Fred,
As an exerciser, runner and believer in being fit for 30 years,I had something happen to me this year that never had before.

I must have reduced my calories and increased my exercising so much that my body went into “protective mode.”  I truly thought that I had a serious health problem because I gained 8 pounds in 8 weeks. It was devastating. I could actually feel the pounds add to my body.

First I went to the doctor and there are no problems to attribute it to.

Breakfast and lunch have always been healthy and include protein, fruits, vegetables and milk. Now I am taking time to have a full evening meal and the pounds are already dropping.

Do you suggest with a situation like this, that I take a multiple vitamin? I never believed in them since I always eat a healthy diet.

Any other pointers?

I thank you for your expertise.

- Marie

Marie,
You have left out some information, but I think I can fill in the blanks. You mention that you are an “exerciser and runner,” but you do not get specific about what type of exercise you do or how far or often you run. Then, you talk about reducing your calories and increasing your exercising.

My guess is that you have not heard me speak or read my book, because what you are doing is pretty much the opposite of what I teach.

However, your guess is correct about why you would be gaining weight. You have sent your body into starvation mode by reducing calories too low and exercising too much. It is simply trying to survive and is fighting to keep weight on. Running or jogging is good exercise but anything over 20-30 minutes is counterproductive for most people’s body composition and health.

For the most part, I think trying to lose weight is stupid behavior. Losing fat and adding or maintaining muscle at the same time is smart and wise. There is a huge difference between the two behaviors.

Most Americans, unfortunately, don’t know this. Plus, you don’t eat often enough. I teach that the average women should have 5-6 smaller, equally sized feedings or meals per day.

Eating only twice a day is unhealthy, but 5 times a day would be best for you.

I am not a huge fan of vitamins, especially for people who don’t have the basics of strength training and frequent feedings in place. I can’t suggest to you a calorie goal because you have not told me your current body weight or body weight goal, but anything less than 1,300 calories a day is too little for an active healthy woman.

If you are not doing full-body functional strength gaining, you are cheating your body of its best. To learn out how to do functional strength training, simply Google the topic or check out my web site at www.fitfooddude.com.

Please don’t obsess about your weight. Concern yourself more with your health, strength and performance. Plus, your appearance and energy levels will improve. Hope this helps, and let me know if you have more questions!

Fred

Fred “The Fit Food Dude” Schafer http://www.fitfooddude.com is a Professional Fitness Coach, author and producer of two popular fitness DVDs. He speaks frequently at conferences, sharing his philosophy of passionate, “fully alive” living. He resides in Anderson, Calif., with his wife and three children.