Weight loss tips: Get fit before the festive season

24/10/2009
Weight loss tips: Get fit before the festive season



Want to sport a svelte figure for that New Year's Eve party you're going to? The bad news is that you have just a month left to shed those extra pounds and look your best. But don't worry, there's good news too. One month is enough time if you are determined and ready to go the extra mile to sport a healthy, lean and slim figure! Here, we offer you simple tips for a slimmer body in one month.



Eat smart:

Do not starve yourself or fall into the trap of varied fad diets that do more harm than good in the long run. Instead, eat a healthy and well balanced meal.

Include lots of fibres like vegetables, fruits and whole grains in your diet so that you feel full but eat less. If you are a non-vegetarian you can incorporate lean protein such as chicken in your diet.

Eat a healthy and well balanced meal at regular intervals. Do not skip meals.

Glycemic Index

Glycemic Index (GI) is an index of foods that show how they interact with your blood sugar level after being absorbed by your digestive system. The higher the GI, the faster they release calories into your blood and the more fattening they are. Foods like white bread, corn flakes have a high GI and should be avoided.

Keep a food diary

Studies show that people who record everything they eat are far more successful and consistent in their weight loss efforts than those that don't. Note down everything you eat and in what quantities.

Image credit: AP



Try a Detox Plan

Long revered by celebrities, a detox plan is a way of cleansing your system of all impurities and toxins. It usually includes consuming large quantities of raw food, water and avoiding caffeine, alcohol, salt and sugar. Many celebrities swear this helps them get rid of extra pounds and also rewards them with a glowing complexion. Most scientists deem detox to be fairly harmless but are vary of its effectiveness. It's best to consult a dietician before embarking on such a plan.

Water, water, water

Say no to alcohol and sugary drinks during the weight loss period and drink plenty of water. You can have it warm (like Shilpa Shetty), cold, with lemon, as herbal tea or in any shape and form you like. Just make sure you have lots of it.



Exercise:

Your weight loss program will be far more effective if it's backed by exercise. Work out at least four to five times a week for about 45 to 60 minutes a day. Cardiovascular exercises such as running, brisk walking or biking can help you burn calories, along with improving strength and flexibility.

Build muscle:

Many people (especially women) shy away from muscle building and concentrate only on cardio vascular exercises. Building muscles is important because they help increase your metabolism and burn fat. You don't have to bulk up, just tone up.

Engage in circuit training to exercise different parts of the body, or focus on one problem area.



Sleep well:

No matter what you do or how busy your schedule is, you must have at least six to seven hours of sleep for your body to function properly.

Keep your eye on the goal:

Stay focussed about your weight loss goal and you'll be able to achieve it. Of course it's important not to set an unrealistic goal for yourself because that will discourage you. Have fun and remember, it's as important to be healthy as it is to look good.

Source: India Syndicate