What Is Calorie Shifting?

You've probably heard of the term, "calorie shifting." If you have, it's likely because you were trying to get off the 5 pounds you managed to put on during the holidays or you're simply trying to start eating healthy. If you haven't heard of the term, though, it's basically a weight loss method that isn't harmful to your body or slow down your metabolism.nnCalorie shifting is vastly different from dieting. When you diet, your body ends up going into preservation mode. Once your body realizes that you're limiting your food intake, it's going to start conserving energy. It does this by slowing down its metabolism and storing fats instead of burning them. nnCalorie shifting, on the other hand, is a weight loss method wherein you alternate different foods -- in both their amounts and content. This method keeps your metabolism high up. The result is that you lose weight steadily. Your body doesn't think you're starving it, which means it won't start storing fats. It will continue burning calories instead of going into starvation mode. nnBelow are some tips on how you can start using this weight loss method that's much better than dieting.nn1. Examine the food you're currently consuming.nnFirst, you need to find out what your eating habits are. To help you do this, start a food diary. In it, note down those times when you seem to eat the most. How often do you eat every day? What kinds of foods do you eat? Do this for a couple of weeks.nn2. Know how much calories you take in.nnHow many calories do you consume each day? Again, record this in your diary. When you know the average amount of calories you eat per day, you'll be able to figure out the amount of calories you should be consuming. If you notice your calorie intake is too high, look at the foods you're eating and figure out where most the calories are coming from.nn3. Be guided by the colors.nnJump start your metabolism by eating as many brightly colored vegetables and fruits you can find. A few high energy foods include bell peppers, beets and sweet potatoes. nn4. Never starve yourself.nnWhen you're hungry, your body is actually telling you that something is wrong. If you often feel intense hunger, take this as an indication that you're not eating properly. Eat small snacks during the day. Instead of eating two big meals 12 hours apart, try eating 5 smaller meals throughout the day.