Food Is The Answer To Permanent Weight Loss

Losing weight is not an easy accomplishment. If it were, we would all be walking around at the perfect weight for our size. But losing weight is not impossible, either. As a matter of fact, the answer to permanent weight loss is in the food that we eat. The simple truth is that your diet is responsible for about 80 percent of your weight loss.

Exercise helps to burn fat and calories and is excellent for body shape and function. But actually losing weight requires a change in the amount and type of food that you eat. This doesn’t mean that you have to eat an overly restricted diet. But, taking the time to plan your meals in advance will ensure you always have a healthy meal or snack and won’t be tempted to eat foods not on your diet.

Losing weight is a totally different experience for women than it is for men. Men can cut back on the foods they eat or stop drinking beer and instantly drop 20 pounds. For women, it is never that easy. The seemingly unfair differences in women and men’s weight loss accomplishments comes down to body composition and hormones. Hormones are much to blame, with cravings and appetites increasing during the menstrual cycle. With less muscle mass on our bodies, women don’t burn fat as quickly as men do either. Another good reason why women should seek a diet and fitness program that is designed for the female body.

Women, usually require fewer calories than men. We can eat smaller meals and be completely satisfied. Many times, women gain weight after starting a relationship because we find we are eating the same amount as our partners. If you find this to be a problem, there are some easy ways to avoid overeating, even when dining out.

When dining out, portion your food into two sections of what you know you will eat, and what food you want to bring back home. Some restaurants offer smaller or demi sized meals so you can eat a smaller portion of the same great tasting meal. The important factor to keep in mind is that you do not have to eat every morsel of food on your plate. Eat slowly and enjoy every bite of food. Food is not the problem; food is the answer to weight loss and a healthy lifestyle.

Portion control is even easier when you are eating at home. Scoop small portions at a time onto your plate so you won’t feel mentally obligated to clean your plate. Eat a wide variety of leafy vegetables and fruits and be sure to include a healthy serving of protein at every meal. Protein is the building block for every cell in your body and will keep your appetite satisfied between meals.

Keep a fitness journal to record everything you eat and drink and all of the exercise that you do. It will inspire you to find new foods to try, challenge you to meet or exceed your own expectations and remind you how much you have achieved. You will quickly see in your own handwriting that food is the answer to losing weight.