whats your favorite low cal recipe or food choices. I have been doing a low cal diet for a few weeks and need some new ideas, if you are willing to share?
misslynda - One thing many fail to consider when making a change in dieting is that it's not really "low-carb, low-cal" low anything that you need to understand, unless it is for a specific goal such as reducing your cholesterol counts. It's the life style change to be considered as that will gain you the most for long term health benefits and losing weight is a by-product of that.
For example. Don't think of low cal as a means to loose weight. That in it self is not the solution, and will likely only gain short term benefits.
The long term route to healthier eating will eventually net you long term gains that targeting specifics like "low-cal" can't.
For example. No one will say you need to give up anything. Just use moderation. If still hungry? Find something to fill that gap that works for you. For me, popcorn nuked in a lunch bag adds little in the way of bad things, but is a good filler. A few spritzes of "I can't believe it's not butter" spray, a couple shakes of Mrs Dash (or curry, or chili powder, etc), can curb that hunger until the next legitimate meal.
Have a serious need for something sweet like ice cream? Sub it with something you find can fill that gap. For me, it was Meijer brand "light" yogurt with fruit pieces. Comes in small 8oz containers, and right now, if I buy eight at a time, I get $1.50 off
That in itself these days adds to the incentive.
Sorry if I was verbose here. The point I'm trying to make is, don't look for short term fixes, look at long term benefits. Latest lo-cal dessert for me? I slice up some fresh (or frozen) strawberries into a dessert cup (made in the local deli), whip a little low-fat cream with sugar substitute. As long as the strawberries are very fresh, the dessert is decadent.
Stay slim on the fat, eat darker greens, eat less dense meats (poultry, fish and pork), eat more fruit, add filling filler that do not add many calories, and if you want something specific once in a while? By all mean, have some. Just limit the portion.
Another thing many neglect to consider is liquid intake. Drink the appropriate amount of water rather then sodas, coffee, etc. If you don't like plain water? Do what I do. Have 75% water, 25% juice. Enough of the fruit to add value, but 3/4 less calories. But now the water has flavor.
The Tortoise will beat the hare every time