Have you ever heard a person say, “I don’t live to eat; I eat to live!” If you’ve ever struggled with losing weight, you’ve probably rolled your eyes in annoyance at that expression. Being overweight or obese doesn’t necessarily mean you live to eat; it just means that you enjoy eating like everyone else, except you may have made some poor food choices along the way.
When you’ve decided to alter your diet and nutritional habits for the sake of weight loss, you’ll find that you eventually start choosing foods that help you maintain lasting energy, especially if you’re exercising regularly. Fruits and vegetables are some of the best food choices because they contain a number of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that truly drive our overall health and wellness.
For example, if your car needs fuel, do you fill the tank with gas or water? Obviously you’ll choose gas, because the water will do nothing to provide your car with lasting energy. The same concept applies to our bodies. If we need fuel, the best foods to eat are healthy, whole foods, and not junk foods such as chips and cookies.
Tips on eating for lasting energy
- Choose foods that will energize — not stimulate. Eating a donut may result in an enjoyable 60 seconds, but eating a banana will have better lasting health benefits.
- Eat smaller portions when you’re inactive, and larger portions when you’re active. Is today your “off” day from working out? Go light on the portions since you probably won’t be moving around as much.
- Stop eating when you feel satisfied — not stuffed. Keep in mind that it takes about 20 minutes for your brain to signal to your stomach that you’re full.
