REVERSE FASTING ISN’T THE SAME AS CARBLOADING

“In reverse dieting, it’s about slowly increasing your calorie consumption daily with a proper distribution of the macros and also right kind of exercise. One has to focus more

on the macronutrients, especially proteins, since we do not intend to lose our muscle mass. And we prefer complex carbs as its rich in fibre and keeps us fuller for longer and also keeps sugars in control. Also, while following reverse diet, diet and exercise, both help mutually in maintaining our weight. “Carb-loading is a strategy done to increase the exercise performance, mostly done by athletes before their event. “Carb-loading is based on two important factors — one, increasing the carbs you eat, and two, decreasing the amount you exercise.

“In carb-loading, it’s all about eating the right amount of carbohydrates. We prefer lowfibre carbohydrates to avoid the possibility of fullness and abdominal discomfort during any physical activity. For carb load, a high-carb and low-fat diet is advisable as it helps avoid excessive and unwanted calorie consumption. ”You should increase your carb intake to around 3.6gm per pound (8gm per kg) of body weight per day, and decrease your exercise one to three days before your main event. “Combination of eating more carbs, less fat and using less of your body’s carbohydrate stores will help produce high levels of glycogen in our body, which is important for athletes during their activity.”

- Afaaf Shaikh, nutritionist