JVOBIKER
12-15-2002, 02:03 PM
I am 17 years old, 5'7", and 140 pounds. I want to lose around 5-10 pounds because I am working on my six-pack. I do 220 situps a day but nothing really shows because I have a layer of fat on my stomach. I am pretty active....I usually skateboard every day for an hour and when I can't, I run about 3.5 miles at a speed of 7mph. My problem is that I can't control my cravings for food. I really just want to lose these 5-10 pounds and I have heard about the Atkins diet. Should I do that? I also posted this on the weight loss board and I was told to eat more meals throughout the day. (I normally only eat dinner and cereal right afterwards). I was told to eat around six meals a day but I don't know what kind of food I should eat. So basically, should I go on the Atkins diet for a short period of time or just eat healthier food and learn better eating habits? Any advice would be great. Thanks
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Chelle1977
12-16-2002, 10:35 AM
No, you should not use the Atkins diet.
The advice to eat six small meals a day is good, though may be hard for you to follow while in school.
As for types of food you should eat - you should eat a variety of food. Try following the food pyramid which suggests 6-11 servings of grains (try to make as many of these servings whole grains as possible), 3-4 servings of vegetables, 2-3 servings of fruit, 1-2 servings protein, 1-2 servings dairy and minimal amounts of fat and oil.
You may want to ask about "cutting programs" on the exercise and fitness board. I think you'll hear the suggestion to minimize carbs, but you can do this by avoiding high-sugar foods like snack cakes, many breakfast cereals and soda. Also, you might want to cut back on drinks like Gatorade and fruit juices.
The advice to eat six small meals a day is good, though may be hard for you to follow while in school.
As for types of food you should eat - you should eat a variety of food. Try following the food pyramid which suggests 6-11 servings of grains (try to make as many of these servings whole grains as possible), 3-4 servings of vegetables, 2-3 servings of fruit, 1-2 servings protein, 1-2 servings dairy and minimal amounts of fat and oil.
You may want to ask about "cutting programs" on the exercise and fitness board. I think you'll hear the suggestion to minimize carbs, but you can do this by avoiding high-sugar foods like snack cakes, many breakfast cereals and soda. Also, you might want to cut back on drinks like Gatorade and fruit juices.
JVOBIKER
12-16-2002, 05:55 PM
Thanks for the advice. What would you suggest I eat for each meal though? My mother makes a plate of fruit for me every day but what should I eat for breakfast, midmorning snack, lunch and dinner? I know this is getting specific but I am really at a loss for what I should eat.