I Exercise Like Crazy and Lose Nothing . . .

by Helen Hamlin, health coach

Sound familiar?

Naturally, there is nothing wrong with exercise. Everyone knows that exercise is imperative to obtain and maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress and fight disease. However, if you are using exercise alone to lose weight and not getting the results you want, there is a very simple explanation.

Did you realize that there are 3,500 calories in one single pound? If you eat just 100 additional calories per day (a candy bar, soda, bagel, etc.), some quick math will show you that you have accumulated an additional 36,500 calories in a one-year period. This could account for an additional five pounds a year!

If you use exercise alone to try to lose these extra pounds, you will be fighting a losing battle and not the kind of losing you want. To knock off just one pound, you would have to run 33.8 miles!

Many Americans have more than 30 pounds of extra fat on their bodies. Unless you are ready, willing or able to run 40 marathons, you will not lose this fat by exercise alone.

The basic truth is that you must expend more energy than the amount of calories you take in.

The goal is to eat five to six small meals per day and increase your exercise. These small, portion-controlled meals must consist of low-glycemic carbohydrates, healthy fats, and high-quality protein.

Once you begin these small changes, you will begin to see your weight and well being transform. Your body will begin to use the unhealthy fat around your middle to make up for the excess food you are no longer consuming! It will not be long before you no longer crave unhealthy foods and you will find that the smaller portions are quite satisfying!

I have a healthy eating program that is scientifically/medically designed to do just this. If you would like to know more, please contact me. In the meantime, be healthy and enjoy the wonderful fall weather ahead!

Helen Hamlin, health coach
404-803-8039
www.helenhamlin1@yahoo.com