Post by Renee on Jul 31, 2006 1:23:19 GMT -5
I believe the Weight Watcher type weight management programs are the best. If you are like me, low-carb or any other programs that exclude certain food groups just don't work. The only problem with these commerical companies is that they cost so much or the meeting times are not compatible with your schedule. That's why a virtual meeting place is such a good idea ;D Throughout this website is information I have come up with or found online to help our weight loss journeys.
Healthy Guidelines
No matter which program you choose to follow, it's best to always follow these guidelines:
1. Eat at least 5 servings of vegetables and fruits each day.
2. Choose whole-gran foods, such as brown rice and oats, whenever possible.
3. Include 2 servings of milk products (low-fat or fat free) each day.
4. Have some healthy oil (olive, canola, sunflower, safflower or flaxseed) each day. This habit ensures that you get the essential fatty acids and vit. E that your body needs. Use the oil on salads, in cooking, or as an ingredient in a mixed dish.
5. Ensure that you are getting enough protein by choosing at least a serving or two of meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dried beans, or soy products each day. Many milk products are also good sources of protein.
6. Limit added sugar and alcohol.
7. Drink at least 6 glasses of water each day.
The difference in the programs
With the flexpoint program you are given a certain number of 'points' to eat each day. This is basically a simplified version of counting calories. If you don't have a point calculator, I highly suggest counting calories instead. It can be just too complicated to always figure out points! Low point recipes/foods are also good for those on a low calorie diet.
If you don't want to count anything, then a program like core, which limits certain foods is best. This type of eating is all about healthy grains,etc.
How many calories?
If you decide to count calories, it is essential to find the correct amount of calories to eat each day. drastically reducing calories can STALL weight loss. Experts suggest to lose weight in a healthy way, calculate your BMR and then subtract 500 calories per day. More information can be found here:
www.sparkpeople.com/resource/nm_articles.asp?id=385
Healthy Guidelines
No matter which program you choose to follow, it's best to always follow these guidelines:
1. Eat at least 5 servings of vegetables and fruits each day.
2. Choose whole-gran foods, such as brown rice and oats, whenever possible.
3. Include 2 servings of milk products (low-fat or fat free) each day.
4. Have some healthy oil (olive, canola, sunflower, safflower or flaxseed) each day. This habit ensures that you get the essential fatty acids and vit. E that your body needs. Use the oil on salads, in cooking, or as an ingredient in a mixed dish.
5. Ensure that you are getting enough protein by choosing at least a serving or two of meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dried beans, or soy products each day. Many milk products are also good sources of protein.
6. Limit added sugar and alcohol.
7. Drink at least 6 glasses of water each day.
The difference in the programs
With the flexpoint program you are given a certain number of 'points' to eat each day. This is basically a simplified version of counting calories. If you don't have a point calculator, I highly suggest counting calories instead. It can be just too complicated to always figure out points! Low point recipes/foods are also good for those on a low calorie diet.
If you don't want to count anything, then a program like core, which limits certain foods is best. This type of eating is all about healthy grains,etc.
How many calories?
If you decide to count calories, it is essential to find the correct amount of calories to eat each day. drastically reducing calories can STALL weight loss. Experts suggest to lose weight in a healthy way, calculate your BMR and then subtract 500 calories per day. More information can be found here:
www.sparkpeople.com/resource/nm_articles.asp?id=385