What to Eat for Your Body Type

According to William Sheldon, an American psychologist, different body types have different responses towards nutrition and exercises. According to him, body types can be broadly classified into three types, viz., ectomorphs, mesomorphs and endomorphs.

Ectomorphs are the ones who are generally tall and thin. These individuals are not usually prone to weight gain, no matter how much they eat. They make great ballet dancers, long-distance runners, models, basketball players, etc.

Mesomorphs are characterized by their muscular and short stature and usually have stocky arms and legs. They gain weight with ease, but have a difficult time in losing it, especially in and around their abdomen. Sports which involves the use of power such as soccer, sprinting events in tracking and field, etc., become the areas of excellence for such people.

Regarding the endomorphs, they are the ones who have the toughest time in losing weight, despite rigorous exercises and diet programs. They look softer and heavier and tend to carry their maximum weight in their lower extremities.

As ectomorphs do not easily gain weight, so it becomes necessary for them to include foods in their diet, which are high in healthy fats. This would help them maintain a healthy body weight and proper muscular growth.

A diet which is more on healthy fats and less carbs is considered to be the suitable one for you, if you fall under this category of body type. Atkins diet is considered to be the best option in your case, as it is one of the most effective low-carb diet. 40% carbs, 30% protein and 30% fat should be the comprising factors of the diet for mesomorphs.

As mentioned earlier, people who are considered to be endomorphs have a hard time in shedding their 'extra kilos'. So it is wise that they go for a balanced diet plan, which comprises foods low in carbs and fats.

Apart from following the right kind of diet, you must also go for the right kind of exercises in your day-to-day schedule. For instance, if you are an ectomorph, then your focus must be towards gaining more calories, as you tend to metabolize food at a higher rate. You must also include foods which can keep you full for a longer period of time.

In case you are a mesomorph, you should train yourself with moderate to heavy weights or exercises for that matter. Proper diet and the right kind of exercise is what is required for you, if you are an endomorph. Strength training and cardiovascular activities would do great for your health by helping you to lose weight effectively.

Disclaimer: This is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.