For a balanced diet, working out alone is not enough to get your dream body. In fact, research shows that getting in shape requires 50% exercise, and 50% healthy balanced diet. While some hit the gym to lose weight, it is also an important factor to a healthy weight gain. Instead of resulting to food, building muscle is your path to a healthy body.
Nutritionists’ advice for a healthy balanced diet is based on providing the right amount of energy, and lower the risk of getting sick. Here is a recap of they say:
How Many Calories Per Day?
Men and women have different metabolisms and body needs. The British Nutrition foundation suggests that men should consume 2500 calories per day. As for women, the healthy calories intake should be around 2000 calories, although in both cases it depends on how active a person is.
Obviously, this requires a basic understanding of nutritional values of the foods we eat.
What should Your Diet consist of?
Nutritionists’ advice for a balanced diet consists of several things. First, having a balanced breakfast is crucial to help kickstart metabolism, and improve cognitive function. In addition, you should include foods that contain proteins, iron and vitamins in your daily diet.
Your grocery list should vary from foods that have proteins, whole grains, less sugar and salt, dairy, veggies and water of course.
Mix It Up a Little
Furthermore, being creative is key to loving what you eat, and sticking to it. Mix it up a little, and spoil yourself. a side of veggies, with some chicken or salmon could make up a delicious healthy meal. Also dedicate at least two days of the week for some lentils as they are very high on iron.
The Gym Is Still A Key Player
Having a healthy balanced diet will have tremendous effects on your health, and you will definitely notice change. However, as we said in the beginning, hitting the gym is still crucial. It will help convert fat into muscle, and burn the extra calories you will definitely gain on your cheat day.
Photos: Pixabay, The British Nutrition Foundation.