Because we are not losing fat, the weight (muscle) we have lost is eventually regained – but it comes back as fat instead of lean muscle mass. So, the next time you diet, and see that you have lost ten pounds, you better believe you have really lost something – something important! Instead of spending a great deal of money to replace your wardrobe – in your new smaller size – you may as well go ahead and buy clothing in at least one size larger than you were wearing before your diet!If you are overweight, you are probably thinking that this is catastrophic, depressing news – but there is a way to lose weight, without losing that muscle that you need. If you do it the right way, your diet won’t even be very hard, and when you buy those clothes in that new smaller size, it will be money well spent!First, seek the advice of your doctor. He will suggest a change in your diet and recommend an exercise program. The diet may be a low calorie diet, or a low-carb diet, depending on your likes and dislikes where food is concerned. Note that it is extremely difficult to remain on a diet where you don’t like the food, or you can’t eat the foods that you do like. Take this into consideration when discussing your diet with your doctor.
Also note that fad diets are just that – fads. And the weight you lose will be a fad as well. Go with a sensible diet – one where you eat ‘normal’ foods that don’t cost a fortune, and above all avoid all liquid diets! When it comes down to it, it really isn’t about what you are eating, but how much you are eating. However, it is a good idea to choose foods that you can eat more of.
For instance, you can choose to have French fries or a baked potato. The French fries are full of grease, and therefore calories and fat. The baked potato on the other hand (without all the fixings) is very low calorie. You can have something else to go along with the baked potato, such as another vegetable and a small portion of broiled meat, but you can only eat two French fries without blowing your diet! Choose wisely, and always choose the one that allows you to put the largest amount of food in your mouth, without blowing your diet.
Next, learn to feed your muscles. Muscles require protein in order to fuel the body’s fat-burning system. You need those muscles to be able to perform their job perfectly! A good product for feeding muscles is Protein. Also make sure that you are giving your muscles plenty of water. Eight to ten eight ounce glasses each day are needed.
Next, make time to walk each day. Walk as far as you can, and increase the distance as you are able. As you gain more energy – and you will – add a strength training program three times a week.
Before long, you will be shopping for that new wardrobe. You will be at your weight goal, you will feel good, and your muscles will be in excellent shape to help you keep the weight off!
