Man vs. Food: How to Drop 20 Pounds

”The more you eat, the less flavor; the less you eat, the more flavor.”
Chinese Proverb

Anyone ever see the show “Man Vs. Food?” It is a blend of entertainment, travel and a man who is apparently is determined to set the world record for elevated triglyercides.

In case you missed this, here is a typical show. The host named Adam, travels to a classic “pig out spot” (his words) somewhere in our beloved America where he takes on a food challenge. For example, one “challenge” would be to drink 6 milkshakes (consisting of 2 gallons of ice cream) in one hour. Another was to eat a 72 ounce steak. Yet another gem was to consume a doughnut the size of a large pizza.

In case you are wondering if the numbers and sizes you just read are correct, I assure you that they are 100% accurate. Want more? How does a 6 pound pizza sound? Or a cheese steak the size of a football? Before you grab the Pepto and ask me what in the world this has to do with health and wellness, there is a reason for this.

America has an obesity problem. No surprise here. There are many thoughts, ideas and notions about causes and solutions. One of the factors that rarely is mentioned is speed.

One of the “keys” that Adam uses to consume grotesquely large quantities of food is consuming them as quickly as possible. In other words, he stuffs the food down rapidly, giving the body little time to adjust to the enormous volume. Allow me to expand on the notion.

A growing number of studies reiterates that eating slower, you’ll consume less calories. In fact, JUST by eating more slowly a person can lose 20 pounds a year without doing anything different or eating anything different. The reason is that it takes about 20 minutes for our brains to register that we’re full.

Other factors are improved digestion and reduced stress on the system in general. Plus, food is meant to be enjoyed — the flavor, texture and every where in between.

What the people who read, fiddle on their iPhones or do something when they are eating and you will note that (1) most are over weight and (2) most consume more food. Be present. In America, we have the gift of abundance. Part of receiving a gift is using it responsibility.

Do this for the next 5 meals:

1. Put your spoon, fork , chopstick or whatever instrument down, after you put food into your mouth.

2. Chew each bit until completion, before putting anything else.

3. Other than conversation and company, do nothing else. Leave the book in the car. Put the iPhone off. Be present.

4. Divide the meal in 1/4. After each section is completed, take 3 minutes to just breath and give your digestion a bit of a rest.

Simple tasks can take off 20 pounds.

Instead of Man Vs. Food, make it Person blending with Food.