Although a lot of people think "body type" simply describes the way a person looks, seldom do we realize it’s importance in determining the kind of nutrition our body needs and its sympathetic nervous system (SNS) characteristics.

Knowing what to eat according to your body type will ensure that your metabolism is working at its best, improving your energy levels and making weight loss much easier.

Here are 5 weight loss tips based on your body type -

Apple

Individuals that are Apple-shaped tend to carry most of their weight around the belly area. Their legs and arms are fairly slender, without much extra weight. Even though this body type is at the greatest health risk due to excess visceral fat, the extra weight is easy to get rid of.

What to eat: Proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of leafy greens.

Reduce: Coffee or caffeinated beverages, and sugary refined carbohydrates like sweetened yogurts, energy drinks, and store bought protein bars.

Pear

Pears usually gain a lot of weight around the hips and thighs, often with a small lower abdominal “pooch”. This is however, not too much of a health risk as it’s not visceral fat but subcutaneous fat. Although it’s difficult to lose, it’s not impossible.

What to eat: High-fiber vegetables and fruits, oats, quinoa, buckwheat, brown rice, lean protein, and clean, non-dairy fats.

Reduce: High-fat dairy, non-organic produce and meats, caffeine, alcohol, and unfermented soy (tofu)

Inverted Pyramid

This body type tends to have broader shoulders that narrow down toward the hips and waist. Inverted Pyramids usually carry a lot of muscle mass in the upper body, but are prone to storing extra fat through the chest, back of the arms, and above the bra line.

What to eat: Complex carbohydrates, low-fat dairy, fresh vegetable juices, leafy greens, and high-fiber fruits.

Reduce: Heavy meat, heavy cheese, salty snacks, protein bars, and caffeinated beverages.

Hourglass

The most envied body type of them all. Hourglass-shaped individuals gain weight evenly throughout their body, but often most noticeable around the face, arms, chest, knees, and ankles. This body type has a soft, round look.

What to eat: Raw vegetables and fruits, whole grain cereals, lean protein, and plenty of spices.

Reduce: Caffeinated beverages, dairy, refined carbohydrates, and sweets.

Pencil

Pencil-shaped individuals have similar measurements throughout their body - shoulders, waist, hips, and no curves. Most skinny people tend to have this body type. Due to their very high metabolisms, it’s usually difficult for them to gain weight. But when they do, it’s usually around the belly area.

What to eat: Complex carbohydrates, fresh produce, and healthy fats.

Reduce: Junk and processed foods.

For a more tailored and detailed weight loss plan for your body type, consult one of our nutritionists through 04 343 7987.