Attention First-Time Dieters... How to Easily Lose 10 lb a Month. If you can follow these easy steps you can…Lose 10lb in just one month! http://lose10lbamonth.com/trial_period.htm

by Cathy Qazalbash (c)

Something Every Dieter Should Know

One of the keystones to a successful weight loss program is the concept of healthy eating. In order to do this you should be aware of what the various food groups are. The food pyramid explains just how these foods should be used. Do not think of this as a hard and fast rule but merely as a guide to sensible eating.

The stores provide a wide variety of natural and processed foods. In an effort to make food selection easier for the consumer the US Department of Agriculture has created the food pyramid. It is an illustration that displays the different food groups and the quantity the average person needs in the shape of a pyramid.

The high energy foods (carbohydrates) are at the base of the food pyramid. Examples of these foods include high starch and low fat items such as grains, cereals. This would include pasta, bread and rice. The food pyramid indicates that the average person will need 6-11 servings per day. Of all the foods in this group whole grains are the healthiest and best for you. An example of a single serving of one of these foods would be 1 slice of bread, 1oz of rice or pasta, 1tortilla, 1 cup of cereal flakes.

The next level will be vegetables and fruits, less of these, as compared to the carbohydrates, are required by the average person. An average adult will need 3-5 servings of vegetables and 2-4 servings of fruit per day. Their high fiber content will help your digestive system work well and make you feel fuller so that you will eat less and burn more calories. As well as this these foods are rich in vitamins and minerals which are essential for the body to function. Fresh fruits are best and dark green vegetables more nutritious than other vegetables.   

The next level on the food pyramid is dairy and proteins. 2-3 daily servings of these foods are recommended. Examples of protein are; eggs, lean meat, beans/lentils, nuts and fish. Removing fat from meat is advisable. Eat nuts in moderation as they do contain fats. With dairy products milk is considered to be the main item. However cheese and especially yogurt are also good for you. be careful of ice cream and full fat cheese as these items are high in fats and calories.

At the very top of the pyramid are the fats, oils and sweets. You should eat certain fats at least once per day but should be careful to eat moderately. These foods are not very digestible but some oils and fats are very necessary for the body and you will need them in small amounts. So remember to eat a proper balanced diet and couple it with an exercise régime, to lose weight the natural healthy way.

For more information on keeping fit over 40 see keeping fit over 40

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to write to me at cathy@advertise-your-business.com