Over the years, there have been several diet ideas – some suppress your appetite to reduce your calorie intake, a number of them boost your metabolism so you can burn fats faster, while others inhibit the absorption of fats in the body. Today, a new weight loss is rapidly emerging: the corset diet. I already wrote about this topic, but this diet intrigued me so much that I had to write the part two (especially after the comment I've read on part one). Enjoy!
How the Corset Diet Works
The corset diet involves wearing a corset and putting pressure on your waistline and stomach. One of the main reasons why gastric bypass surgery is so effective is because the patient’s stomach is made smaller, so they feel satisfied much more quickly when eating. A corset brings about a similar effect; it places pressure on the stomach, making you feel full quickly. The food is also digested more slowly, keeping you from wanting to eat again for longer. Moreover, by reducing your waistline by a few inches, the corset diet therefore supports your lower back, improves posture and makes your clothing look better.
How to Follow the Corset Diet:
Beginners’ Tips:
If you are just starting out, choose an under-the-bust corset instead of a full corset that covers your bust. Your body must first become used to the constriction of tight-lacing – wearing a full corset from the start may make the experience an uncomfortable one.
Choosing your Corset
Start with corset that is about 4 to 5 inches smaller than your current waist measurement. To get the most accurate size of your waist, stand in front of a mirror and measure the narrowest part of the waist; for females, this is normally just above the navel by one or two inches and for males, just below the navel by the same number of inches. So, if your waist is 34”, purchase a 30” corset. Over a period of time, once the corset gradually gets broken-in, you should be able to close the corset and obtain a full 4-inch reduction.
Materials for the inner lining and outer panels may vary, but the best option is the 100% cotton lining as it makes your garment breathable. The outer panels may be manufactured from leather, pvc, silk or the most commonly used, satin. Buying corsets online at corsets shops is preferable since it gives you access to a range of designs from different dealers, at competitive prices. Note that the lighter color designs get dirty faster than the plain black satin.
How to Wear your Corset
The new corset ought to be broken in, or else the garment will get damaged. In the first few weeks of wearing it, you should not over-cinch. Tighten your garment evenly and ensure that it is not too tight. Corset panels are quite stiff when new and together with the flexible steel bones, they must be allowed adapt and change shape in line with where your hips and ribs are. This will take time. If the process is rushed, you may injure yourself or break the panel seam or steel bone.
Once it is worn-in, you can then start to tighten the garment a little more every time you wear it, until when you attain your comfort level. Later, as part of your long-term weight loss goals, you can proceed to the subsequent size down corset. Depending on your body shape however, the corset may not close fully. Wear the corset 3 to 6 hours every day, and do not go to bed in a steel boned corset.
Maintaining your Corset
Below are some precautions you can take so as to extend the life of your garment:
Wear the corset with a tight camisole or t-shirt. This will protect it from oils and moisture from the body.
Air dry your corset each evening. Turn the lining to its upper side and drape it over the back of a chair. Do not hang it near a source of heat as it will cause shrinkage and damage its stitches.
Alternate your corsets – instead of buying one luxurious corset, purchase 2 reasonably priced and durable ones and use them interchangeably.
Clean your corset regularly – wipe clean the outside or the liner of your corset with a damp cloth. If you want to do a thorough cleaning, take it to the drycleaner. Never wash the corset.
What to eat
There are certain types of foods that are not recommended for corset wear. Avoid foods that cause bloating and gas as they can cause discomfort when wearing the corset. Avoid over eating as well. Some people like limiting their carbohydrate intake while corseting, though it is imperative for you consume a balanced diet and not deprive the body of certain foods.
Make your food choices properly – steer clear of junk food and consume a healthy diet consisting of vegetables and fresh fruit. Furthermore, eat foods such as, nuts, lean beef, chicken and peas, which are rich in protein and help to keep your energy levels high. Drink enough water (at least eight hours daily) to remove toxins in the body that cause weight gain and to keep your food cravings at bay.
Exercise
Exercise is crucial to any weight loss regime. Corsets support your lower back and stomach, and the muscles in these areas get more strained than usual, so exercises are even more important when you are corseting. Walking is one of the exercises that can be performed with your corset on. Other forms of exercises need to be done without the corset. If you already have a regular exercise regime, take off the corset before embarking on the exercise, and put it back on once you are finished.
If you are not exercising currently, it is advisable to commence a regular regime of daily toning and stretching exercises. Exercises are extremely helpful during the first few days when you feel sore and achy after removing the corset. Start your toning and stretching plan at least one or two weeks before you start wearing the corset. This way, you can determine the tolerance levels of your body.
Conclusion
Regardless of your weight loss goals – whether long-term or short-term – a corset will most definitely help you shed off that extra fat around the waist. For long-term results however, the corset diet must always be accompanied with a healthy eating and regular exercise.
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Add a Comment2 Comments
Hi DaisyN,
I'm glad I contributed Empowher with something new, lol :) I suggest consulting the physician too. Thanks for your comment.
Regards,
Maya
March 2, 2014 - 11:59amThis Comment
Hi Maya,
Thanks for sharing this information. I have never heard of this type of diet before, I do hope anyone interested in this type of diet. Will consult with their physician first.
Best,
Daisy
March 1, 2014 - 8:08pmThis Comment