magazines are not based in sound science, and some lack common sense. It is not a good idea to restrict the foods you are eating to too narrow a variety or amount, because health is essential.
There are good, effective diets available that you could follow if a predetermined, rigid plan appeals to you. Any time-tested program with proven results will provide a successful weight loss diet. Such plans as the Atkin's Program, Weight Watchers, and the Fit For Life program have been around for years and offer a pleasing variety of food choices. You will be able to find many delicious recipes posted online that fit in with these programs.
However, if you dislike following a set meal plan, it is simple and easy to design your own weight loss diet. In doing this, keep in mind that good nutrition, and health should be your focus.
Consider calories. There are many calorie calculators available for free online that will tell you how many calories you need each day, based on your height, age, and gender. If you do not mind tabulating calorie counts for everything that you eat, this is an easy and effective weight loss diet. Simply determine your caloric needs, and eat that many calories each day. Eat enough to meet your daily energy requirements, but do not exceed this amount.
However, it is possible to adopt a weight loss diet without counting or even considering calories. You will lose more weight with an eating plan that focuses on protein and avoids carbs. Protein foods are the most nutrient dense and you should choose these types of foods over others. An egg or small piece of lean meat are filling snacks and should be chosen over bread or crackers.
Limit carbohydrates. Avoid refined foods and simple carbs like the plague. Eat as few carbs as possible for the quickest weight loss diet. If you must have breads or pastas, choose whole grain products over refined and white options. Brown rice should be chosen over white, but better still is to avoid these carbs altogether.
You can eat as much as you want of any fruit or vegetable during your weight loss diet, except corn (which you should avoid), potatoes, bananas, and avocados (which you should eat sparingly, if at all). Eat vegetables raw or lightly steamed, and keep in mind that adding butter adds fat.
Fat should be considered in a weight loss diet. Trim fats from meats, and choose leaner meats such as fish or chicken breast over fattier options. Fat in dairy, however, contributes to good health, and contrary to popular thought, it is not necessary to choose low fat milk or yogurt. In fact, whole organic milk and dairy products are the healthier choices. Butter, while being a higher fat option, is much healthier than most margarines. Enjoy these sparingly.
Finally, avoid sugar. It is obvious that such things as cakes, candies, and cookies are loaded with sugars and should be avoided when dieting. Please also be aware that sugar is often abundantly present in prepared and packaged foods, even those that do not taste sweet. Read labels carefully when consuming these types of products.
Keep these considerations in mind for good luck and success losing weight with your diet!
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