MFT Rule #6: Embrace Cheat Meals
Alex Keller
mft
Alex Keller
Indulging in cheat meals might seem counterintuitive in a structured diet plan, but rule #6 from the Metabolic FastTrack protocol emphasizes the significance of these designated moments. Let's dive into why these cheat meals are more than just a break from the norm – they're a strategic element in your weight loss and health maintenance journey.
The Weekend Break
Fridays and Saturdays mark your hiatus from the structured dietary routine. It's your time to relish the foods you've been craving, dine out with loved ones, and savor those favorite carbs and snacks guilt-free. Contrary to popular belief, incorporating these cheat meals into your regimen plays a crucial role in maintaining your weight loss and promoting long-term leanness.
Benefits of Elevated Caloric Intake
Increasing your caloric intake significantly during these cheat meals serves multiple purposes:
- Keeps your metabolism firing at an elevated rate.
- Enhances fat loss during days with lower calorie intake.
- Diminishes cravings throughout the week.
- Aids in your body's recovery process.
The Cheat Carb Spike
On these special evenings, replace your usual carb spike with a cheat carb spike. This means bidding farewell to fruits and embracing indulgent treats like ice cream, chips, cookies, or your favorite candy. It's a guilt-free invitation to satisfy those sweet and savory cravings.
The Cheat Day Protocol
Maintain consistency in the number of meals and try to avoid snacking between them. While sticking to your feeding window is ideal, don't hesitate to extend it if it means enjoying social moments without strict limitations.
The Aftermath
Anticipate some water retention the day after your cheat meals. Depending on factors like gender and size, a temporary increase of 5-15 lbs on the scale is possible due to water weight from the carb intake. This spike is predominantly water-related, so trust the process and avoid fretting over the scale. Stick to the plan, and by the next morning after your cheat day, you'll likely witness a drop in weight again.
Embrace the Change
Implementing these rules might seem unconventional, but the results speak volumes. Couple this strategy with weightlifting and hitting 10,000 steps daily, and you'll witness a transformative change in your physique and overall well-being.
Conclusion
Don't dismiss the importance of designated cheat meals. They're not just about indulgence; they're an integral part of a well-structured dietary plan. Embrace these breaks, trust the process, and watch how your life undergoes positive transformations in just a month.
Remember, it's not just about the cheat meals, but the strategic integration of these moments that can reshape your health journey for the better.
Stay committed and embrace the change!