by Jason Garratt

Created on: June 22, 2010

Most weight loss diets are unsustainable and only offer short term results. A perfect example of this would be the original Atkins diet. It needed the users to stick to a weight loss meal plan that mainly consisted of fatty red meats. It also included little to know carbs at all, which was incredibly unhealthy, especially if living an active lifestyle. So when we do look to lose weight we need to think of a diet as a lifestyle change, instead of a quick fix.

Lifestyle

So in this lifestyle change we need to also look at burning more calories through increased exercise. This should really be active functional training (Exercise that improves our daily living) like simply going for a walk / jog, taking classes or going to the gym and cross training (mixed weight and cardio session). But if this isn't possible or you don't like the idea of training then just look at trying to increase your activity levels throughout each day e.g. walking, dancing, swimming etc.

Now let's get down to the main reason your reading this article... the weight loss basics that will shed the pounds and keep them off!

Diet simplified

When looking at eating to lose weight we just need to establish first what it is that puts on the majority of everyone's weight, Carbohydrates. It isn't actually fat like most people assume. Fat is important to our development and living especially if you choose to train with weights to help your weight loss. This obviously doesn't mean fat is your friend, just keep it to a minimum.

Carbohydrates:

Carbohydrates are the main issue with the modern day eating habit; you need to learn the two different types and when to eat them. Carbohydrates can be split into two groups Complex and simple carbs.

· Complex carbohydrates: Foods that provide your body with a steady slow release of energy. Can be found in food like bread, rice, pasta, potato.

· Simple carbohydrates: Food that releases a quick source of energy like fruit, vegetables, salad.

The key to using carbohydrates in weight loss is eating the right types at the right time. Below is a list of complex carbs you should eat. You will probably notice that bread and pasta is not there. As a rule don't eat any carbohydrates that we have added things to (White rice) or created (Bread, pasta). So go all natural!

· Brown rice

· Oats

· Wholegrain products

· Sweet potato

Simple carbohydrates can be eaten all the time, but again only if naturally produced like fruit, vegetables

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