When it comes to nutrition we sometimes like to make it really complicated. And you know what? It certainly can be, but for the overwhelming majority it is simply about getting the basics right and then consistently doing that for a long enough period of time to truly evaluate how that works for you. If you do this, then I am confident that just about all of you will get the results you are looking for. It is amazing how many times I get asked about this supplement or that particular super food, when I know there are glaring issues that need attention before worrying about any possible acceleration methods.
Here are some classic examples. “Hey Anthony, I have heard that goji berries have amazing fat burning properties. Where do I get those from?” or “Anthony, what do you think about me taking branched chain amino acids when I workout?”. Now these are fair enough questions but unless you can answer the following questions with a resounding YES!, then your focus needs to be on the basics and until you get that right, the rest of the complicated stuff can wait.
So here is what you need to have squared away before anything else. How would you answer these questions if I asked them?
- Are you getting all the required nutrients from your diet, i.e. are you deficient in any major vitamins and minerals? [Hint: if you eat from a large variety of food sources including fruits, vegetables and quality proteins and fats AND you are feeling great with lots of energy then you are probably okay to answer yes to this. No need for any in depth calculations usually!]
- Are the portion sizes for your meals such that you don’t leave the table feeling “stuffed” on a regular basis
- Do you consistently eat quality protein, vegetables (and or fruits) and healthy fats at each of your meals?
- Is your body fat% in the healthy range for your age and gender?
If you answered yes to all of the above you will be in a pretty elite group as is. If not and or your goals go beyond health and in to some special areas like endurance performance or the pursuit of very low body fat levels and or significant muscle building, then there there are indeed specialist methods you can use and nutrition coaching with Best Practice may be a good idea.
If you would like to read more on some of these specialists methods and strategies check this informative post out from the boys at PN.
