What method should I use? - Diet & Nutrition Message Board

JVOBIKER · 12-15-2002, 11:03 AM

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

Chelle1977 · 12-16-2002, 07:35 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.

JVOBIKER · 12-16-2002, 02:55 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.