04 Jun Counting Calories to Lose Weight
Counting Calories to Lose Weight
Most of us are often confused whether we should count calories or carbs to lose weight. This confusion is the result of calories versus sugar debate. So what really matter when trying to lose weight?? Counting calories or reducing sugary carbohydrates ?
The basic thumb rule when trying to lose weight is to burn more calories than you consume. This can also be done by reducing your daily calorie intake. Your calorie intake for a day comprise of protein, sugar, fat and carbohydrates. Thus one should pay attention to what you are putting in your mouth. Lets understand how each one of these dietary components effects our total intake of a given day…
Fat: Fat gives you feeling of fullness and satiated. One gram of fat gives nine calories in compare to carbohydrates and proteins which give four calories per gram. If you eat food high in fat your total calorie will increase. But if taken reasonable amount of healthy fat such as nuts, you will feel satisfied sooner and eat less. Thus will helps in better weight loss.
Sugar: Sugar is not bad for you if taken in moderation. But consuming loads of it, will increase your total calorie intake. Most of the processed food we eat these days, for e.g., ketchup, canned fruits, canned juices are loaded with sugar. They don’t provide healthy nutrients to your body and unnecessary fill you with extra calories. We should cut down on these kind of sugar rather than sugar found in fruits and vegetables.
Carbohydrates: It is good source of energy for our body. One gram of carbs provides four calories. One should be careful while choosing the carbohydrates. Eating refined carbs like white bread or rice increases your calorie count. Instead one should go for carbohydrates which are rich in nutrients like vitamins and minerals for e.g. , fruits, vegetables and whole grains are good carbohydrates.
To conclude, calorie count is important when you are trying to lose weight. A balance diet with right amount of carbohydrates, proteins and fat is vital for provide right nutrients to the body. One should keep carbohydrates within the recommended range i.e., 50 to 60% of your total calorie intake. This will also help you eat right amount of healthy proteins and fats. Thus by consuming a healthy and balance diet you will provide your body with right nutrients to stay active and lose weight in a healthy way.
For any queries related to weight loss, you can write to Dr Amit Garg ( Bariatric & Metabolic Surgeon, Chandigarh, India) at codsils.info@gmail.com or call us at +91 7986991767, +91 6283337650
