College, Cardio and Carrots: The best tool for weight loss

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In the age of technology, there isn’t much the internet can’t do. And thankfully, the world-wide Web holds a gold mine of information for weight loss.

CUI's Amanda Moutinho writes on using the internet to help with having a better lifestyle. (CU Independent/Josh Shettler)

With the vast amount of resources, you’ll never be lost again. Whether you’re looking up the proper way to do a squat or how many calories were in that bag of chips you just scarfed down, you’ll find it online.

Here’s a handy guide for getting the most out of the Web:

Recipes

You can find literally millions of recipes online. Food.com provides recipes from every category. It even gives healthier versions of popular take out options. FoodNetwork.com also has recipes from your favorite shows, including meals from Rachael Ray and Giada De Laurentiis, but I would steer clear of anything made by butter-queen Paula Deen. Skinnytaste.com features plenty of recipes that will get you over the hump of eating healthy. You’ll find better versions of chicken nuggets, mozzarella sticks and even cupcakes. You can also sign up with Gojee.com. Not only does it provide mouth-watering food, but it also gives you recipes based on what you have in your kitchen.

Nutrition Facts

Lots of fast food chains and restaurants have nutrition facts online. Maybe you don’t want to look up the calories or fat content in your beloved Big Mac (540 calories and 29 grams of fat). But, the reality check might save you from indulging in that chocolate milkshake or those large French fries in the future. Looking at the menu can also help you find the healthier options when you’re stuck between two choices.

Community

It’s essential to have support when you’re trying to lose weight. Tumblr has a great weight loss comradeship. You can get healthy recipes, workout ideas, motivation and plenty of before-and-after pictures. Most importantly, you can find people who are going through the same struggles as you are. If you can’t get enough of College, Cardio and Carrots, then check out my Tumblr at http://collegecardioandcarrots.tumblr.com/.

Exercises

The Internet holds copious amounts of workouts. You’ll find any and every exercise you need to go from soft to rock hard. Check out about.com under the exercise or weight training category or this list of the 60 Must-Read Health and Fitness Blogs. But if you’re sick of reading awkward instructions of how to bend your body in various positions, then check out YouTube. There’s lots of bored people who have uploaded thousands of how-to videos and a lot of them are really helpful. Online magazines like Fitness Magazine also provide several how-to videos; some even have their own YouTube channels like Self Magazine. YouTube itself also has a lot of workout routines, including some from Biggest Loser trainer Jillian Michaels, the Pussycat Dolls and Flirty Girl Fitness.

Tips

With just a little bit of research, you’ll find great websites that will give you tricks and tips. You’ll find 52 Healthy Meals in 12 Minutes or Less or Eight Secrets of the Naturally Slim. Websites like Greatist.com, FitSugar.com, Prevention.com or even WebMD.com are all fantastic resources. Also you can check out the fitness and food tab on Pinterest and follow health professionals on Twitter.

So maybe instead of spending countless hours on Facebook or actually doing your homework, make better use of your time and get yourself motivated online. Am I missing any health-oriented websites you love? Sound off in the comments!

In future columns, I will talk to health professionals, discuss my struggles, and try to answer the question of “what is beauty?” Stay tuned for advice for living a healthy life, and to know you’re not the only person struggling with weight issues.

Contact CU Independent Managing Editor Amanda Moutinho at [email protected].