Photo courtesy of Or Hiltch

I read an interesting article today entitled, Science Behind “The Biggest Loser” Diet, which was very enlightening. Over the next week or so, I’m going to write about some of the topics it covers—which are several.

At a recent conference, the author Rebecca Scritchfield, learned from the “Biggest Loser” registered dietitian and physician, more about the show’s contestant’s medical and dietary deficiencies.

Before being accepted on The Biggest Loser, contestants all had similar characteristics in common with each other:

• They had no idea of the number of calories they needed or what they actually consumed
• Most of them skipped breakfast and snacks in-between meals
• Most consumed very little fruits and vegetables
• They ate very little protein, and when they did it was high in saturated fats
• Whole grains consumption was woefully low
• They ate too many “white stuff” foods—such as sugar, refined flour, etc.
• There was or no meal planning
• The majority of the contestants obtained their daily caloric needs from beverages–sodas, juices and fruit punch.
• They didn’t drink enough water
• Exercise was almost always absent from their daily routines
• Most of them had a tendency to put other needs before theirs

I was astounded at the level and number of unhealthy lifestyle habits, and how much the participants changed and learned over the course of the program.

Although the food deficiencies themselves were not too surprising, the last deficiency, people putting other’s needs ahead of their own, stood out. An example of this is often found on a TV program I enjoy watching, “What Not to Wear.”

Many of the people Stacy and Clinton “makeover” are typically people– mothers in particular—who put career, family, and children ahead of their own needs. Of course, children are a parent’s top priority; but if you don’t take care of yourself, you’re giving your children the wrong message and you won’t be able to give as much time and energy toward them that they deserve.

Do something good for yourself everyday–exercise, plan a nutritious meal, wear nice clothing, read a good book, or just simply relax in a warm bath.

By taking care of yourself you are better able to care for others and that virtue will be noticed by those close to you.

So ask yourself:

What have you done for yourself today and how much quality time did you give?

This is important, because,

After all, it’s about a healthy lifestyle!

© Iowa Avenue