Being in shape and maintaining a healthy diet come hand-in-hand. However, it is easy to remember to fit in exercise in your daily routine, but keeping a healthy and balanced diet can prove to be a challenge. But did you know that no amount of exercise can completely offset the effects of unhealthy eating? Yes, you read that right, you cannot outrun a bad diet. In this blog post, we will dive into why this is the case and what you can do about it.
The Reality of Caloric Intake
The truth is that it can take an hour of intense cardio to burn off the calories from just one big mac, while that big mac itself only took you a few minutes to eat. People often overestimate the impact of workouts on their overall physical health. Physical activity is important, but if you are not consuming the right type of calories, it is like trying to fill a leaky bucket with water, it just does not work.
The Role of Macros
Understanding your macros, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats is key. Carbs are essential but can also be harmful, whether coming from sugar or other sources. You want complex carbs from such as whole grains to be your primary source of energy. Protein helps build and repair muscle, after a workout, your body needs the right amount of protein to recover adequately. Fats have many key functions in your body, including hormones production and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. The type of fat you consume plays a crucial role in this process, focus on polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. In summary, the right balance of macros is essential to maintain a healthy diet and improve your overall physical health.
The Importance of Portion Control
Understanding portion control is important to avoid overeating unhealthy foods. Unhealthy foods are often high in calories, fat, and sugar, which makes it easy to consume more than you need. One easy trick to control your portion sizes is to use smaller plates, you can enjoy the same amount of food in a smaller plate which tricks your brain into thinking you are eating more than you actually are.
The Power of Meal Prep
Life is busy, and it is often easier to grab something on the go or order takeout. By meal prepping, you have control over what goes into your food and how much of it, thus keeping you on track with your nutritional goals. Meal Prep can be as simple or as elaborate as you like, it is all about finding what works for you. By setting aside time for meal prep, you set yourself up for success, thus paving the way to a healthy and balanced diet.
Making Small Changes for Big Results
Lastly, achieving a healthy diet is not about drastic changes but rather small adjustments done consistently over time. Start by adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet, tracking your macros to ensure a balanced diet, control your portions, and find a meal prep routine that suits your lifestyle. Remember, being healthy is not a sprint; it is a marathon, implement the changes gradually, and you will reap the rewards.