Sunday, January 18, 2009

Gut Science 101

Since starting the food logs, it has shed a big light on why some of you may be hitting plateaus, feel drained or feel like you're not gaining muscle (which fuels fat loss and performance). I'm glad that I am able to look them over and it has brought a whole new dimension to things!

This is a very simplified explanation of the cascade of events that occurs in your gut when you eat certain foods. What you eat is directly related to hormone regulation, which is crucial for blood sugar stabilization, curbing cravings, telling you when you're satisfied and changing the composition of your body.

Here goes!

When you eat PROTEIN: Your body releases GLUCAGON which regulates blood sugar levels and builds muscle mass.

When you eat crappy CARBS: Your body releases INSULIN, which is a fat storage hormone. When you have too much INSULIN released, it prevents your body from utilizing fat as its main energy source.

When you eat GOOD FATS: You stay hormone neutral. This is a prime energy source and provides satiety and feeling content.

Also, when you eat too little, your body conserves fat and calories in an attempt to "save itself" from starvation. It also sabotages your metabolism. It's reverse of what you'd think.

I'm keeping it simple, but I hope I got you thinking!

Remember, the hierarchy of food intake for your average day:

Lean protein
Veggies
Nuts, seeds, avocado, olives, olive oil, coconut oil, organic dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) etc.
Some fruit
Little Starch
No refined sugar

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

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