When you’re dieting it may seem as though nutrition information is overwhelming you. In Las Vegas, there’s a supplement store on average every few blocks. Advertisements scream out ‘more fiber!’ or ‘you need protein!’ when checking out at the grocery store. Even your doctors may give conflicting advice. The truth is: nutrition is complicated. A local Las Vegas nutrition expert who knows how to navigate the ins and outs of women’s needs is the only person you should be listening to. Throw the magazines aside and check out our helpful tips below!
1. Eat Around the Grocery Store
Losing weight is about calories in, calories out… But what those calories are comprised of matters just as much as how many of them you’re consuming. Whole grains, veggies, and fruits contain a higher concentration of nutrients than processed foods. Because of this, you want to get your nutrition needs in with as much local Las Vegas produce as possible. An easy way to do this is shop on the outside perimeter of the grocery store. Items on the interior aisles tend to be heavily processed, which removes vitamins and minerals. Going for primarily produce, meat, and dairy is a good way to keep both calories down and nutrients high.
2. Eating Iron Is as Important as Pumping It
One of the most overlooked nutrients for women is iron. Iron isn’t difficult to come by through a healthy diet, but many women avoid some of the best sources for personal or health reasons. On average, ladies need twice as much iron in their diet as men because of the blood lost during menstruation. Iron is key in preventing anemia, which causes lethargy, irritability, and difficulty exercising. It’s hard to pump iron during your workout without having enough iron, so try to get it at the source! Red meats have a high percentage of iron, as well as leafy green vegetables. Many healthy meal replacements also focus on iron, making them an excellent choice on the go!
3. Eat for How You Feel
‘Intuitive eating’ has made a splash in diet magazines recently. This is where you listen to your bodies’ needs and only eat what it tells you to do so. While the thought is correct, the process usually promoted is flawed. Proper nutrition is important on a diet; without the correct balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats you’ll be left irritable and bloated. Because of this, our Las Vegas nutrition experts don’t recommend fully cutting any single food out. If your body is telling you some bread is in order, you could be slacking on your carbohydrates for the week. Chow down on a healthy option such as whole-grain toast rather than reaching for a carb-filled muffin.
4. Calcium Comes from More Than Cows
We’ve all seen the commercials touting milk as a good snack choice for children because of the high calcium content. It’s a well-known fact that calcium builds strong bones, so why do so many women avoid it? The common source for calcium, dairy products, are often high in calories. Women on diets may avoid them because of this, but this can be detrimental in the long run. Calcium helps your bones stay strong as you age, making it a key nutrient for Las Vegas residents over the age of puberty. If you want to avoid dairy, make sure to incorporate other healthy calcium sources such as tofu, squash, and leafy greens. Your nutrition expert can even help in tailoring a prescription diet plan which will make sure you’re reaching your diet goals! For more nutrition and health tips contact Advance Medical Weight Loss & Wellness Center.