How to Build the Body of Your Dreams

How to Build the Body of Your Dreams
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Wishing for a perfect body is unrealistic. Even supermodels get airbrushed to cover their imperfections. However, it is possible to have your best body. To build the body of your dreams, you will need to have the motivation to work hard. Having a great body takes a lot of discipline for most people. You will need to exercise regularly. Eat healthy food, while cutting out not so healthy foods. Simply put, you will need to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Step 1

Drink more water. Not only does water keep you hydrated, it also increases your metabolism. According to Rachel Brandeis, a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association, if you drink half a liter of water a day, you can experience a 30 percent raise in your metabolism. However, this increase is short-lived, lasting only 40 minutes.

Step 2

Get a good night's sleep. Sleep deprivation can lead to an increase in your appetite, causing unnecessary eating. According to the "American Journal of Epidemiology," women who get less then seven hours of sleep a night are at a higher risk of weight gain and obesity.

Step 3

Cut out soda. One can of soda packs up to 150 calories, more than many people realize. By cutting soda from your diet you can save yourself hundreds of calories each day.

Step 4

Eat a healthy, balance diet. Focus on plenty of fruits and vegetables, fat-free dairy and whole grains. Include lean proteins such as fish, beans, nuts and poultry. Stay away from unhealthy fats.

Step 5

Use strength training to build muscle. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends that you perform strength training exercises at least twice a week. If you are trying to tone your body, or build muscle, you will need to use strength training more often.

References

Article reviewed by Libby Swope Wiersema Last updated on: May 26, 2011

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