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What is a Body Sculpting Diet?

A. Pasbjerg
A. Pasbjerg

The purpose of a body sculpting diet is to shape the body by toning the muscles and reducing body fat. The goal is to create a sculpted look where the muscles are well defined and easily seen. These types of diets recommend eating small, healthy, balanced meals throughout the day and engaging in stretching, cardiovascular, and strength-training exercises.

One of the main principles of a body sculpting diet is the need to eat five to six small meals over the course of the day. The idea behind this is that eating several smaller meals instead of three large meals will keep blood sugar levels steady and boost the metabolism. It also helps the dieter avoid hunger, which can lead to overeating. Overall calories consumed should be less than what is burned each day, but not significantly less, as this can cause weight to drop too quickly and trigger the body to go into starvation mode.

Weight training and resistance exercises are one aspect of a body sculpting diet.
Weight training and resistance exercises are one aspect of a body sculpting diet.

Body sculpting diets also promote eating healthy foods to help decrease body fat. Lean meats, fish, low-fat dairy and other forms of lean protein are an important component of these diets, to aid in building muscle and keeping the dieter's appetite satisfied. Whole grains are also important, as they provide fuel for the body. Saturated and trans fats should be avoided, while monounsaturated fats are encouraged. Leafy green vegetables and fruits should also be included.

A sculpting diet can help individuals lose body fat.
A sculpting diet can help individuals lose body fat.

In addition to dietary changes that promote reduction of body fat, the other main component of a body sculpting diet is the exercise regimen. Perhaps the most important part of the exercise plan is the strength-training routine. Weight training and resistance exercises are key to shaping the muscles and giving them the desired definition. These diets recommend doing strength training at least two times per week using all of the major muscle groups. Dieters may train three to four times per week to get faster results, but are encouraged to allow the muscles to rest and recuperate at least one day between sessions.

Cardiovascular and stretching exercises are also important parts of a body sculpting diet. Moderate workouts that elevate the heart rate are necessary to burn additional fat and help bring out the definition of the muscles. Stretching keeps the muscles lean, long, and flexible as they are toned. Both types of workout should be incorporated into the dieter's routine several days per week.

Discussion Comments

Heavanet

@rundocuri- I have the same problem that you have, and eating sweets has been the biggest problem for me when I have been on diet for body sculpting. Since my goal is always to get into a bathing suit in the summer, I have come up with some strategies that help curb my cravings for sugar.

First of all, there are a lot of benefits to drinking more water each day. Not only does this help you stay hydrated, but it helps to satisfy your appetite. The more you drink with a meal or snack, the less you will want to eat.

I also have included a lot of whole grain foods in my diet. The fiber content of these types of foods is very filling, and reduces my urge to eat sweets in between meals.

Eating a good breakfast also helps me to stay focused on my diet, and curbs my urge to eat sweet mid-morning snacks. Egg whites, fresh fruit, oatmeal, and whole wheat toast are all great breakfast foods that will keep you feeling satisfied and won't wreck your body sculpting diet.

Rundocuri

I know that is it important to cut back on your sugar intake if you want to have a more sculpted body, but it is hard to do when you have a sweet tooth. Does anyone have some good tips for controlling sugar cravings as part of a body sculpting diet?

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    • Weight training and resistance exercises are one aspect of a body sculpting diet.
      By: starsstudio
      Weight training and resistance exercises are one aspect of a body sculpting diet.
    • A sculpting diet can help individuals lose body fat.
      By: vpardi
      A sculpting diet can help individuals lose body fat.