Weight loss can often seem like a complicated and confusing journey, but it doesn’t have to be. The truth is, the only effective diet for losing weight is as simple as it gets. Calories In, Calories Out (CICO). This means that in order to lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you consume.
It’s important to note that CICO can be achieved through any diet you prefer, whether it’s a vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, keto, paleo, carbs only, bacon only, or fast food only diet. The key is finding a balance between calorie restriction and exercise that allows you to maintain a calorie deficit over the long term. This is why it’s so important to track your calories using a tools and apps – most people consume more calories than they realize.
Despite its simplicity, many people only sort of believe in CICO. This is often due to excuses and justifications, such as having a low metabolism, burning a lot of calories through exercise, or going into starvation mode even when consuming only 1000 calories a day. The truth is, if you’re gaining weight, it’s solely because you’re taking in more calories than you burn. Your body won’t go into starvation mode, and your metabolism is not significantly different from anyone else at your weight.
It’s essential to understand that there’s no secret solution to weight loss. CICO is the only thing that works. Many people believe in quick fixes, magic pills, and special diets, but the reality is that none of these will work without a calorie deficit.
One common scenario is when someone begins a new diet and doesn’t track their calories. They may feel like they’re eating less, but without tracking their intake, they may not realize that they’re still consuming more calories than they’re burning. This leads to frustration and the belief that their diet isn’t working, when in reality, they just need to adjust their calorie intake to create a deficit.
Another example is when someone believes they can’t lose weight because they have a slow metabolism. While metabolism does play a role in weight loss, it’s often not as significant as people think. In most cases, if you’re not losing weight, it’s simply because you’re taking in more calories than you’re burning.
Weight loss can be a straightforward process when you understand the fundamentals of CICO. Remember, it’s essential to find a balance between calorie restriction and exercise that allows you to maintain a calorie deficit over the long term. Don’t get caught up in quick fixes and magic solutions, and always track your calorie intake to ensure you’re creating a deficit. With CICO as your guide, you’ll be on your way to achieving your weight loss goals in no time.