There is nothing worse than feeling like you are putting lots of effort in and not getting the results you hoped for. The fitness world can add plenty of confusion to our efforts with all kinds of conflicting information out there about the BEST DIET to have you dropping weight fast, getting you amazing results in no time at all. Often supported by some impressive before and after photos that make you sit up and pay attention.
“I think I’ll give that a try” you think to yourself, so off you go, following the protocols as best you can. Invariably, the results don’t come as quickly, or you find it hard to stick to the plan, you feel terrible and struggle to function properly.
You may have heard the expression “The best diet for you is the one you can stick to” – this holds true because most diets “work” where you can follow the principles involved:

  • Fasting “works” because you invariably consume less calories by skipping out on a meal (eg breakfast)
  • Low carb “works” because you consume less calories by reducing your intake of a key macronutrient
  • Paleo “works” because you consume less processed food which results in less calorie intake
  • The 5 & 2 diet works because it reduces your weekly calorie intake
  • If It Fits Your Macros works because you consume a pre-set amount of calories

I’m sure you see where I am going with this. To lose weight through your nutrition, you need to reduce your calorie intake. You can work on your “energy equation” by considering movement and your general activity as well, however the single most impactful variable you can control to manage your weight is through your food and nutrition.

Nutrition education forms a big part of what we do with our clients. We would rather teach you principles to apply as opposed to trying to have you adapt to a pre-set/rigid plan that does not suit your circumstances.

This education starts with building your awareness around your current habits and how they are impacting on your goals, considering things like:

  • your weekly calorie intake (weekdays and weekends)
  • recent weight history (have you put on weight relatively recently or over an extended period)
  • energy from snacks vs main meals
  • how your energy is across the day
  • quality of your sleep
  • access to good quality food and available time

Reality is over time, we will often suggest a number of principles from the aforementioned diets to help you towards your goals. Your situation is most likely different to the person featured in the picture anyways, your needs are specific to you and should be managed accordingly. Having a coach to work with on your nutrition serves a few purposes:

  • accountability to keep you on track
  • support and coaching should you fall off track
  • the ability to change things for you where they are not working
  • ongoing education to build your confidence in managing your weight for the long run.

The best diet to help you lose weight? One that blocks out all the noise and focuses in on you and your situation.