Our bodies need a balance of food of all types and fad diets create deficiencies which the body fights by giving us cravings or by slowing down the burn rate (It will preferentially burn sugars and carbs rather than fat which it tries to hoard for future use). Therefore, its not about eating less but more about eating healthy.
- In terms of calories sugar burns the fastest (providing an almost immediate boost) followed by carbohydrates and then fats burn the slowest. Therefore a lower fat diet is generally recommended but a no fat diet is not. Also we needn't feel guilty about a little carb or sugar indulgence especially around the time we are exercising.
- Good fats are in dried nuts (almonds and walnuts are the best in these), Avocado, Natural cheese (not processed cheese) and olive oil etc.For Indian people, I would recommend you stop ghee and butter altogether, avoid fried foods (buhijaya, namkeens, mithais etc) and also switch to toned or double toned milk if you can.
- Also try to give up processed and junk foods (So McDonalds, Pizza and Wafers, Chips and cream based biscuits and confectioneries etc. are a big NO)in favor of fresh foods (Salads, Fruits, Roti, Dal and Subji etc) .
- Decrease the level of caffeine and alcohol intake which are diuretic and cause loss of body fluids. Though there is research that links caffeine with better athletic performance the linkage is with caffeine capsules and not necessarily you daily cuppa.
- Staying better hydrated will allow you to be more energetic and go through with your exercise regimen so make sure you drink lots of water and fresh juice (without added sugar) throughout your day.
- Remember to keep isotonic drinks handy while you exercise to make good the loss of essential salts through perspiration. While choosing an isotonic drink pick one which does not have a too high sugar content. Fresh Tender Coconut water is a good natural isotonic drink (though you should avoid the meat of the coconut because of its much higher calorie content.)
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