How do you lose weight?

Question

Give me simple details with simple explanation on how to lose weight. The answer should NOT include the word energy but a simple calculation detailing the proces of how to gain/lose weight.

Answer 1

Good question!

When I attended college with a major in Exercise Physiology, I often thought that lossing weight was:

Calories in/Calories Out. As long as I "burned" more calories than I consumed then someone could lose weight. Boy, was I far off!

There is a science that I have learned over the past 10 years now as a Physician Assistant when it comes to healthy weight loss/gain or even maintenance. It is the quality of food consumed, not just the quantity. With the highly processed, sugar-laden foods (and with unpronounceable preservatives), our bodies just are storing the excess calories (and unrecognized "foods") as fat. Sugary drinks are not helping either. Well, I could go on with that a while, I digress.

Most people who want to gain weight need to consume higher amounts of food Calories in terms of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Maintain healthy weight gain with moderate exercise (with weight training) and adequate sleep (which helps with anabolism).

To lose weight, consume a diet with moderate protein, more healthy fats, and if desired, whole grain carbs. Make sure to stay hydrated and exercise often with weight training and cardiovascular activity. Sleep is important in these folks too!

I hope this all helps!

Cheers,

Frank, PA-C

Answer 2

Losing weight consists of diet and exercise. Mostly of diet. You want to limit your starches and increase your intake of veggies and protein. If you're a beginner in exercising, start off with Cardio. 5 days a week! That will be a great start!