The Surprising Truth: Why Eating Carbs Might Be the Key to Successful Weight Loss

Eating carbs whilst losing weight?  Surely not!

I get it, you've probably been told a million times that if you want to lose weight, dropping your carbs is the way to go.

I get it, I was there too, and I used to strongly believe that.

I mean damn, I barely touched a carb for 6 years for fear of weight gain (no joke)

The thing is I did lose weight (and you will too) but this isn't because carbs are bad but instead because today carbs make up MOST of our diet.

If you are eating the majority of carbs normally and suddenly stop, you've gone to eating WAY less than you did before.

Hence… Weight loss.

You’re eating less total calories overall. 

So why does eating carbs help me weigh LESS?

Well carbs actually help to build muscle (alongside a proper resistance training program)

And muscle at rest actually burns fat at a higher rate.

Yes, you can become a fat burning machine by doing resistance training and eating carbs.

And carbs are hella delicious so it’s more sustainable and reduces those nasty binges you might have when you have totally cut a food group from your diet. 

Including carbs means it’s something you can keep it up long term without feeling restricted.

So if I could of told myself ONE thing back then, it would be that it doesn't matter.  It doesn't matter whether I was low carb, keto, intermittent fasting, vegan or juicing.

All that mattered was I was hitting my protein target and eating the right calories for weight loss (side note: both need to be worked out individually for the person).

I mean what would you rather….

To lose weight while having none of your favourite foods off limits during the process

Or

Have to change your whole entire life and restrict yourself?

Both will get you to the same place.

I know what I would choose….

The Science

This next section is science based evidence behind what I just said, so read on if that interests you…

Carbohydrates can play a role in sustaining long-term weight loss for several scientific reasons:

The Metabolic Efficiency:

Carbohydrates are the body's preferred energy source. When consumed, they are broken down into glucose, which is readily used by cells for energy. This efficient utilisation of glucose can help ensure that energy needs are met, allowing you to exercise, which is crucial for both weight loss and maintenance.

Muscle Preservation:

Carbohydrates play a role in preserving and building lean muscle mass due to their anabolic effect. Consuming carbohydrates stimulates insulin release, which promotes the uptake of amino acids into muscle cells. This aids in muscle growth and maintenance. More muscle mass leads to a higher resting metabolic rate, as muscle tissue requires more energy to sustain itself.  A higher resting metabolic rate leads to an increased ability to burn fat at rest.

Hormonal Regulation:

Carbohydrates influence insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Balanced carbohydrate intake helps stabilise blood glucose, reducing the risk of insulin spikes and crashes. This, in turn, supports appetite control and prevents excessive calorie consumption, which can undermine weight maintenance.

Serotonin Production:

Carbohydrates have been linked to increased serotonin production. Carbohydrate-rich foods can stimulate the release of tryptophan, an amino acid that serves as a precursor to serotonin. Higher serotonin levels are associated with improved mood and reduced emotional eating, making it easier to adhere to a weight loss plan.

Dietary Variety:

A diet that includes carbohydrates from diverse sources, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, provides a wide range of essential nutrients. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being. Maintaining a nutrient-rich diet can reduce the risk of nutritional deficiencies, which may affect energy levels and overall health during weight loss maintenance.

Sustainability:

Extreme low-carb diets can be difficult to sustain over the long term due to dietary monotony and potential nutrient deficiencies. In contrast, a balanced diet that includes carbohydrates can be more sustainable and enjoyable. This can reduce the risk of diet fatigue and make it easier to adhere to a weight loss plan in the long run.

Physical Performance:

If you engage in regular physical activity, carbohydrates are essential for maintaining energy levels. During exercise, carbohydrates are converted into glycogen and stored in muscles and the liver. This glycogen is readily available for energy during physical activity, helping individuals perform at their best and, in turn, support calorie burning.

In Conclusion

So, what would you choose in your weight loss journey?

To shed the pounds while savouring your favourite foods and living your life without excessive restrictions, or to dramatically alter your entire lifestyle and limit yourself to a narrow set of choices?

The truth is, both approaches can lead you to the same destination.

The real key is finding what works for you and makes you feel good about the process.

In the end, it's not about the carbs; it's about a balanced and sustainable approach to weight loss that you can maintain with a smile on your face.

Always remember that strategy is your friend.  

I hope you got some value out of todays article!

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By us working together, I can simplify and strategically plan your weight loss journey for you without you having to give up your favourite foods or do endless cardio to get results that last. 

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