The key to any successful fitness or weight loss program is a solid nutrition program. Notice I didn’t say “diet”–starving yourself may work in the short run, but a healthy nutrition program will keep those pounds off for good. Here are 5 ways to start eating your way to a thinner you or check out the best program for weight loss.

#1 Eat Small and Eat Often

As it turns out, the old adage of “three square meals” a day is counterproductive to a successful weight loss plan. Eating 2 or 3 large, infrequent meals a day “trains” your body to process food more slowly. If you are only eating every 6 to 8 hours, your body takes precautions to prevent starvation, and calories are converted to fat much more easily. To combat this starvation effect, 5 to 6 small meals should be consumed a day at 2 to 3 hour intervals. Eating this frequently tells your body that it is not starving and fat storage should be reduced–after all, your next meal is only a couple hours away. As a bonus, you will find that your energy levels stay at a consistent level when you fuel your body often throughout the day. This is essential to any successful fitness or weight loss program.

#2 Compose Your Meals Properly

Many of you may be thinking, “How can I possibly eat 6 whole meals a day”? If you were eating the usual portion sizes that you are used to, then this would be a problem. Meals should be small and composed of a protein (meat), vegetable, and starch. You don’t need to worry about counting calories–a single portion of any protein, vegetable, or starch should be about the size of the palm of your hand or a deck of cards. For example, a grilled chicken breast with steamed broccoli and a small baked potato is a perfect meal.

#3 Eat Clean

We all know deep down inside that foods high in fat and sugar will not help us to lose weight or lean out. Fatty foods and sweets should be avoided and replaced with grilled, baked, and steamed foods. How can you tell? Generally speaking, the following types of foods should be avoided.

• Fried foods
• Cream sauces
• Large amounts of cheese or dairy products
• Desserts and pastries
• Candy
• Meats with high fat content or marbling

#4 Cook Your Meals Ahead of Time

It can be difficult to eat 5 to 6 times a day while trying to lose weight. Preparing all of your meals ahead of time can ease this burden tremendously. In my experience, spending my Sunday afternoons on the grill and in the kitchen makes the work weak a whole lot easier. I usually prepare enough grilled chicken and beef, steamed vegetables, and brown rice on Sunday to last all week. This takes a little bit of time to get used to, but it will definitely work.

#5 Supplement Your Meals with Meal Replacements

This last tip can either make or break your fitness or weight loss endeavor.  For many, including myself, eating six whole food meals a day can be difficult. Another strategy to break up the monotony of eating so often, is to include proper supplementation. There are many products available in the meal replacement market. These primarily include meal replacement shakes and bars. Don’t worry-these aren’t the power powers and dry protein powders of last decade. Today’s offerings are delicious and pack all of the required nutritional components mentioned above. I generally use a meal replacement every other meal. This reduces the amount of time I spend in the kitchen and curbs my sweet tooth.

While nutrition is only part of a successful fitness and weight loss program, the tips above will help you get your weight loss on track without leaving you starving.  If you are looking for additional guidance, check out the best program for weight loss that is based on the tips above ♦

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All information contained within this site, confusedaboutfitness.com (website), is for informational purposes only and is the sole opinion of the author. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem – nor is it intended to replace the advice of a qualified medical practitioner, health practitioner, or fitness professional. No action should be taken solely on the contents of this website. Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health or on any opinions expressed within this website. Please consult your physician before changing your diet, starting an exercise program, or taking any supplements of any kind.