Wednesday, February 6, 2013

How to Reduce Carbohydrate Intake Without Losing Energy

Most of us just before the summer begins are trying desperately to lose those extra pounds of fat which we gained over the winter trying to build muscle. The truth is that despite what the so-called experts claim, it is almost impossible to gain muscle without gaining some fat percentage. I wouldn't consider this as a problem as long as the fat intake remains controllable.

By saying controllable we mean that you should be able to get rid of it in a month by following the proper diet and a muscle definition-fat loss workout program.

In previous articles, I listed some tips on how to lose this extra fat and define your muscles. This time I would like to focus on the benefits of following a low-carb diet and the effects this will have for your muscle definition.

First of all, we have to make it clear that a low-carb diet should be only followed while you are in the muscle definition routine. Any attempt to do that while you are on a mass gain or strength training program could result on lack of energy and would give you a constant feeling of exhaustion.
So, your goal should be to reduce your daily carbs intake and in the same time increase alternative energy sources.

Proteins and Healthy Fats

While every gram of carbs gives you about 4 calories, every gram of protein or healthy fat gives you equally 4-5 grams. That means increasing your protein and healthy fat intake will replace the energy you have lost reducing the carbs. If you are wondering how to do that simply eat more chicken breast, tuna, beef, egg whites, etc. For healthy fats consume more fish oil, flaxseed oil, almonds, avocado, peanuts, etc. Not to mention that your supplement for this period should be a high quality lean (low carb) protein.

Carbs before Training

Make sure that the carbs you are still in taking are being consumed a few hours prior your workout. That way, you ensure that the carbs are converted to energy and aren't being stored as fat.

Limit your Cardio

Although fat loss and muscle definition require cardiovascular exercise, it is better to reduce your cardio training while you are on a low-carbs diet. After all you want to save your energy for your weight training.
As a conclusion we might say that a low-carb diet can be beneficial for fast muscle definition and weight loss. However, in long-term I would suggest you take about 50% of your daily calorie intake from carbohydrates. Just remember not to consume foods that contain lots of carbs prior going to bed. The unconsumed energy will end up being stored as fat

Keep those muscles pumping!

Chris G Pap
Since 1993 involved in bodybuilding and fitness area.Visit the following link for more info about bodybuilding, supplementation, workout routines and nutrition.
http://www.strengthtrainingmuscle.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_G_Pap

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