... Get Set...

Alright, it's the night before the 30 Day Shred Challenge.  Mr. B and I are all geared up and ready to GO!  Some asked a good question today about a what to eat during the challenge and that's a GREAT question!  I'm planning on a 1,600-1,800 calorie diet.  Since I'm no longer nursing Baby K. I don't need the extra 200-500 calories a day.  In fact, the best way to loose weight consistently is slow and steady.  Crash dieting is the worse thing you could do to your body.  When I took my body weight management class last semester, our coach told us to guarantee at least 1lbs of weight loss a week, you just need to drop/cut out 3,500 calories out of your diet.  Divide that by 7 days a week and you should eliminate 700 calories a day.  For me that will be cut out of my food consumption.

***NOTE***

I am not a dietitian or health expert by any stretch or means.  I'm doing what works for and is healthy for my body.  You need to do the same for yours.  EVERYONE is DIFFERENT!  My required calorie intake may be very different than what yours needs to be.  

Other helpful tips for a healthy you:

• drink LOTS of water - you should drink an ounce to half ounce of water for every pound you weigh! And yes, you will pee like a race horse, but feel amazing at the same time.  Proper hydration is essential for healthy skin and stamina.  I have found repeatedly (for me) that I can last longer in a workout when I'm properly hydrated. 
• cut the fat aka = fast foods
• trade in your Cocoa-Cola for a tall glass of water, lemon aid or some other non soda beverage.
• eat small consistent meals through the day. This will help in boost you metabolism (snack wisely -grapes, orange wedges, bananas, raisins, baby carrots etc.)

Those are a few things that have helped me get back into shape - controlling food intake and steady/consistent exercise.  If you have any good hints or advice, please feel free to share or e-mail me at meoffguard@gmail.com.