You probably clicked on this article because the title contained the words “No Grain” and “Diet.” Personally I don’t believe in diets, but I understand that most athletes are looking for a “quick fix.”
Carbohydrates derived from grains are not as essential as they’re made out to be. You can actually obtain all the energy you need from fats, protein and carbohydrates from non-grain sources. By replacing grains with fruits and vegetables, you’ll still be getting enough carbs for energy. However, I wouldn’t recommend this for athletes in endurance sports like basketball and track. They need complex carbs for fuel. However, if you want to banish belly fat, give the no-grain diet a shot.
Beginning your own eating program isn’t too drastic. Eat fruits and eggs in the morning instead of cereal. Have a salad with lots of vegetables for lunch instead of a sandwich. You’ll soon notice a decrease in weight, because your body will begin to use fat as its main source of fuel. You’ll be teaching your body what true energy is, because it will be running on proper fuel, not fake crap like soda, fast food and processed foods.
This program requires lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, which makes it pricey. But in the long run, healthier eating is cheaper than open-heart surgery.
Your energy levels may begin to slide during the first week because of the reduction in carbohydrates. But, as with any new program, try it for at least four weeks before deciding whether to commit. If won’t be a miracle answer to weight problems. But give it a try. I have lost three percent of my body fat and have never felt or looked so good.
On that note: I challenge you to give up grains.

A Day in the No-Grain Life

Breakfast: Two hard-boiled eggs and four slices of pineapple; OR, a medium-sized apple and two tbsp. of peanut butter.
Work out for 60-90 minutes
Post-Workout: Protein shake with two tbsp. of local Farmer’s Market honey.
Snack (two hours after shake): Half cup of trail mix and one red bell pepper.
Lunch (two hours later): Spinach and mixed green salad with a serving of chicken breast, broccoli, onions, beets and yellow bell pepper.
Around 4 :00 pm: Half cup of trail mix and one mango.
Dinner: Half serving of chicken stir-fry, made with one tbsp. of coconut oil, a yam, onion, orange bell pepper and fifteen brussels sprouts. Add tapatio and/or pineapple juice for spicy or sweet taste.
Three hours later: Half serving of chicken stir-fry.
Make it a priority to get to bed by 11:00 pm.
Photo credit: bellybuster.com