When starting on a new diet, it is important to know what to expect during the course of the program so that you do not have any surprises later on into the program. Remember that being prepared mentally and physically is vital if you want your program to be a success.
During the first few days of the Medifast 5 & 1 Plan, expect to achieve the fat-burning state within two to five days. During these days as your body adjusts, there is a tendency to feel tired, hungry and irritable. You may also experience headaches or a feeling of being lightheaded. This is a temporary state until such time that your body adjusts. You will start to feel energized within 72 hours and will feel less hungry. Moreover, you will start to burn fat and will start seeing results once this happens.
Below are some tips to help you during the first few days:
- Have an extra Medifast shake when you are feeling really hungry or tired. But stick to the program the following day.
- Do not be idle and keep yourself busy.
- Do not frequent places where you will be tempted to eat more than you should.
- Get some support and encouragement from your family, friends and even other Medifast clients. You can log in to MyMedifast.com and chat with other people who are in the program.
Follow the tips below to make your weight loss phase more effective:
- Eat consistently every two to three hours. It will keep you feeling full, help you lose weight and establish a healthy lifestyle habit.
- Eat according to the schedule and do not skip meals. Ensure that you eat all six meals each day. This will keep your body well nourished and your metabolism active.
- Eat slowly. Spend at least 15 minutes eating each meal.
- Drink at least 8 cups (64 oz total) of water each day. You can also drink any calorie-free beverages such as unsweetened hot or iced tea, herbal teas, coffee, diet sodas and sugar-free drink mixes.
- Control your caffeine intake to three servings (300 milligrams) per day. This includes coffee and caffeinated beverages.
- Avoid alcohol. Even one drink per day, including low-carb versions, can slow down your weight loss. This is because alcohol adds calories and increases your appetite.
- Track your progress by keeping a journal.
Below are some tips on exercising while on the Medifast 5 & 1 Program.
- If you do not have an exercise regimen prior to starting the Medifast 5 & 1 Plan, you should wait two to three weeks before you begin an exercise program. When starting out, it is important to choose an exercise that you enjoy and can commit to. Take it slow at first. Ten to fifteen minutes will be ideal. And gradually increase the time and intensity of your exercise.
- If you already have an exercise program prior to engaging in the Medifast diet, cut back on your workout routine by half during your first couple of weeks on Medifast diet. Allow your body to adjust to the lower calorie food intake. Decrease both the intensity and frequency of your exercise routine as well as the time you spend on it. Limit your vigorous activity to 45 minutes so you are not burning more calories than you are taking in.
- Always listen to your body and never push yourself past your limit. Stop immediately if you feel faint or lightheaded.
- Drink plenty of water especially if you are exercising outside in warm weather.
Related posts:
{ 1 trackback }