There are different ways to lose weight, but not all of them are healthy and sustainable. One example is counting calories, which is actually counterproductive to your weight loss.
In this article, we’ll discuss why calorie deficits are unhealthy and the best ways to lose weight quickly.
How to Lose Weight the Wrong Way
It’s important to understand that there are healthy and unhealthy ways to lose weight. Quick fixes, like calorie deficits, are temporary and can be dangerous to your overall health.
A calorie deficit, or calorie cutting, is when you consume fewer calories than your body needs to maintain its current weight. If a quick and unhealthy process is what you’re looking for, then things like calorie cutting may work for you. But keep in mind that it’s not a healthy or long-term option for losing weight.
It Can Cause Nutrient Deficiencies
The most important thing to note about calorie cutting is that it’s not customized to your personal needs. This means that calorie deficits can make imbalances and deficiencies worse. Even if you’re in perfect health, calorie-cutting doesn’t count the vitamins and other nutrients you will lose. In turn, this can put you at risk of developing a deficiency.
Slowing Down Your Metabolism
When you’re in a deficit, your body sees the lack of calories as starvation – not dieting. So it adjusts the metabolism accordingly, slowing it down to conserve energy by burning fewer calories during physical activity and while at rest.
Remember that having a fast metabolism helps with burning calories, which helps with losing weight. A diet that forces your body into survivor mode will inevitably slow down your weight loss – leaving you frustrated, deprived, and hungry.
What You Lose Will Come Back
In addition, deficits are unsustainable, and the weight you lose will come back since this is only a temporary solution. For a more healthy lifestyle, focus on what you eat – not how much. This way, your body will learn to burn energy rather than store it.
@themetabolismreboot Should you count calories to lose weight? #metabolism #over40 #menopause #caloriedeficit #claoriecounting #themetabolismreboot ♬ original sound – Jared McDonald
How to Lose Weight Fast
Now that we’ve covered why calorie-cutting doesn’t work long-term, let’s look at some proven methods you can incorporate into your lifestyle. If you’re wondering how to lose weight fast, try the following:
Strength Training
Strength training is a great way to boost your metabolism. Muscle burns more calories at rest than fat does. So increasing your muscle mass will naturally help you burn more calories throughout the day, resulting in weight loss. Moreover, regular training will also help you to maintain your weight, keeping pounds off permanently.
Eat Lean Protein
Boosting your metabolism starts with what you eat (not how much). And, protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. Your body also burns more calories digesting it than it does digesting other carbs or fat.
Remember to include protein in your meals so that you can effectively boost your metabolism. Also, keep in mind that eating well-proportioned meals are just as important. Too much of anything can be negative.
Balanced Eating
As mentioned earlier, calorie deficits slow down your metabolism and can make you gain weight. So it’s important to make sure that you’re eating enough calories to support your metabolic needs.
However, be sure not to overeat. Instead, focus on nourishing your body with nutrient-dense foods (protein, fish, seafood, fruits, and vegetables) that support fast and healthy weight loss.
Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is essential for overall health, but it’s also important for weight loss. In fact, a lack of rest can disrupt hormones that regulate appetite and your metabolic system which can lead to weight gain.
If you’re struggling to have a good night’s sleep, aim for an average of 8 hours of rest per night. Additionally, establish a regular sleep schedule to promote healthy sleeping habits.
Need Help Losing Weight?
Want to learn more about factors affecting your weight loss? The Metabolism Reboot can help you focus on issues that are stopping you from reaching your goals. With a free consultation, our experts will be happy to assist you!