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This week on the podcast, I’m diving into a topic that sounds too good to be true: eating whatever you want and still losing weight. You might be skeptical, thinking I’m about to pull a bait-and-switch but stick with me. This episode is all about exploring this concept truthfully and practically.
Eat Whatever You Want And Lose Weight
The Myth and Reality of “Eat Whatever You Want”
The idea that you can eat whatever you want and still lose weight sounds like a marketing gimmick. But here’s the shocker: it’s technically true! However, there’s a crucial caveat. While you can lose weight eating whatever you want, you cannot lose weight eating as much as you want of whatever you want.
Let’s break this down. Imagine you love candy, pizza, or doughnuts. Technically, you could lose weight by eating only these foods if you control your portions strictly enough. At the end of the day, weight loss boils down to a simple equation: calories in versus calories out.
Calories and Energy Balance
Weight loss is about tilting the energy balance in your favor. Your body needs a certain amount of energy (calories) just to function, even when you’re not moving. This is your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR). On top of that, any physical activity increases your energy expenditure. So, if you consume fewer calories than you burn, you will lose weight.
The Pitfalls of Portion Control with Junk Food
Here’s the tricky part. While you can lose weight by eating junk food by controlling portions, it’s incredibly challenging. Foods high in sugar, fat, and salt trigger our brain’s reward system, making us crave more. Practicing strict portion control with these foods requires immense willpower and discipline—resources that are limited.
Moreover, a diet composed mainly of junk food, even in controlled portions, lacks essential nutrients. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies, making you feel worse even as you lose weight. You might lose muscle mass and feel fatigued and unhealthy.
Best Practices for Sustainable Weight Loss
Instead of fighting against your body’s natural tendencies and cravings, I recommend stacking the deck in your favor. This means following best practices for nutrition and weight loss, such as:
- Eating High-Quality Protein: Helps maintain muscle mass and keeps you full longer.
- Including Plenty of Vegetables: Packed with essential nutrients and fiber.
- Consistent Meal Timing: Eating regularly throughout the day to avoid extreme hunger and overeating.
The Role of Breakfast
I know intermittent fasting is popular, but skipping breakfast might not be the best strategy if you’re struggling with weight loss. A balanced breakfast can kickstart your metabolism and set a positive tone for the rest of the day.
To sum up, yes, you can technically eat whatever you want and lose weight by controlling portions. However, this approach is not sustainable or healthy in the long run. The best way to lose weight and keep it off is to follow practices that stack the deck in your favor. This involves eating nutrient-dense foods, maintaining a balanced diet, and being mindful of your overall lifestyle.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to weight loss. The key is to find what works best for you and supports your overall health and well-being.
