Which Diet Will Actually Work For You?
You’re probably asking yourself, “Do I really need to change my diet to achieve my fitness goals?” The answer could likely be YES - if the foods you’re currently eating aren’t doing any real change in your body.
Maybe you’re not feeling your best. Your energy levels haven’t improved. You’re not seeing the number on the scale move - or your body fat percentage decreasing.
If you look around, you’ll find plenty of diets that claim to work. But the truth is, they work for some and not for others. The bottom line? Find what works for you.
To start choosing the right diet for you, ask these questions:
1. What diets have I already tried in the past?
This is an important question because it allows you to evaluate which diets you liked, disliked, or found easy or difficult to follow. It’s possible that a certain diet would have worked if you only had the patience to do meal prepping or followed the recommended guidelines.
2. Do I have the budget for the diet?
Let’s face it: Even though we can follow a specific diet on a TIGHT BUDGET (you’ll find lots of resources online if you do a quick search), some diets just cost more in general. The ketogenic diet, for example. Lucky you if you can find cheaper alternatives that you find delicious to meet your protein, fat, and carbohydrate requirements.
3. Can you do meal prep?
You need to be realistic about this part. Ask yourself if you are able and willing to do the work of preparing meals regularly (or in advance) and not get exhausted. Here’s a helpful tip: When doing meal prep as a beginner, don’t try to cover the ENTIRE WEEK. Start slow - as little as 2-3 meals.
4. Is it based on science?
This one’s very important. No matter how enticing a diet seems, at the end of the day, you’ll want something that BOOSTS YOUR HEALTH. Looking great but feeling sick is no accomplishment. Make sure to check for research studies on the diet you’re interested in. Don’t just rely on recommendations by celebrities. Look for scientific evidence.
5. Does it allow for flexibility?
When choosing a diet, you need to evaluate whether it suits your lifestyle. Sometimes you’ll need to travel, eat at restaurants, or enjoy cheat days. Will the diet offer you plenty of options?
6. Do you have a health condition that forbids following the diet?
Some diets are not allowed for certain medical conditions. For instance, the keto diet is contraindicated in people with pancreatitis and disorders of fat metabolism. You need to check with your doctor to make sure that the diet is safe for you. Also, consider your visit as an opportunity to check if you’re in good health!
7. Can you get the support and inspiration you need?
There will be times when you feel discouraged to continue with your efforts. During these times, it’s extremely important to get help from those around you. If none of your friends follow the diet, search for online communities or websites that offer solid advice. Social support helps you feel less stressed!
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, choose a diet that makes you happy, healthy, and keeps you on track with your pro cheer fitness. Don’t stress over celebrity endorsements and what other people say (out of hype). Focus on your own journey!
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