Low Meat Diet Possible Key to Weight Loss, Fat Reduction
Consuming too much meat, especially red and processed meat has been linked to increased risk of heart disease and cancer, and now those trying to lose weight are well advised to limit total calories from all meat sources. Research reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition links a diet high in meat to excessive weight gain when compared to people eating the same number of calories from non-meat sources.
The results of this study highlight the importance of eating a well balanced, reduced calorie diet for optimal health and weight management goals. All calories are not created equal, and don’t have the same impact on our metabolism and ability to store or release fat for use as energy. Meat is high in calories and protein which alters the way our body regulates appetite.
Healthy weight loss and maintenance are the result of a combination of lifestyle modifications which impact our genes and the way we utilize energy. Lowering calories from meat sources in favor of fiber rich vegetables is one step toward altering metabolic balance. You’ll need to establish a multi-step approach to reach your permanent weight goal.
Step 1: Focus on Proper Food Balance
People trying to lose weight must be mindful of the amount of food eaten, but research from the Harvard School of Public Health suggests that eating a well balanced array of different foods may be the key to controlling weight. They have developed their own ‘Healthy Eating Pyramid’ which allows for large quantities of fresh vegetables, healthy fats, oils and grains.
The pyramid minimizes foods such as dairy, red meat, refined carbs such as rice, bread and pasta, potatoes, sugary drinks, sweets and salt. Many people find that when they follow a well balanced diet plan consisting of the proper blend of food groups, eat at home regularly and use smaller plate sizes for meals, they’re able to naturally lose weight without the need to count calories.
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