Feb 25, 2009 6:00 pm US/Eastern
Health: Low Calorie Diets
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
Forget about low carbohydrate and high protein. Whether it's pasta or steak, it's the calories that count, according to new research published in The New England Journal of Medicine.
"I always have raw vegetables on me. It's just quick and easy, and I can eat them as I work," said Heather Travis who has lost 23 pounds on Weight Watchers, with an emphasis on low calorie foods that fill you up like produce and lean protein.
"I always get the extra lean ground meat and ground turkey," said Heather.
The new National Institutes of Health diet study trackers 800 people for two years, on four heart healthy diet plans. They all had the same calorie reductions, but different percentages of fat, protein and carbohydrates. The dieters lost, on average, 13 pounds in six months.
"Whether it be from cutting back on your carbs, cutting back on your fat, cutting back on your protein, cutting calories overall is what results in a weight loss," said Temple University's Registered Dietitian Becky Dilks.
She says it's all about making healthy food choices. Chicken instead of steak can save hundreds of calories. Laying off junk food and sweets will also keep the calorie count down.
"You're looking for a calorie deficit when you're trying to lose weight. Try to eat, less exercise more. Get that calorie deficit in order for your body to burn the calories," said Becky.
In the study, dieters who attended regular weight loss counseling sessions were most successful.
And remember to lose just one pound you have to burn or not eat 3,500 calories. Exercise is important to help people lose weight.
RELATED LINK:
New England Journal of Medicine
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