Shaping up for summer

May 3 2008 by Hannah Davies, The Journal

RUMOUR has it that summer is on the way, but for anyone who is overweight, summer can be a nightmarish few months of hiding excess pounds under baggy clothes. If you feel less than ready for the beach, maybe it’s time to take control of your diet.

There is no shortage of advice available on weight loss and dieting. The facts are, however, that most people put weight back on very quickly once they stop.

Most weight loss diets fail because it is hard to stay enthusiastic when we are bored and hungry. The only way to lose weight and keep it off is to change your diet for the long term.

The answer is really quite simple. It’s eating foods that keep your blood sugar in balance. This may sound scary but, rest assured, it isn’t, there is still a wide choice of foods available. The benefit of this approach is you can be sure you will be improving your health at the same time.

Why are blood sugar levels so important to successful weight loss? Well because failure to keep your blood sugar levels in balance leads your body to store more fat. This doesn’t just involve what you eat but also what you drink. Stimulants such as coffee can play havoc with blood sugar levels. Does this scenario sound familiar? You’re running late so you pick up a large latte and a muffin on the way to work. Around about eleven, you’re feeling peckish so you have a coffee and a biscuit or two. For lunch, it’s a sandwich made with white bread and a diet coke. Around about three, you’re feeling tired, so it’s a large coffee. All day long your blood sugar levels are rising and falling. If you are keen to make a start, here are a few of my tips.

Avoid shopping for food when you’re hungry.

If you’re feeling ‘peckish’, drink a glass of water and wait for five minutes. You may not feel as hungry.

Try to eat breakfast – skipping this important meal rarely pays off.

Serve smaller portions of your favourite foods.

Don’t strive to achieve your teenage weight! The body is still developing during the teenage years.

Beware of ‘Fat Free’ foods which may be loaded with sugar.

Weigh yourself just once each week, first thing in the morning.

For more information or help with your weight loss goal, contact Katherine Neal (0191) 215-9292, www.nutritionalknowhow.com