If you are trying to lose weight, it might be tempting to switch over to low calorie foods as a way to speed up the process. Unfortunately, this might have the opposite effect on your overall weight–and it might make sustainable weight loss even more difficult, resulting in a slower metabolism. Likewise, even if you do see some weight loss initially with restricting your calorie intake, you are most likely going to gain it back.
That does not mean that weight loss is out of reach though; there are other, more long term solutions to seeing the changes you want.
Keep reading for more information!
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Low Calorie Foods
According to US News, low calorie foods can make it difficult for your body to regulate your appetite, which can make eating in moderation more difficult.
The article explains, "Foods that are high in volume but low in calories may seem like a good idea to your brain (who doesn’t want to be able to eat the whole pint of ice cream?), but in reality, you’re trying to trick your body, and that never works in the long run."
"Physically filling up your stomach is only one part of your body’s appetite regulation equation. The three macronutrients – protein, carbohydrates and fat – all play a role in triggering a cascade of events and hormones that signal to your body that it is done eating. If you’re missing out on any of these food components, you may feel physically full for a short while, but soon after, you’ll find yourself hungry again," the article continues.
With that in mind, choosing a low calorie food could lead to more cravings throughout the day.
A low calorie diet might also lead to a slower metabolism.
Dr. David Ludwig Physician, Nutrition Researcher, and Public Health Advocate. explains to Medium, "When you eat fewer calories, the body becomes more efficient and burns fewer calories, even as your desire for extra calories heightens. This combination of rising hunger and slowing metabolism is a recipe for failure."
This makes it nearly impossible to stick to a low calorie diet in the long run.
With that in mind, instead of stocking up on low calorie foods, try choosing whole, unprocessed foods instead. These foods can help fill you up by giving your body the nutrients it needs, making eating in moderation a much easier task.
Plus, this can be a much more sustainable change--and one that will not slow down your metabolism.
