Diet Disasters

Dear Fitness Coach,

Every time I try going on a diet it is just one big fail. Not only do I not lose weight, I usually end up gaining a few pounds. I am not sure what I am doing wrong, maybe you can help!

Molly

Dear Molly,

Losing weight is simpler than you think: there is no magic bullet involved. Take in less calories than you expend and you will lose weight. There are some common pitfalls, however that can derail the best efforts. If you avoid the top 5 diet mistakes, you should have no problem dropping the LB’s

1. Try changing your mindset from dieting to healthy, clean eating. Dieting is something you go on and off, healthy eating is a permanent lifestyle change

2. Stop Mindless eating. Eating amnesia is what happens when you are sitting in front of a TV, reading a book, sipping a cocktail at happy hour or eating off your child’s plate. You lose track of what you are snacking or eating and the calories pile up.

3. Beware of liquid Calories. Do not be fooled into thinking that anything you drink doesn’t count as calories. Juice, milk, coffee with cream and sugar, even so called energy drinks can have calories. Stick to water or calorie free drinks.

4. Keep count. You do not know how many calories you are consuming unless you are keeping track-so start counting. Myfitnesspal is a free app and will help you count your calories. Your goal should be 1500 calories a day.

5. Fat free is not calorie free. When fat is eliminated from food, it is usually replaced by sugar to enhance the flavor, which increases the calorie count. Opt for low sugar foods whenever possible, as sugar is much more toxix to your overall heath than fat.

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