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By Registered Dietitian
on September 26, 2008
Years of misjudging your intake by just a few calories at a time will end up sabotaging your weight. For example, if you gain the average amount of one pound per year, this means you’re off by only 10 calories a day. More...
By Registered Dietitian
on September 16, 2008
Controlling your weight comes down to one thing - managing calories. More...
By dotFIT experts
on October 07, 2008
Dieting to lose weight is difficult at best, and generally ends in frustration for the average person. The majority of people gain most of the weight back within the first year. However, there are three strategies that have consistently proven to be effective in losing weight and maintaining the loss. More...
By dotFIT experts
on October 06, 2008
What's the connection, if any, between oral contraceptives and weight gain? This article will clarify what research shows. More...
By doFIT experts
on October 06, 2008
Is losing weight after menopause harder than it would be before menopause? The purpose of this article is to explore these questions and discuss the key times in a woman’s life when weight gain seems inevitable. More...
By dotFIT experts
on September 30, 2008
Recent science has demonstrated that certain blends of natural herbs combined with other safe compounds have the ability to enhance weight loss results. Proper use can significantly reduce the time and work normally required to accomplish these goals. More...

Does the female cycle affect weight loss?

Does the female cycle affect weight loss?


Answer:  It can if you end up eating more and burning fewer calories. Premenstrual symptoms such as fatigue, increased cravings and appetite can affect your calorie burn and intake. If you have days when your energy level is low – make extra effort to fit in activity so you meet your daily step or calorie burn target. If possible, plan a walk or workout with your spouse or a friend who will encourage you. Playing your favorite tunes might also help you get moving. Remember, exercise releases endorphins - those “feel good” hormones which counteract any emotional tension you may have. If you do move less, compensate by reducing your intake.

To battle cravings, increase your intake of protein and fiber. These foods can help you feel full longer.  Also, be sure to meet your nutrient needs with a daily multivitamin. If you’re not eating calcium rich foods (e.g., milk, fortified OJ) at least twice a day, take a Calcium and Vitamin D supplement. (There is a relationship between inadequate calcium and premenstrual symptoms.)  At meal times, fill your plate with extra vegetables and select whole grains when possible (oatmeal, brown rice, whole wheat bread). Add extra protein from lean meats, beans or soy products to sandwiches, salads and other meals and cut back on side dishes and beverages with calories. Consider these snack suggestions which are rich in protein or fiber:

• An apple and a handful of nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
• Whole wheat crackers and cheese
• Boiled egg(s)
• Sliced turkey and cheese
• Mini whole wheat bagel with peanut butter
• Yogurt mixed with high fiber cereal (e.g., Fiber One)

Sometimes it helps to satisfy those cravings.  A small portion or a few bites is often enough to do the trick. Healthy and satisfying deserts include mixed fruit topped with light whipped cream, low or fat-free pudding and various dotFIT meal replacement bars that are portion controlled and have a balanced amount of protein, carbs and fats. If you do eat more, you can stay on track with your weight loss goal by making up for it with more activity or by eating fewer calories later on.

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