Eating Unhealthy Before Workout?

How much energy (weight) do carbohydrates really add?

Yesterday we talked about the importance of knowing the #energy intake rather than just saying a particular food class e.g carbohydrates is the cause of weight gain. Now let’s look at the amount of energy equal weights of food give us. Did you know that 1gm of carbohydrates gives us just 16 kj of energy, while 1g of protein gives 17kj?

Wait for it, 1gm of fat gives 37kj of energy! This is twice that for carbohydrates and proteins. So you can now see that it is actually fats that is a major contributor to weight gain and as mentioned it is particularly saturated fats that are to blame like butter, full fat milk, bacon, chicken skin. Do you eat your chicken skin or peel it off?

What if I eat unhealthy and then burn it off through exercise?

Some people believe that they can eat whatever they like and then #exercise and burn it off. This is actually easier said than done, the problem is to burn off your regular unhealthy diet you have to do lots and lots of exercise EVERY DAY, I repeat every day. Even the most determined people will find it t hard to be consistent with this level of activity. Don’t forget that these foods add unhealthy nutrients like saturated fats and sugars. These have other negative effects on your health. Is it worth it? I’ll let you be the judge.

Can we avoid Exercise?

A weight loss or control program will not be complete without mentioning exercise. This is one aspect a lot of people find difficult to do. Again there are certain conditions exercise may not be so easy so it is advisable to ask a doctor’s advice the type of exercise that is suitable for you. Generally an adult should aim to exercise or undergo moderate physical activity for 30 to 60 minutes in a day or vigorous physical activity for 15 to 30 minutes daily. If you really want to lose weight go for the higher end of the spectrum.

Do you do any exercises? For how long? Is it moderate or vigorous? What is your aim?

What exactly do these terms mean? When we say moderate physical activity, it means any activity that doesn’t wear you out, something you can do and still have energy to do other things afterwards. Examples of moderate activities are light swimming, light cycling and brisk walking. Vigorous activity on the other hand leave you exhausted, your heart pounds, you are soaked with sweat e.gs of these are running and playing football. Which of these do you prefer? Remember to ask your doctor if such activity is suitable for you.

Hope you’ve been able to learn something new about diet and weight loss. Join me tomorrow for another topic.  Stay healthy!