Low Calorie Diets

Do Low Calorie Diets Work

A low calorie diet is just a generic term to describe a diet that involves reducing the amount of calories taken on by the body.

Typically, low calorie diets require a range of about 1000 to 1300 calories per day.

Although the principle is correct a huge proportion of low calorie diets do not actually specify which foods to eat and which not to – preference given to calorie counting during the course of the day.

Calories consumed provide fuel for the body. Consuming less calories during the course of the day, the body then burns stored fat as opposed to calories for its effective functioning.

A woman who has a busy and very active lifestyle will need on average 2300 calories per day with a man needing 300 to 400 more.

An individual who does not lead an active lifestyle will require on average 500 less per day.

Low calories diets should be complimented with foodstuffs from 3 different food groups to give a good balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

It is highly advised that at least half (50%) of your daily diet comprises of carbohydrates – carbohydrates provide energy.

Carbohydrates are typically found in: potatoes, rice, pasta and bread.

Fats

Fats are an essential part of your daily intake – at least a quarter of your daily diet should involve fats. Fats also provided our body with energy and also cause satiety (a feeling of fullness)

Proteins

Proteins are crucial and provide us with nutrients. Protein is responsible for growth, cell reproduction and all round functioning of our body.

Excluding any of the three food groups could cause more problems than it solves. Simply reducing the amount of food we consume is not advised over and above a balanced diet.

Tesco eDiets provided several diet plans tailored to providing you with a balanced diet that is not just centred around calorie reduction.