Weight Loss Wonders: Hints to Keep New Years Resolutions

By: Dr Michelle Honda Ph.D.

Enthusiastically, we embark on a new year filled with grandiose ideas of throwing out the old and bringing in the new. Many times dietary efforts are hampered by unrealistic expectations. Typically, changing all bad habits overnight is overwhelming, leaving one frustrated and discouraged. Moderation is the key.

TAKE A FEW SIMPLE FIRST STEPS

Generally, the majority of people would love to shed a few pounds, eat healthier and increase their energy. When modifying the diet, start with one or two changes. If sugar is the culprit, substitute with diabetic sweets for healthier choices and reduce intake to lower cravings. Replace pop with quality juices and water. Fill up nutritional holes with nutrients found in raw and whole foods. When times does not allow for a balanced diet, supplementation may be necessary to prevent deficiencies.

Our bodies have receptors that either signal to burn fat or store it. When people go all day without eating until dinner time, the body gets the message, we’re in for a long winter and stores most of what you’ve just eaten. Here in lies the problem with fad or very restrictive caloric intake diets.

THE SECRET TO LIMITING FAT ABSORPTION

Various dietary substances have a positive reaction on foods containing fat or sugar, limiting the absorption of such nutrients. Lecithin, a soy product available in main grocery and health food stores, is routinely used by the food industry to keep products like chocolate soft. Fresh lecithin shows particular benefit when accompanying a meal containing fat, aiding digestion while restricting lipid absorption back into the body. It also promotes supple arteries.

WHY IS FIBER IMPORTANT TO WEIGHT LOSS?

Fiber found in whole foods such as ground flax seeds has the same action upon the system. Being a whole food, nuts, seeds and sprouts nourish our glands increasing energy. Studies show that when bile acids are retained by fibre the body absorbs less cholesterol. In addition, case studies show that a patient’s blood sugar is not as high following a meal of high fibre as compared to a meal of processed low fibre food.

KEY SUPPLEMENTS TO SHED THOSE POUNDS

Chromium is a trace mineral used by the body for blood sugar metabolism, while activating enzymes that metabolize fats. Chromium picolinate, a better absorbed form has shown to lower cholesterol and help athletes develop muscle.

Supplementing with whey powder curbs the appetite, builds muscle and contains one of our youth elements “organic sodium” not to be confused with table salt which leaches the beneficial sodium from our bodies. Pomegranate juice helps break down cellulite and may be added to whey powder.

Perhaps most importantly, turn off the TV and start exercising. Physical activity will melt away the calories.

To learn more about ways to improve your health and wellness from Dr Michelle Honda or to learn more about Acai Nutritional Special Blend Beverage, visit http://www.michellehonda.com Dr. Michelle Honda is Holistic Doctor (natural and preventative medicine) in private practice at Renew You Holistic Health in Ancaster - Hamilton Ontario Canada. She holds a Ph.D. D.Sc. in holistic health sciences, holds an advanced nutrition degree (RNCP), is a Master Herbalist and an IIPA Certified Iridologist. In her private practice, she is available via telephone for health  consultations. For more details visit http://www.renewyou.ca or call the clinic at 1-905-304-0111. Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved. Reprints are acceptable ONLY if the entire article remains intact, including the author resource box!