Bikini season is right around the corner and who doesn’t want the magic formula for creating the perfect beach body? NBA Orlando Magic team dietitian and well-known Diet Diva Tara Gidus teaches us some of her real magic tricks that keep the likes of superstar Dwight Howard in check.
"It doesn't have to be difficult," Gidus says. Make sure to have the following superstar foods on your grocery list:
• Nuts
• Whole Grains
• High Omega-3 Fish (think: Salmon)
• Fruits
• Veggies
“Before a workout, I focus primarily on carbs: a piece of fruit, yogurt, a nutrition bar, half of a sandwich, or a handful of nuts," says Gidus. Try to keep it down to 100-200 calories per snack before a workout. Post-workout, focus on getting protein to replenish and repair the muscles. Omega-3 fatty fish, vegetables, peanut butter, nuts, and avocado are all great options for post workout snacks.
“Try to eat from 30 minutes to an hour before a workout so you’re not running on an empty tank,” suggests Gidus. After your workout try to eat within an hour of finishing up because your body can continue to burn calories up to two hours post workout. However, that doesn’t mean you can scarf down a burger on the drive home from the gym. Keep the meal light, especially if your workout is in the evening hours. Protein shakes or a piece of fruit are enough to fight off hunger pangs but avoid contradicting your workout.
“Don’t be too hard on yourself, enjoy the good things in life but everything in good portion and frequency.” says Gidus.
Turns out good nutrition requires no magic tricks. It is a lifestyle not a temporary fix. 80% of any weight loss program is focused on good nutrition. You are what you eat.
There are a variety of points of view on nutrition, and EndlessBeauty.com strives to showcase them all. Learn more about The Diet Diva Tara Gidus by visiting her website, www.dietdiva.net or follow her on Twitter @DietDivaTara.
Shelika Baez is a freelance writer.
