Many of us have probably heard the expression “calorie restriction’” when it comes to losing weight. But what exactly does it mean? And how is it different from “calorie counting’” or “counting calories’?
Here are the basics: calorie restriction means denying yourself a certain number of calories each day. You can use this form of deprivation to reduce your overall body weight or to help manage a particular health condition. (For example, some medical professionals recommend adopting a calorie restriction diet for diabetics who are looking to lower their blood sugar levels.)
How much weight can you lose in a week? That depends on how much you weigh to start with and how much you restrict yourself daily. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to weight loss, but most dieters agree that for optimal results, you should be losing about 1 to 2 pounds per week. To get started, simply take your weight in pounds and divide it by 2. That will give you your daily caloric target for a week. (Note: You may not experience optimal results if you are significantly over or underweight to begin with.)
For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, that would be 100 calories per day. Divide 100 by 7 to get 14.3 calories per day. Now you can start counting calories!
There are a number of different approaches to weight loss. If you’re looking for a way to shed those extra pounds, perhaps try a calorie restriction diet. You may have also heard of a macrobiotic diet, which focuses on whole grains and organic produce. Or maybe you’ve tried the trendy keto diet, which is high in fat and low in carbohydrates. Each of these dietary approaches can help promote weight loss. (Just remember: what works for one person may not work for another.)
What Is the Difference Between the Three Main Forms of Limiting Your Caloric Intake?
People who are counting calories usually restrict themselves to certain foods or nutrient-rich “bounties’” such as olive oil, berries, or avocado. Others opt for a very limited amount of food each day – known as “eating clean’” or “orthorexia”. Still others choose to eat only what their bodies need in order to control their calorie intake. This option, called “calorie restriction,’” is the most effective method of weight loss.
Why Would You Want to Lose Weight?
Many of us are led to believe that if we want to lose weight, we have to deprive ourselves of tasty foods. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. (In fact, some of the tastiest foods are the ones that give you the most nutritional benefit.)
If you’re looking to shed a few pounds, you should first determine whether or not you’re at a stage in your life where weight is holding you back. If so, then you should consider whether or not calorie counting is the best approach for you. (It depends on your own personal situation.)
If you’re already at a healthy weight and you just want to maintain it, then you might be better off focusing on eating healthy foods and engaging in regular exercise. (Try looking into the diets of well-known healthy individuals such as Dr. Dean Ornish or the Indian scientist, Dr. C. Madhavapeddy. They often cite eating a plant-based diet as the main factor helping them stay fit.)
There are a variety of ways in which calorie counting can help you lose weight. (And for some people, it may be the only approach that works.) If this sounds good to you and you’d like to try it out, then simply take your pick from the three main options mentioned above. However, keep in mind that if you’re serious about losing weight, you should consult with a nutritionist or physician who can help you set up a diet plan unique to your own personal needs.