Getting fit for the new year- diet tips

We all know that one of the most common New Years resolutions is to get in shape. So, how do we go about this? To start, you must know the basics.

• For weight loss, calorie intake < calorie expenditure.
  
• Drink water or 1% milk instead of soda, Powerade, Gatorade, or other sugar-loaded beverages. Many people also do not know that sugar is converted to fat if it is not burned, as are all carbohydrates, so avoid foods loaded with sugar and high fructose corn syrup.
• and eat baked or grilled lean meats rather than fried. Buy leaner hamburg for burgers, or a better cut of meat with less fat on it. Fish is also very good for your system because it contains high amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids- substances shows to lower your risk for cardiac problems, as well as providing anti-aging and cancer fighting properties.
• DO NOT follow diet programs that restrict carbohydrates completely. This is very dangerous for your health. Think about carbs as the gas for your body. We almost entirely rely on carbohydrates for everyday function. Our brains especially rely on carbohydrates for proper function. It is true that without carbs our bodies will begin breaking down fat for energy, but what they don't tell you is that this can lead to a serious life threatening condition known as Ketoacidosis. This can lead to nausea, confusion, coma, and even death.
  

These tips will help you lower your calorie intake and make it easier to lose weight while still being able to eat the foods you like

Another bit of advice is that caffeine gears your body to burn more fat that carbohydrates, so a cup of coffee an hour or two before your workout will help you burn a few extra calories, as well as give you more energy for better results. Be careful however that you are not taking other stimulants combined with caffeine during workouts (such as ephedra) because this can be VERY dangerous and possibly fatal.

Make sure to drink a glass of water about 30 minutes before your workout, especially if you have caffeine in your system. Caffeine (along with alcohol) is a diuretic which means is causes your stomach to not absorb water. During your workout, don't take giant mouthfulls of water, no matter how appetizing it is at the time. This will lead to cramps. Instead, take frequent, small sips of water throughout your routine. Proper hydration is essential to getting a good workout!