If you know or have met me, you may have observed that my body frame is respectable for my height. I know how to change my body composition because I have succeeded several times for Figure competitions. When someone asks me how can I help them change their body composition, I always refer to my competition days where it took great discipline to change my body so I understand the journey. No matter where you are, it all starts in the mind by making the decision to change and sticking with a plan. Regardless of how little or how extreme you want that change to be, no one else can do that for you. Once a commitment has been made, that is where I step in to assist my clients.
In the past month, I have been experimenting with changes in my diet without the intention of changing my body. In my studies to be a Health Coach, I am learning about many different dietary theories. For example, you may have heard of the Zone Diet, the Atkins Diet, Macrobiotics, the South Beach Diet, the Raw Food Diet and so on. The main concept learned is that what works for one person may not work for the other based on factors such as genetics, stress level, physical fitness level, etc. I decided to try one of the diets called the 5 Element Theory which is based on a Chinese belief system that says we are surrounded by five energy fields: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. These elements are constantly moving and changing. Keeping all the elements in balance promotes harmony in our surroundings and in us. The foods encouraged include grains, tubers (such as a sweet potato), beans, vegetables and fruits. Foods restricted are meat, sugar, overly processed, chemical foods, deep fried foods, liquor, beer and wine.
I also watched the Oprah show about her One-Week Vegan Challenge. Since this was right in line with the 5 Element Theory, I was enthused to try. I put the two concepts together and did not consume any fish or fowl for the week and I already do not consume beef or pork. My daily meals followed this regimen; in addition I increased the intensity of my workouts but not the length or frequency. I increased my INTENSITY to use larger muscle groups more, moving quicker in heavy cardio based workouts with body weight strengthening moves.
As a result, my body started to shift and I wound up losing a couple of pounds in the past month and my lean muscle mass increased slightly. Why am I discussing this? You may not have considered taking meat out of your diet for a week, but can you do it for a day? There are so many other ways to get your protein with other healthy, whole, natural foods. I did not decide to become a Vegan or Vegetarian, but it was interesting to see that my body felt even better without the animal protein in it. What about your exercise? Is there a way to increase your intensity? My disclaimer is what works for me, may or may not work for you, however, it is worth a try to make a change. Be Well!
2 comments:
I've considered doing something like this (even recently). I just need to have my food choices all planned out so that I don't fall off the wagon. I always need to have a variety of choices, so as not to get bored w/ my food. What kinds of alternatives are there to have in place of animal protein?
Other forms of protein are beans, legumes, dairy, nuts, soy, grains such as quinoa and some vegetables when cooked such as asparagus and broccoli are high in protein, as well.
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