Which diet works best? A new study shows it doesn’t mattter which diet you follow, as long as you count your calories.
The truth is you can lose weight on either a high protein diet or a high carb diet as long as you stick to your plan and keep your calories under control.
The bottom line is calorie counting, according to a study by Dr, Krebs at the University of Otago in New Zealand. The results of the study showed that dieters lost weight using both diet plans. In fact, you can even switch back and forth between these diets plans as long as you control your total calories.
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The Benefits of a High Protein Diet
Protein helps you feel full longer, gives your muscles what they need to perform strenuous exercise and aids in muscle repair post-workout. Choose leans cuts of meat like turkey and chicken breast, fish and eggs to get a high dose of protein without adding extra calories or fat. Eating a high protein diet doesn’t have to mean a high fat diet. Counting calories can help you stay on track and lose weight faster.
The Benefits of a High Carb Diet
Clearly, eating a lot of cookies and bagels won’t help you reach your weight loss goals. Eating foods high in fiber, however, like oatmeal, bran cereal, whole wheat pasta and whole grain breads can help you lose weight. Like protein, fiber helps you feel satisfied longer, which reduces cravings and helps you eat less food. The trick is to eat these foods in moderation to avoid consuming too many calories. Pair high carb meals with vegetables and lean protein.
Calorie Restriction Leads to Weight Loss
The age-old practice of counting calories is still the best measure for weight loss. Fad diets that expect you to avoid whole food groups are devised with the same theory in mind, omit a category of food that is high in calories. You don’t have to omit carbs or fats in order to lose weight though. Staying in your calorie range while limiting sweets and other empty calories can help you lose weight and keep it off.
According to the Mayo Clinic, its calorie restriction, not the type of food you eat that promotes weight loss. While its healthier to eat lean meats, vegetables and some fruits, its more important to know your caloric limits and stay within your daily range.
Sources
- “Calories Not Protein or Carbs Are Key to Weight Loss Study”Healthy Day News. Alex Mozes. June 26, 2011.
- “Counting Calories:Get Back to Weight Loss Basics. Mayo Clinic.
- “The Dos and Don’t’s of Counting Calories.” Web Md. Jenny Stamos Kovacs, Feb 09, 2009.
