A Whole Foods Diet is the Only Diet You Need

A major new study from the Stanford University School of Medicine shows the types of foods we choose plays a bigger role in weight loss success than what type of diet we decide to adhere to. The researchers recruited 609 overweight adult men and women who were then randomized into one of two diet groups for a 1-year period: low-carbohydrate or low-fat. Those on the low-fat diet consumed about 48% of their calories from carbs and 29% from fat while those in the low-carb group consumed roughly 30% of their calories from carbs and 45% from fat. Importantly, protein intake was matched between diet interventions and people were not given any specific calorie restraints that they had to adhere to. The key was that both groups were counselled to eat mostly vegetables and other whole foods – the low-fat group was told to select plenty of whole grains, legumes and fruits, while the low-carb group members were instructed to select what is considered healthier fatty foods such as avocados, nuts, and olive oil. By studies end, individuals in the two groups had lost similar amounts of weight, about 12 1/2 pounds, and also the same amount of size from their waistlines without paying much attention to calorie counting. Researchers looked for clues (such as gene patterns related to metabolism and insulin levels) to see if there were any factors that might make someone more prone to fat loss on either of the diets, but they were unable to make any connections.
 
The take home message is that whatever diet you might be following -Paleo, vegan, gluten-free etc. - these diet plans will all work to trim belly fat if they are focused on the intake of nutrient-dense whole foods. In other words, foods that are closer to how they come from nature such as quinoa, almonds, wild salmon, spinach and raspberries.