Recently a study in the New England Journal of Medicine by lead author Dr. Frank M. Sacks has received much attention in the main stream media.
The study is designed to answer a simple question: In the long run (2 years after starting a diet) does the type of diet you choose really make a difference? Four types of diets (low fat + average protein, low fat+ high protein, high fat +low average protein, high fat+high protein) were assigned randomly to 4 groups of overweight, non diabetic patients who were judged to be motivated and willing to do 90 minutes of physical activity and attend group counseling sessions.
The study concluded that all four diets produced similar results in those patients who lost weight. In fact what really did seem to matter was the fact that those most successful at weight loss simply consumed fewer calories. Translation, they ate smaller portions. So calories do count far more than the percentage of carbs, fat and protein you consume. And a good way to control calories is to control portion size. That is far more important than fooling yourself by thinking that the composition of the diet will win the day for you!
So two of my Four Simple Rules are validated by the study
Eat Less
Be Active
Now for my other two rules:
Choose well what you eat. As for the composition of your diet, I feel strongly that you should follow a diet which decreases your risk of stroke and heart attack. That is a Mediterranean style diet. Check out this link to learn more: <!–[if supportFields]> SEQ CHAPTER \h \r 1<![endif]–><!–[if supportFields]> <![endif]–>http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mediterranean-diet/CL00011
This diet is easy, simple, tasty and not hard to follow. But like all diets you must control portion size or you will not succeed in the long run.
And now for my rule four which is usually neglected or ignored:
Cope with stress without using food as a salve. Control your emotional eating and your weight will stabilize.
If you are motivated, I can help you make these four simple rules natural habits which become a part of your life. I look forward to helping you.
Why not come to my weight loss seminar this summer in New York or work with me via video consult.
Best Regards,
Larry Deutsch, M.D