WHO KNEW CARB TIMING MADE SUCH A DIFFERENCE?

Getting lean comes down to one thing: creating an energy deficit. Besides doing aerobic exercise, many precontest bodybuilders follow fairly strict low-calorie diets, most of which stress lean protein like skinless chicken breasts, egg whites, tuna and protein powders.

In addition, many dieting fitness fanatics limit their carbohydrate intake, depending on their size, metabolism and level of activity. Lowering carbs increases the energy deficit and helps control insulin, a hormone that stimulates hunger and plays a role in fat storage. It's believed that lower insulin levels facilitate the burning of body fat.

I would never recommend no-carb diets or even extremely low carb, but to time your carbohydrate intake correctly. Nutrient timing is your answer to successful fat loss. By eating your carbohydrates at specific times of the day, you enable your body to remain in a fat burning state for a longer period of time.

Pre-workout meal is a great time to get in some carbohydrates and some much needed energy to fuel your workout, and increase your performance. While you work out, your muscles use glycogen to fuel your exercise. So much so, that after your workout, your muscles just soak up the glucose in your blood. Your muscles are so starved for glucose that they are able to take the carbohydrates you eat and convert it into glycogen.

Eat the majority of your carbohydrates pre and post workout. These meals should consist of protein and carbohydrates and very little fat. The remaining carb-less/low carb meals throughout your day should consist of protein, healthy fats, and veggies. Planning your meals this way enables you to get all the benefits from the 3 macro-nutrients (fat, carbs, and protein) while putting on the least amount of fat.

Remember PREP is everything!!

I have the privilege of talking to the staff and managers of the 32 ASN stores around the country on a daily basis and every day I am blown away by the support and knowledge within the team. Whatever your goal, whether it be big or small, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by going in and asking for help!!

Blogger: Codi Hanson (ASN Coffs Harbour)
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