While losing weight healthily and changing your eating and lifestyle habits may not be easy, the sheer amount of information, tips and advice that’s available, some of it conflicting, can create a level of confusion that makes success even more difficult.
But the recently released results of an extensive study done by researchers at Tufts University helps cut through the clutter. The research of over 16 years of data from more than 120,000 women and men points to some simple, basic ways to lose weight and keep it off.
Choose Low-Glycemic Foods
You’ve heard of high-carb, low-carb and no-carb diets; so which is best? It turns out that we should check the “glycemic load” (GL – also glycemic index) of the foods we eat at least as much as levels of carbohydrates. Foods with a high GL were linked to weight gain. High GLs, like those found in processed grains, starches and sugars, cause our blood-sugar levels to spike higher, which triggers insulin production and causes the body to store more of the extra energy.
Certain Protein-Rich Foods Really Help Shed the Pounds
The study found that boosting the consumption of yogurt, seafood, skinless chicken and nuts reduced weight gain.
Full-Fat Dairy is Not the Enemy You Think It Is
A balanced diet that included high-fat dairy foods, like whole milk and full-fat cheese, was not related to weight gain. In fact, eating too many low-fat dairy foods was linked to an increase in carb consumption and a corresponding increase in weight.
Don’t Over-Stress About Calories
Yes, you need to have a good idea of your calorie consumption and burn to know that they are in proper balance. But focusing on what the study reveals, which is really that good eating habits are crucial for weight management, is better than obsessing over calorie counts.
There are few studies made from databases as extensive as this one. But it is important to remember that there is an exception to every rule. Not everyone in the study got the same results and you might not get the results highlighted above.
If you would like to learn more about a weight management program designed specifically for your body type and weight loss goals, talk to one of the nutritional consultants at your local Herbal One Centre.
Source:
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/simple-rules-weight-loss/story?id=31243000