Losing and keeping off weight is tough, and it’s a common issue faced by people all around the world.
There are countless diets, supplements, and workouts all promising to help you lose weight, but the truth is there’s no magic formula for weight loss.
But there’s hope, as a recent study by the CSIRO has revealed that tracking calories is “the secret” to achieving a weight loss goal.
The study followed more than 22,000 people over the course of 12 months, and found that those who tracked their calorie intake lost more weight than those who didn't.
The study showed that people who tracked their calories were more aware of what they were eating and were able to make better food choices. And by tracking their calorie intake, they were able to identify which foods were high in calories and which ones were not.
They were also able to see how much they were eating and adjust their portion sizes accordingly, and find balance with food.
Tracking calories can be done in a few ways. One way is to use a food journal or a mobile app to log everything that you eat throughout the day. This can help you keep track of your calorie intake and make adjustments as needed.
Another advantage of tracking calories is that it helps you with accountability. When you know that you have to log what you eat, you are less likely to indulge in unhealthy foods or overeat. This accountability can help you stay on track and avoid the common pitfalls that often lead to weight gain.
In addition to helping with weight loss, tracking calories can also have other benefits. It can help you identify patterns in your eating habits, such as snacking late at night or eating too many processed foods.
By identifying these patterns, you can make small sustainable changes to your diet and improve your overall health.
This was written by Mingyu Seo, 3rd-year nutrition student at the University of Canberra and Alfred intern.