Meal Plans & Protein Powders

QUESTION:  

Hey!

    Let me start off by saying your video is an inspiration and I hope you realize how many people you have helped. Now, onto me.

I am an 18 year old, 6 foot, 220lbs. I work at a gym and have recently started utilizing my membership. I run about 1.5 miles a day. Here is my plan for now-

Since my willpower isnt the strongest, I have a bit of an odd approach. I don't have the willpower NOT to eat unhealthy food infront of me, but I DO have the willpower to not buy unhealthy food at the grocery store. Since starting in september I am living alone, I wont have to worry about having unhealthy food around. Like I said, as long as there isnt unhealthy food in the house, I wont crave it.

I am trying to get used to working out now. Running ~3 miles and lifting. Then when I move in september, I can change my diet. Basically getting used to working out now, changing my diet later.

What meal plans do you recommend? Also, did you use protein powder when you were losing weight?

Thanks for the help and the inspiration!

ANSWER: 


Hey man.
As far as meals go I always suggest sticking to a complex carb, healthy fat, high lean protein diet.  For examples of these foods please see my blog.  A few suggestions of meals would be Oatmeal with splenda and egg whites for breakfast (fat free cheese optional in the eggs), a turkey sandwitch on whole wheat/grain bread with carrots or broccoli on the side, cottage cheese and ½-1 serving of almonds (snack), whole grain pasta/brown rice with chicken or  lean beef, and beans with brown rice and chicken.



I used protein powder while I lost weight only after I lifted weights in order to aid in the muscle recovery process.  I only advise 1-2 servings of protein per day on a regular basis as whole food sources of protein are better at meal times in my opinion.  Protein powder is one of the cheapest forms of protein and it definitely has a place in a weight loss plan (it is a cheaper protein source than boneless skinless chicken breast.)  Protein powder is absolutely not necesary to lose weight but it is a quick and cheap source of protein that is always readily available.

Tony isn't a licensed nutritionist yet, so he can't give anyone advice on what  to do.  Please consult your doctor for his professional opinion on a diet/nutrition program that will work for you.

Tony's blog is a journal of his experiences and what has worked for him.   He lists general guidelines and suggestions only.  He is NOT a professional.