Quality of food is more important than just counting calories for weight loss and overall health.
Understanding energy balance and creating a sustainable plan with balanced meals is essential for long-term weight loss.
Hormones like leptin and ghrelin play a significant role in weight loss, and understanding their relationship with appetite regulation can aid in sustainable fat loss.
Deep dives
Importance of Quality Food
We should focus on the quality of the food we eat rather than just the numbers. Nutrients and their quality play a crucial role in our overall health and well-being.
Challenges with Calorie Counting
Calorie counting alone is not suitable for long-term weight loss. It is essential to understand the concept of energy balance and create a sustainable plan that includes balanced meals.
Impact of Hormones on Weight Loss
Hormones, such as leptin and ghrelin, play a significant role in weight loss. Understanding the relationship between hormones and appetite regulation can be helpful for achieving sustainable fat loss.
Relevance of Gut Health
While gut health can influence weight loss, there is still much to learn about the specific connections and mechanisms. Eating a diverse range of plant-based foods and fiber is generally beneficial for both gut health and weight management.
Risks of Weight Loss Medications
Weight loss medications may have a place in specific medical contexts, but for the average person, they may not be necessary or suitable. Rapid weight loss can lead to muscle loss and other negative health effects in the long term.
Limitations of Glucose Monitoring
Glucose monitors may not be necessary for everyone. Unless there is a specific medical need, monitoring glucose levels may not significantly impact one's weight loss journey or overall health.
‘Eat less, move more’ is what many of us assume is the way forward for weight loss. However, with people opting for low calorie diets and increasing the amount of exercise they do, should we be shifting our focus away from cutting calories for good in order for us to be healthy. This week’s Food For Thought sees dietitian Leanne Ward and I discuss whether it really is as simple as energy in vs energy out, and if this is the best way to measure our health. Plus for more information, visit Rhitrition.com, Instagram.com/rhitrition, Rhitritionplus.com, Instagram.com/rhitritionplus.
