So you know you want to look great in your bikini - the question is - how can your diet support your goals? Well it turns out all you need to do is eat right to burn fat. Fat, and not your "untoned" muscles - is the real reason you look lumpy and jiggly.
The best method? The low carb diet. Studies show that people who follow low carbohydrate diet plans can lose up to 10lbs of fat in four weeks.
Why does a low carb diet plan work so well?
For one, foods high in carbohydrates tend to also be higher in calories. Which has more calories - a muffin or a cup pf broccoli? Its obvious, right?
Secondly, reducing your intake of carbohydrates forces your body to burn more of its own fat as fuel - not the sugar supplied by your diet.
Third, eating a diet lower in carbohydrates tends to keep blood sugar levels balanced reducing the common urge to eat all the time.
Finally, low carbohydrate diets are also typically higher in protein. Protein requires more energy for digestion - up to 20% more. So this means you will automatically burn a higher percentage of the calories you consume.
Not too bad, huh?
What EXACTLY to eat
Lean proteins (beef, eggs, fish, pork, bisson, chicken, turkey, protein powder - look for under 100 calories per 20grams protein.)
Fiberous vegetables (broccoli, spinach, lettuce, asparagus, cauliflower, cucumbers, mushrooms, chard, kale, bell peppers, zucchini.)
Healthy fats (avocados, cocunut, nuts, seeds, fish oil, olive oil, flaxseed oil, hemp oil.)
What to Avoid
Foods high in carbohydrates (bread, rice, beans, pasta, potatoes, candy, full sugar soda.)
Processed foods. Processed foods tend to automatically be higher in carbohydrates. Check the label to make sure. Look for 5g carbohydrates or less.
Too much fruit. A little bit is okay, especially if you stick to low sugar berries and melons.One cup serving is fine.
Too much milk. A little bit is okay, but all milk has carbohydrates so don't overdo it. One cup serving is fine.
A Sample Daily Meal Plan
Breakfast - Two eggs scrambled with your choice of veggies (broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, peppers, sundried tomatoes, basil) and small portion of meat or cheese.
Morning snack - small portion of almonds.
Lunch - Large green leafty salad with approved veggies and lean meat. Don't go crazy with the dressing.
Afternoon snack - Veggies and low calorie dip.
Dinner - Any lean grilled meat with a side of veggies.
Do I need to drink a protein shake?
You can drink a protein shake for any snack, or for breakfast. You can also have a protein shake before OR after your workout.
