We know that a balanced diet and moderate physical activities are essential to keep in shape. We also know that if we follow the right diet 80% of the time, those 20% “off” will not change our results. But what if in addition to that, we could manage that this “fatty” portion of the diet turn in our favor?

It would be too good to be true…  Actually it is indeed too good to be true. People, do NOT stop working out and exercising on those days that you decide to go crazy.

If you have a party, a barbecue, a dinner or lunch that you already know you will not resist the temptation, and will eat a lot, make physical activity 5-8 hours before. Preferably, very intensely. Thus, the calories consumed will then be diverted to replenish the muscle wasting and recompose the glycogen stores in muscles and liver. Then, less fat will be accumulated!

And for those who cannot resist a candy everyday…

1- Try to control yourself and eat them only after the main meals. 

When we eat sweets with an empty stomach, blood sugar levels will increase rapidly, which would cause a peak. This oscillation is not healthy, and can be related to diabetes, obesity and other diseases. “The best time is after lunch, because the sugar is mixed with other ingested nutrients like fiber from salads, protein and fat from meat, preventing insulin level peaks in the blood”, advises the nutritionist Gabriella Guerrero.

2- Try to control yourself and eat them after workout.  Yes, many people would think, “But, I’ve just worked out and will I already eat a candy?”. Believe it or not, yes…

When we do physical activity, our body produces some “substances” (GLUT transporters) that have the same function as insulin. They take the glucose to the cells. Thus, less of them will go to the blood and it results in less weight and fat. Besides, after we finish the workout, your metabolism stays high for a few hours. Thus, sweets’ calories will not be so accumulated. The body can then process them more efficiently. They will be used to replenish what the body used to practice the physical activity.

But, be aware: no exaggeration, just a small portion per day will not hurt you and can still prevent you from suddenly attacking a box of chocolates.

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This article has only an informative purpose and has no intention to replace a professional guidance. The use of vitamins and supplements can offer you great results, but before using any product, we strongly recommend you to visit a Nutritionist, Doctor or another specialist for an analysis and follow-up.

Source (in Portuguese): Tips for Life, Saúde IG

Images: Google