With so many fad diets out there, it can be hard to decide what’s true and what’s a scam. What do you actually need to eat less of? Are fats evil? Are carbs? The answer is that it’s complicated.
My personal motto is “everything in moderation, including moderation,” so I try not to deprive myself of pizza or pasta if I’m craving it. I now know that my body secretes more insulin when I eat meals filled with simple carbohydrates, which in turn makes me more susceptible to weight gain. Yikes.
The worst offenders are pastas, bread and cereal. Also not a good idea if you’re trying to keep a trim waistline: soda, beer and fruit juice. Rice, potatoes and other starches should also be avoided when possible.
Interestingly enough, high-fat diets aren’t as bad as you may assume. One study found that people on the Atkins diet, which restricts carbohydrates but allows protein and fats, were more likely to lose weight and see a decrease in blood pressure.
So the next time you reach for a dinner roll or slice of pizza, it may be wise to think again. While you’re in the business of taking care of your body, make sure you check out our post on simple exercises you can do at home.