Eat This, Not That! Our Expert Answered Top Weight Loss Questions

The best diet for quick weight loss and to keep it off forever is a healthy and balanced diet.

Weight loss and weight maintenance are top concerns for most of us. Weight loss can be a struggle for many. It is slow and a gradual process which requires constant effort and patience. With so many rumors and fads out many people might get confused. They may not know the best diet to follow, what to eat, what to eliminate from the diet and many more questions. Well! You need not worry at all for we have a list of most common weight loss questions answered by our expert nutritionists. This can make your weight loss program easy.

Also read: This Protein-Rich Snack Is All You Need To Lose Weight: Its This Easy To Prepare

A diet which includes all the nutrients like fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and proteins can help you lose weight fast.
Photo Credit: iStock

Top weight loss questions answered:

Question: Should you avoid some foods if you are on a weight loss diet?

Answer: Yes, some foods are high in fats and calories. Therefore, these foods should be avoided if you are on a weight loss diet. These foods include refined sugar, junk food, processed food and sugary drinks.

Questions: What should you never do to lose weight?

Answer: Dr. Rupali Dutta says "You should never starve or skip a meal to lose weight."

Question: Can eating slowly help you lose weight?

Answer: Many people eat food carelessly. This means they either watch television or see their mobile phones while eating their meals. Eating slowly can help you eat less and thereby consume less calories. This will also make you full for a longer period of time.

Delhi based nutritionist Monisha Ashokan says, "Slow eating leads to eating mindfully which means better digestion. Also by the time your brain signals you that you are full, you are mindful as you are eating slow and stop before over eating."

Also read: Protein-Rich Breakfast Can Do Wonders For Your Health! Know How

Question: How can you curb your cravings?

Answer: Three simple tricks to curb your hunger cravings by Dr. Rupali Dutta are, "Mind over matter, you should stay well-hydrated and fix your meal timings. "

Question: Can cutting carbs help you lose weight?

Answer: A popular myth that carbohydrates can lead to weight gain is not true. Delhi-based nutritionist Monisha Ashokan said, "Let's break the biggest myth that carbohydrates are bad. Carbohydrates are essential for the body. In case of lack of carbohydrates protein is broken down for the energy requirements of the body  rather than for their main purpose of body building and repair. To maintain good health 60% of our energy needs to come from carbohydrates. However, we need to make sure that we eat complex carbohydrates like whole wheat cereals, whole pulses, high fiber fruits and vegetables and legumes. Simple carbohydrates like refined flour in the form of biscuits, breads, cakes, pastries, burgers, pizzas and pastas need to be avoided. They raise the blood glucose level rapidly; hence the fat content in the body."

Questions: Should you take weight loss supplements?

Answer: Weight loss supplements should be taken in the supervision of the health care provider, adds Rupali Dutta.

Question: When is the best time to exercise if you want to lose weight?

Answer: Regular physical activity can help you stay fit and lose weight. 

However, the best time to exercise is in the morning as it will help you burn more calories. Rupali Dutta further adds, exercising in the morning can help in increasing the metabolic rate.  

Question: The best diet to lose weight?

Answer: The best diet for quick weight loss and to keep it off forever is a healthy and balanced diet. A diet which includes all the nutrients like fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and proteins can help you lose weight fast and will promote the overall health of the body.

Question: Can adequate sleep lead to weight loss?

Answer: People who are sleep deprived have an increased appetite. This is because the impact of sleep on two important hunger hormones, ghrelin and leptin. When you are sleep deprived, you will crave for more comfort food which automatically leads to weight gain.

Also read: Want To Lose Weight Quickly? Follow This High Protein Diet Now

(Monisha Ashokan is a nutritionist at Nourish Me)

(Dr Rupali Dutta is a Clinical Nutritionist)

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.