Not All Calories Are Created Equal

With obesity on the rise in the US, experts are constantly looking for ways to positively influence weight loss and healthier living. The time honored tradition of weight loss has always been “calories in, calories out,” meaning more exercise leads to more rapid, increased weight loss. However, recent studies have focused more on the concept that not all calories are created equal — and the best way to lose weight is more so a change of diet as opposed to excessive workouts.

People who are overweight or obese are at high risk for type 2 diabetes as a direct result of poor physical activity levels and diet. Yet, as a recent article in The Chronical points out, it may be more important for people to change their diets rather than depend on exercise to lose unhealthy pounds. Physical activity does affect the body’s ability to metabolize insulin, but a diet of lean meats, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables is more effectively metabolized than a diet high in saturated fat. People are more likely to lose weight by balancing what they eat, a fact not widely known to the public.

At St. Anthony Free Medical Clinic health and nutrition counseling is included in our Diabetes Care Management Program to provide our patients with the necessary tools to take control of their health. By teaching our clients how to better understand nutrition labels they are able to select foods more beneficial to maintaining healthy weight and blood sugar. Healthy eating can be difficult, especially for our low income and homeless clients, but our program guides patients in accessing nutritious food and increases their ability for self management. Everyone can relate — just 10-20 minutes of mild-to-moderate exercise a day and a balanced diet can mean a world of difference for us all.