Nutrition – I am so confused!!

F

Fitnik

Cathlete
HELP!

I have been reading up on the various threads on nutrition and am overwhelmed. Different things work for different people and there are so many different plans out there. I start one then seem to read about a “better” one and then switch to that – and so it goes on. Arggghhhh! I just want to go down a dress size (i.e. lose some body fat – I am already happy with my muscle) but it’s driving me nuts reading all the conflicting info.

Low carb, high carb, low fat, high fat, low fibre, high fibre – blimey! What’s a girl to do or believe?

Can anyone give me simple guidelines to follow that are not too rigid and will give me motivating results as well as flexibility? I am a busy, stressed out corporate lawyer, work 10-12 hours a day and do not have time (or energy) to make lots of meals. I have to have breakfast at the office and sometimes on the run. Lunch has to often be grabbed as well!

I am now thinking of a Protein Saving Modified Fast plan like David Kirsch’s Ultimate New York Body Plan – any thoughts? It calls for a protein shake in the morning, lean protein and low-GI veggies for lunch and then either the same for supper or another shake. In between you snack on almonds (only 7!) or lean protein. This would actually fit in well with my lifestyle. I am not heavily into simple carbs and find lean protein much more satisfying anyway. Has anyone tried this plan yet? I ordered the DVD today and already have the book. I also ordered his protein powder (chocolate).

Any support from the educated crowd would help tremendously.

BTW, diet is key for me – I can exercise till the cows come home but for fat loss, nutrition is absolutely key.

TIA!
:D
 
The hardest thing is finding what works for your body and your lifestyle. If you want something simple, I'd suggest doing some type of moderation plan and try to cut out processed foods. Oops, I just read your last paragragh and it sounds like that is what the Ultimate NY Body Plan is.

For me, I follow BFL but it is kind of "strict" for some people. I like it because I don't have to weigh or measure or count calories and I get a free day once a week.

Colleen
 
I read an interesting article recently (I think it was in Prevention magazine) that stated that there is scientific evidence now that shows that different eating plans work best for different people, and that it is important to follow your tastes. It said that for someone who loves veggies and fruit and fish and doesn't care about meat and cheese (as examples), a low-fat diet will work best. For someone who can't live without meat and cheese, a low-carb eating plan is best. It said that the only way to be successful is to be sure to eat what you like. There are lots of good eating plans out there, but what's important is to choose one that matches your tastes and personality. I thought it sounded like fairly good advice.

-Nancy
 
I prefer a breakdown that is close to what the American Dietetics Association recommends:
55-65% of calories from unrefined carbohydrates
15-20% of calories from lean protein
20% of calories from healthy fats (primarily the fats in whole foods and not added fats like margarine, oils, etc.)
 
It is confusing,isn't it? I blame it on reading to much.Most people know all of the different diets that are out there,and don't research them.Us on the other hand, know the science behind each diet which makes it even harder.B/C we buy fitness magazines all the time.I think this is why I am so confused.
You had some good avdice and low carb would not be the way for me to go.I lost weight best when I counted cals and cut fat.And that is what I am going back to.I don't eat a lot of food but when I do pick, it will be at the cookies I just made or some chips in the cupboard.My meals are very organized and healthy but it is the picking that puts me over the top.
Today I am starting a food journal and writing everything in it.I am going to aim for 1200-1500 cals a day.
Good Luck,
Lori:)
 
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