Whether you’re looking to drop excess pounds or add some muscle definition, getting results involves maintaining a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. But depending on your body type, some diet and workout plans may work better for you than others.
If you have a higher percentage of body fat and little muscle definition, you may have what is known as an endomorph body.
Some people with endomorphic bodies struggle with weight loss. However, the key is understanding how your body type differs from other types and knowing what to eat and what not to eat.
American researcher and psychologist William Sheldon introduced the classification of different body types in the 1940s.
Through his research, he concluded that, based on our skeletal frame and body composition, we each have an inherited body type, or somatotype, that determines whether we’re leaner, heavier, or somewhere in between.
Because of this inherited body type, reaching weight loss and fitness goals often requires an individualized program.
Endomorphs are said to have a higher percentage of body fat and muscle mass, although their muscles may not be visible due to the extra weight that they carry. They’re often heavier and rounder but do not necessarily have obesity.
Because of their physical makeup, people with endomorphic bodies are more sensitive to calorie consumption than people with other body types.
Endomorphs may have to carefully watch their food intake to ensure they don’t consume more calories than they burn. Other characteristics include a larger frame and difficulty in losing weight.
These characteristics differ from those of the other two body types, ectomorph and mesomorph. People with an ectomorph somatotype have a high metabolism, which means that they tend to be able to eat more and gain little weight. They also have smaller joints, a smaller body size, and a narrower frame.
The mesomorph somatotype, on the other hand, is in between ectomorph and endomorph. These individuals may have a larger skeletal frame but a lower percentage of body fat. They can typically gain muscle and lose weight easily.
If you have an endomorphic body and you’re looking to lose weight or gain muscle definition, you may consider a fitness plan and diet that’s specific to your body type.
Overall, endomorphs tend to have a slower metabolism, but this isn’t always the case. Since endomorphs generally don’t burn calories as fast as ectomorphs and mesomorphs, excess calories are more likely to convert to fat.
Some believe endomorphs are also less able to tolerate carbohydrates, so the best diet for your body type may be one with a higher fat and protein intake and a lower carbohydrate intake, such as the paleo diet or keto diet. This diet can help you lose body fat while keeping your energy level up.
Good sources of fats and proteins include:
- macadamia nuts
- olive oil
- beef
- egg yolks
- fatty fish
- walnuts
- cheese
However, you don’t have to avoid carbohydrates. Carbs are an excellent source of energy. Removing carbs from your diet can trigger side effects, including fatigue.
If too extreme, a low carb diet can also lead to gastrointestinal problems. The trick is choosing the right kind of carbs. Focus on complex carbohydrates such as vegetables, including starchy vegetables like potatoes and tubers, legumes, whole grains, and fruits.
It’s also best to limit your intake of simple carbohydrates. These foods are high in sugar and calories, which can cause fat storage. Simple carbohydrates include white bread, white rice, pasta, cakes, and cookies.
Fruit is a healthy addition to any diet program. If you’re carb-sensitive, eat fruit in moderation. According to the American Council on Exercise, you should follow this formula when planning your daily meals:
- 30 percent carbohydrates
- 35 percent protein
- 35 percent fat
Portion control is also important when reducing body fat as an endomorph. This helps you avoid excess calorie consumption. Eating 200 to 500 fewer calories than you normally consume will also help you reach your weight loss goal.
According to proponents of the diet, because endomorphs have a harder time losing body fat, dieting alone may not be enough to lose weight. It’s also important to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. This is a common recommendation for anyone looking to improve their overall health.
An effective fitness plan includes a combination of weight training and cardio training.
Losing weight can seem like an uphill battle when your efforts don’t pay off. Understanding your individual body type, as well as the unique challenges endomorphs face, may help you drop pounds and hit your fitness goals.
Maintain a low intake of refined carbs, get plenty of regular physical activity, and practice portion control. These are all healthy behaviors recommended for most people. Sticking with this routine may help you shed excess pounds — and keep the weight off.
