Recently, I read the statement, “Abs are made in the kitchen, not the gym.” It made perfect sense to me; does it to you?
Now I know this is going to be a bit of counter thinking, especially this time of year when people have been practicing their New Year resolution of working out more. And I’m not discounting the importance of exercise, but I am saying what and how you eat are way more important.
I don’t believe in diets; we all know they don’t work. What does work is a lifestyle.
Look around the gym or the tennis courts next time you’re there. Do you see people who exercise regularly who never seem to lose any weight? Are you one of those people? If you are, then you’re very frustrated. The reason for this is that it doesn’t matter how much you exercise. If you’re not eating properly, you won’t lose or maintain your weight.
Basically, all the "diets" out there promote the same thing.
Doesn’t matter the name, the premise is all the same. You should have an eating habit that includes lean proteins, veggies and fruits eaten in the right proportions. Eliminate all processed foods and any food that promotes inflammation. Sugar is toxic; alcohol is a deal breaker.
Timing
Eat your last meal of the day early!
I like to eat no later than 7 p.m. Sometimes that fluctuates, but basically from the last bite I eat at night to the first bite the next morning, I fast 12 hours. I don’t do any of those crazy daytime fasts, liquid diets or cleansings; I eat real food. And by the way, if you’re eating properly, those faddy cleansings are unnecessary.
Alcohol
It keeps you from getting a good night's sleep!
Having that glass of wine before bed sounds soothing, and it may put you to sleep, but you’re not sleeping properly or at all through the night. That’s because all alcoholic beverages contain sugar or carbs, so it metabolizes, or tries to, a few hours after consumption, disrupting sleep. Not sleeping properly is a main culprit in weight gain. So, if you just have to have that glass, drink it early.
Change your eating habits, change your life. It's really quite simple.
Until next time, here's to healthy living and remember, you always have choices.
The information in this article is intended solely as a sharing of information and knowledge based on real life experience. It is not a substitute for professional care, but a complement to it. It should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem; always consult your healthcare provider relating to any suspected health issues you may have.
