The Biggest Loser
My sisters are both fans of The Biggest Loser. It inspires them to keep their weight in check and keep up with the exercise. In fact, one of them walks on a treadmill for an hour during the program, competing with herself to get more miles each week.
There is a new book out by Cheryl Forberg, the registered dietitian from the show. The book includes tips, recipes and wisdom from the show’s trainers and contestants. It’s pretty good information about diet, exercise and other lifestyle changes. Fosberg tells what she has learned from the contestants in her eight years of working on the show. Among the findings:
- They didn’t know how many calories they needed.
- They often skipped meals.
- They didn’t eat enough fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains.
- They didn’t plan their meals, often grabbing food on the go.
- They drank too many calories as sugary beverages, but didn’t get enough water or milk.
- They didn’t get enough exercise.
Nothing new here—but just like the show, there is nothing magical about losing weight. It’s a matter of working hard and hanging in there. How does all this relate to finances—less calories means less overall food and less higher-cost prepared food. If I feel good and my clothes fit, I am not as tempted to buy new ones.
-ponderings by Peggy
