The benefits to slow weight loss (Part 2)
Posted by Eamonn Brady on
This is a continuation of last week’s article.
Why slow weight loss is easier to maintain
Every woman needs to intake 1900 calories a day and every man needs to intake 2450 calories a day. By restricting your calorie intake over a long period of time, you may slow down your metabolism and as a result weight loss will become slower. When your weight loss is slower your metabolism is kept constant and you lose weight steadily. You are not restricting calories or food and your diet will be more balanced and healthy. You will see better weight loss results down the line. Not only are you sheading the pounds but you are educating yourself on healthy eating habits that are easier to maintain. Your energy levels are increased, unhealthy food cravings are reduced and you are not obsessing over food.
Losing weight slowly is safer
By losing weight at a slower pace you are less likely to experience nutritional deficiencies, dehydration and it gives your body time to adjust to the new changes in lifestyle and diet. Fast weight loss can lead to anxiety and the body will crave food causing you to binge eat. You may feel like you have failed in your attempt to lose weight and after a period of binge eating or unhealthy eating you will try a quick fix diet again. This is what’s called “yoyo” dieting and is extremely damaging to the body when done long term. When losing weight slowly you tend to keep the weight off long term.
Reduces muscle loss
Another advantage to slower weight loss is the reduction in muscle loss. Muscle tissue burns more calories than fat tissue does, for this reason it’s vital to maintain our muscle stores. We all have muscles and when you are on a calorie restricted diet the body will try and obtain energy from your muscle cells as it is not getting sufficient energy from your food. This can result in muscle loss and a reduction in muscle tone. By losing the weight at a slower rate you are giving your body (and muscles) sufficient energy from your food.
Reduced fatigue
By losing weight slowly your body does not feel deprived of food as you are following the eating little and often analogy. You are receiving a steady flow of energy from your food and you can lead an active lifestyle. When you restrict calories and macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, fat) your body is not receiving adequate energy and this can leave you tired and fatigued.
Whelehans Nutrition Service
Whelehans nutritional service is a private one to one advice service with our nutritionist Aisling Murray. Aisling’s areas of interest include weight loss management, nutrition education and food intolerance. Our nutrition service offers you the chance to change your life in a positive way by focusing on your overall wellbeing as well as the chance to follow up on your progress. Plans start from only €10 per week.
Aisling Murray has a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and offers a one to one specialist nutrition service at Whelehans Pharmacy. Call Whelehans at 04493 34591 for an appointment