Hidden Calories You Didn't Know Existed
Let's start by saying that all the food information given to us in school thirty years ago was probably due to manufacturers who had products to sell us and little to do with what was really good for the body. Unfortunately there is still some truth in that idea today, so what you think is good food may not be so great after all. If you find yourself eating to satisfy hunger, you can bet you have hidden calories turning into fat. Correct that problem and you still may have hidden calories.
If you are in the habit of eating six small meals a day, your hidden calorie count may be less than most. Often it is the little snacks or extra portions that seem innocent that may be the culprit to your hidden calories. Hidden calorie sources could be unplanned snacks, supplemental shakes, food bars, extra helpings, large portions and liquid calories. Many people think of solid food as calories and forget the beer, wine, coffee, tea, fruit juice, and milk also have calories. What about the mayonnaise on your tuna? Do you consider the calories in ketchup, jelly, spreads and spices?
Certain foods have high glycemic calories which causes your body to absorb sugar rapidly. Your insulin spikes up to convert sugar to fat. Carrots, potatoes, bananas, pineapples, prunes, apricots and fruit juices are examples of high glycemic foods. Engineered food such as corn and air popped popcorn is also high in glycemic calories.
The best way to know what calories you are consuming is to keep a food diary. Most people hate this idea, but the only true way to know what is going into your body is to keep track. It takes extra effort to be aware of everything that you consume. It is important to write down everything you eat, what time of day you eat it and how much you eat of each food or drink product.
Your food diary results will probably shock you at first. You may be surprised with the quantity of food you eat or the food you pop into your mouth unconsciously, but whatever you discover will be the key to your regaining your power over food.
Studies have shown that eating a small meal every three hours is the best for your digestive systems. If you are eating because you are hungry instead of on a schedule, that could be part of your problem. Make a decision to eat only every three hours. Do this for only six days and you will find after three days your body is already adapting. When you feel hungry between the three hour time slots, you can drink a glass of water or green tea to tide you over.
If you are adding a protein shake or protein bar to your food consumption after a workout, you could be adding a seventh meal to your day. Go back to the six meals every three hours and stick to your plan to regain your power over food and the body you deserve.
