Author: Ridge Personal Trainer Jackie Corcoran

Does this weight loss scenario sound familiar?. . .

“Must lose a couple of pounds! Tomorrow is a day of discipline–no thought out eating plan–just very few calories and absolutely no junk food no matter what!”

Breakfast is skipped–lunch too. While the feeling of empowerment is strong, the feeling of hunger is just around the corner.  You get home and realize some food should be had–maybe due to hunger, maybe reward for the great show of discipline.

Both the body and mind are in need of fuel so the most appealing food now is calorie dense–high in fat, sugar or both. Something quick (therefore highly processed.) Not only will this satiate the body quickly, it will send out feel good chemicals from the brain that encourage the hand to get more food into the mouth quickly before the maniac behind the curtain decides to go on another diet.

This eating pattern is often followed by gas, indigestion and lethargy and, if practiced habitually, can lead to weight gain and even obesity.

The moral of the story is, listen to your body. Feed it regularly when it is hungry with whole foods (not processed) that are nutrient rich. Get savvy about serving sizes. Prepare food for tomorrow today so you are not left grabbing for the easy fix.

That is how to lose weight and keep it off forever. As an extra bonus–your body will have a better chance fighting off the cold and flu this winter.