Which Weight Loss Diet Is The Best?

A lot of my clients are women who are trying to lose weight and many of them have tried countless number of fad diets - without results. There are a few things to consider when trying to decide which weight loss diet is the best one for you and it's important to remember that not everyone will lose weight on the same menu plan. Incorporating a healthy eating plan with cardio training and strength training will produce the best results. So, when trying to decide whether a low carb or low fat diet is the best weight loss diet, you should be aware of a few things.

Low Carb Diets:

A lot of women I speak to think the low carb diet is best and it certainly can be said that many people have lost weight oncarb-restrictive diets such as the Atkins diet. The premise of the low carb diet is that carbohydrates turn to sugar, so by eliminating and reducing them you take in fewer calories that produce an insulin release which results in unhealthy cravings.

The great thing about the low carbohydrate diet is you can eat lots of protein and fat, so you might be better satisfied. Those that are prone to diabetes will see the benefit of increased insulin sensitivity with decreased insulin levels. The majority of vegetables are suitable except for starchy ones like potatoes, which fall in the category of "white foods" along with pasta, bread, bananas, most beans and corn. The first two weeks are limited to 20 grams of carbs per day followed by 40 grams per day during the weight loss period.

For maintenance, 60 grams of carbs per day are allowed, so that means choosing your carbohydrates carefully. Because carbohydrates are an energy source, the downside of the low carb diet is that you might suffer from decreased energy levels. However you might also find that you feel less hungry on this diet and find it easier to stick with than some others.

Low Fat Diets:

Low fat diets are usually accompanied with high carbs, but most dieters will say these diets are less satisfying than the high fat, low carb diet plans. There are some benefits to a low fat diet because it will lower your blood cholesterol levels and decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease which can be caused by too much fat in the diet. However there are some studies which indicate that the Atkins diet does not increase cholesterol levels.

Portion and Calorie Control Diets:

A healthy eating plan can incorporate a variety of foods, but portion size and calorie counting are essential when it comes to any weight loss diet. There is a simple formula that states, "calories in shouldn't exceed calories burned" or you will end up gaining weight. On the same token, if you incorporate cardio training and strength training, along with a healthy eating plan, you will easily lose weight and be in better health because you'll burn the calories you take in more effectively. So for many dieters, a healthy balanced diet along with an exercise and fitness plan is the best weight loss programme to consider!

This to me is the most sensible eating plan, where all foods are eaten in moderation.

To ensure your body is getting the right nutrients I recommend seeing a nutritionist to help maximize your results.

The author is a women's health and fitness specialist. To find out more visit http://www.fitnessfix.co.nz