A Good Menu Plan Promotes Sustainable Weight Loss

If you fail to include quality foods when you create your menus, it is unlikely you will lose weight in a healthy way making it much more likely you will regain the weight. Since we all have different goals for weight management, getting the right amount of protein, fat and carbs requires a personalized menu plan. Whether you want to lose weight or just feel healthier, consuming the right balance of macronutrients, instead of indiscriminately slashing calories, will lead to better results. If you develop a good menu plan for macro consumption, you will likely create a calorie deficit state that will promote healthy, sustainable weight loss.

• Not all fat has the same nutritional value, which is why it is important for you to prioritize your fat sources. As long as you select a healthy source of fat, you can add it to your menu plan without feeling guilty. Healthy fat is essential for absorption of key minerals and vitamins and your body needs fat to help your brain and nervous system function properly. Moreover, fat adds flavor to food and boosts the satiety of the meal.
• Carbohydrates are your body's most accessible source of energy. These macronutrients can be broken into glycogen and glucose to be used as fuel for bodily functions. When you choose the right carbs in the right portion sizes, they can help you lose weight by preventing stress eating by increasing levels of serotonin, the mood neurotransmitter.
• Protein deficiency can contribute to muscle wasting, joint discomfort, weight gain or weight loss resistance. As an essential macronutrient, protein helps build muscle as well as reduces the loss of muscle while you are losing weight. It is also the most satiating macronutrient as it helps your body stave off hunger and feel full longer.

Fixating on a number needed to maintain a calorie deficit can become stressful and lends itself to a self-defeating attitude if you fail to lose weight as expected. Managing the nutritional value of the food on your plate automatically puts you on the right track. If you discover you're not losing weight as you had intended, then scale back on the carbs and increase your healthy fat intake to eliminate feelings of constant hunger. For a personalized macronutrient menu plan, contact MRC to schedule your FREE weight loss consultation.