Forget fad low-carb diets. Decades of research confirms that good old calorie counting delivers the best results for shedding pounds.
Diets like South Beach, Atkins, and Sonja Bakker's all boil down to one key: eat fewer calories to lose weight. Scientists at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center proved it—cutting calories leads to body fat loss, no matter the protein or carb ratios.
Balancing Protein and Carbs
In a study, participants followed diets varying in protein but equal in carbs. Those with the lowest protein lost the most weight initially, but it was muscle—not fat. This risks health issues and slows metabolism, making future weight gain more likely.
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The American Dietetic Association backs calorie reduction. Spokesperson Lona Sandon notes, “Modern diets complicate protein needs, but total calorie intake drives weight changes.” No need to ditch cheese or steak—focus on portion sizes.
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