There are two theories to fat loss! The calorie theory & the carbohydrate theory! Some fitness experts believe that one of these theories is far superior to the other, but we believe that both play a major role in fat loss! (The main reason for creating The Formula recipe book).
Carbohydrate Theory
This is the belief that the amount of carbohydrates consumed by an individual determines the amount of fat that is stored in the body. There are a large number of studies that show the carbohydrate theory (low carbohydrate diet) to work for fat loss. The body can hold around 300-500 grams in the muscles and liver. If these stores are full and you continue to consume carbohydrate rich foods the body will convert this energy to fat and store this for a later date!
If you consume a diet rich in quality proteins and fats and lower in carbohydrates, you are less likely to store body fat and may increase your fat burning ability. What is important to note is that you cannot dramatically over consume calories even on a lower carbohydrate diet and still burn body fat!
This theory does work to a certain extent but it doesn’t mean that you need to eliminate all carbohydrates from your diet. Rather you need to eliminate processed carbohydrates or ones that are high on the glycemic index (foods loaded with sugar, such as cakes, sweets & sugary drinks). Eating plant-based carbohydrates (vegetables, fruits and whole grains) is an integral part of any fat loss diet to maintain consistent blood sugar levels, provide essential fibre as well vitamins and minerals.
How do people that already eat ‘clean’, with fewer processed carbohydrates, lose even more body fat!? During our 10+ years as personal trainers this is the area where we notice clients struggling the most. Once they’ve lost the initial fat through improving their diet (eating ‘cleaner’) as well as increasing exercise intensity and frequency, progression rapidly slows down, leaving them frustrated and wondering what all the effort is for. It’s at this point where I have to start educating clients about calories and the importance of them. Confusing I know, but don’t fear we will explain all in our forthcoming article The Calorie Theory.
If you struggle to find balanced, healthy meals that fit in line with your goals, check out out FORMULA ebook – easy to follow delicious, recipes that are tailored to you as an individual.
