The best diet schedules
1. Choose the right diet technique
Don't decide to go from comfort food junkie to fad diet fanatic. Opt for a balanced eating plan instead. Erickson suggests, "A fad diet is a diet that restricts any of the three macronutrients: protein, carbohydrates and fat. If you go on a diet that restricts the fat, this will leave you hungry, deprived and prone to binge eating." A diet low in protein will also lead to constant hunger.
2. Take a fish oil supplement
The Zone nutritionist says, "My theory on changing poor eating patterns is to change the biochemistry of your body, which in turn proactively facilitates positive mood patterns. Fish oil for example is brain food that increases your sense of well being. Feeling good proactively eliminates the need for a food induced high." Try a fish oil supplement like the Zone Diet's OmegaRx which offers the only patented, ultra-refined omega-3 EPA/DHA concentrate at a dose of up to eight times more omega-3s than provided by a typical dose of even the most expensive omega-3 brands sold in stores.
3. Journal your food intake
People who keep a food journal usually turn away from temptation if they know there will be a written record of their relapse. Further, a study from Kaiser Permanente Center for Health reports that the single best predictor for successful weight loss is keeping a food diary. What you eat definitely plays a key role in achieving a healthy weight, but recording what you eat can help you reach those weight loss goals. And keeping a journal is free!
4. Allow yourself at least two cheat meals per week
During a cheat meal you can eat what you crave the most. "I recommend people set one or two nights per week to eat a cheat meal," says Erickson. "Two cheat meals per week is only a seven percent deviation (as compared to all meals you eat in a week). Knowing you can let loose once and a while keeps you sane." Feeling deprived on any diet will boost your odds of binge eating and once again entering that carb-rich weight gain cycle.
5. Eat regularly to keep your blood sugar stabilized
As the only source of fuel for your brain and central nervous system, adequate blood sugar levels keep your brain content with the present moment. By contrast, skipping meals runs the brain on empty, which sets off uncontrollable junk food cravings, not to mention volatile mood swings. Aim for a balanced meal/snack every three to four hours. Erickson suggests following a diet similar to The Zone 40-30-30 because it does not restrict protein, carbohydrates or fat — it contains a balance of all three, which leaves you feeling satisfied, meaning your blood sugar is stabilized as well. (Learn more about the Zone and other healthy diets)
6. Balance your regular meals
Your insulin levels dictate your approach to food. When stable, you are satisfied, happy and energized. When erratic, as is the case when you eat a poor high-carb diet, you are always starving, moody and fatigued, which compels you to eat more nutrient poor foods. Eating nutritious balanced meals is the key to halting that vicious diet cycle. Dr Sears says, "To control insulin (and your weight), simply divide your plate into three equal sections. On one section, place the amount of low-fat protein that fits in the palm of your hand (3 to 4 ounces). On the other two-thirds, fill [your plate] until it is overflowing with colorful non-starchy vegetables and fruits. Finally add a dash of olive oil." This type of meal is not only healthy, it will stabilize your blood sugar levels, keep your head clear, and help make the current fiscal crisis easier to handle.
7. Only keep healthy food in the kitchen
If you've got junk food in your pantry or refrigerator, it's going to tempt you every time you open the door. Erickson suggests stocking your kitchen with healthy foods — only.
