Bowflex 003-3211-120108A manual Nutrition, Understand Caloric Balance, Eat a Variety of Foods

nutrition

Every good health and fitness program will also include a good nutrition component. Good nutrition is likely the most important factor in maintaining ideal body weight and managing weight loss. There are a variety of schools of thought regarding which nutrition program, diet or eating plan is best. While we do not promote or endorse any particular one, here are some things to consider that will help you get on the road to a healthy diet:

Understand Caloric Balance

How many calories you intake, and how many calories you burn off will determine whether you will gain or lose weight day to day. It is impossible to achieve weight loss without some sort of “caloric deficit” that can be obtained through cutting calories, or burning off more than you take in. The wisest approach is to do a little of both—cutting calories and exercising. It is the only proven long-term weight management program that is successful. You should ensure that you are consuming at least 1,200 calories per day total. A total weight loss of no more than two pounds per week is recommended for long-term weight management.

Eat a Variety of Foods

Regardless of your eating plan, you should be sure to include a variety of foods in your diet, maximizing your intake of fruits and vegetables whenever possible. Colorful meals and snacks that are divided amongst the four food groups will ensure that you obtain the nutrients needed for your body to function at optimal levels. Any diet that focuses on just one food group source or processed foods can be unhealthy in the long run, and should be avoided. Don’t focus too much on any particular meal or snack, but rather on your overall intake of a variety of different foods during any given day.

Drink Water

Our bodies are made up of over 70 percent water, and most of us don’t drink enough. Carry water with you everywhere you go, and drink as often as you can. This helps the body function at optimum levels, and can significantly help with weight management.

Eat More Often and Be Mindful of Your Portions

Research has shown that it can be helpful to eat smaller meals more often versus three larger meals a day. Many portions we eat are much larger than necessary, and can be laden with calories. So, try eating healthy snacks more often and reducing the amount of large meals you eat. Sharing your snacks or food with others

(or breaking your portions in half) can help you better manage your caloric intake.

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Owner’s Manual