So, did you make a New Year’s Resolution this year? Most people do, but how many are still keeping them? Odds are not you’re not! Studies show that over 60% of people have long forgot about them after six months. I won’t list all the reasons why, you can probably think of them yourself. You’ve probably invented some clever ones on your own. The most popular New Year’s resolution year in and year out is getting fit, in other words losing weight. In January, gyms offer promotions and deals to those who want to take action on this resolution. However, according to Time Magazine, “60% of gym memberships go unused and attendance is usually back to normal by mid-February.” Many people also start following diets and there a lot to choose from. They all claim to be the best one. Let’s take a look at the top ones, in no particular order.
- The Atkins Diet – If you love meat, eggs, and cheese, this could be the diet for you. The Atkins diet basically eliminates all carbs. You goal is to get your body into a state of ketosis and keep it there. Once in a state of ketosis, you can slowly introduce small amounts of carbs back into your diet. This diet was all the rage 10 years ago but has lost some favor because of the high saturated fat content.
- South Beach – Similar to the Atkins Diet, but a more heart-friendly version. You have a two week induction phase with minimal carbs. Then you introduce good carbs back into the diet. There’s no counting calories, just maintain normal portions sizes. Snacking is encouraged.
- Body for Life – In this diet, you eat six times a day and limit your portion sizes. Each meal consists of one portion of lean protein, one complex carb, and one vegetable (preferably green). No counting calories here! Protein portion is the size of your palm and the complex carb portion is the size of your fist. There are many diet plans out there the mirror this diet.
- The Eat-Clean Diet – Like the Body for Life diet, you limit your portion sizes, eat 5-6 times a day, and stick to lean proteins and complex carbs. The difference here is that you eat no processed foods and stay away from preservatives and additives. They encourage all your foods to be organic and meats to be raised without antibiotics or steroids.
- The Caveman (Paleo) Diet – Also called the Paleolithic (or Paleo), Stone Age, and Warrior diets, this plan is based on eating plants and wild animals similar to what cavemen are presumed to have eaten around 10,000 years ago. Supporters suggest eating organic plant foods, wild-caught fish, and grass-fed meats because they’re closer to the nutritional quality of the foods of our ancestors. Why turn back the hands of time and eat that way? The premise is that our bodies are genetically programmed to eat like our Paleolithic ancestors.
So, which one is the best? In my opinion, it’s really up to you! They all work! Do some research and think about which one will be the easiest for you to stick to and best fits your lifestyle. The key is sticking to them! That’s the hardest part. Get a partner to do it with you. You are more likely to succeed if there is someone to hold you accountable. There’s success in numbers. Pre-plan your meals and cook ahead of time. Take a small cooler to work with you. Having prepared meals and healthy snacks at your disposal will keep you from going to the vending machine or eating from the dreaded food day at work., which in our office seems to be every other day. Most studies suggest that using an exercise and food journa, is the best way to ensure success. There are also a lot of great apps out there that will help you keep track of your caloric intake and calories burned. Whatever you choose, you must incorporate exercise and diet! Most dieticians and nutritionists will tell you calories in versus calories out is the most important component to losing weight. Join a gym, do P90x, or just get outside and move! Oh yeah, stick to your eating plan! Good luck! BEGIN, WORKOUT, PERSIST!
BEGIN – while others are making excuses.
WORKOUT – while others are wishing
PERSIST – while others are quitting
Chad Mislivec began working for Aureus Medical Group in February 2005. He is currently a Senior Account Manager in the Diagnostic Imaging division. Prior to coming to Aureus, he worked as a store director at a large grocery retail operation for 10 years. Chad graduated from the University of Nebraska-Omaha with a double major in Elementary Education and Special Education. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his daughter, golfing, exercising, and DIY projects around the house.
800-456-5857 ext. 2368 / cmislivec@aureusmedical.com