Getting Started on Your Diet

TMI (Too Much Information)

It doesn't take much time on the internet to discover the plethora of advice available today when it comes to weight loss, fat loss, and diet information. A cursory glance can leave even a person dizzy with data. In some ways, it's a good thing since a motivated person can gather a lot of valuable information very quickly. Conversely, there is a lot of misinformation and inaccurate information that can ultimately be detrimental to someone's health. Not to mention the fact that information overload can be very confusing.

So many women today are masters at juggling work, family, errands, cleaning and cooking, and in some cases school or extra courses are in the mix for good measure. Managing your own weight properly and in a healthy fashion can be a major challenge for you, especially since grabbing something to eat while dashing out the door, or stopping at a fast-food outlet while on the run are easy ways to get some calories.

Where Do I Start?

The good news is that with a little planning, you can manage your diet effectively. You can ensure you are eating well and can save some money at the same time. Here's how. Find out which food plan works best for your body type (yes, you'll have to do some research). Learn how many calories your own body requires and what ratios of protein, carbohydrates and fats will give you the best mix. You need this information in order to manipulate your body's fat-burning process and guesswork won't cut it.

Begin the process by weighing and measuring yourself (or have someone else measure you) and record the numbers. Record everything you eat and drink for at least a week to get an idea of where your calories are coming from. You may be surprised when you see what you're eating - or not eating - and with this information you can make healthy changes that will benefit you.

The First Month

When you find the diet that seems right for yourself, stick with it for at least three weeks without making any changes at all. Even small changes to the diet can sabotage your efforts, so adhere to the regimen closely for the first three weeks. After three weeks you should experience some weight loss. If you have been honest with yourself and haven't deviated, yet you have not lost weight, then it's important to make a change. You will know within a month whether you're on track.

Utilizing these easy steps can get you started quickly on your path to better health.