I was reading earlier about tips to control hunger, which goes on about how a calorie deficit is the best way to lose weight. The problem with a calorie deficit, though, is that if you do not eat enough then you will actually get fatter because your metabolism will slow way down in an effort to preserve energy and will store more fat than it otherwise might.
Rather than trying to eat less, people should concentrate on eating a more balanced diet.
Amen. This is what more people need to hear. Rather than limiting themselves to 900 calories a day (for example). I am just not breaking through this barrier with my wife.
Chris, take a look at Eat to be Fit. He has some good programs in there for combining diet and exercise to achieve goals, especially where those goals involve weight loss. Mike is a big proponent of not using a huge calorie deficit in order to lose weight.
I’ve never actually tried losing weight (I’ve always been underweight, not over), but your argument makes perfect sense. Apart from the benefits of a change in weight, a balanced diet brings with it a fantastic range of health benefits.
I have been trying to eat a balanced meal regime of three 500 calorie meals, and 2-3 150 calorie snacks. In two weeks time I have gained 5 lbs! I am not sure if taking in more calories is for everyone.