Winter has finally subsided and spring pastels are giving way to the darker foliage of the summer days and we all know what that means. Time to pull out those shorty shorts, flip-flops, t-shirt, and, of course, bathing suit.
If you are a little less than bikini-body-ready, here is a Paula’s Perfect Plate menu that will help you shed weight quickly. I managed the ratio of proteins and carbohydrates a bit differently on this menu; I increased the protein intake (yes, beef twice in a day!) and reduced the carbohydrate intake resulting in a delicious protein-rich day of nutrition—all while staying within the nutritional parameters of a healthy eating program.
Manipulating your protein and carbohydrate intake is a great way to jump start the weight loss process, although you are not actually losing fat. Each gram of glycogen (or carbohydrate) we consume attracts 3-4 hefty grams of water. So, by healthfully limiting your carbohydrate intake, the water attached flushes away. The result is rapid water loss (not fat loss), but the mental party going on in your head will, more than likely, inspire you to keep pushing forward.
Our bikini-blasting menu is mouthwatering and delicious. The day begins with two eggs (any way you love them, but no oil in cooking), plus a delicious cup of cottage cheese laced with honey. Lunch is my delicious Peppered Flank Steak with Yogurt Dipping Sauce and an afternoon snack of heart-healthy almonds. Finally, a dinner to die for as I chose Paula’s Cowboy Rib Eyes with Caramelized Mushrooms and Shallots accompanied by her Beet and Vidalia Onion Salad with Creamy Horseradish Dressing, both from her new book, Paula Deen Cuts the Fat.
Remember—when reducing your carbohydrates, drink plenty of water to help flush out the excess water. I am not a big fan of low-carbohydrate diets for periods longer than one week, but this does work when quick results are the goal. Just keep in mind, it’s not fat being lost, it’s water.
For more information on how to build your own Perfect Plate, click here.
Until Next Time… LIVE INSPIRED!!!
Robin xoxo
