Losing weight is not just about counting calories, according to experts. While calorie counting can be a useful tool for managing weight, it’s not the only factor to consider. The quality of the calories matters, and different foods have different effects on the body.

Why Calorie Counting Isn’t Enough

Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, a cardiologist and director of the Food is Medicine Institute at Tufts University, explains that different foods have different effects on the brain, liver, fat cells, muscle function, pancreas, and all organs related to metabolism and body weight. This means that simply counting calories is not enough to guarantee weight loss.

For example, high-glycemic foods like white bread and sugary beverages can trigger the body to store calories, while foods containing resistant starches like whole grains and seeds can help the body burn calories more efficiently. Even cooking and ripeness can influence the equation, with cooked foods being more easily absorbed than raw ingredients.

What to Do Instead

So what’s a weight watcher to do? Experts recommend focusing on diet quality, not just calorie quantity. Avoid ultra-processed foods, particularly refined starches, and build your diet around whole, minimally processed foods with an emphasis on plant-based ingredients rich in fiber.

By taking a more nuanced approach to weight loss, individuals can improve their overall health and increase their chances of successful weight loss. It’s not just about counting calories, but about making informed choices about the foods we eat.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.